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Description
The x0xb0x is a beloved synthesizer that brings the iconic sounds of classic analog bass synthesis to your fingertips. Designed to faithfully replicate the legendary TB-303, this synth is revered for its ability to produce rich, resonant basslines and squelchy, acid-infused tones. With its authentic analog circuitry, the x0xb0x captures the essence of electronic music’s formative years, making it a must-have for both seasoned producers and synth enthusiasts.
Equipped with a user-friendly sequencer, this synthesizer allows you to create intricate patterns and grooves with ease. The x0xb0x also features MIDI and USB connectivity, ensuring seamless integration with modern setups. Its intuitive interface includes controls for tuning, waveform selection, and modulation, empowering you to sculpt your sound with precision. Whether you're crafting hypnotic acid lines or deep, pulsating basses, the x0xb0x delivers a sonic experience that is both nostalgic and compelling.
Perfect for live performances or studio sessions, the x0xb0x offers a durable and compact design, making it a versatile addition to any setup. Dive into the world of acid house and techno with this tried-and-true synthesizer that continues to inspire musicians across genres.
Key Features:
- Authentic analog circuitry for classic bass and acid sounds
- Integrated sequencer for pattern creation
- MIDI and USB connectivity for modern integration
- Intuitive controls for sound sculpting
- Compact design suitable for live and studio use
Videos
Yo!
Daft Punk Tron End Titles Pattern (x0xb0x/TB-303)
Reviews
PROS
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Authentic TB-303 sound replication
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Offers enhancements like bass boost
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Build-it-yourself kit educates on electronics
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Sound quality varies with builder skill, offering customization
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Available in durable aluminum case
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Compatible with both base and MK2 versions
CONS
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Resonance pot may be flakey, requiring replacement
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Sound quality inconsistent, dependent on builder's skill
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about x0xb0x.
Setup and maintenance
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Aluminum 'PCB' panels can be utilized for faceplates, which can be custom-designed using PCB CAD programs for precise fit and finish.
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The Murata ceramic resonators differ in load capacitance from the ABRACON, potentially affecting clock performance.
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The tact switches on the x0xb0x tend to wear out quickly and replacements are hard to find, impacting usability over time.
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Other
User experience
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Murata ceramic resonators were used successfully despite different specs, suggesting flexibility in component choice.
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Features and functionality
Mods and upgrades
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Alps SKQEAAA010 switches are recommended, with compatible caps available from Alibaba, requiring a minimum order adjustment.
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The J113 transistor is recommended as a practical substitute for the harder-to-find 2SK30 JFET used in x0xb0x builds.
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The Behringer TD3-MO is highlighted as a competing option with built-in patchpoints and mods, offering a different modding experience due to its cleanly laid out plastic enclosure.
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Build quality
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The knobs listed in the x0xb0x BOM do not fit the specified pots, requiring alternative knob options.
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The lack of ICP programming pins on the x0xb0x PCB complicates flashing the CPU chip, requiring direct connection to the chip for programming.
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The resonance pot on the x0xb0x is prone to becoming scratchy, which can affect sound quality during performance.
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Comparisons
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Some builders prefer the x0xb0x for the hands-on experience of hunting components and assembling, despite easier alternatives like the Behringer TD-3.
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Use cases and applications
5.0 out of 5
Based on 3 Reviews and 15 Ratings
84
I wrote the d0x on it.
I taught myself electronics on this machine.
And this machine is great. Okay, okay, okay, the resonance pot is a little flakey, but you can get a new one. But this is—analogishly speaking—a TB-303. Whenever the original transistors are not available, ones that are very close are used instead.
And you can tell. As in, you can't tell it apart from a TB-303.
I liked it so much, I got another one.
x0x #28
415
Amazing Acid machine
I got the X0xbox with aluminum case and atomic mods off eBay. Sounds really good and the bass boost adds more to the bottom end. There are differences on how a X0xb0x sounds depending on who built it. I guess I got lucky to get a really good one. If you can't afford the original TB-303, the X0xb0x is an amazing alternative.
393
x0xb0x
I've got base and MK2 version in my studio and works same as my old retired TB-303
Artist usage
Add artist
“This xox box is a self-made TB-303 bassline with special features like MIDI, DIN sync and USB and a more stable casing. It sounds very authentic, just like the original.
“Sometimes you really ask yourself how many bassline- clones you need in life. Somehow this simple bass sound is magic, with its typical ‘twittering’. I believe that this machine will never disappear.”
On his personal Instagram account, you can see a x0xb0x on the left. "Live setup for tomorrow at Spektrum with Röyksopp and Andre Bratten".
“It might sound like it is, but the kit list for this album was fairly limited in terms of synths - just a MacBeth M5N, a really nice, old semimodular machine; one of the new Prophets by Dave Smith; an Oberheim 2 Voice Pro; and a TTSH, which is a copy of the ARP 2600. There’s a guy in Sweden who makes them as a DIY kit, but you need to find a tech who can put it all together. It’s roadworthy, it’s got MIDI and it sounds fantastic.
“What else? A x0xb0x 303 emulator; the new M4000 Mellotron; an EMS Synthi AKS; and the Oberheim OB-Mx, the rack-mounted polysynth.”
"If you don't change the machines and swap them—I mean, you've got like a xOxbOx over there, for example."
Orgue Electronique uses the x0xb0x synthesizer, as detailed on Sternstudio's website. Known for its convincing emulation of the legendary 303, Orgue Electronique appreciates its sound quality and finds its sequencer a valuable addition to his setup.
In the YouTube video titled "Addison Groove and his x0xb0x Jam - Gear Guide" by 180 Fact, Addison Groove is seen using the x0xb0x synthesizer to play bass lines.
lso in this shot are my modified x0xb0x and a very weird, super-rare German digital drum machine by Dr Bohm, which kind of sounds like a crap Linn Drum. In a good way
«This is a clone of the famous TB-303, the acid machine. It’s about a quarter of the real 303 price and to me the best sounding clone there is on the market. You can buy the separate components and build it yourself, but it can be tricky to tune certain parameters so I chose to buy it already made by a guy that looked like he knew what he was doing. He named it ‘The Beast’ and engraved it on, so that’s obviously why I chose to name the acid track I made for the BNR compilation like that… I must have done half a dozen unreleased tracks with the x0xb0x synced with my 707 alone, but nowadays I try to include it in more surprising ways than just retro acid house tools…»
Album Usage
The x0xb0x has been featured on the following albums:
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 x0xb0x, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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