E-licktronic has introduced a DIY clone of the Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer, the YOCTO.

According to E-licktronic, the YOCTO is an exact reproduction of the analog part of the TR – 808 (with the exception of the BA662 VCA Clap has been replaced by a BA6110). The classic analog drum synth sound engine is paired with a MIDI sequencer that lets you store up to 256 patterns, organized into 16 banks of 16 patterns in a Non-volatile EEPROM.

Looks interesting – but does it sound like an 808?

Here’s a set of audio demos. Check them out and let us know what you think:

Features:

The ergonomics of YOCTO follows that of the TR-808 with 16 edits buttons, two rotary switches for instruments and modes.
11 drums 100% analog cloned the TR-808
A common Accent for all drums
16 banks of 16 patterns from 1 to 32 steps
16 songs of 256 patterns
11 separates OUT, one for each drum
A Mono Master OUT
2 Trigs Output that allow you to trig a external instrument (a third one is in option on the board)
Midi IN, OUT, THRU
Din sync24 IN/OUT to synchronize other machines with same standard

Here’s a video demo:

The kit includes everything you need to build YOCTO (Two PCBs, resistors, capacitors, connectors, transistors, ICs, buttons, LEDs, screws …) except the wall wart power transformer & case.

The YOCTO is a large project and is recommended for more advanced DIYers. It’s available via the e-licktronic site for 379 Euro.

via CDM, debug
[Synthtopia]