Find out how convert between MIDI and DIN Sync so you can sync your TR-606 and TR-808 with your DAW or MIDI equipment.
The Roland TR-606 and TR-808 both pre-date MIDI, so could only be synced with other equipment using DIN Sync at 24 clocks per quarter note (Sync24). In order to sync them using MIDI, you will need to to convert MIDI Clock to DIN Sync
Which Kenton products do I need?
Kenton offers a range of options to sync these synths with MIDI:
The D-Sync is a dedicated box that converts between MIDI and DIN Sync in both directions, so is ideal for integrating MIDI and DIN Sync devices. You can either use the Roland as the master clock for other MIDI devices, or vice versa.
Our MIDI to CV converters also support DIN Sync output, so can provide one-way conversion from MIDI Clock to DIN Sync.
See Converting between MIDI and DIN Sync for configuring both current and obsolete Kenton products for DIN Sync.
Configuring the TR-606
If you are running the TR-606 over DIN Sync, ensure you set the sync switch on the back of the TR-606 to INPUT. Don’t forget to switch it back to OUTPUT again when you’ve finished, otherwise the TR-606 won’t run.
For the TR-606 to run correctly from MIDI / DIN sync, you will need to use Pre-Scale setting number 1 (quarter notes). To set Pre-Scale – set pre-scale switch to 1 – set Mode Switch to Pattern Write mode – select the pattern you want to change – press start button – press function button until change is heard – press stop – reset to pattern play – done.
Configuring the TR-808
If you are running the TR-808 over DIN Sync, ensure you set the sync switch on the back of the TR-808 to INPUT. Don’t forget to switch it back to OUTPUT again when you’ve finished, otherwise the TR-808 won’t run.
For the TR-808 to run correctly from MIDI / DIN sync, you will need to use Pre-Scale setting number 3 (quarter notes). To set Pre-Scale – set pre-scale switch to 3 – set to pattern write 1st part – select the pattern you want to change – press start button – press clear / pre-scale button until change is heard – press stop – reset to pattern play – done.
DIN Sync leads
DIN sync leads use different connections from MIDI leads. If a MIDI lead has all its pins wired, then it will work for DIN sync, but many MIDI cables only have the connections required for MIDI. Kenton’ provides a range of MIDI/DIN Sync leads are suitable for both MIDI and DIN Sync.
Troubleshooting
If you have any problems with MIDI / DIN Sync, read Solving MIDI clock problems
