The Behringer Rhythm Designer RD-8 is an analog drum machine that takes a fresh and modern approach of the original Roland TR-808 but with some significant upgrades such as a 64-step sequencer, Wave Designer, and a multimode filter, making it a well-suited device for musicians, DJs, studio engineers, and producers.

The RD-8 features 29 knobs, 5 switches, and 59 buttons all laid out in an intuitive format, making it simple and fun to use. Connections include a stereo 1/4" headphone output, a main 1/4" mono output, and a 1/4" return, which sums audio post filter bus. Additionally, there are 11 independent analog outputs for external processing and recording. With its 3 trigger outs, the RD-8 lets you control external synths and hardware sequencers to create songs without a digital audio workstation (DAW) in sight. The machine can also send and receive clock information with highly accurate timing to sync it to the outside world. For digital connections, the RD-8 offers MIDI In, Out, and Thru over USB and via standard 5-pin DIN MIDI ports.

The advanced 64-step sequencer can store up to 16 patterns in each of the 16 songs for a total of 256 patterns, allowing for the creation of song arrangements ranging from simple to complex. What's more, it is possible to load a song, while another is playing, allowing for smooth transitions during live performance and DJ sessions. Speaking of live performance, the RD-8 offers a variety of features in each of its sequencer modes including step repeat, note repeat, real-time triggering, and live step-overdubbing. This makes it easy to enable recording in pattern launch mode, so you can build song structures on-the-fly and switch back to manual mode at the touch of a button. Additionally, you can add some excitement with the autofill feature for more variations.