TOP PICKS
Bestseller No. 1
Alesis SR-16 - Studio-Grade Standalone Drum Machine With On-Board Sound Library, Performance Driven I/O and In-Built Effects
- A Studio Icon - Legendary classic drum machine for songwriters, live performers and remix engineers
- In Demand Sound - 233 professional sounds included, built-in digital effects for added realism and powered by Alesis exclusive Dynamic Articulation
- Seamless MIDI Connectivity - Complete MIDI support for use with keyboards, computers, DAWs and electronic drum kits
- Connectivity Covered - 4 (stereo pairs) outputs; 2-function footswitch jacks for start/stop and count/A/B/fill
- Production-Ready Features - Sound stacking, step editing, stereo samples with reverb and ambience
Bestseller No. 2
AKAI Professional MPC One+ Standalone Drum Machine, Beat Maker and MIDI Controller with WiFi, Bluetooth, Drum Pads, Synth Plug-ins and Touchscreen,red
- No Computer Required - Powerful Sampler, Beat Maker, Drum Machine and Desktop Controller with MPC2 Software for Mac and PC that uses the MPC legacy iconic workflow in a compact format
- Standalone Supercharged – Featuring WiFi & Bluetooth MIDI, 16 Velocity-Sensitive RGB MPC Pads, 7” Multi-Gesture Display, Touch Capacitive Q Link Knobs, Dedicated Encoder Knob and Transport Controls
- Connectivity - MIDI In & Out, (2) 1/4" TRS Audio Ins, (2) 1/4" TRS Main Outs, (4) TRS CV/Gate Jacks, (1) Headphones Out; SD Card Slot, USB-A for MIDI Controllers, Audio Interfaces or Flash Drives & USB-B for PC/Mac
- MPC Stems for MPC2 Desktop - Producers and beat-makers can now easily isolate drums, bass, music, and vocals from any audio recording or sample bringing a whole new creative way to make music
- On Demand Sound - Custom Sample & Loop Library; 128 MIDI and 8 Audio Tracks per Project; Exclusive Standalone Synth Engines; Premium AIR FX For Mixing & Mastering; Network Access for Splice and Ableton Link 3
Bestseller No. 3
Korg Drum Machine, Blue (VOLCADRUM)
- Digital percussion synth with a 6-part x 2-layer structure
- Distinctive sound from a newly developed DSP engine
- Waveguide resonator adds rich resonances
- 16-step sequencer with a wide range of parameter automation
- Slice function finely divides a step to allow drum-rolls
Bestseller No. 4
Singular Sound BeatBuddy MINI 2: Hands Free Drum Machine Guitar Effect Pedal
- A drum machine in a guitar pedal, enabling full hands-free, creative control of the beat. Add fills, transitions and stop while you play your instrument.
- Includes 200 songs (that you control) in 21 genres. Songs feature multiple parts, fills, transitions and intros/outros.
- Oversized footswitch with large contact area makes it easier to hit and more barefoot friendly.
- Visual metronome on screen makes it easy to improve rhythm and learn new time signatures
- Lightweight, compact design make it easy to fit on your pedalboard. 2.5" x 4.7" x 2.7" and only 10.6 oz.
Bestseller No. 6
IK Multimedia UNO Drum analog and digital drum machine with 6 analog voices, 64-Step Sequencer, USB and 2.5mm MIDI, 100 pattern presets, battery-powered and portable
- GREAT SOUNDING: This drum machine will make your music shine with six great-sounding analog voices and up to 12 PCM voices.
- EASY TO USE: Ultra-compact, this beat maker is designed for anyone who wants to make great music anywhere. With 100 included pattern presets, 8 parameters per step and easy-to-use controls, all you need is a creative mind.
- BUILT-IN FUNCTIONALITY: With 12 multi-touch double velocity pads and 64 step sequencer, this drum machine is the ideal solution for creating exciting new beats on the go.
- 2.5 MM I/O JACK: This USB keyboard supports 2.5 mm MIDI input & output (MIDI adapter included) that lets you connect to keyboards, synths and more.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: This versatile portable drum machine is powered by your device/USB and works with iPhone, iPad, Mac, and PC so that you can create your beats and grooves wherever you are.
BUYING GUIDE
Drum machines have been an integral part of music production and live performance for decades. From hip-hop to techno, from pop to ambient, these rhythm-making machines have shaped the sound of countless genres. But in a saturated market with endless options, how can you choose the best drum machine for your needs? This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when making your decision.
1. Sounds and Patterns: The first thing to consider is the sound. Each drum machine comes with its unique sound character. Some models provide analog sounds, others digital, and some offer both. Think about the music genre you’ll be working with and pick a machine whose sounds fit into that style.
2. Interface and Usability: You want a drum machine that you can easily understand and navigate. A clear layout with intuitive controls will make the workflow more seamless and enjoyable.
3. Programmability: Look at the programming features of the drum machine. Can you create your patterns, or are you stuck with preset rhythms? The ability to program your beats gives you more creative control.
4. Connectivity: Your drum machine should be able to connect with your existing setup. Look for machines that offer MIDI in/out, USB, and audio connections to ensure compatibility with your other equipment.
5. Portability: If you plan to use your drum machine for live performances, consider its size and weight. A compact, lightweight machine will be easier to transport.
6. Durability: Music equipment can be a substantial investment. Therefore, you want a drum machine that’s sturdy and durable, especially if you’re taking it on the road.
7. Price: Drum machines range in price from affordable entry-level models to high-end professional ones. You don’t have to break the bank to get a good drum machine. Set a budget, and look for a model that gives you the best value for your money.
8. Effects and Features: Some drum machines come with built-in effects like reverb, delay, or distortion. Others might offer features like sampling capabilities or tone shaping. Consider which of these features would be useful to you.
There’s a perfect drum machine out there for everyone, from beginners looking to dip their toes into beat creation to seasoned professionals in search of a sophisticated rhythm composer. By considering these factors, you can make an informed choice and find a drum machine that suits your needs and enhances your music production or performance.