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The Drum Machine

A drum machine is unlike a keyboard in that the buttons are arranged horizontal as usual or in a square matrix instead of only horizontal. When the buttons are pressed the do not shift in pitch in descending order, but the buttons instead send a signal to the machine to produce different sounds or samples, usually in the drum-kit variety. While some beat makers prefer to use keys on workstations or piano roll functions in software, many other are enticed by the use of these drum buttons or pads. Although similar set-ups can be found on computer by way of USB drumpads or workstations which use built-in drum pads, many beat makers just absolutely love their little sound machines. Some drum machines double as samples giving beat makers even more reason to use them.

RECOMMENDED DRUM MACHINES (Sorted by price, lowest to highest)


Alesis SR-16 Stereo Drum Machine
Price: $149.99


SKB SKB-1714 ATA Drum Machine and Sequencer Case
Price: $169.99


Boss Dr. Rhythm DR-3
Price: $199.99


Alesis SR-18 Drum Machine
Price: $249.99


Roland RMP-5 Rhythm Coach
Price: $279.99


Boss DR-670 Dr. Rhythm Drum Machine
Price: $299.99


Boss Dr. Rhythm DR-880 Rhythm Machine
Price: $499.99