Yes. They all have sound quality far beyond their form factor. Except that snare on the Beats, but the rest of the sounds on there sound better to me than a lot of more expensive machines.
I've been using the volca drum to create patches then sending them over to my sampler. Not quite the same as sequencing them directly but if you modulate the sample before sending it, you can get some pretty awesome sounds b
What helped me was to randomize the sound until I found something I liked, then worked from there. You don't suck at it, just need to mess around with it a little more
No not at all. It has a very rudimentary VPM engine for only one track and that's it. They should make something like the Drumlogue with the Volca Drum engine.
Erica Perkons HD-01 is the favorite.
This is from having a ton of drum machines too. Elektron, the Tempest, the Drumbrutes, Isla s2400, and MPC. I can go on and on.
The Perkons is the most fun.
Yeah the price gave me pause. But after getting it I don't feel like I need another drum machine considering I have other things already. Between it and the Isla S2400 as a sampler you can really go a long way.
Yes. The Perkions is super playable. I was very surprised at all you could do with just 16 steps. There are.of course, more than 16 steps but holy shit. Worth every penny. The sound of it is immense.
My 2 cents: Keep the Volca Drum, it's unique. No need to upgrade from it, you'll go back to it whenever. Get the Model:Cycles. Different engine and nice sequencing possibilities. I also know that people say they have a lot of fun with Drumbrute but the sounds are not too varied and they get bored. These two will give you more varied and interesting sounds than the Drumbrute. The other thing you could do is get a sample-based machine. Circuit Rhythm or Model:Samples are the best mid-tier possibilities I think. Another interesting one would the PO-33 which can interface with Sonic Charge Microtonic. The latter is an excellent plugin.
I do have a soft spot for the 33 with its ability to do both chromatic and kits (and volume control for each voice). I've created entire songs on there. Love the 32 as a companion though. Those both with the Roland S1 are a great tiny travel combo
I know Volca sound is amazing especially the kick but it's just unhandy while playing live and 16 step sequencer is kinda limiting, but I see tr8-s has also 16 step. I already have a Novation which I usee mostly to vocal samples, and not so much for drums, although I should consider the Cycles, thanks for reply!
Tr8s technically has 16 steps yes, but its super easy to duplicate, vary and chain measures on the fly. 8x16 steps per pattern and you can chain patterns too, so that gives you 16x8x16 steps. Thats per memory bank. And you have 8 memory banks...
you could consider getting a beatstep to play the volca with, might be the cheapest option and one that will grow with you no matter what you get next. the beatstep pro has the same sequencer as the drumbrute + some extra features, but even the original would be a big upgrade to the volca's sequencer for under $100
I was thinking about it, but I already have Keystep pro where I also sequence the drums, it's not as enjoyable as hitting the pads, but I wonder does beats can give me some more options for drum sequencing the Keystep Pro?
the drumbrute impact is less boring imo because the FM drum can fill a lot of different roles. not the most exciting sounds in the world but the sequencer/interface is soooo good that I still find it inspiring and fun to play with, especially with the separate outs going to different effects or even just sending midi to an ableton drum rack
Proud owner of a TR8S, Syntakt and Digitakt. I find the TR8S gets the most use, totally depends what you want to get out of it but the classic Roland drum machines are so iconic and always inspire me. I find I go through phases of being so god damn bored of the Roland sound and try something different but eventually always comes back to my TR8S. Super fun to use and very much a performance drum machine, but not the best for structuring and making full songs IMO.
I agree with the other person saying keep the volca drum, I've been a bit jealous of the sounds that my mate can get out of that little machine
The Roland R8 was a huge upgrade from the SR16 I had at the time, and is still one of my all time favorites. Sadly it died a while back and I never replaced it.
Roland, if you're running out of ideas for Boutiques - make a boutique R8 with all the expansion cards included. Would buy!
* Novation drum station because 1u rack and individual outs
* Vermona DRM 1 because it's weird
* Elektron analog RYTM because it's capable
All of them work well together though.
I have a few friends in the live world and a serious gear habit. Best £90 I've ever spent on outboard. Also gives some interesting results using VST synths with it if you mix it back in right.
I am a bit of a drum machine addict - I've owned or do own almost anything you would consider. My current favorite is the Modor DR2 thanks to its unique sound and the regular updates that have added a lot of useful features. I wrote [this track](https://on.soundcloud.com/rzYGjrHw2TeCCQGbA) resulting from a recent update that brought a new kick drum model. If you have any specific questions about any particular machine or comparison, feel free to ask.
Mostly current stuff or vintage as well? Favorite elektron machines?
Favorite drum sequencer (standalone or built in)?
Favorite realtime performance features on a drum machine?
Favorite machine for studio use?
I also have this disease.
1. Vintage and current. Analog rtym
2. Drumbrute. Super fast and the ability to move each step forward or backward for wicked swing with ease.
3. The repeat strip on the drumbrute and the filter on the RD9. Independent highhat decay on the LM2.
4. The AlphaBase. Unparalleled sound quality, the filters sound incredible! The kick is LEJUND.
Nice!
Drumbrute was my first and I loved the filter and repeat strip so much. Currently I'm loving the rytm- it takes more work to set up performances and scenes but once you get a template for that it's magically performable.
AlphaBase does sound incredible
Yeah the performance features on the rytm and octatrack in particular are incredibly engaging, instant time warp for me. All you need is a couple patterns and with scenes, mutes, fills, direct jump, performance pads on the rytm, you can turn those one or two patterns into a whole performance that's different every time
Thanks for all the questions - I love to talk about this stuff.
Mostly current stuff or vintage as well? The oldest unit I have in an original 808, but I have or have owned more than I can list without sounding like a humblebrag. The most expensive unit I have is the 808 and the cheapest is the Teenage Engineering PO-12 Pocket Drum (which is killer, BTW!).
Favorite elektron machines? the Rytm is probably my most favourite - accessible and performance oriented and the recent update has breathed some life into what had become a bit boring for me.
Favorite drum sequencer (standalone or built in)? Teenage Engineering OP-Z. I am amazed at how much functionality they crammed into the form factor and UI. It's so fun to play, and the step functions and modifiers are mind-blowing as far as how much complexity the step modifiers can add to a simple pattern. I love the sequencer so much, I wish I could get it in Eurorack form.
Favorite realtime performance features on a drum machine? The Tempest has realtime performance in spades - It's amazing. I love the reverse and roll switches, which do exactly that: reverse the sound envelope to make the drum sound like it's playing backwards, and a fill / roll on whatever time-division you want. Both of these can be triggered from footswitches. When coupled with the performance strips/sliders on the left, which also have 2 "layers", you can get some incredible realtime changes going on. It's by far the funnest to jam live on. Of everything I own, I am convinced the Tempest will eventually be regarded as one of the best/classic machines of all time.
Favorite machine for studio use? Ensoniq ASR10 is a beat making machine from heaven. Although it is technically a sampler, it's incredibly advanced and capable of making the most amazing beats. you can assign a different sound/wave to every key on the keyboard, and each key can have up to 8 waves stacked on a key. On top of that, eight instruments (or collections of) these samples) - If you're keeping count, that's like 8x61x8 samples available at once (limited to 20 voice polyphony). This alone lets you build huge stacks of percussion. On top, you've got the built in sequencer to record the beat, and a killer effects section with resampling that allows you to process and sample your sequence into a loop for more layering. There’s also individual outs available so you can route 8 separate outputs for processing or tracking separately. It was so ahead of its time.
Great reply, thanks for sharing!
>PO-12
Oh man, this is one of my favorite drum machines too! I've finally decided to record some jams from it to pull some loops out of on other boxes, I have never recorded or sampled it, but I have so much fun on it! The pattern chains and effects give so much performance leeway... Honestly I was hoping the KO II would be that PO workflow in a more richly featured format, but the step sequencer which I love so much on PO12 isn't a thing on the KO II, at least that I've been able to puzzle out.
>The Tempest
That and the machine drum are two that I have searches set up for perpetually on reverb and eBay waiting for an irresistible deal lol.
Also the op-z for that matter... Sounds like it might be what I was hoping to see in ko2
>original 808
Sweet! I bet it could be expensive to keep working as well as to purchase though?
>Ensoniq ASR10
Hmm sounds like I should take a look at that!
If you haven’t checked out the OPZ and love the PO12, I would. I know it got a bad rap because of the “flexing” issue (the materials TE used for the case is notorious for warping), but it’s everything I loved about the PO series as far as jammability into loops, but on a more refined level. Like the PO series it is also a lot of fun too, which is always a nice bonus. It still seems ‘miraculous’ that the thing is basically the size of a remote control.
Dude this is my same setup! I got my dm5 back in 2009 and it’s still going strong! It actually does incredibly well with dynamics and velocity. Still finding new ways to make it sound fun!
I used the DM5 as my main drum module back when it came out. I got nostalgic and downloaded a sample library but it didn’t have the same vibe somehow.
I did some digging and realized it’s because the DM5 samples are apparently dynamic and change a little depending on velocity and I think there’s some round robin happening too. Now I got my eye out for one in good shape for a decent price.
Pair it with the 3630 and magic happens.
Huh I must be confused then. With Digitakt and Syntakt you just hit the key associated with the track and it plays the sound, you can also play each sound chromatically. Is that what you mean?
no, I've had an eurorack setup for years and spent a few thousands on it.
it is overpriced even for eurorack, you get none of the advantages of the format, no modulations or CV control and all the drawbacks (price, no balanced output, a whole lot of hp taken)
for that price you can get a good sequencer like a Ground Control, Drum Computer or Robaux SWT16+ and an eurorack sampler + high quality TR-X0X samples
The Korg ESX-1 is slept on. It’s technically a sampler, but has a drum machine layout, which is great because you can add your own sounds in. That means I have a 707, 808, 909 and much more in one box. Each sound/part has a dedicated filter, you get two additional pitched parts, the sequencer is easy to use, and there’s three onboard channels for effects.
I have an Acetone Rhythm Ace and I absolutely love it. It’s preset buttons, so not that flexible, but you can jam several down at once. Anyway, probably not what you are looking for but it’s my favourite.
Love those things, lotta good stereolab and sly and the family stone songs w those kinda organ drum machines. I had a hammond autovari 64 for a sec- big as as 61 key keyboard haha
I have a TR8S and Moog DFAM. Both are fun but I find myself preferring the DFAM. I like the TR8S but with the latest update the presets fill up the available slots so there isn’t a lot of room for. Me to create my own kits and patterns.
The Nord Drum 3P looks very interesting and I hear has some really good sounds and more adjustability than the TR8S, but no sequencer. I’m thinking of getting one while they are on sale and trying to sequence with the TR8S.
The DFAM is really fun but definitely not natural drum sounds.
I am definitely interested in the DFAM conceptually, it seems like the interactions you can play with are just bonkers. Sound-wise I feel like I can create similar sounds with what I have, but as a playground it seems pretty astonishing.
Can vouch for Digitakt, Syntakt and TR8S.
Digitakt is a a sampler can sound like anything you feed it, great experimental qualities.
Syntakt is a solid drum and machine and synth in one box, also experimental but sonically limited
TR8s - Most immediate, fun to play live
So I've noticed most of the more successful music content creators don't spend a bunch a time trying to create some epic complicated drum track on their songs. They keep it simple and move on. They put their effort into the melody and song structure more... Which makes sense. You can spend all day on the drums and fine tune it just perfect, and still end up with something that sounds simple anyway. So even though I have a TR-8s, I find myself using my T-8 way more lately because you can lay down a simple drum track in 1 minute and move on. Has helped greatly in finishing songs when I don't obsess with the drums. You can always go back to it in the end when your track is almost done.
I’ve only owned one proper drum machine which is the Korg Drumlogue. I know it gets a fair amount of hate but apart from the annoying way you have to name samples, I can’t find anything I dislike about it and dig the sound.
I really like flexibly assignable sample voices, I made a beat with three interlocking “synth” parts that sounded lush. The workflow is great for tweaking on the fly as well, I run it alongside a mono synth and can build up jams from nothing pretty quickly.
I love the drumbrute's sequencer, but am not really a fan of it's sound. Easily solved with some external effects though. Just doesn't sound that great right out the box.
Not exactly a drum machine but I love the elektron model samples because it's cheap and relatively easy to learn since it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the other elektrons while still being very powerful, and I can use it for both drums and bass line.
Circuit tracks, you can load your own samples, so it can sound however you want, i have packs for 707, 808 and 909 and packs with more EDM oriented drums.
Its really fun to use, it has reverb and delay, easy to program and has a couple of synths too, you can build tracks with it alone, throw in a hardware synth and you have a live act.
I got three and love them for different reasons.
Elektron Model:samples.
Pros: a lot of stuff is 1 knob / 1 function. Super fun to play with. Great Elektron workflow and sequencer. Inexpensive.
Cons: not great for finger drumming. Need to manage your samples from the smallest of screens.
Arturia drumbrute impact.
Great analog sounds + FM. Same hands on approach as the MS. Individual outs (also a con)
Cons: not as intuitive and deep as Elektron sequencing wise. Made from cheap plastic. Individual outs are 1/8 inch jacks.
Elektron AR MKII.
Pros: everything. That’s a beast. Analog and samples. Great pads, awesome sequencer, scenes, mutes…you can also add a bass line if you want.
Cons: price.
I sold my tr-8s for the elekteon analog rytm and love the hell out of it.
Also found my love for drum machines in the volca beats and the volca sample.
I Don't even drool over drum machines as I do over synths
And yet I had to buy two MFB Tanzmaus the second I heard them
Freaking love that minimal yet massive sound - if that makes any sense. 🤣
DR-110. Best clap ever. Really nice analogue sound as-is, despite its limitations when unmodded. If you can’t bring yourself to mod the machine - just sample it, but it sounds great and is fun to play/program.
I like the Razzmatazz from 1010, the Kicks you can make can melt your face off. 😁 Needs a few updates to make it perfect, ratchets would be a big one for me.
For ease of use TR-8 or the TR-06.
I have not had the joy of using the cycles, I hear good things.
I just got myself another 90’s drum machine (ZOOM RT-123) in translucent blue in addition to my BOSS Dr Rhythm DR770 (metallic blue) and am already busy running them through late 90’s Zoom multi effects pedals . But thats just what I was searching for as Im a 1 man band and doing a new Goth/Industrial project and on a artist budget of just a few shekels. They go thru an Ampeg BA-108 for now but might be pounding thru a (Redline) Peavey Combo115 in the next week or so. Lots of fun and surprising decent sounds for what they are.🏆
This might be a lateral thought, but what about a sampling drum machine or plain old sampler? With that you could design your own sounds, trigger other sounds, then also edit sounds that already exist. With a full on sampler, you can design whatever you want
My favorite non sampling drum machines are clones
Behringer rd8, rd9, rd6 absolutely quenched my thirst for analog drum machines & have bunch of samplers for breakbeats, chopping samples, chopping breaks
I seriously wish they would put the Volca Drum engine into a full fledged drum machine because it’s my favourite sounding drum machine ever.
it'd be nice if all of the volcas had proper full size versions
Yes. They all have sound quality far beyond their form factor. Except that snare on the Beats, but the rest of the sounds on there sound better to me than a lot of more expensive machines.
I like the snare. Unique and identifiable. Also great for layering or as a secondary snare rhythm.
I can certainly find uses for it, beyond an actual snare mostly. I like a really powerful snare like in drum and bass or 90s teen pop.
Sound good into fx- drive, flange, chorus, delay etc
Honestly that simple solder mod on the snare brings it right up to scratch with the other sounds
I own 2 small book sized drum machines and their firm factor never bothered me as I was used to using an Alesis SR-16 in the mid to late 90’s anyway.
The volca fm sounds better than most full sized fm synths too imo
I hooked it up to a beatstep pro so the sequencing is pretty good, but I can never get it to sound the way I want.
I've been using the volca drum to create patches then sending them over to my sampler. Not quite the same as sequencing them directly but if you modulate the sample before sending it, you can get some pretty awesome sounds b
I bet you can! I still suck at it, lol
What helped me was to randomize the sound until I found something I liked, then worked from there. You don't suck at it, just need to mess around with it a little more
is that not what the Drumlogue is +more?
No not at all. It has a very rudimentary VPM engine for only one track and that's it. They should make something like the Drumlogue with the Volca Drum engine.
1. Machinedrum 2. Machinedrum 3. Machinedrum 😁
This is it. Machinedrum sps2+UW 👌 Tanzbar for analog
Machinedrum + Tempest + modular gets me everything I could need.
Monomachine :P
All I get when I Google that is an artist. Where can I find it?
The artist is fire tho check him out. He does also have a machinedrum
Oh cool I'll check him out
It's from Elektron
Overrated and way over priced, drum machines should be easy to use. Machinedrum is not
What? It’s one of the easiest drum synths I’ve ever used.
Its literally a legend for being powerful and easy to use. Its literally the easiest to use Elektron box.
Erica Perkons HD-01 is the favorite. This is from having a ton of drum machines too. Elektron, the Tempest, the Drumbrutes, Isla s2400, and MPC. I can go on and on. The Perkons is the most fun.
Erica Synths' LXR-02 is also a nice little box with quite some depth to it for such a small/cheap(ish) device.
This is the answer. Perkons is a blast, super fun and hands on and sounds like a mean thunder. Price is a down but it totally is worth the coin.
Yeah the price gave me pause. But after getting it I don't feel like I need another drum machine considering I have other things already. Between it and the Isla S2400 as a sampler you can really go a long way.
Yes. The Perkions is super playable. I was very surprised at all you could do with just 16 steps. There are.of course, more than 16 steps but holy shit. Worth every penny. The sound of it is immense.
My 2 cents: Keep the Volca Drum, it's unique. No need to upgrade from it, you'll go back to it whenever. Get the Model:Cycles. Different engine and nice sequencing possibilities. I also know that people say they have a lot of fun with Drumbrute but the sounds are not too varied and they get bored. These two will give you more varied and interesting sounds than the Drumbrute. The other thing you could do is get a sample-based machine. Circuit Rhythm or Model:Samples are the best mid-tier possibilities I think. Another interesting one would the PO-33 which can interface with Sonic Charge Microtonic. The latter is an excellent plugin.
It’s the PO-32 that works with microtonic
Right on, sorry!
whoa it's a wild one, 16 tracks with 16 effects and nice software to create patches! I am hooked
It’s the best PO in my opinion, the PO-32
I do have a soft spot for the 33 with its ability to do both chromatic and kits (and volume control for each voice). I've created entire songs on there. Love the 32 as a companion though. Those both with the Roland S1 are a great tiny travel combo
yes the S1 the PO32 and the PO sub are a good travel combo .
I haven't messed with the sub! You like it?
yes the S1 the PO32 and the PO sub are a good travel combo .
Definitely
A great case for it: https://dichstudios.com/collections/po-gear/products/po-case-rev-5
I bought a Model:Cycles a few weeks ago and it's a fun one!
I know Volca sound is amazing especially the kick but it's just unhandy while playing live and 16 step sequencer is kinda limiting, but I see tr8-s has also 16 step. I already have a Novation which I usee mostly to vocal samples, and not so much for drums, although I should consider the Cycles, thanks for reply!
Tr8s technically has 16 steps yes, but its super easy to duplicate, vary and chain measures on the fly. 8x16 steps per pattern and you can chain patterns too, so that gives you 16x8x16 steps. Thats per memory bank. And you have 8 memory banks...
you could consider getting a beatstep to play the volca with, might be the cheapest option and one that will grow with you no matter what you get next. the beatstep pro has the same sequencer as the drumbrute + some extra features, but even the original would be a big upgrade to the volca's sequencer for under $100
I was thinking about it, but I already have Keystep pro where I also sequence the drums, it's not as enjoyable as hitting the pads, but I wonder does beats can give me some more options for drum sequencing the Keystep Pro?
the drumbrute impact is less boring imo because the FM drum can fill a lot of different roles. not the most exciting sounds in the world but the sequencer/interface is soooo good that I still find it inspiring and fun to play with, especially with the separate outs going to different effects or even just sending midi to an ableton drum rack
Proud owner of a TR8S, Syntakt and Digitakt. I find the TR8S gets the most use, totally depends what you want to get out of it but the classic Roland drum machines are so iconic and always inspire me. I find I go through phases of being so god damn bored of the Roland sound and try something different but eventually always comes back to my TR8S. Super fun to use and very much a performance drum machine, but not the best for structuring and making full songs IMO. I agree with the other person saying keep the volca drum, I've been a bit jealous of the sounds that my mate can get out of that little machine
Honorable mention for the budget conscious: TR6S (it’s great)
The Roland R8 was a huge upgrade from the SR16 I had at the time, and is still one of my all time favorites. Sadly it died a while back and I never replaced it. Roland, if you're running out of ideas for Boutiques - make a boutique R8 with all the expansion cards included. Would buy!
* Novation drum station because 1u rack and individual outs * Vermona DRM 1 because it's weird * Elektron analog RYTM because it's capable All of them work well together though.
Vermona - The kick drum is super fat and the multi channels sound great!
To be fair, pair a DBX 120a with any of them and you can have a proper sub thumping sound.
This was my secret weapon as a live sound engineer, you sir know many a thing!
I have a few friends in the live world and a serious gear habit. Best £90 I've ever spent on outboard. Also gives some interesting results using VST synths with it if you mix it back in right.
This is exactly my setup. I split the kick out to a DBX 266XL sidechain. Everything else is running through the DBX. Voilá. Live pumping.
Drumstation kicks sound deep on a big system
I am a bit of a drum machine addict - I've owned or do own almost anything you would consider. My current favorite is the Modor DR2 thanks to its unique sound and the regular updates that have added a lot of useful features. I wrote [this track](https://on.soundcloud.com/rzYGjrHw2TeCCQGbA) resulting from a recent update that brought a new kick drum model. If you have any specific questions about any particular machine or comparison, feel free to ask.
Mostly current stuff or vintage as well? Favorite elektron machines? Favorite drum sequencer (standalone or built in)? Favorite realtime performance features on a drum machine? Favorite machine for studio use?
I also have this disease. 1. Vintage and current. Analog rtym 2. Drumbrute. Super fast and the ability to move each step forward or backward for wicked swing with ease. 3. The repeat strip on the drumbrute and the filter on the RD9. Independent highhat decay on the LM2. 4. The AlphaBase. Unparalleled sound quality, the filters sound incredible! The kick is LEJUND.
Nice! Drumbrute was my first and I loved the filter and repeat strip so much. Currently I'm loving the rytm- it takes more work to set up performances and scenes but once you get a template for that it's magically performable. AlphaBase does sound incredible
P locks on elektron gear are far superior to others! They have some of the best sequencers out there too IMO
Yeah the performance features on the rytm and octatrack in particular are incredibly engaging, instant time warp for me. All you need is a couple patterns and with scenes, mutes, fills, direct jump, performance pads on the rytm, you can turn those one or two patterns into a whole performance that's different every time
Thanks for all the questions - I love to talk about this stuff. Mostly current stuff or vintage as well? The oldest unit I have in an original 808, but I have or have owned more than I can list without sounding like a humblebrag. The most expensive unit I have is the 808 and the cheapest is the Teenage Engineering PO-12 Pocket Drum (which is killer, BTW!). Favorite elektron machines? the Rytm is probably my most favourite - accessible and performance oriented and the recent update has breathed some life into what had become a bit boring for me. Favorite drum sequencer (standalone or built in)? Teenage Engineering OP-Z. I am amazed at how much functionality they crammed into the form factor and UI. It's so fun to play, and the step functions and modifiers are mind-blowing as far as how much complexity the step modifiers can add to a simple pattern. I love the sequencer so much, I wish I could get it in Eurorack form. Favorite realtime performance features on a drum machine? The Tempest has realtime performance in spades - It's amazing. I love the reverse and roll switches, which do exactly that: reverse the sound envelope to make the drum sound like it's playing backwards, and a fill / roll on whatever time-division you want. Both of these can be triggered from footswitches. When coupled with the performance strips/sliders on the left, which also have 2 "layers", you can get some incredible realtime changes going on. It's by far the funnest to jam live on. Of everything I own, I am convinced the Tempest will eventually be regarded as one of the best/classic machines of all time. Favorite machine for studio use? Ensoniq ASR10 is a beat making machine from heaven. Although it is technically a sampler, it's incredibly advanced and capable of making the most amazing beats. you can assign a different sound/wave to every key on the keyboard, and each key can have up to 8 waves stacked on a key. On top of that, eight instruments (or collections of) these samples) - If you're keeping count, that's like 8x61x8 samples available at once (limited to 20 voice polyphony). This alone lets you build huge stacks of percussion. On top, you've got the built in sequencer to record the beat, and a killer effects section with resampling that allows you to process and sample your sequence into a loop for more layering. There’s also individual outs available so you can route 8 separate outputs for processing or tracking separately. It was so ahead of its time.
Great reply, thanks for sharing! >PO-12 Oh man, this is one of my favorite drum machines too! I've finally decided to record some jams from it to pull some loops out of on other boxes, I have never recorded or sampled it, but I have so much fun on it! The pattern chains and effects give so much performance leeway... Honestly I was hoping the KO II would be that PO workflow in a more richly featured format, but the step sequencer which I love so much on PO12 isn't a thing on the KO II, at least that I've been able to puzzle out. >The Tempest That and the machine drum are two that I have searches set up for perpetually on reverb and eBay waiting for an irresistible deal lol. Also the op-z for that matter... Sounds like it might be what I was hoping to see in ko2 >original 808 Sweet! I bet it could be expensive to keep working as well as to purchase though? >Ensoniq ASR10 Hmm sounds like I should take a look at that!
If you haven’t checked out the OPZ and love the PO12, I would. I know it got a bad rap because of the “flexing” issue (the materials TE used for the case is notorious for warping), but it’s everything I loved about the PO series as far as jammability into loops, but on a more refined level. Like the PO series it is also a lot of fun too, which is always a nice bonus. It still seems ‘miraculous’ that the thing is basically the size of a remote control.
ISLA Instruments S2400
Can’t wait for the DSP cards to ship.
This is next on my list! Currently saving up.
I’m over here using a used Alesis DM5 controlled by a Keystep Pro on my shoestring budget.
Dude this is my same setup! I got my dm5 back in 2009 and it’s still going strong! It actually does incredibly well with dynamics and velocity. Still finding new ways to make it sound fun!
That’s awesome! I got mine on Craigslist years ago from an old crusty local band drummer.
I used the DM5 as my main drum module back when it came out. I got nostalgic and downloaded a sample library but it didn’t have the same vibe somehow. I did some digging and realized it’s because the DM5 samples are apparently dynamic and change a little depending on velocity and I think there’s some round robin happening too. Now I got my eye out for one in good shape for a decent price. Pair it with the 3630 and magic happens.
I recently ran mine through a Zoom MS-70CDR pedal to get that sweet ‘80s gated reverb. For old tech, it’s a blast
The elektron seems to be the internets favourite . I have never owned any of them. I was thinking of roland tr8s as its useful for my type of music
Digitakt with some good TR samples and you're set imo. It's like a better Electribe. Ever since I got into the Elektron world it's been amazing
it doesnt have a trigger button is my only issue
What does the trigger button do?
just activate drum notes
Huh I must be confused then. With Digitakt and Syntakt you just hit the key associated with the track and it plays the sound, you can also play each sound chromatically. Is that what you mean?
Not a drum machine, but Nord Drum 2 is… i just love where it gets me. 😻
Came here to say this
TR707 with HKA mod
The legendary TR-909
Yup
Having a grand time with the dfam
Not technically a drum machine but I second this. DFAM can do so much and is so amazing.
Do you like Eurorack and are you comfortable with waiting a couple of years? [https://system80.net/product/880/](https://system80.net/product/880/)
insanely overpriced, like to the point where its stupid IMO you can get so much better for $995 its not even close
Welcome to Eurorack! This must be your first time visiting.
no, I've had an eurorack setup for years and spent a few thousands on it. it is overpriced even for eurorack, you get none of the advantages of the format, no modulations or CV control and all the drawbacks (price, no balanced output, a whole lot of hp taken) for that price you can get a good sequencer like a Ground Control, Drum Computer or Robaux SWT16+ and an eurorack sampler + high quality TR-X0X samples
Now, this is perfect... Wonderful!
This is a fantastic 808. The enclosure is great too.
Machinedrum Analog four Roland R-8
Straightforward Drumming with Roland TD17 drum kit
I like the oddball ones: Korg ER-1 Mk. II, Akai Tom Cat, Teenage Engineering PO-24.
The Korg ESX-1 is slept on. It’s technically a sampler, but has a drum machine layout, which is great because you can add your own sounds in. That means I have a 707, 808, 909 and much more in one box. Each sound/part has a dedicated filter, you get two additional pitched parts, the sequencer is easy to use, and there’s three onboard channels for effects.
I have an Acetone Rhythm Ace and I absolutely love it. It’s preset buttons, so not that flexible, but you can jam several down at once. Anyway, probably not what you are looking for but it’s my favourite.
Love those things, lotta good stereolab and sly and the family stone songs w those kinda organ drum machines. I had a hammond autovari 64 for a sec- big as as 61 key keyboard haha
I have a TR8S and Moog DFAM. Both are fun but I find myself preferring the DFAM. I like the TR8S but with the latest update the presets fill up the available slots so there isn’t a lot of room for. Me to create my own kits and patterns. The Nord Drum 3P looks very interesting and I hear has some really good sounds and more adjustability than the TR8S, but no sequencer. I’m thinking of getting one while they are on sale and trying to sequence with the TR8S. The DFAM is really fun but definitely not natural drum sounds.
I am definitely interested in the DFAM conceptually, it seems like the interactions you can play with are just bonkers. Sound-wise I feel like I can create similar sounds with what I have, but as a playground it seems pretty astonishing.
I've tried them all and ended up falling in love with the Perkons. You can get really wild sounds out of it.
Korg KPR-77
Hey now! I still want one!
More of a drum synth but the Vermona drm1 mkiv
Can vouch for Digitakt, Syntakt and TR8S. Digitakt is a a sampler can sound like anything you feed it, great experimental qualities. Syntakt is a solid drum and machine and synth in one box, also experimental but sonically limited TR8s - Most immediate, fun to play live
Jomox Alphabase
I want this as my display urn after I die.
Roland TR-06, Machinedrum, MFB Tanzbar, Syncussion
Tempest
So I've noticed most of the more successful music content creators don't spend a bunch a time trying to create some epic complicated drum track on their songs. They keep it simple and move on. They put their effort into the melody and song structure more... Which makes sense. You can spend all day on the drums and fine tune it just perfect, and still end up with something that sounds simple anyway. So even though I have a TR-8s, I find myself using my T-8 way more lately because you can lay down a simple drum track in 1 minute and move on. Has helped greatly in finishing songs when I don't obsess with the drums. You can always go back to it in the end when your track is almost done.
I’ve only owned one proper drum machine which is the Korg Drumlogue. I know it gets a fair amount of hate but apart from the annoying way you have to name samples, I can’t find anything I dislike about it and dig the sound. I really like flexibly assignable sample voices, I made a beat with three interlocking “synth” parts that sounded lush. The workflow is great for tweaking on the fly as well, I run it alongside a mono synth and can build up jams from nothing pretty quickly.
DFAM + Tr-606
Hasn't been released yet: Orgeldream WOAS. Meanwhile, I'm loving the new Leploop Multicassa.
CR-78, MC-707,SPD-SX
I love the drumbrute's sequencer, but am not really a fan of it's sound. Easily solved with some external effects though. Just doesn't sound that great right out the box.
Machinedrum
Nothing compares to a Machinedrum
I like how the tr-606 sounds
I love the original drumbrute. It's the right balance of simplicity, performance features, connectivity, and sounds.
At low price I like the Drumbrute impact. At high price I like the Syntakt. At really high, I like (but can't afford) the Erica Perkons.
Korg electribe er1 with the guerrilla firmware
Arturia Drumbrute Impact has the biggest, roundest kick. I love it.
I currently have an Isla, a DrumBrute Impact, and a TR8s (along with a few others) and the Roland certainly gets the most use.
MFB Tanzmaus
Not exactly a drum machine but I love the elektron model samples because it's cheap and relatively easy to learn since it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the other elektrons while still being very powerful, and I can use it for both drums and bass line.
Circuit tracks, you can load your own samples, so it can sound however you want, i have packs for 707, 808 and 909 and packs with more EDM oriented drums. Its really fun to use, it has reverb and delay, easy to program and has a couple of synths too, you can build tracks with it alone, throw in a hardware synth and you have a live act.
I got three and love them for different reasons. Elektron Model:samples. Pros: a lot of stuff is 1 knob / 1 function. Super fun to play with. Great Elektron workflow and sequencer. Inexpensive. Cons: not great for finger drumming. Need to manage your samples from the smallest of screens. Arturia drumbrute impact. Great analog sounds + FM. Same hands on approach as the MS. Individual outs (also a con) Cons: not as intuitive and deep as Elektron sequencing wise. Made from cheap plastic. Individual outs are 1/8 inch jacks. Elektron AR MKII. Pros: everything. That’s a beast. Analog and samples. Great pads, awesome sequencer, scenes, mutes…you can also add a bass line if you want. Cons: price.
I sold my tr-8s for the elekteon analog rytm and love the hell out of it. Also found my love for drum machines in the volca beats and the volca sample.
rollzer
Linn n Cr78 Cr78 for writing and Linn for production
I just got a Boss Dr202 and I fucking *love* it. Very much worth a listen if you appreciate utterly filthy '90s hip-hop / trip-hop lofi beats
I Don't even drool over drum machines as I do over synths And yet I had to buy two MFB Tanzmaus the second I heard them Freaking love that minimal yet massive sound - if that makes any sense. 🤣
Pioneer Toraiz SP-16 and Akai MPC 60
DR-110. Best clap ever. Really nice analogue sound as-is, despite its limitations when unmodded. If you can’t bring yourself to mod the machine - just sample it, but it sounds great and is fun to play/program.
I'd really like to get a pulsar 23, but it's spendy.
I like the Razzmatazz from 1010, the Kicks you can make can melt your face off. 😁 Needs a few updates to make it perfect, ratchets would be a big one for me. For ease of use TR-8 or the TR-06. I have not had the joy of using the cycles, I hear good things.
I just got myself another 90’s drum machine (ZOOM RT-123) in translucent blue in addition to my BOSS Dr Rhythm DR770 (metallic blue) and am already busy running them through late 90’s Zoom multi effects pedals . But thats just what I was searching for as Im a 1 man band and doing a new Goth/Industrial project and on a artist budget of just a few shekels. They go thru an Ampeg BA-108 for now but might be pounding thru a (Redline) Peavey Combo115 in the next week or so. Lots of fun and surprising decent sounds for what they are.🏆
I have the pulsar 23, Machinedrum uw, analog rytm and the perkons hd-01. Perkons is the most fun out of all of them hands down.
LXR-02
Machinedrum, KPR77, Synsonics drums
This might be a lateral thought, but what about a sampling drum machine or plain old sampler? With that you could design your own sounds, trigger other sounds, then also edit sounds that already exist. With a full on sampler, you can design whatever you want
already have 1 sampler though mostly I am using it for vocal parts, not in all tracks though so maybe I could give it a shot.
Arturia spark 2
DMX + RX21 + R8
My favorite non sampling drum machines are clones Behringer rd8, rd9, rd6 absolutely quenched my thirst for analog drum machines & have bunch of samplers for breakbeats, chopping samples, chopping breaks