The Donner B1 is a versatile instrument, ideal for live performances or anyone looking to learn hands-on.
Use the code MUO12 for 12% off!
It’s a versatile little unit, and perfect for learning what all those knobs and buttons do.
The Roland TB-303 launched in my birth year, 1982, as a way to emulate a bass guitar.
For its intended purpose, it was absolute rubbish and consequently became a bit of a commercial failure.
The second-hand market was flooded with the flops.
By the late 80s, people on a tight budget grabbed a bargain and began realizing its true potential.
They created unique sounds using the single oscillator mono synth and the handy built-in 16-step sequencer.
Though I’ll admit, I’m more partial to a bit of happy hardcore myself.
A modern replica of the 303 will set you back upwards of $300.
So let’s talk about what you’ll find on the Donner B1.
First is the keyboard.
They’re really just for key entry in the sequencer.
These steps are represented on the bottom row of the keyboard keys.
Programming a new sequence is super easy; you don’t need to play in real-time.
Just hit the notes you want in the right order, and stop when you’re done.
This is monophonic, meaning it plays one note at a time.
Your first core option is a square or saw-tooth waveform.
The saw-tooth offers a lot of a harsher, cutting sound, while the square wave is smoother.
The pitch knob comes next for pitch bending.
No need to explain that one.
This is affectionately known as the squelch knob.
Lastly is the depth knob, and this gives you a punchier, jumpy sound.
Then to the right of that, you have accent.
On the second row, you’ll find the saturation controls.
The two control knobs here are drive and tone.
Finally, we have the delay section, where you could add an echo to your sounds.
Feedback results in multiple echoes as the delayed note is fed back into the sound engine.
With the knob all the way to the right, you get a more ethereal, soundscape-style sound.
While it does feature USB-C connectivity, this is only for use with the basic keyboard and sequencer.
But an official Roland TB-303 hardware re-release would set you back at least $300.
The keys don’t feel great and lack any velocity, but they’ll do in a pinch.
What can I say?
Everybody needs a 303.
