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How Do I Choose the Best Drum Synthesizer?

A. Leverkuhn
A. Leverkuhn

Musicians who are looking for the best drum synthesizer should figure out how particular models will provide the best synthetic samples for percussion sounds, the overall quality of the engineering, and how easy these synthetic kits will be to use. Drum synthesizer machines allow users to simulate real percussion sounds without the cost of actually buying and transporting a whole drum set. The best models will have advanced features and controls for more versatile use.

Many of those who have experience with these kinds of machines recommend drum synthesizer models with a simple and clear layout. Drum machines with simple presets or defaults are often recommended. Since there can be quite a learning curve attached to these machines, some buyers will benefit much more from a simpler and more scaled-down model.

Digital percussion sounds are either recorded audio samples or were developed with the use of a synthesizer.
Digital percussion sounds are either recorded audio samples or were developed with the use of a synthesizer.

Another major consideration for drum synthesizer machines is their controls. Buyers often evaluate these machines according to their controls and editing tools. There is often the question of access, where controls on some models are easier to use than others. Some drum synthesizers that come with extended software prove difficult to use and frustrating for many musicians who are not familiar with these digital formats.

A drum machine is used to take the role of a live drum kit.
A drum machine is used to take the role of a live drum kit.

Among the most important considerations for drum synthesizer machines is cost. The more a buyer pays, the more samples and capacity they will usually get in their drum machine. It’s important to analyze the particular needs of a music project before buying any specific kind of drum synthesizer to get only the functionality that’s needed from one of these synthetic drum machines.

Additional features for drum synthesizers are often popular with buyers. Features like random generators allow for less labor in putting together creative drum tracks. Sound modulation tools can help customize drum sample. More advanced volume and pitch controls can also be helpful. Some models have built-in metronomes, demo tracks, and more to complement studio recording projects.

Many musicians also raise the question of connectivity for drum synthesizers and machines. Some advanced machines have new USB (Universal Serial Bus), MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) or other digital connections for a digital studio environment. Some of the best designs can plug right into computers or other digital recorders. Less valuable models may only have analog connectivity, and since the world of digital recording is advancing quickly, these models may not be as good of a deal for musicians who will be using them in the future.

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    • Digital percussion sounds are either recorded audio samples or were developed with the use of a synthesizer.
      By: Maksim Nikalayenka
      Digital percussion sounds are either recorded audio samples or were developed with the use of a synthesizer.
    • A drum machine is used to take the role of a live drum kit.
      By: Pavel Losevsky
      A drum machine is used to take the role of a live drum kit.