The organization of a home studio is a rather troublesome and costly affair. The dimensions of the premises of an ordinary apartment or house are such that it is not possible to place a complete drum kit in accordance with all the rules. And here a drum machine can come to the aid of a musician. This device is able to replace the entry-level drum kit. However, one must be able to choose such things. In addition, there are software analogues of the device. To use them, you only need a computer. But first things first. First you need to understand what kind of car this is.
What it is?
So, a drum machine is a device (or program) for organizing a drum part when recording music, arrangements and “backing tracks”. Devices can be of various designs. In appearance, all drum machines are very different from each other. These "tools" were widely used in the late 80s and early 90s of the last century. That is, just when numerous one-day groups playing electronic games tumbled down en masse. It is worth noting that it is not possible to achieve really sounding drums on this machine. There will always be some flaws. Therefore, self-respecting rock performers and teams have never used this unit.
The drum machine is widely used by rappers, pop artists and professional DJs. That is, representatives of precisely those genres where the realism of the drums is absolutely unnecessary. However, rock bands can use these devices purely to maintain rhythm. The drummer starts the car and adjusts to the rhythm. This helps to play smoothly and without overlays. There are also special pedal cars. They are made in the form of a barrel pedal (bass drum) and serve to train skills. In this regard, it is impossible to deny the usefulness of a drum machine for a drummer in a rock band. However, we will analyze the main and most popular models. Also dwell on computer programs.
Korg Volca Beats
This is the easiest drum machine. You can play it very easily. This machine is analogous to the PCM engine. But management is carried out by digital technologies. This is the cheapest drum machine of all. Accordingly, its capabilities are also very limited. However, to create arrangements in the style of "rap" and "electro" it is quite suitable. Also, it can be taken to concert performances due to its compact size. The device comes with only one mini-jack output (stereo format), one MIDI input and one sync connector. It is clear that professionals in the field of recording such a limited machine will not buy. It is designed for beginners and those who are not professionally involved in music.
Roland AIRA TR-8
This is a more serious tool. A drum machine of this level is used by professional musicians. And the quality of Roland devices is widely known throughout the world. The machine has impressive dimensions and is intended exclusively for studio use. On top of that, it is still built-in. But it provides the musician with an impressive set of effects and samples. There are 16 patterns in the car. But they can be connected and looped. As a result, you get 32 patterns. A very good result. The device is equipped with all the necessary interfaces and has an excellent design. Working with Roland is a pleasure. However, the price of this device differs markedly from the cost of our previous exhibit. But you have to pay for quality and rich functionality.
Elektron Machinedrum SPS-1 UW mk2
This drum machine comes from Sweden. This alone implies high quality workmanship. This is almost the only device that boasts the realistic sound of acoustic drums. Such a breathtaking effect is achieved due to the fact that in the "Electron" there are several synthesizers. And everyone is responsible for a separate process. TRX makes Roland sound realistic, EFM uses FM synthesis, and E-MU is responsible for realistic simulation. There is also a special synthesizer that simulates extraneous noise when creating the sound of analog drums. It is due to this that a high realism of sound is achieved. "Chip" "Electron" is the fact that you can change the number and style of patterns in real time. Also, this unit has compact dimensions, which makes it indispensable during live performances.
Virtual drum machines
This option is perfect for beginner musicians. A drum machine on a computer allows you not to buy expensive equipment and then think about how to connect it. Simply download a separate program or plug-in for the sound editor - and the user already has a full-fledged virtual drum machine with many effects, samples and settings. A striking example of a virtual machine is the Acoustica Beatcraft product. This virtual instrument allows you to add an unlimited number of patterns and assign them to each sample. At the same time, the program provides high-quality and realistic sounding for almost all drums. Only the rock style is a little lame. But this is the case everywhere. No drum machine can replace a real drum kit.
Nevertheless, for beginner musicians, a virtual drum machine is most suitable. Playing the keyboard, of course, is not as convenient as using the buttons specially designed for this. But you can attach. In addition, the keyboard can be fully customized "for you." This is another advantage of using a virtual drum machine.
Finally
So, we figured out what a drum machine is and why it is needed. If you’ve already gotten the idea to buy such an instrument and start creating masterpieces, then take your time. For a beginner, a virtual drum machine is best. On the keyboard, you can learn to press patterns correctly and in time. And then deal with a professional tool will turn out much faster. But do not forget that good devices of a decent level cost a lot. Therefore, you must first ask yourself a question. But is it needed at all? After all, you can easily do with software. However, you decide.