The 8 levels of 808s (free sounds and MIDI files included)

808s have become a ubiquitous and favorite sound in popular music, heard across a range of genres including trap, R&B, hip hop, and pop.

Over time, producers have developed a wide array of techniques to transform and reimagine this simple but iconic sound. In celebration of 808 day (August 8th), we explored the eight levels of 808s, spanning everything from basic sustains and glides to uncharted realms of 808 enlightenment—join us on our journey via the video above.

Incorporate new 808 sounds into your own music

Did you enjoy the examples heard throughout the video? If so, feel free to experiment with them firsthand in your own DAW by downloading the MIDI files for the 808s and all stems here. For more on the historic impact of the 808, be sure to also check out our conversation with Egyptian Lover below:

Conclusion

Is there a ninth level of 808s that we didn’t cover? Are there any other sounds or production topics that you want to see us explore on the Splice YouTube channel? Let us know in the comments section of the video, and join the Splice Discord to start your own conversations with other music creators.

We wish you the best of luck on your 808 journey!


Explore more free 808 sounds via Sample Magic’s TR-808 Samples pack:

August 8, 2024

Nick Chen Content Marketing @ Splice. Nick Chen is a producer, performer, and educator under the aliases "nickthechen" and "Enix."