In UTILITY:SYNC/TEMPO, set Sync Out to ON, then connect TR-8S MIDI OUT to the receiving device’s MIDI IN and configure that device to receive clock.
Try these checks
- Press UTILITY and open SYNC/TEMPO.
- Set Sync Out to ON.
- Connect TR-8S MIDI OUT to the follower’s MIDI IN.
- Set the follower to receive external MIDI clock and test Start/Stop.
Diagnose it
Is Sync Out ON?
Yes: Check the cable direction and the follower’s external clock setting.
No: Set Sync Out to ON and retest.
Does the follower receive clock but ignore transport?
Yes: Check the follower’s transport/start-stop receive setting; it is device-specific.
No: Confirm the receiving device is configured to follow external MIDI clock.
What should happen
The follower receives the TR-8S clock, Start and Stop messages.
Why this happens
Roland defines Sync Out as the switch that transmits clock, Start and Stop to other devices.
If it still doesn’t work
Check the connections and settings described above. If your device behaves differently, email us with its model, firmware version and the steps you tried.
All TR-8S fixesMore about TR-8S
Similar symptoms on other gear
These guides cover other models. Use the instructions for the device you are setting up.
Sources & review
Sources reviewed: . Documentation does not replace a physical hardware test.
- TR-8S Reference Manual, Version 3.00 · Roland · Version 3.00 · last checked 2026-09-26 · Open PDF
- TR-8S MIDI Implementation Chart · Roland · last checked 2026-09-26 · Open PDF
Sections reviewed: UTILITY:SYNC/TEMPO, Reference Manual v3.00; MIDI Implementation Chart v3.00.