0x808

At a glance

• Editor score
  9.2 / 10
• Pricing
  Open source
• Best for
  Free open-source synthesis and sequencing
• Paid from
  Free
• Sequencing mode
  Hybrid
• Facts checked
  20 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • 16-track sequencing with pattern chaining and performance controls
  • Subtractive, FM, and wavetable synthesis with sample loading
  • Windows, macOS, and Linux support plus VST3 and CLAP formats

• Where it doesn't

  • Desktop software only, with no listed mobile platform
  • Its broad feature set may exceed the needs of simple beat makers
  • Plugin use depends on a compatible DAW

Our verdict on 0x808

0x808 is an open-source desktop drum machine and synth workstation for producers, electronic musicians, and sound designers who want sequencing, synthesis, sampling, effects, and MIDI in one application. Its 16-track step sequencer includes velocity, pitch, mute, and solo controls, while pattern chaining supports song and perform modes. The software runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux and is available as a standalone application with multiple graphical frontends.

The feature depth is its clearest strength. 0x808 combines subtractive, four-operator FM, and wavetable synthesis with WAV, MP3, and FLAC sample loading. Per-track and master effects include filter, delay, reverb, chorus, and overdrive. Bundled drum samples, synth presets, and pattern presets provide starting material, while JSON-based project save/load and undo and redo support ongoing work. MIDI support covers USB input, MIDI learn, and MIDI output, giving it a practical fit for controller-based workflows.

Its ecosystem fit is also wider than a standalone beat box. VST3 and CLAP plugin formats allow 0x808 to operate within compatible DAWs, and offline export supports WAV plus optional MP3 output. The software is distributed as open source under the MIT license, with downloadable binaries. Choose 0x808 if you want a flexible, no-cost desktop environment that spans drum programming, synthesis, sampling, and live performance. A simpler beat maker may be a better choice if you only need basic pattern sequencing, while mobile-focused musicians will need another platform.

Your product? Our editors can test 0x808 in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

0x808 pricing

0x808 fact sheet

Alternatives to 0x808

• HHydrogenA free, cross-platform drum machine for pattern-driven production and live control.9.4
• Atlas 2A broad drum-production toolkit with hybrid sequencing and cross-platform plugin support.9.0
• DMC60A deep desktop drum workstation with hybrid sequencing and flexible sound design.8.8

See all 0x808 alternatives →

0x808 vs the competition

• 0H0x808 vs Hydrogen
• 00x808 vs Atlas 2
• 00x808 vs DMC60
• 00x808 vs TRIAZ
• 0B0x808 vs BeatForge
• 0P0x808 vs Patterning 3

Compare 0x808 with any tool side by side →

Featured on iTechGuides

0x808 is listed in our Drum Machine Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update