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Description

Dive into the world of electronic percussion with the Roland Octapad Pad-8, a pioneering piece of gear that has become a staple for drummers and percussionists seeking versatility and performance. Originally launched in the 1980s, the Octapad Pad-8 remains a timeless tool, renowned for its intuitive design and reliability. This electronic drum pad offers a unique, user-friendly interface that appeals to both seasoned professionals and aspiring musicians.

The Roland Octapad Pad-8 is engineered with eight responsive pads, providing a dynamic range of expression and control. The robust construction ensures durability, making it ideal for both studio sessions and live performances. Each pad is designed to be sensitive to your touch, allowing for nuanced performances that are sure to impress.

The Octapad Pad-8’s versatility is further enhanced by its compatibility with a wide array of sound modules and MIDI devices. This allows musicians to customize their setup and explore an expansive universe of sounds and musical possibilities. Whether you're using it as a standalone device or integrating it into a larger system, this electronic pad offers unparalleled flexibility.

Key Features:

  • Eight responsive and durable pads for dynamic performance
  • Seamless integration with MIDI devices and sound modules
  • User-friendly interface suitable for musicians of all levels
  • Reliable construction ideal for both studio and live use
  • Timeless design that remains a staple in electronic percussion

Explore the endless possibilities with the Roland Octapad Pad-8 and take your percussion skills to new heights.

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model Pad-8 Octapad
Finish White
Year 1980s
Made In Japan
Categories Percussion Pad Controllers

FAQs

What sounds can I trigger with the Roland Octapad Pad-8?

The Roland Octapad Pad-8 allows you to trigger a variety of electronic percussion sounds, making it versatile for different musical styles and performances.

Is the Roland Octapad Pad-8 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Roland Octapad Pad-8 is designed for live performances, offering reliable pad sensitivity and a wide range of sounds to enhance your stage setup.

How many pads does the Roland Octapad Pad-8 have?

The Roland Octapad Pad-8 features eight touch-sensitive pads, allowing for dynamic and expressive playing.

Can the Roland Octapad Pad-8 be used with other drum kits?

Yes, the Roland Octapad Pad-8 can be integrated with other electronic or acoustic drum kits, providing additional sound options and flexibility.

Does the Roland Octapad Pad-8 require an external power source?

Yes, the Roland Octapad Pad-8 requires an external power source to operate, ensuring consistent performance during use.

Electric Denim Studios

Electric Denim Studios

Roland Octapad Pad 8 Review & Tutorial

Video thumbnail for Roland Octapad Pad 8 Review & Tutorial by Electric Denim Studios

Roland Octapad Pad 8 Review & Tutorial

Electric Denim Studios

Electric Denim Studios

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland Octapad Pad-8.

Features and functionality

  • The Roland Octapad Pad-8 lacks onboard sound, necessitating external sound sources for functionality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It can trigger synth notes or control devices like the Volca Drum via MIDI.

    Source
  • Compatible with devices like the SP404sx for sample playback, offering diverse application possibilities.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Integration with DAWs allows triggering drum samples, expanding its usage beyond traditional drum machines.

    Source
  • An Edrum brain with MIDI input can convert the Pad-8 into a compact electronic drum kit.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland PAD8 Octapad (EMM Feb 86)

muzines.co.uk

Roland's PAD8 Octapad is an innovative MIDI percussion controller that offers percussionists new expressive possibilities without breaking the bank. With touch-sensitive pads and dynamic control, it enables musicians to trigger a variety of MIDI instruments, not just drums. Its robust design and clever out-of-phase switching prevent false triggering, making performance seamless. While the memory for patch presets feels limited, and the program change function is somewhat cumbersome, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise versatile and inspiring tool. The Octapad opens new creative doors, making it a hit for drummers and synth enthusiasts alike.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kak Nunuk uses Roland Octapad Pad-8

Kak Nunuk

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

In 1990s videos, Kak Nunuk is seen using the Roland Octapad Pad-8, as shown in a user-uploaded photo on Gearslutz.

See how Peter Gill uses Roland Octapad Pad-8

Peter Gill

Drummer

Frankie Goes to Hollywood

...
Verified via Muzines

"I've got an old Roland TR808 drum machine which has a set of trigger outputs and I use these with either a Dynacord Percuter or a Roland DDR30. I usually programme a pattern into the TR808 and use some of the outputs to trigger the Dynacord and the others for the DDR30. Once I've got a nice little groove happening along with the track we've already recorded, I just use an SRC Friendchip synchroniser to lock the two together so that I can add a few electronic drum sounds to the basic three-piece foundation of guitar, bass and drums already recorded. I also use a Roland Octapad and assign the outputs to play samples on the Emulator - oh, we've been using a Linn II drum machine out in Amsterdam as well."

See how Paul Wertico uses Roland Octapad Pad-8

Paul Wertico

Drummer, Music Producer

Pat Metheny Group

...
Verified

In the interview titled "Paul Wertico: Paul Wertico's Secret Story" featured in Modern Drummer, it is stated that Paul Wertico uses the Roland Octapad Pad-8.

See how David Van Tieghem uses Roland Octapad Pad-8

David Van Tieghem

Drummer, Keyboardist

Talking Heads

...
Verified via Photo

David Van Tieghem used a Roland Octopad in the making of his record Safety in Numbers.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland Octapad Pad-8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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