For those who don't know what a TB-303 is here is a small explanation :
The TB-303 a.k.a. BassLine is a 'pocket' and very primitive analog synthesizer. Why 'pocket' ? Because of it's real small size (about 30x15 cm), why 'primitive' ? only 1 VCO (square/sawtooth selectable), a privitive envelope with the decay only and now way to play it with a normal keyboard or CV/GATE : to create sounds you have to deal with a so-called-pattern-based sequencer (uhm...) of up to 16 notes/line !
Some numbers :
So why is it such a cult machine ? Good question ! Because it's EASY to use : the sequencer is a random tool and features the unique per-note slide option (portamentto without retrig), and you dont have to get rid of patch cords all around to create something basic ... The sound itself is also a monster : unbeatable 18db filter (some said it was in fact 24db ...), from deep bass bangs to crying acid screams ... NASTY !!!
And now it's time for a small story :
The TB-303 (btw. TB stands for Transistor Bass as TR for Transistor Rhythm) was released back in 1982 together with the TR-606 analog drum machine. This pack was intended to emulate a drummer and a bassist (!!!) but the sounds were so poor that none wanted to work with those kid's toys ! 7 years later a guys called DJ PIERRE had the idea to turn the knobs while playing the 303 : acid house was born ! 7 years more and this gear is now one of the most wanted synth of the techno production, together with the TR-909 drum machine.
And now, 1 minute of silence, here is the machine ....