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Drum Machines

A drum machine is a hardware device or software that generates electronic drum sounds, typically for the purpose of creating music. Drum machines are often used by music producers and DJs to create beats and rhythms, and they can be programmed to play a variety of different drum sounds and patterns.

The main functions of a drum machine include:

  • Sound generation: Drum machines generate electronic drum sounds that can be used to create music.

  • Pattern creation: Drum machines allow users to create and program drum patterns by specifying which drum sounds are played and when.

  • Sequencing: Drum machines allow users to sequence drum patterns in a specific order to create a complete song or beat.

  • Effects: Many drum machines offer effects such as reverb, delay, and compression, which can be used to shape the sound of the drum sounds.

Some of the main uses of drum machines include:

  • Music production: Drum machines are often used by music producers to create beats and rhythms for electronic music, hip hop, and other genres.

  • Live performances: Drum machines are commonly used by DJs and electronic music performers to provide a backing track for their live sets.

  • Practice: Drum machines can be used by musicians as a tool for practicing and improving their drumming skills.

Some of the benefits of using a drum machine include:

  • Ease of use: Drum machines are relatively easy to use, even for those with limited music production experience.

  • Flexibility: Drum machines allow users to create a wide range of drum sounds and patterns, and they can be easily modified and customised.

  • Portability: Many drum machines are small and portable, making them easy to take with you on the go.

  • Cost-effective: Drum machines can be an affordable alternative to hiring a drummer or purchasing a full drum set.

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    Akai MPCX

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    Elektron Digitakt

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    Elektron’s new sampling drum machine is much more than just a cut-price Octatrack.

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    Roland announce DJ-505 and DJ-202

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    Released in 2016, the DJ-808 DJ Controller is ideally suited to on-the-fly remixing and sports a four-channel...

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    Polyend Perc Pro

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    Korg Volca Kick

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    Roland Boutique TR-09 & TB-03

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    Wave Alchemy Revolution

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    Wave Alchemy’s Revolution breathes new life into a pantheon of classic drum machines.

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    Elektron Digitakt now available

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    Cyclone Analogic TT-303, TT-78 & TT-606

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    We’ve seen plenty of revivals of Roland classics, but Cyclone Analogic’s recreations are not the usual trio.

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    Pioneer Toraiz SP-16

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    Jomox Alpha Base drum machine has built-in FM synth

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    Akai MPC Live

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    Automat Toolkit turns the world into a drum machine

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    Berlin-based studio Dadamachines has launched an intriguing Kickstarter campaign to go into production on the...

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    Sample Logic release Rhythmology groove engine

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    Rhythmology from Sample Logic pairs a dynamic, rhythmic sequencing and effects engine with a huge loop...

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    Blue Mangoo Drum Session

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    Teenage Engineering drop software-programmable PO-32

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    Arturia DrumBrute

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    Arturia’s new drum machine features 17 analogue voices and a mildly astonishing price tag. And it’s really rather good...

    Reviews Dec 2016

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