As far as I can tell, thats it. This is not true. The TR-808 plays in perfect time with the clock pulses. Thats all there is to it. Best to direct that energy into generating music, not into analysis.
Science is spectral analysis.
I am happy to do the science to support the art - as long as I get to do the art too. People with ghosts in their gizzards, fairies in their fingers and all the rest are to be cherished and gently encouraged to keep playing with art - and not to get too distracted by the science. I have only looked at mine. For all I know, a well cared for TB-303 does develop its own groove and does manifest precognition of notes yet to be slid. Please pass this on.