---
name: 303 drum machine
image: "https://assets.0xhoneyjar.xyz/Mibera/traits/SS5_chicagodetroit_303%20Drum%20Machine.webp"
archetype: Chicago Detroit
swag_score: 5
date_added: "2024-07-12"
---

<div align="center">
  <img src="https://assets.0xhoneyjar.xyz/Mibera/traits/SS5_chicagodetroit_303%20Drum%20Machine.webp" alt="303 Drum Machine" width="320" />
</div>


# 303 drum machine

## Visual Elements

a 303 drum machine in light grey; a technical device with a bunch of small buttons, switches, and rotators.

## Cultural Context

The Roland TB-303 was designed as a bass accompaniment tool for solo guitarists and was a commercial failure. DJs in Chicago repurposed its squelchy, resonant sound into the defining voice of acid house.

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## Justification

The happiest accident in electronic music. A failed bass guitar simulator that became the defining sound of acid house.
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---

**Archetype:** chicago detroit
**Swag Score:** 5
**Date Added:** 2024-07-12
**Team Notes:** "fink this is gr8 but we could TBH replace the ROLAND logo with this on stuff, rather then have it represent detroit or chicago as 303 is this timeless fing which shows up in many of the eras" — Jani, Oct 2023, #logo-designs