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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

    Music Production Centre

    Could the MPCX make you rethink your whole approach to studio and live music production?

    Reviews Sep 2017
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    Elektron Digitakt

    Digital Drum Computer & Sampler

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

    Reviews Sep 2017
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    Akai MPC Live

    Music Production Centre

    The return of the stand-alone MPC exceeds expectations.

    Reviews Apr 2017
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    Akai MPC Touch

    Sampling Workstation

    The MPC has always been about its fast, hands-on interface — can a touchscreen make it even better?

    Reviews Sep 2016
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    LEP LepLoop

    Analogue Groovebox

    The LEP LepLoop takes a decidedly unconventional approach to the groovebox format.

    Reviews Sep 2016
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    Novation Circuit

    Groovebox

    Novation’s new groovebox, sequencer and performance instrument could be this year’s essential synth accessory.

    Reviews Jan 2016
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    NI Maschine Studio

    Groove Workstation

    Native Instruments take their hybrid groove machine to another level with new hardware and a big software update.

    Reviews Mar 2014
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    Akai MPC Renaissance.

    Akai MPC Renaissance

    Sampling Workstation.

    The legendary MPC brand is reborn in a form that aims to marry its famous hands-on ethos with the unlimited possibilities of the software world. Does the combination work?

    Reviews Feb 2013
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    Native Instruments Maschine 1.5

    Groove Workstation

    NI have updated Maschine — so is it now all we thought it could be?

    Reviews Aug 2010
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    Native Instruments Maschine

    Groove Workstation

    Native Instruments's hybrid hardware and software beat machine promises the best of both worlds. Does it deliver?

    Reviews Jun 2009
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    Akai MPC500

    Sampling Workstation

    Akai's famed Music Production Centre goes mini...

    Reviews May 2007
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    Roland MC808

    Sampling Groovebox

    Roland take their MC concept further with new features, flying faders and computer integration. Let's explore...

    Reviews May 2007
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    Akai MPC2500

    Sampling Workstation

    Akai have updated the classic sampling sequencer concept last embodied in the MPC2000XL, but have they managed to preserve the magic formula that made the series a success?

    Reviews Jan 2007
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    FXpansion Guru

    Virtual Drum Sampler [Windows/Mac OS X]

    FXpansion's software drum machine takes the 'pad sampler' concept pioneered by Akai's MPC range to new levels.

    Reviews Sep 2005
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    Arturia Storm v3

    Software Music Studio [Mac OS X/PC]

    Storm, the French software studio from virtual-instrument creators Arturia, keeps on improving. We check out version 3.

    Reviews Dec 2004
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    Korg Electribe EMX1

    Music Production Station

    This new member of the Korg tribe offers synthesis, sequencing, drum programming, tons of real-time control plus genuine valves to light up your studio and your sound.

    Reviews Nov 2003
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    Elektron SPS1 Machinedrum

    Synthetic Percussion Sequencer

    Swedish manufacturer Elektron claim that their SPS1 rhythm synth is the most sophisticated drum machine ever built, with a stunning specification that includes no less than four different types of percussion synthesis.

    Reviews Jan 2002
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    Roland MC307 Groovebox

    Sequencing Workstation

    Roland followed their first MC303 Groovebox with the well-specified MC505. Now there's the MC307, with a spec more like the 505, a price closer to that of the 303, and more DJ-friendly features.

    Reviews Jun 2001
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