SuperOS-808 is a new open-source firmware for the Roland TR-808 with the installed Michigan Synth Works Vox DEI, an alternative CPU.
On the 808th day, tubbutec presented the TR-8oh8, a new CPU with MIDI support and a supercharged engine for the Roland TR-808. Michigan SynthWorks in the US is doing something similar with the OS-303.
It’s an open-source OS-303 CPU that is compatible with the Teensy framework. The first firmware for it was the SuperOS-303 for the TB-303 with a richer sequencer and more. The follow-up project is SuperOS-808, an alternative firmware for the legendary Roland TR-808.
SuperOS-808
The SuperOS-808 is an open-source firmware for the Roland TR-808, running on an AT90USB1286 microcontroller board with compatible pinouts. For example, the Michigan SynthWorks VOX DEI is fully compatible.
Bjorn Lustic developed the firmware with the help of the AI agent Claude. This is also stated in the GitHub repository.
The new firmware adds many new features, while the original firmware remains unchanged. Some features also remain unchanged, including the 32 patterns with 16-step buttons x two variation modes (A/B), buttons 1-12 are basic rhythm, 13-16 are intro/fill in, and more.
There is much new to discover that the vintage unit with the original CPU could not do. First, it brings MIDI input and output support, including drum notes (velocity ≥ 100 asserts accent), program change for pattern selection, clock sync (master/slave), and soft thru.
The MIDI sockets are included in the CPU upgrade kit. Then, it ships with a SysEx web editor that can also perform firmware updates over MIDI. And again, the machine’s own operating model remains intact
Clever: There is also a combined build that also carries an emulator of the stock µPD650C-085, so one board can boot either the original behavior or the extended one.
The new Sequencer
One of the key features of the SuperOS-808 is its completely overhauled built-in sequencer.
The 808 has exactly one free momentary button, so the whole extended layer hangs off CLEAR gestures: tap, hold, CLEAR + step, double-tap for the config menu, long-press to confirm. Holding CLEAR shows a tool map; a step press latches one of 16 tools.
SuperOS-808 also extends the patterns from 32 to 64 steps, allowing you to create four sections instead of two. Sections 3 and 4 default to zero length, so stock-written patterns behave identically.
Part of the new sequencer is also per-step probability and ratchet, per-instrument loop length and polymeter, swing, play direction, live reslice, arp pattern generate, copy/paste, transform, and mute.
First Impression
Two new CPUs, each with its own alternative firmware, are exciting. In direct comparison, I’m once again leaning more towards the tubbutec TR-8oh8, as it also offers new instruments and much more. These are definitely great days for TR-808 owners.
The SuperOS-808 is available now as a free download from GitHub. The MSW VOX DEI is available now for 66,95€ + import fees + VAT.
More information here: GitHub / Michigan Synth Works
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