TB-303 Bass Line

At first glance, the TB-303 Bass Line is an unremarkable synthesizer. Intended as an auto-accompaniment companion to the TR-606 and offering limited sound sculpting controls and a sequencer that is notoriously hard to fathom, there is little that would lead us to think that this is one of the most important and influential electronic musical instruments ever made. Beginning with a detailed analysis of the underlying components and circuitry, the chapter explores – and dispels – some commonly-held myths about the instrument’s design. The discussion continues by investigating Roland’s marketing and the lukewarm initial response before exploring the rebirth of the instrument as it passed into the hands of musicians, producers and DJs who reimagined the TB-303 as a real-time instrument that did not simply provide accompaniment but rather took centerstage. The chapter continues by exploring the complex lineage of Acid House and the continuing fetishisation, recreation and transformation of the TB-303 in hardware and software. Special consideration is given to the importance of the quirks of the sequencer and sound circuits along with a discussion of performers’ improvisational techniques and the impact of hardware modifications that extend the sound palette.