Drum machines

Review: The Akai MPC1000 Portable Production Workstation inherits all of the essential MPC features such as 32-voice stereo sampling, 64-track sequencing, and 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, fitting all the production capability into a compact, affordable package. 16MB of on-board memory comes as standard and can be expanded up to 128 MB. You can save your work to a Standard Compact Flash Card (up to 2 GB). A preloaded CF card with popular Akai Pro samples is included to get you going.

When connected to a Mac or PC via its built-in USB port, you can simply drag and drop data between the computer and MPC1000's CF card. The MPC1000 is small, rugged and incredibly portable for an easy fit into a backpack or laptop bag for the traveling producer.

B-STOCK: Box has been opened and is tatty but product itself is new, unused and in perfect working order

Review: *** B-STOCK: Box has been opened and is tatty but product itself is new, unused and in perfect working order ***

The Akai MPC1000 Portable Production Workstation inherits all of the essential MPC features such as 32-voice stereo sampling, 64-track sequencing, and 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, fitting all the production capability into a compact, affordable package. 16MB of on-board memory comes as standard and can be expanded up to 128 MB. You can save your work to a Standard Compact Flash Card (up to 2 GB). A preloaded CF card with popular Akai Pro samples is included to get you going.

When connected to a Mac or PC via its built-in USB port, you can simply drag and drop data between the computer and MPC1000's CF card. The MPC1000 is small, rugged and incredibly portable for an easy fit into a backpack or laptop bag for the traveling producer.

Review: MPC500 is the first portable MPC. You can sample and create music wherever inspiration strikes: on the subway, on the plane, or even at the beach! Whether you're traveling around the globe or just across town, MPC500 is a perfect fit for your backpack, messenger bag, or briefcase. Beats and productions created in MPC500 can be dropped into your computer via USB or into your main MPC with the swappable CF card when you get back into the studio.

MPC500 is a 48-track sequencer with a 32-voice stereo sampler. It has 12 velocity and pressure-sensitive rubber MPC pads. 16MB of memory comes standard and can be expanded up to 128MB. When connected to a Mac or PC via USB, you can drag and drop data between the computer and your MPC500's CF card, just like a hard drive. Because MPC500 is compatible with other MPCs, MPC500 is the perfect way to extend your studio into your mobile lifestyle.

Data Compatibility:

- MPC1000: SEQ, WAV, PGM.
- MPC2000/2000XL: SEQ (saved as MID file only), WAV, SND, PGM (Most parameters of PGM file can be loaded).
- MPC2500: SEQ, WAV, PGM.
- MPC4000: SEQ (saved as MID file only), WAV, AKP (DRUM program only...No Keygroups. Only note assign and tune are loaded).
- MPC3000: SND (THRU Computer).
Z4/Z8: WAV, PGM (DRUM program only. Only note assign and tune are loaded).
- S5000/6000: WAV only (THRU Computer).
- S1000/3000: No compatibility.

Review: The XR20 is a portable beat production center loaded with fresh sound library that's designed for making hip-hop and R&B wherever and whenever inspiration strikes. Over 700 sounds cover standard and electronic drums, one-shot hits, bass and synth sounds to easily create a total mix in next-to-no time.

The XR20 includes reverb, EQ and compression to enable MC s and producers to complete their tracks. Plug in a microphone and mix vocals with your beats. The XR20 runs on wall or battery power so it's flexible and portable. In pattern play mode, you can trigger different patterns from each pad, so you can tailor the beats to flow with the energy on-stage. Bright blue pads light with the beat to illuminate your performances as you light up the club.

With the XR20 beat production station, Akai Pro put the hip in hip-hop.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEzQUYplGlg

B-STOCK: Box is slightly tatty and packaging has been opened but product itself is new and in perfect working order

Review: *** B-STOCK: Box is slightly tatty and packaging has been opened but product itself is new and in perfect working order ***

The XR20 is a portable beat production center loaded with fresh sound library that's designed for making hip-hop and R&B wherever and whenever inspiration strikes. Over 700 sounds cover standard and electronic drums, one-shot hits, bass and synth sounds to easily create a total mix in next-to-no time.

The XR20 includes reverb, EQ and compression to enable MC s and producers to complete their tracks. Plug in a microphone and mix vocals with your beats. The XR20 runs on wall or battery power so it's flexible and portable. In pattern play mode, you can trigger different patterns from each pad, so you can tailor the beats to flow with the energy on-stage. Bright blue pads light with the beat to illuminate your performances as you light up the club.

With the XR20 beat production station, Akai Pro put the hip in hip-hop.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEzQUYplGlg

8" dual-zone drum pad

Review: This velocity-sensitive drum pad gives you natural dynamic response with a soft, rubber head for realistic feel and rebound. Its dual-zone sensing enables you to trigger sounds from the head and and rim for rimshots or alternate rim sounds. It works with virtually all e-percussion modules and devices including the DM6, DM5, Trigger iO and ControlPad. It comes with rack clamp, L-arm and cable.

Compact 4-pad percussion instrument

Review: The PercPad enables you to add 4 drum pads and an optional kick trigger to your acoustic or electronic kit or percussion setup. It's compact, easy to fit into tight setups, easy to use and it contains sounds that are perfect for accessorizing standard drumsets.

The PercPad has 4 velocity-sensitive pads, a kick input and high-quality internal sounds, all in a compact size that's the perfect choice for drummers and other instrumentalists looking to start incorporating electronic percussion into their setups.

Unlike massive, overcomplicated multi-percussion units, the PercPad is specifically designed to be small and self-contained with just what you need and nothing you don't. You can also mount the PercPad on a standard snare drum stand, on any stand or rack using the module mount, or place on a tabletop surface such as a percussion table, studio workstation or DJ rig.

The PercPad has a collection of acoustic and electronic drum and percussion that are perfectly suited to the needs of drummers and percussionists. You'll find ready-to-play acoustic and electronic drums and percussion from Latin America and Asia that perfect for complementing your drums.

You can easily tune and edit sounds as well as assign any sound to any pad, or to the kick input. If the internal sound library doesn't contain the sounds you need, the PercPad has a MIDI connection, you can use it to trigger sounds from any MIDI sound module or software on Mac or PC.

You can connect the PercPad to amplifiers, PA and recording systems with the standard dual 1/4" outputs and monitor on your favorite headphones. The kick input works with most kick pads and triggers including the DMPad and RealHead kick pads.

Add some new sounds to your kit today with the PercPad.

High-definition multi-pad percussion instrument + FREE 8" dual-zone drum pad

Review: The Alesis Performance Pad Pro offers professional sound, style and control that stands on its own. You can either augment your drum or percussion setup with the Alesis Performance Pad Pro, or play it on its own. This 8-pad multi-percussion instrument features over 500 sounds and a 3-part sequencer so you can play live, create loops and sequences, accompany yourself and add texture to the band or musical group.

With 8 velocity-sensitive drum pads, kick and hi-hat inputs and over 500 multi-sampled Dynamic Articulation sounds, the Performance Pad Pro is an all-in-one drum station. It even has inputs for kick and hi-hat triggers. The Performance Pad Pro contains the sequencing engine from Alesis'' best-selling drum machines. This 3-part sequencer enables you to program drum, percussion and accompaniment parts for creating complete tracks or playing along with loops.

The Alesis Performance Pad Pro features a modern, high-definition sound set with acoustic and electronic drums, percussion, sound effects, bass and more. It also contains powerful Alesis studio effects including reverb, EQ and compression for customizing sounds to perfection. You can also use the Performance Pad Pro as a MIDI controller for playing virtually any sound module, synth or software. Plus, you can connect and mix in a music source via the Performance Pad Pro's input.

Furthermore, you can mount the Performance Pad Pro on stands and racks, place it on most snare stands, or play it tabletop in a percussion, production, or DJ setup.

The bundle comes with the Alesis DMPad 8" Dual Zone Pad.

This velocity-sensitive drum pad gives you natural dynamic response with a soft, rubber head for realistic feel and rebound. Its dual-zone sensing enables you to trigger sounds from the head and and rim for rimshots or alternate rim sounds. It works with virtually all e-percussion modules and devices including the DM6, DM5, Trigger iO and ControlPad. It comes with rack clamp, L-arm and cable.

Multi-pad sample instrument

Review: The SamplePad is a compact four-pad instrument that gives you access to a limitless palette of sounds. With 25 percussion and electronic drum sounds built in, and the ability to load any sounds you like using a standard SD card, the SamplePad put the sounds you need on its great-feeling pads. Add a external trigger input for a trigger or switch pedal and the ability to mount on virtually any snare stand or rack, and the SamplePad makes expanding your setup easy and convenient.

The SamplePad will fit almost anywhere, so it's perfect for drummers and other instrumentalists who want to incorporate sampled sounds into their setups. It's just like adding another drum to your rig: mount the SamplePad on a standard snare drum stand or connect it to any stand or rack using the Alesis Module Mount (sold separately). For studio use, the SamplePad can simply be placed on a tabletop.

The SamplePad is just the opposite of cumbersome, hard to use multi-percussion units; it's designed to be small, self-contained and easy to use, offering just what you need and nothing you don't. It gives you access to hundreds of your own sounds, plus 25 in-demand percussion and electronic drum sounds, while adding virtually nothing to your set-up time.

The SamplePad comes equipped with a collection of acoustic and electronic drum and percussion sounds that are perfectly suited to the needs of drummers and percussionists. These sounds are standards in any drummer's toolbox, and you can mix and match them with your own samples, assigning each to the pad you choose or to the kick input. You'll find ready-to-play acoustic and electronic drums and percussion from Latin America and Asia that are perfect for complimenting your drums.

Connect the SamplePad to an amplifier, PA or recording system using its standard dual 1/4-inch outputs, and monitor on your favorite headphones. The kick input works with most pads and triggers including the DMPad and RealHead Kick Pads.

With the SamplePad's easy-to-use interface, you won't be rifling through endless submenus and categories to find the sound your looking for. Simply strike the pad you want to change, dial to the sound you want and you're done. If you discover a great combination of sounds you want to keep together, simply designate it as a kit and the SamplePad will save it for easy recall anytime you want.

Sounds included:

1 Clap
2 Finger Snap
3 Cowbell High
4 Cowbell Low
5 Triangle Muted
6 Triangle Open
7 Tambourine
8 Wind Chimes
9 Sleighbells
10 Claves
11 Block
12 Jawbone
13 Studio Shaker
14 Live Shaker
15 Electro Tom Hex
16 Timbale
17 Conga Slap
18 Conga Open
19 Electro Kick 8
20 Electro Kick 9
21 Electro Kick Hex
22 Electro Snare 8
23 Electro Snare 9
24 Electro Snare Hex
25 Electro Crack Hex

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjbShSYngzM

Review: As one of the most popular drum machines ever made, the Alesis 'SR-16' has been used by everyone from songwriters to live performers to remix engineers as their drum machine of choice. The reason is simple: it features a great selection of 233 realistic, natural drum sounds, offered both in dry form and sampled with our incomparable digital reverbs. Our exclusive Dynamic Articulation™ feature enables a drum sound to change its tonal content as it's played harder for truly realistic performances. The SR-16 features 50 preset patterns that were actually played in by top studio drummers, not just programmed and quantized. You'll find enough built-in rhythmic variations (with A, B and two Fill sections) for composing complete arrangements, and you can create and save your own customized patterns and songs. Plus, the SR-16 also provides complete MIDI implementation, a footswitch input, flexible programming and editing features and velocity-sensitive pad buttons. Plus, it's so easy to use that you'll be up-and-running and composing new music in minutes. Whether you need a songwriting partner or an accompanist for live performance, turn to the all-time world standard in drum machines: the SR-16.

- Audio Outputs: 4 (2 stereo pairs).
- Pads: 12 velocity sensitive (w/Dynamic Articulation).
- Sample/DAC Bit Resolution: 16/18.
- Sounds: 233.
- Sounds Accessible via Pads: 12.
- Sounds Accessible via MIDI: 120.
- Polyphony: 16 voice.
- Panning: 7-position user programmable.
- Velocity Response: 8 loudness levels via pads, 127 via MIDI.
- Timing Resolution: 96 ppq.
- Time Signature Range: 1-128 beats per pattern.
- Tempo Range: 20-255 bpm.
- Notes/Patterns/Songs: 12,000/400 (200 user, 200 preset)/100.
- Kits: 50 user, 50 preset.
- MIDI Program Change Response: Kit.
- Sync: MIDI Clock/Song Position Pointer.
- Footswitch Jacks/Functions: 2; start/stop, count/A/B/fill.
- Other Features: Sound stacking, step editing, stereo samples with reverb and ambience.
- Dynamic Articulation: Modulates tone.
- Power: 9 VAC External Transformer, UL and CSA Approved.
- Dimensions: (WxHxD) 9.25"x1.5"x6.5".
- Weight: 2.5 lbs.

Drum machine + FREE isolating headphones for studio and electronic drummers

Review: Alesis know drums. Their 'SR16' has dominated the drum machine market since 1990 and continues to be in demand today. This next-generation 'SR18' is loaded with cutting-edge drumsets, electronic drums, one-shot hits, and modern percussion sounds for any cutting-edge musician's performances and compositions. From hip-hop to country and everything in between, 'SR18' nails it on the first take. 'SR18' has an effects engine with Alesis reverb, EQ, and compression so you can output recording or performance-ready sounds.

Alesis' exclusive Dynamic Articulation™ technology modifies sample sounds so they change as you play them. This results in sounds that respond accurately not only to dynamic changes, but also with the appropriate timbral and colour changes you'd expect from their acoustic counterparts.

You can plug in an instrument, such as a guitar, and play along for setup simplicity. You can play in bass parts using the pads on 'SR18' or connect a MIDI keyboard for fast, musical low end. 'SR18' can be powered by AC or batteries, so whenever or wherever you need to lay down a groove, you're ready to roll. It's time for you to step up to the next Alesis drum machine.

Includes:

SR18 drum machine
AC adapter
Quick start guide.

This bundle comes with the Alesis DMPhones Headphones.

The Alesis DMPhones headphones are the first headphones designed for electronic drummers.

The DMPhones are great-sounding headphones ideal for studio and electronic drummers. They employ a comfortable, closed-cup design for great isolation from outside noise so drummers don't have to crank the volume up to 11. Pound away and still keep the volume at a healthy level so you can play longer without risking hearing damage.

The DMPhones' sleek, piano black finish and minimal size ensure visually unobtrusive appearance onstage. The audience will be riveted to your playing, not the gigantic headphones you're wearing.

Get the only headphones made for electronic drummers: DMPhones, only from Alesis.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPpQd8a5EgY

Review: The Arturia Spark is a complete drum solution made of a software application and a dedicated hardware controller. Combining the power of analog synthesis, physical modeling and samples, through the intuitive workflow of a hardware drum machine, the Arturia Spark is a highly creative beat production center. It will save you time when looking for the right drum kit, get you hooked by its amazing simplicity and surprise you by its sonic possibilities.

With a complete library including vintage drum machines, electronic analog kits and acoustic & physical drums, the Arturia Spark is your weapon of choice to create unique grooves whether you are producing in the studio or performing on stage.

Drum machine comes with everything you need to make your own original hip hop, dance, pop, dubstep, industrial or electronic music productions

Review: Great music starts with great sounds. With the Beat Thang Mobile Music Production System, you start with the same sound quality that multi-platinum producers like Dallas Austin, Jermaine Dupri, Will.i.am, and Paul Oakenfold use to make their hits.

The Beat Kangz meticulously recorded, edited, tweaked, and mastered hours of original music to give you over 3000 radio ready sounds all included with the Beat Thang. In this versatile and dynamic library, you'll find hundreds of original drums, live basses, striking strings, horns and keys; out of this world synths and effects; and exotic world instruments like tablas, sitars, kotos, djembes, and more.

Every step possible was taken to ensure that you feel the sounds from the minute you play the Beat Thang. You'll find real funk guitars and chops recorded by Motown artists, keyboard licks by Grammy-winning players and top session musicians, even beatbox samples by a world champion beat-boxer. Each sound offers the warmth and character that professionals demand, and that will help your music stand out.

The Beat Thang allows you to tweak and edit just about every parameter you could imagine on each sample. And if that isn't enough you can layer up to 16 samples per pad. Add effects. Now reverse the third layer.

Of course, if you're a professional producer, you've spent wads of cash amassing your own sample library. Well, go ahead, and drag those samples into the Beat Thang by connecting your external hard drive to one of the USB ports. Or better yet, dig into the crates and pull out Dad's collection of Bavarian drinking songs on vinyl. In fact, you can sample from just about any sound source, even the Internet. The Beat Thang's sampler includes on screen waveform editing and autochop, so creating your own sounds is easier than ever.

This music production system feature an octave pad layout that lets you play beats or keys over 8 octaves and a 3.5" color TFT display for clear visibility. The MIDI and USB interfaces provide flexible connectivity options.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=1k67jPH9BKE

Professional drum machine uses 6 x analog synthesis voices and a performance-oriented operating system, to create, edit, arrange, and manipulate beats in real time without stopping

Review: The Tempest is a collaboration between Smith and longtime friend and fellow instrument designer Roger Linn. Though they've consulted with each other on past projects, the Tempest marks the first time a product will carry both the Dave Smith Instruments and Roger Linn Design logos, referring to Linn's legacy as inventor of the digital drum machine.

The Tempest utilizes analog synthesis to generate the sounds. The Tempest's 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads are arranged in an 8 x 2 array to facilitate both real-time and step entry of beats. 2 pressure- and position-sensitive Note FX slide controllers provide a unique new method of performance and control.

Each of the 6 analog voices has 2 analog oscillators plus 2 digital oscillators (with a large bank of included samples), Dave's classic analog low-pass filter with audio-rate modulation, an additional high-pass filter, analog VCA with feedback, 5 x envelopes, 2 x LFOs, an extraordinary variety of analog modulation routings, and stunning sonic quality, warmth and punch.

Although optimized for drum sounds, it excels at tuned sounds as well, and even doubles as a 6-voice analog synth. In addition to the 6 direct voice outputs, there are stereo mix outputs and phones outputs, plus 2 inputs for foot switches or expression pedals, MIDI in/out and USB.

The performance-oriented operating system, 90 x panel controls, and bright 256 x 64 OLED display work together to provide a tightly integrated, non-stop workflow: record a drumbeat in real-time, switch to another drumbeat and use the lit pads to record it using step programming, switch to another drumbeat and record tuned keyboard parts, use the 2 touch controllers to record real-time note or beat-wide parameter animations, use the generous sound controls to edit any of the drum sounds, tweak the analog effects or drum mix, arrange beats in real time and record the live arrangement into a song, enter/exit Song mode and much more, all without ever stopping play.

A variety of unique effects are provided while maintaining a pure analog signal path, stereo analog compressor and distortion circuits affect the stereo output mix, beat-synced delay is achieved by generating additional delayed note events within the sequencer, and a beat-synced stutter effect is created entirely within the sequencer by looping short portions of the drumbeat on demand.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4ILLjUJU28

Synthetic percussion sequencer

Review: The Elektron Machinedrum SPS-1 MKII, drum synthesis has never been this powerful.

The Elektron Machinedrum SPS-1 MKII combines extremely flexible drum synthesis with a powerful percussion sequencer. It is equipped with four MD-synths, each with its own special sonic flavor. You will have no problem conjuring forth sub-sonic kicks, snappy snares or wild FX. To add further control over the sounds, 16 LFO's are available. The possibilities to sculpt new percussive sounds are near limitless. Be warned though, the Machinedrum can be seriously addicting and no rehab is currently available.

Sequencing is the middle name of the Machinedrum. Use the SPS-1 MKII to control both your internal sounds as well as your external MIDI equipment in great detail. It runs the show, both literally and figuratively speaking.

The MKII version adds a lot to the already feature-packed SPS-1. Slimmer design, world wide switching power supply, even better signal to noise ratio and last but certainly not least, the pattern sequencer now has 64 steps.

Drum synthesizer and arranger with user sampling

Review: The Machinedrum SPS-1UW+ MKII, where UW is short for User Wave, is a drum machine equipped with numerous drum synthesis methods as well as a sampling engine. But this is not your ordinary beat box, it's something far better. Both synthetic and sample based sounds can be manipulated to great extents. In a matter of seconds a vocal sample can be transformed in to a kick drum. Change a few parameters and a hand clap is suddenly a hi-hat. Your imagination is the only limit.

Live performers have a trusty companion in the SPS-1UW+ MKII. Capture loops from a turntable, slice and rearrange the recorded material while adding effects and filtering. The ultra-flexible sequencer allows for total control of all your sounds and samples - all in real-time.

The +Drive of the Machinedrum SPS-1 UW+ MKII dramatically increases the storage capability. The +Drive allows over 16000 patterns, 8'000 kits and 6'000 samples to be internally saved. Use the bundled TM-1 interface, which comes at no extra cost, for quick back ups and sample transfers. The SPS-1 UW+ MKII is a self contained power house. The kid brother of the SPS-1UW+ MKII is called the SPS-1 MKII. It features everything found in the SPS-1UW+ MKII, except the sample engine and the +Drive.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyLVrtb3RaU

The TM-1 is the first MIDI interface making use of the new Elektron Turbocharged standard. It is a 1 in/1 out USB MIDI interface capable of increasing the MIDI bandwidth up to 10 times. It is designed with the Machinedrum and the Monomachine in mind, but it will work perfectly with any MIDI equipped gear.

Operation is driverless. Just plug the TM-1 into any USB port of your Mac or PC computer and you're ready to go.

The Machinedrum SPS-1UW+ MKII comes bundled with a TM-1 interface at no extra cost. The increased MIDI bandwidth makes it perfect for sample transfers to and from your computer.

Review: The Korg Wavedrum WD-X responds perfectly to the performer's action, from subtly nuanced touching and stroking to aggressive hitting. It has a wide variety of instruments ranging from standard acoustic percussion instruments to new and unique percussion sounds.

Wavedrum establishes its own way of playing giving you unparalleled expression full of originality and depth. And with its compact and light weight design, the WAVEDRUM fits all performance situations from casual playing through to full on recording or performance.

You can sustain sounds just by pressing the head. Applying further pressure can change the pitch of the sound continuously within the selected scale. Thus, you can express yourself by playing new sounds with new ways of playing available only with the Wavedrum.

The Wavedrum helps inquiring creative performers who seek new expressiveness and sounds. Besides ordinary percussion sounds, the Wavedrum contains totally new and unique sounds that are not available in real world and offers new ways of playing for new musical expression. Changing the pitch randomly with each hit, or play melodic phrases by setting a musical scale and applying pressure to the head, a performance characteristic unique to the Wavedrum.

The head and rim pickups are directly used as a sound source to be processed by the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) algorithms and trigger the PCM sound engine. Together with the pressure sensor under the head, the Wavedrum responds to subtle motions of fingers and hands such as hitting, rubbing, scratching etc. as well as to traditional hand playing techniques such as open shot, slap shot, heel and toe, mute, etc.

Of course, the Wavedrum also responds to different playing materials such as sticks, mallets, brushes, etc., as well as the playing position of the head to play with the expression and dynamic range that are almost equivalent to that of acoustic drums and percussion.

The rim has 2 types of notches, small and large, and these can be used to get a tremolo type effect by scratching with sticks, etc. Combine the rim sounds with head sounds for an even richer, more original performance.

Review: The Korg Wavedrum WD-X responds perfectly to the performer's action, from subtly nuanced touching and stroking to aggressive hitting. It has a wide variety of instruments ranging from standard acoustic percussion instruments to new and unique percussion sounds.

Wavedrum establishes its own way of playing giving you unparalleled expression full of originality and depth. And with its compact and light weight design, the Wavedrum fits all performance situations from casual playing through to full on recording or performance.

You can sustain sounds just by pressing the head. Applying further pressure can change the pitch of the sound continuously within the selected scale. Thus, you can express yourself by playing new sounds with new ways of playing available only with the Wavedrum.

The Wavedrum helps inquiring creative performers who seek new expressiveness and sounds. Besides ordinary percussion sounds, the Wavedrum contains totally new and unique sounds that are not available in real world and offers new ways of playing for new musical expression. Changing the pitch randomly with each hit, or play melodic phrases by setting a musical scale and applying pressure to the head, a performance characteristic unique to the Wavedrum.

The head and rim pickups are directly used as a sound source to be processed by the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) algorithms and trigger the PCM sound engine. Together with the pressure sensor under the head, the Wavedrum responds to subtle motions of fingers and hands such as hitting, rubbing, scratching etc. as well as to traditional hand playing techniques such as open shot, slap shot, heel and toe, mute, etc.

Of course, the Wavedrum also responds to different playing materials such as sticks, mallets, brushes, etc., as well as the playing position of the head to play with the expression and dynamic range that are almost equivalent to that of acoustic drums and percussion.

The rim has 2 types of notches, small and large, and these can be used to get a tremolo type effect by scratching with sticks, etc. Combine the rim sounds with head sounds for an even richer, more original performance.

Review: The Korg Wavedrum WD-X responds perfectly to the performer's action, from subtly nuanced touching and stroking to aggressive hitting. It has a wide variety of instruments ranging from standard acoustic percussion instruments to new and unique percussion sounds.

Wavedrum establishes its own way of playing giving you unparalleled expression full of originality and depth. And with its compact and light weight design, the Wavedrum fits all performance situations from casual playing through to full on recording or performance.

You can sustain sounds just by pressing the head. Applying further pressure can change the pitch of the sound continuously within the selected scale. Thus, you can express yourself by playing new sounds with new ways of playing available only with the Wavedrum.

The Wavedrum helps inquiring creative performers who seek new expressiveness and sounds. Besides ordinary percussion sounds, the Wavedrum contains totally new and unique sounds that are not available in real world and offers new ways of playing for new musical expression. With Wavedrum, you can change the pitch randomly with each hit, or play melodic phrases by setting a musical scale and applying pressure to the head, which is a performance characteristic unique to the Wavedrum.

The head and rim pickups are directly used as a sound source to be processed by the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) algorithms and trigger the PCM sound engine. Together with the pressure sensor under the head, the Wavedrum responds to subtle motions of fingers and hands such as hitting, rubbing, scratching etc. as well as to traditional hand playing techniques such as open shot, slap shot, heel and toe, mute, etc.

Of course, the Wavedrum also responds to different playing materials such as sticks, mallets, brushes, etc., as well as the playing position of the head to play with the expression and dynamic range that are almost equivalent to that of acoustic drums and percussion.

The rim has 2 types of notches, small and large, and these can be used to get a tremolo type effect by scratching with sticks, etc. Combine the rim sounds with head sounds for an even richer, more original performance.

The bundled Korg SCWD soft case is custom fitted for Wavedrum and accessories with heavy-duty nylon construction, zippered accessory pocket. It also includes handle and detachable strap for easy carrying.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=wm5qePEwjho

Review: The Korg Wavedrum Mini synthesizer features a built-in speaker, battery-powered portability and a revolutionary sensor clip that transforms nearly any object into an instrument. Simply attaching the sensor clip (included) to any object or surface can transform it into a playable percussion instrument, providing a second sound to complement the Wavedrum Mini pad. The object to which you attach the clip will have a dramatic effect on how the sound is played, so you'll be making new sonic discoveries every time you use the sensor clip. The Wavedrum Mini synthesizer also comes with a convenient strap. Sit down, strap the Wavedrum Mini to your thigh and assign a snare sound to the pad. Next, assign a bass drum sound to the sensor clip and attach it to the upper part of your shoe and you've created a natural-playing drum kit that you can use anywhere.

Based on Wavedrum technology, the Wavedrum Mini offers 100 sounds, professionally programmed and ready to play. From acoustic-sounding drum and percussion sounds to cutting-edge sounds possible only on a synthesizer, the Wavedrum Mini offers a diverse range of sounds. Even instruments such as bass, tuned percussion and stringed instruments are included, allowing you to create both rhythmic and melodic performances. The tone of the Wavedrum Mini responds to the location at which you strike the pad and the amount of force applied, moving beyond a one-dimensional sound. The pad responds sensitively to every aspect of your strike, open shots, slap shots and more, allowing for a range of sophisticated performance techniques and complex musical expression.

The Wavedrum Mini features built-in effects that make it easy to transform the sound itself. Each of the 10 high-quality multi-effects combines a variety of effects: familiar spatial-type effects such as delay, chorus and reverb; modern effects including filters and pitch-shifters that radically transform the sound; distortion-type effects that deliver analog-style warmth, etc.

The Wavedrum Mini contains 100 rhythm patterns covering a range of styles. These patterns can be used as a guide to help the beginner keep a steady rhythm or simply enjoy jamming along. In fact, by using the pad, the sensor clip and playing a rhythm pattern, you can create a 3-part performance in real time.

The looper function lets you record and playback your Wavedrum Mini performance. Plus, you can add an unlimited number of overdubs, creating complex multi-sound patterns. When you play along to these complex patterns in real time, you could create fascinating performances without the need for any other equipment.

An AC adapter is included. The Wavedrum Mini synthesizer can also run on batteries, making it ideal for outdoor use or street performances. The built-in speaker is another attraction of the Wavedrum Mini, giving you the casual freedom to play on the spur of the moment and to share your sound alone or in an impromptu jam session.

Review: The Limited Edition wavedrum oriental boasts a massive infusion of popular, unique and accurate Arabic percussion sounds, all eminently playable from the dynamic rim and real drum head surface.

The wavedrum is distinguished by its revolutionary synthesis technology, and by an interface that allows a direct physical method of performance, making it the ideal instrument for replicating and articulating these exacting Arabic sounds. Arabic percussion indispensable to belly dancing, world music, and other popular genres owes its groove and exotic atmosphere not just to its non-western musical theory and unique performance techniques, but also to the distinctive sound of specific percussion instruments including the doumbek, darbuka, riq, def, and tar, even the bendir. The striking surfaces of these Arabic percussion instruments are extremely simple, yet they are able to produce a wide range of timbres, one of the essential requirements for playing these inimitable Arabic sounds.
To the award-winning wavedrum, the new wavedrum adds a full range of algorithms and PCM samples dedicated to Arabic percussion. All of these sounds faithfully simulate the distinctive ways in which the tone is affected by subtle nuances in playing technique and the position of the strike on these acoustic instruments the Darbuka with its thin single skin, the Riq with its single skin and jingles, and the dual-skinned Bendir. The number of preset programs has been increased from the previous 100 and now stands at 150 preset programs. Together with the 150 user programs, you can now choose from a total of 300 variations. The appearance has also been enhanced. The body is a white tone reminiscent of a high-quality darbuka's ceramic body, complemented by a deep red wine-colour rim suggestive of the riches of Arabian culture.

As the standard-bearer of a new musical movement, or as the perfect instrument for the percussionist seeking a broader range of sounds, the wavedrum oriental will deliver performances that are both traditional and creative.

Analog drum synthesizer

Review: The MFB-503 drumcomputer brings fresh sounds to your beats.

The third drum-computer in MFB''s 50X series introduces a more powerful sound and a new operational concept. Due to its analogue origin, kick, snare and toms can be edited in various ways. The drum kit is completed by the 2 sampled instruments cymbals (crash & ride available) and hi-hats (2 variations). In addition, the samples of each group can be continuously mixed to create further sound variations. Sounds can be saved individually as well as complete drum kits.

The instruments are triggered by an internal step-sequencer. This TR-style sequencer uses the beloved LED-per-step method to set the selected instruments. There are 90 memory locations for patterns that can be further combined into 90 songs. Instruments are edited by 4 master rotary encoders with corresponding displays.

Analogue drum machine & step sequencer

Review: The Schlagzwerg combines the power of analogue drum and percussion sounds with modular versatility in a convenient and compact desktop unit. The Schlagzwerg fusions CV-controllable percussion modules and a 6-track CV/Gate-sequencer into a unique drum-machine for live and studio applications.

Thanks to its semi-modular concept, The Schlagzwerg is ready to go without any need for patch-connections. Its internal pre-wiring comprises trigger-assignments for the gate-tracks of five (of six) drum-sounds as well as hihat decay-control. The additional CV-tracks can freely be patched to any of the modules' functions. Naturally, the available CV-inputs can also be addressed by external control sources like LFOs, envelope generators or a Theremin-controller.

An additional CV/gate-track-pair can be used to either control a variable function of a drum-module or an analogue synthesizer like MFB's Kraftzwerg. The CV-track output is quantized in pitch for perfect tuning.

The internal sequencer can store sixteen patterns, each holding A- and B-parts. Patterns can be advanced using gate-signals as well as thru start/stop and reset remote inputs. The sequencer can be externally synchronized. Start/Stop and clock-sync can also be remote controlled from the units MIDI-input without any further patch connections.

The Schlagzwerg will double as a sixfold MIDI-CV/gate-converter. 2 modes cover drum-sound control and a basic CV/gate-output of the sequences. 2 additional modes allow conversion of incoming MIDI-data into CV/gate with the internal sequencer being inactive. Here, every drum sound is controlled by an individual MIDI-channel with a pitch range of two octaves. A separate channel with five-octave-range is used for synthesizer control.

The individual drum-sounds derive from our MFB's drum-sound-modules. Trigger inputs are level-sensitive and allow dynamic performance thru drum-pads, piezo-pickups or microphones. All drums offer CV-inputs for different parameters. In difference to our modules, the different drum-sounds do not need attenuators because the sequencer allows for scalable CV-output.

The bass-drum offers the powerful sound MFB's MFB-503 drum-machine respectively our DRUM-04 module. It offers a wide variety of possible kick-sounds due to its parameter-set with attack, tune, decay, pitch and drive. The snare-drum is also based upon the MFB-503, respectively our DRUM-05 module. Snap, decay, tune and pitch parameters allow for broad sound-variations.

The tom-sound derives from the MFB-503 respectively our DRUM-06 module. Here, pitch and panorama-position can be coupled to achieve the classic pan-spread sound of hi-, mid- and lo-toms.

Hihat and cymbal derive from our MFB-522 drum-machine, respectively DRUM-07 module. The sounds are based upon a six-oscillator-mix. Cymbal, open and closed hihat can be triggered separately. In addition, the decay of the cymbal- and open-hihat-sounds is under CV-control. All drum-sounds are routed into the internal mixer with adjustable panning and stereo outputs. Alternatively, the sound modules also offer individual outputs.

Analog drum synthesizer

Review: The Vermona DRM-1 MKIII offers 8 instruments, each with 7 knobs for forming the sound plus a panorama and a volume-controller. The user interface is clear and intutitve.

The DRM-1 MKIII synthesizer gives you the possibility to create your own sounds and also a lot of the classic analog drum sounds. Every sound parameter on the DRM-1 MKIII has its own controller, so it's easy to use and you'll always have the best overview over the settings.

The instruments of the DRM-1 MKIII can be triggered by MIDI (velocity-sensitive). There is also an optional trigger available that connects the drum machine to your analogue step sequencer or whatever gives out gate voltage or switch trigger. Beside the main outputs, each channel is equipped with an individual output that also can be used as an channel insert.

Analogue kick drum generator

Review: The Kick Lancet generator is a handy analogue percussion synthesizer with priority to kick-drum sounds.

The heart of the Kick Lancet's sound structure is an analogue oscillator that produces sine and square waves, which can blend seamlessly from one to the other. 2 independent envelope generators with a decay/release phase can modulate the oscillator's frequency and the VCA. Additionally the VCO pitch can be modulated by the fast LFO (3Hz to 3 kHz, triangle). Noise and a pulse signal can be added in the mixer section. Vermona have a balls-controller for making it really big.

The Kick Lancet can be triggered by MIDI but beside that there are 3 different trigger inputs. A gate trigger, which impulse can trigger the Kick Lancet in normal way with additional accent or completely dynamical depending on the incoming voltage, a simply short current trigger (i.e. momentary foot switch) and an audio input, which offers the possibility to trigger the Kick Lancet by an audio signal statically or dynamically. Drum pads can also be connected here.