In a rather vague video released by Roland today, the company teases the Aira, a forthcoming unit from the company that claims to be “the next step” in the evolution of the 808. And from the looks of the leaked image above (courtesy of Attack Magazine), it may see Roland attempting to finally revive its classic drum machine line. So far, details surrounding the Aira are scarce, and speculation as to whether the unit is a digital/analog hybrid drum machine, a straight-up 808 clone, or something different altogether has already begun. For now, Roland has left us with just a cryptic-but-enticing video, which appears to show only brief flashes of the Aira, apparently being tested by a company technician in the clip’s final seconds. That video can be watched in full below, and those who wish to stay updated with the development of the Aira can sign up for a special mailing list here.

Update: Following the release of the Aira video, much speculation has spread across the internet, with websites such as Create Digital Music all but confirming that Roland’s Aira TR-08 unit will not be an analog piece, but actually an “emulated, digital 808 synth.” There is further speculation that the unit will be a “SuperNATURAL synth,” meaning that it will incorporate some of Roland’s more sophisticated technologies to accomplish its emulation. CDM’s full article breaking down the TR-08 rumors and leaks so far can be read here.