DIY + Unusual Gear Music tech Tech

The TR-808 is getting an MSW open-source firmware and a Tubbutec mod

From Michigan, the land where the TR-808 met techno, comes an open-source effort to extend the 808’s life and expand its features. A new 808 firmware joins firmware for the TR-606 and TR-303. Meet SuperOS-808.From Michigan, the land where the TR-808 met techno, comes an open-source effort to extend the 808’s life and expand its features. A new 808 firmware joins firmware for the TR-606 and TR-303. Meet SuperOS-808.

Strange, wonderful #808day creations from Japan — and a DIY D-Beam!

Our friends in the TR-808’s native country, Japan, never cease to honor the drum machine’s holiday in creative ways. So here’s this year’s haul from 808 Day (August 8), 2026.

Peter Kirn - August 9, 2026

Gear Music Music tech Tech

The PlayStation Vita just got a new sampling groovebox and synth

Sony may have abandoned the PS Vita, but homebrew is ready to keep it alive. And the gorgeous handheld gaming console now gets a new identity as an all-in-one groovebox — with free, open-source software. It even supports multichannel audio over USB via a custom kernel plug-in. Meet DS-8 Drumstream, portable beatmaker.