Celebrate 303 Day with a Free TB-303 Plugin from Roland
Every March 3rd, electronic music fans celebrate 303 Day, a tribute to one of the most influential synthesizers in history—the Roland TB-303. Originally designed as a bass accompaniment for musicians, the 303 found an unexpected second life in the underground, becoming the foundation of acid house, techno, and beyond. Its signature squelchy resonance, liquid filter sweeps, and hypnotic step sequencing have shaped countless records, from the early days of Chicago house to modern electronic music. While vintage TB-303 units are now rare and expensive, Roland has kept the legacy alive with a faithful software recreation, bringing the legendary acid bass sound to modern producers. To celebrate 303 Day 2025, Roland is offering a limited-time giveaway of its TB-303 Software Bass Line plugin, a meticulously crafted emulation available through Roland Cloud. With only 3,030 free licenses up for grabs, producers have a rare chance to own an official digital version of the 303 without spending a dime. This post will break down what makes this plugin special, how to claim it before it's gone, and explore some of the best 303-inspired software synths for those who want to dive even deeper into acid bass production.
Celebrate 303 Day with a Free TB-303 Plugin from Roland
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Roland’s 303 Day Giveaway – Get the Official TB-303 Plugin for Free
Roland is celebrating 303 Day in style by giving away 3,030 free licenses of its TB-303 Software Bass Line plugin through Roland Cloud. This official emulation brings the legendary acid bass machine into the modern digital era, preserving the iconic squelchy resonance, analog-style filter sweeps, and unique sequencer behavior that defined the sound of acid house and techno. To claim a free copy, users must sign up via the Roland website before March 10 at 12 PM PST, or before all 3,030 licenses are gone—whichever comes first. Given the historical significance of the TB-303 and the accuracy of Roland’s digital recreation, this is an opportunity no electronic music producer should pass up.
The TB-303 Software Bass Line faithfully replicates the original hardware’s single oscillator, resonant low-pass filter, and envelope characteristics, while also offering modern enhancements for greater flexibility. Features like a redesigned sequencer make programming classic acid basslines easier than ever, while built-in distortion and delay effects expand its sonic range beyond the raw hardware experience. Additionally, the plugin includes a Condition parameter, allowing users to simulate the aging of analog components, mimicking the quirks and imperfections of vintage units. Whether you’re chasing authentic acid basslines or pushing the 303 into new creative territory, this software version delivers the unmistakable sound of a true classic—free for a limited time.
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Arturia Acid V
Arturia Acid V takes the legendary TB-303 formula and supercharges it with modern flexibility, making it one of the most versatile acid bass synths available. While it faithfully captures the raw analog tone, squelchy filter sweeps, and hypnotic sequencing of the original hardware, Acid V goes beyond simple emulation by adding extended modulation options, polyphony, and built-in effects like distortion, delay, and reverb. Its advanced sequencer introduces creative tweaks, allowing for accent control, slide behavior, and automation of key parameters in ways the original TB-303 never could. Whether you want authentic acid basslines or futuristic variations, Acid V provides classic sound with modern flexibility.
D16 Phoscyon 2
Widely regarded as one of the most advanced TB-303 emulations, D16’s Phoscyon 2 not only nails the vintage 303 sound but expands its creative potential with deep sequencing capabilities, built-in effects, and enhanced parameter control. The synth’s advanced distortion engine lets you dial in everything from subtle warmth to full-on hardcore acid aggression, while the modulation matrix provides ways to tweak the envelope, filter, and accent dynamics far beyond the original hardware. Its step sequencer is also one of the most powerful available, offering pattern randomization, automation, and precise note editing. If you’re looking for a deeply customizable acid synth with a modern workflow, Phoscyon 2 is a top contender.
Audio Blast AcidBox V2
For those who love the 303 sound but want something more versatile and experimental, Audio Blast’s AcidBox V2 is a fantastic choice. Inspired by the classic TB-303 and Soviet Polivoks filter, this plugin delivers a gritty, aggressive acid tone with a distinct analog-style warmth that sets it apart from traditional 303 emulations. One of its standout features is the four sequencer modes, allowing users to create dynamic basslines, evolving acid loops, and even melodic sequences with ease. The built-in multimode filter lets you switch between acid-style resonance and raw Polivoks distortion, making it capable of everything from classic squelches to gnarly, industrial-style tones. With an intuitive interface and plenty of modulation options, AcidBox V2 is perfect for producers looking to explore 303-style sequencing with a modern, flexible edge.
Behringer TD-3
If you want the closest thing to a real TB-303 without breaking the bank, the Behringer TD-3 is the most affordable and faithful analog clone on the market. It perfectly replicates the 303’s single oscillator, resonant low-pass filter, and classic step sequencer, delivering that bubbly, squelchy acid bass with true analog circuitry. The built-in distortion circuit adds extra grit, making it ideal for harder techno and acid house tracks. Available in multiple colors, the TD-3 is the best budget option for producers who want authentic acid tones in hardware form.
Behringer TD-3-MO
For those who want a TB-303 on steroids, the Behringer TD-3-MO (Modded Out) expands on the standard TD-3 with enhanced features inspired by classic 303 modifications. This version includes sub-oscillator options, filter FM, extended accent control, and an overdrive circuit, making it more aggressive, deep, and expressive than the original. It’s perfect for producers looking to push the acid sound further, whether through thicker bass tones, extreme resonance, or unpredictable filter modulation.
Donner B1 Analog Bass Synth
For those looking for an affordable but powerful alternative to the TB-303, the Donner B1 Analog Bass Synth is an impressive option that delivers authentic acid bass with a modern twist. This compact analog synth features a 24dB resonant low-pass filter, classic accent and slide controls, and a built-in distortion circuit, making it perfect for crafting squelchy, evolving acid lines. Unlike some clones, the B1 includes a built-in sequencer with 128 pattern slots, making it easy to program and save acid basslines on the fly. Additionally, its MIDI and CV connectivity allow for modular integration, making it a solid choice for both DAW-based and hardware setups.
Roland TB-03
A modern digital recreation of the original 303, the Roland TB-03 is part of Roland’s Boutique series and features the same step sequencer and filter behavior as the classic TB-303, but with extra effects, MIDI, and USB connectivity. While it uses digital modeling instead of analog circuits, Roland has carefully recreated the original quirks and added useful features like overdrive, delay, and a built-in screen for easier sequencing. If you want Roland’s official take on the 303 experience but with modern convenience, the TB-03 is a solid choice.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.