Best drum machines for 2020

Anyone can create music, it is not necessary to have a musical education, it is enough to know the basics and choose high-quality equipment. So the synthesizer will help replace most keyboards, and the drum machine is able to simulate the sound of electronic drums. The latter is in great demand among people who prefer the Hip-Hop style. However, it is important to pay attention to the choice of this device so that the programming is simple and straightforward. Therefore, the editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best drum machines for 2020.

New genres

A drum machine is a small device that creates drum sounds as well as various effects. Using this device, a person programs his own rhythm, while no auxiliary equipment is required, everything necessary is present on the main panel. The product is capable of both creating sounds (in this case, analog synthesis is used), and working with ready-made samples. This solution allows everyone to use the tool.

The first drum machines appeared in America in 1980. In a short period of time, the device was able to increase the popularity of dance music, and the new style was heard in every club and recording studio. In addition, the subsequent perfection of the instrument allowed the techno genre to be discovered. Even in 2020, the drum machine is in great demand among virtuosos and musicians, as it almost completely replaces the drum kit.

Experimenting with vocals

A modern device is able to change not only the drums, but also the voice, making it unusual or futuristic. With this tool, you can change both a small part of the composition and the entire track. Most often, a drum machine is used exclusively in genres that involve the electronic spectrum of sounds.

Convenient programming and hundreds of effects

The whole process is carried out using special pads (pads). By pressing them, a person gets a certain sound that is combined with the rest. In addition, most modern devices support the selection of a certain sequence. This makes it possible to customize the product to suit your own preferences. The saved rhythm can be used later in your own song. All you need to do is connect the drum machine to your computer and select the required file.

Today, models are produced in which there are hundreds of effects, including part of vocals, claps, applause, etc. Some sounds may seem strange to the user, but if you try to combine them with the rest, then they acquire their own meaning.

The last fun feature is the ability to program and edit. Thanks to this, a person is able to change the finished tracks, complementing them with unusual effects or make the voice rougher / softer. The cost of equipment affects the number of pre-installed templates. In the simplest models there are no more than 10 of them, but in the premium ones there are up to 1500.

Difficult decision

When beginners choose a device on their own, they are faced with a choice problem and do not know what to buy: an analog or digital version. Some people prefer only the first model, as it is believed that they sound "fresher" and "brighter" at times. The second category does not see the difference between these varieties, which is why both options can be used. To make it easier to choose the right device, you should decide what kind of sound a person needs. If you want real sound that cannot be distinguished from the original, you should buy digital models and vice versa.

Are restrictions necessary

Some models are sold with pre-installed sound samples that cannot be supplemented. There are other options that make it possible to load your own samples into the system. But this device should not be confused with a sampler, since there is a significant difference between them. For example, a drum machine can only play a short section, while a sampler is practically unlimited in this regard. If a person is looking for a device that will allow him to create a full song, it is recommended to use the latter option.

The ability to download samples will diversify the music. There are hundreds of free sounds on the Internet, including recordings of classical instruments. It is also possible to create a composition directly thanks to everyday sounds, for example, the noise from a working microwave or washing machine. All this is recorded on a dictaphone, and then transferred to a drum machine. Such a solution will diversify the track and set it apart from the rest. The main thing is to correctly combine the obtained samples so that everything is harmonious.

Memory is never enough

The last thing to consider when buying a drum machine is the pattern memory. Here it is necessary to start from the rule: "The more, the better." This is especially true for musicians who regularly attend concerts or organize events. In another case, when a person does not work for the public, but does everything alone, the main requirement for a drum machine is only one thing - maximum autonomy. Because the hands will not be up to her, they will be busy with the synthesizer. Therefore, she will need to store as many templates as possible. For greater comfort, modern models support the "song mode", the function combines ready-made samples and plays them with one click. This solution allows you to create "seamless" sets, which will have a positive effect on the sound quality.

Memory is not important when a person is working in a recording studio or using a DAW. As long as the device is connected to MIDI, and this is supported by most modern devices, a person is able to create his own templates right inside the software, and then run them using a drum machine. Therefore, a large amount of memory is not such an important criterion here. Performers who play in public can also use devices with low template memory, however they will need to connect a laptop to run the device. Therefore, some abandon this decision in favor of more advanced models.

Rating of the best budget drum machines

Teenage Engineering PO-24 office

A budget model that is capable of generating noise and percussion sounds. The device has synth engines as well as vintage sounds. The product is more oriented as an aid. But it can also be suitable for a little introduction to the basic effects. Power is supplied from 2 AAA batteries.

There is a step by step multiplier. There is a headphone jack, but if desired, a person can use the built-in speaker. Information is displayed on the LCD display, which has a high-quality backlight. There are only two parameters for each sound. 16 global effects will help to decorate the composition and give it a new sound.

The average cost is 5,680 rubles.

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KORG KR-mini

A simple and easy to use model that is perfect for beginner musicians. The Chain function allows you to collect your favorite samples and combine them into one song. There are 16 comfortable pads with good response, thanks to them a person can create their own patterns. Connecting to external equipment is optional, all sounds are reproduced using a built-in speaker with a power of 2 watts. Power can be supplied in two convenient ways - battery or AC adapter.

Running samples takes a minimum of time, the user only needs to turn the slider and stop at the desired option. Then press one button and the rhythm will play. Due to its light weight and the possibility of autonomous operation, the device can be used at any time and in a convenient place, even on the street. There are six patterns in memory for each style. There are also 8 song samples, although their duration is only a few measures, but this is quite enough for creating music.

Sold at a price: from 7 400 rubles.

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Boss DR-3

A more expensive device that has hundreds of presets and just as many custom styles. The duration is 250 patterns. Despite the cost of 15,990 rubles, the price tag fully justifies itself, which makes the device one of the best in the budget segment. The drum machine contains all the necessary acoustic and percussion sounds to help you create a high-quality composition. There are also drum patterns with a lot of variations. This solution makes it possible to achieve maximum realism in almost any musical style.

The device supports several sound options, such as softened, double kick, and buzz shot. Thanks to these functions, a person will be able to achieve the most natural sound without using a drum kit. In addition, the model is equipped with quality key pads, which convey the dynamic characteristics of the impact. That is, the harder a person hits, the louder the sound is. This makes it possible to give a special color for each musical instrument.

The model also supports the ability to add a transition pattern, which allows you to quickly and easily create your own song, where the main verses and chorus will be present. Thanks to 100 preset effects, a person will record a song in a specific genre or create a new one using 100 custom styles. Sound control is achieved through two functions: Sound Shape and Ambience.

The average cost is 15,990 rubles.

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Top quality models of the middle price segment

Alesis SR16

A high-quality installation that will allow you to create your own composition in a short period of time. The device combines high quality sound with simple controls. Convenient programming and acoustic drums with dozens of presets complete every song. The device contains all the necessary functions.

In addition, each pattern has two variations and two fills. It is also possible to change and add your own patterns in real time. The memory is designed for 100 user songs. For added convenience, there are 4 audio outputs and 12 responsive pads. Polyphony supports up to 16 voices. The control is carried out using a liquid crystal display.

The average cost is 19,400 rubles.

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KORG KR-55 Pro

A quality device that is a continuation of the popular line of drum machines KR-55. The product is fully multifunctional and comes with a large number of built-in presets. There is a convenient mixer and recorder. Thanks to the first, a person is able to apply the reverberation effect, as well as adjust the sound using a two-band equalizer. All recorded songs are saved to the SD card. The maximum continuous recording time is 3 hours.

For added convenience, a metronome and chromatic tuner are provided. The latter allows the user to tune his musical instrument in a short time. There are 24 rhythm styles, and each has two variations. The maximum tempo is 240 beats per minute, the minimum is 48 beats / min. The rear panel contains all the necessary connectors for connecting peripheral devices and a network adapter. In addition, the product supports autonomous operation using 6 1.5 V finger batteries. In this case, the operating time will be 7 hours.

The average cost is 26,500 rubles.

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Roland TR-8

A popular model used by most musicians. The product is suitable for both solo recordings and "live" performances. The model supports emulation of the original sound of the previous generation drum machines. In addition, it supports the ability to reproduce sounds that are characteristic of modern genres. The front panel is equipped with backlit pads. Featuring unique Analog Circuit Behavior technology that reproduces sound in every detail.

It is also possible to quickly switch the interface without delays. With the help of Scatter effects, the user can process patterns in real time. There is a function of copying and randomizing samples.

The average cost is 29,990 rubles.

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Top popular premium drum machines

Elektron Digitakt

A professional device that will be a great addition to any studio. The product is completely compact and combines the capabilities of several musical instruments, including a sampler and a drum machine. This solution makes it versatile and in demand. The outer part is made of durable metal that can withstand minor impacts. There is a display for easy operation. The buttons can withstand up to 50 million clicks. The rear panel contains all the necessary connectors for connecting external equipment.

The average cost is 54,000 rubles.

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Roland TR-8S Aira

A quality device from a popular manufacturer. The equipment can be used not only when creating various songs, but also in professional sound engineering. This device has all the necessary functions and a user-friendly interface that will be understandable to every professional. The main feature is the presence of a dramatic effect and authentic sound. There are also variations on the back base.

Sold at a price of 60,000 rubles.

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Finally

Finding a quality musical instrument is not an easy task, it is much easier to choose a reliable drum machine that will allow you to create various compositions.If you have experience using the models described in the rating, or more interesting representatives, tell us about it in the comments.