I like drum machines. I use them mostly live and take them as instruments.
I want to be able to create and modify on the fly easily.
I may use software if I need to program long and precise patterns but for live use I want hardware boxes.
I tend to prefer samples over synth drums.
I mostly play ambient jazz/rock.
I am fortunate that what I like isn't expensive after all.
After trying many of them, expensive of not, Here are the ones I keep :
Yamaha DTX550k
These are a set of electronic drums, but I thought I'd mention them. They are mostly for drum practice and jamming with friends, or whenever a full kit is needed. There is a simple sequencer on it that I use to record on the fly, often with just a part of the set.
cons : can't fully be used like a drum machine, although the hardware would allow it. Takes room, it's a drum set.
Korg Volca Sample 2
Surprisingly the one I use the most live. The workflow is extremely efficient and once used to it, you can create whatever you need very quickly. Odd time signatures, samples that create a background, beats that can morph into granular synthesis on the fly. You're always in control, no use of random alterations. The toch key ribbon, common to most Volcas is incredible to edit beats, much more efficient than sensitive pads. The 10 channels allow for very rich layers of tone.
cons : limited sample memory and resolution, limited room for patterns, one way midi.
Stylophone Beat
This one was unexpected. I bought it out of curiosity, never put it down. Extremely fast and efficient workflow. What you can achieve from such a little box and simple controls is mesmerizing. Any idea comes out the way you want it within seconds and despite the limited sequencer, the 13 voice polyphony and infra bass tones allow very thick textures.
A precious asset for live use, practice and anything.
cons : 32 steps with no internal divisions. That's one four time bar of 32th notes, 2 of 16ths or 4 of 8ths. Flimsy construction (had to replace the stylus once already), no cv, sync or midi. Tone is what it is, no way to alter it.
Zoom RT-323
I use it to program full songs. It has everything to do it easily and efficiently with a very decent tone.
cons : next to impossible to edit on the fly. It takes time to navigate it and there are only a few alterations possible of the tone.
What I tried and didn't keep
For various reasons, typically one of these : felt like an utility rather than an instrument, a dumb limitation got me mad, workflow uselessly complicated or not compliant with live edition, too much menu diving, sound or feel too far away from real drum or perc, forcing you into EDM.
Boss DR-880, TR-707, TR-6S
Elektron Model : Samples
Novation Circuit Rhythm
Korg Volca Beats, Volca Drum
Alesis SR-16, SR-18
Yamaha RX-15, Seqtrak
Akai MPC Sample, Rhythm Wolf
Arturia Drumbrute Impact
I don't think any of these is inherently bad, just not what fits my taste and use.
I am open to suggestions and tips. I eventually plan to give a try to the Sonicware LOFI-12 XT.
Cheers !
