Best standalone drum machines

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Oct 2, 2022

The www.playersbenchmusic.com researchers have carefully selected the top 32 standalone drum machines out there. Below you'll find our detailed reviews of the top options from DR Strings, Stax, Tosnail, Pro Tec, BORNMIO.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Moog Grandmother Analog Synthesizer
#TOP 1
Moog Grandmother Analog Synthesizer
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Alesis SR-16 | Studio-Grade Standalone Drum Machine With On-Board Sound Li-brary
#TOP 2
Alesis SR-16 | Studio-Grade Standalone Drum Machine With On-Board Sound Li-brary
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PBM Score
Novation Circuit Tracks Groovebox Bundle
#TOP 3
Novation Circuit Tracks Groovebox Bundle
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PBM Score

Top 32 Best standalone drum machines Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Moog Grandmother Analog Synthesizer

Moog Music Inc.

Features

  • ¼” External audio input for guitars, drum machines, and more.
  • 2 Analog Oscillators with selectable waveshape and hard sync
  • Classic 4-Pole 10Hz-20kHz Ladder filter
  • Analog ADSR Envelope Generator
  • Hardware Spring Reverb can be used to process external sounds
  • Store up to 3 sequences with up to 256 notes each
  • Easy to use Arpeggiator and Sequencer
  • Patchable 1-Pole High Pass filter
#TOP 2

Alesis SR-16 | Studio-Grade Standalone Drum Machine With On-Board Sound Li-brary

Alesis

Features

  • Product 1: Connectivity Covered - 4 (stereo pairs) outputs; 2-function footswitch jacks for start/stop and count/A/B/fill
  • Product 1: In Demand Sound - 233 professional sounds included, built-in digital effects for added realism and powered by Alesis exclusive Dynamic Articulation
  • Product 2: It is wired 5-pin discrete and compatible with all MIDI standards, including SysEx
  • Product 2: This cable is designed to interconnect MIDI devices.
  • Product 1: Seamless MIDI Connectivity - Complete MIDI support for use with keyboards, computers, DAWs and electronic drum kits
  • Product 2: Nickel-plated plugs for rugged durability and efficient signal transfer
  • Product 2: Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) conductors for enhanced signal clarity
  • Product 1: A Studio Icon - Legendary classic drum machine for songwriters, live perform-ers and remix engineers
#TOP 3

Novation Circuit Tracks Groovebox Bundle

Novation

Features

  • FX on Everything: Douse synths, drums, and incoming audio in lush reverb and delay, make your mix pump with sidechain, and punch with the master compressor
  • All-In-One Studio: Two synth tracks, two MIDI tracks and four drum tracks: everything you need to create and perform music
  • Bundle Includes: Novation Circuit Tracks Standalone Groove Box, Knox Gear 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub, 2 Hosa HSS-005 Pro Balanced Interconnect REAN 1/4-Inch to 1/4-Inch TRS Cables (5-Feet), and SanDisk 32GB Ultra microSD Class 10 UHS-I Memory Card
  • Comprehensive Connectivity: Connect to your studio with full-size five-pin MIDI in, out, and thru, and analogue sync out. Mix and apply effects to two audio inputs, and listen through stereo out or with headphones
  • Create Anywhere: The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to four hours of battery life, so you can make beats on the move
#TOP 4

Roland SP-404SX Linear Wave Sampler

Roland

Features

  • 1GB SD card included; expand sample storage up to 32GB with SDHC and Import audio files from computer, assign samples to pads with bundled software (Mac/PC)
  • Seamless effects switching for smooth, perfect performance and Pattern sequencer with quantize mode and new shuffle feels
  • 29 DSP effects, including filter, delay, unique voice effects, subsonic, and looper
  • Sample anytime, anywhere with the built-in mic and battery power
  • 3 control knobs, 12 trigger pads, and Sub Pad for rapid repeat triggering
#TOP 5

Roland TR-06 Boutique Compact Drum Machine

Roland

Features

  • Runs on four AA batteries or USB bus power
  • The TR-06 is a detailed replica of the classic Roland TR-606—with some major modern upgrades.
  • Onboard compressor, delay, and overdrive effects
  • Color-matched DK-01 case with three tilt options
  • Authentic sound and iconic look of the original
  • Advanced sequencer with sub-steps, probability, and step-loop
  • Five trigger outputs and one trigger input for easy integration with modular and other gear
  • Sturdy and portable with solid construction and a metal top
  • Expanded sound-shaping options with tuning, decay, pan, gain, and more
  • Our new Roland Boutique version has the distinctive tone and iconic look of the original, with more sound-shaping options, innovative sequencing capabilities, and an array of triggers for driving modular gear.
#TOP 6

AKAI Professional MPC Live II – Professional Battery Powered Drum Machine and Sampler With Speakers

Akai Professional

Features

  • Beat Maker Essential – Standalone Mpc, Sampler, Drum Machine And Midi Controller (For The Included Mpc Software – Mac / Pc) With The Powerful Muticore System From The Mpc One And Mpc X
  • Hear Every Detail Of Your Production – Built-In Stereo Studio Monitoring System Provides Studio Quality Sound To Keep Your Ideas Flowing Through The Creative Process
  • Connect To All Your Studio Music Equipment - 3 Stereo ¼-Inch Trs Outputs (6 Mono), Phono/Line Level Inputs, Usb, Midi, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth And 4 Trs Cv/Gate Outputs For Modular Synthesizer Control
  • Music Producer Essentials – 16 Velocity Sensitive Rgb Drum Pads, 7” High-Resolution Multi-Touch Display, Touch Capacitive Encoders And Connectivity For Usb Midi Keyboard Controllers
#TOP 7

Akai Professional MPC Live

Akai Professional

Features

  • Control evolved: 16 MPC pads, 4 touch capacitive Q links, transport controls, full monitoring control and much more
  • Studio centerpiece: Experience pristine studio grade capture via on board selectable inputs: Turntable (RCA) with ground Peg and stereo balanced ¼ inch jack
  • Portable powerhouse: Internal, rechargeable lithium ion battery and ultra compact footprint makes MPC live the ultimate go anywhere production solution
  • Standalone: Fully standalone MPC natively powered by MPC software 2 with 7 inch high resolution display, ableton link over wifi and bluetooth 4.0 midi support no computer required
  • Infinite sounds, unlimited inspiration: Includes the vault 2.0 featuring samples and kits from leading sound design companies including capsun proaudio, MVP loops, toolroom, CR2 records, loopmasters and much more
#TOP 8

Pioneer DJ TORAIZ SQUID

Pioneer DJ

Features

  • Up to 8 Notes Per Step
  • 16 Tracks
  • 64 Steps Per Track
  • USB/MIDI/CV/DIN Sequencer with 16 Multicolor Performance Pads
  • 64 Patterns Per Track
#TOP 9

teenage engineering Pocket Operator PO-14 Sub Bass Synthesizer and Sequencer Bundle

blucoil

Features

  • OFFERS 2 TWEAKABLE PARAMETER LOCKS - PO-14 sub's parameters can be locked while an auto compressor and hardware limiter guarantee that there are no clips with the signal generation.
  • ENHANCES YOUR BASS SOUNDS - This pocket-sized synthesizer offers 16 punch-in effects including bit crusher, delay, and vibrato.
  • PROVIDES HIGH AUDIO OUTPUT- teenage engineering utilizes a clever Silicon Labs EFM 32 Gecko MCU, Cirrus Logic DAC, and Knowles Speaker to produce excellent sound output.
  • SMALL BUT LOADED WITH FEATURES - The PO-14 Sub Bass boasts multiple real synthesizer engines including wavetable, FM, subtractive synthesis, and physically modeled strings.
  • INCLUDES - teenage engineering Pocket Operator PO-14 Sub Bass Synthesizer and Sequencer. Samson SR350 Over-Ear Stereo Headphones; 1/4" Adapter. 3-Pack of Blucoil 7-Inch Audio AUX Cables. 4-Pack of Blucoil AAA Alkaline Batteries.
#TOP 10

Novation Circuit Tracks Standalone Groove Box

Generic

Features

  • The agile groovebox: Lose yourself in a hands-on production workflow. Let your creativity thrive.
  • Total control of your setup: Pilot your studio with two dedicated MIDI tracks, capable of sending notes and CC automation.
  • All-in-one studio: Two synth tracks, two MIDI tracks and four drum tracks: everything you need to create and perform music
  • Colossal sound: Expand your sonic capabilities with two refined polyphonic digital synth tracks. Load your own samples and shape them to perfection across drum tracks.
  • FX on everything: Douse synths, drums, and incoming audio in lush reverb and delay. Then make your mix pump with sidechain and punch with the master compressor.
  • Create anywhere: The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to four hours of battery life, so you can make beats on the move.
  • Never stop creating: Insert a microSD card to save and recall thousands of synth patches, samples and projects. Load in over three minutes worth of audio across 64 samples slots, alongside 128 patches and 64 projects per pack.
  • Comprehensive connectivity: Connect to your studio with full-size five-pin MIDI in, out, and thru, and analogue sync out. Apply effects to two audio inputs, and listen through stereo out or with headphones.
  • Acclaimed, hands-on sequencer: Create 32-step patterns, which can be chained to create sequences up to 256 steps in length, per track. Assign patterns to scenes to arrange and perform full-length songs. Go off-grid with microtiming, and keep your music evolving with probability and pattern mutate.
#TOP 11

BeatBuddy the Only Drum Machine That sounds Human and is Easy To Use

Singular Sound

Features

  • Award-winning sound quality-the first drum machine that doesn't sound like a machine
  • Included: Over 200 songs in 24 genres (that you control) and 10 ultra-realistic drum sets
  • Visual Metronome on LCD screen makes it easy to improve rhythm and play new time signatures
  • The first drum machine in a pedal format, enabling full hands-free, creative control of the beat
  • Holds 3.2 million songs / 300 drum sets. Download new content or create your own songs or drum sets
#TOP 12

Roland Rhythm Composer

Roland

Features

  • Hands-on control including tone, level, tuning, and decay
  • Ultra-compact recreation of the legendary TR-808 drum machine
  • Programmable via classic Step and Tap write modes
  • Retains the sound, character, and user interface of the original TR-808
  • Added Compressor, Gain, Tune, and Pan for selected instruments
#TOP 13

Ubblove Steel Tongue Drum

Ubblove

Features

  • Widely Uses: Suitable for various fields including musical education, yoga, meditation, zen tone, concert, music theme or birthday party. With unique design and perfect sound, it's a cool and special instrument gift for kids, adults, friends, music lover and so on.
  • Easy to Play: Can be used as hand pan drums, you can play it with tank drum mallets, drum sticks or hands. The included music scores enable beginners to learn and play it more easily, very easy to start. Comes with a carry bag, you can take it to everywhere with convenience.
  • Wonderful Sound: Steel tongue drum can produce a clean, ethereal, Buddha-like nice sound, which can purify your mind and soul, makes you achieve inner peace. You can feel relaxation and joy from heart. Perfect fun instruments to relief pressure for children and adults.
  • Excellent Crafts & Design: Tongue drum is made of steel-titanium alloy, strictly hand-modulated and accurately hand-cut. With excellent finished surface, the steel drum is exquisite, anti-corrosion and heat resistance, high-end unique percussion instruments with perfect tone.
  • Complete Musical Drum Set: Coming with Steel Tongue Drum, Drum Bag, Drum Mallets, Mallets Holder and Bag, Music Score, Padded Shoulder Strap, Wiping Cloth. This little drum is a nice present for boys and girls on birthday, Christmas or other meaningful festival.
#TOP 14

Donner STARRYKEY MIDI Keyboard MIDI Controller

Donner

Features

  • Small and CompactThe STARRYKEY 25 is thin and portable, making it easy to record your inspiration anytime and anywhere. We've carefully tested and adjusted the button design and placement to ensure accuracy and comfort, freeing you to focus on the music for a smoother performance.
  • Extra Compatibility Brings More PossibilitiesAlong with a MIDI USB connection, the STARRYKEY 25 comes equipped with both MIDI out and pedal interfaces, allowing you to use it as a 25-key piano or output directly to a mixer or synthesizer. The extra compatibility brings a wealth of possibilities just waiting for you to explore!
  • Your Exclusive Lighting EngineerThe STARRYKEY 25 lights up the stage with seven dazzling colors. Use playing instructions to trigger the brilliant lights or set the colors through accompanying software. Allow the lights to make your rhythm doubly dynamic or use them to control the atmosphere on the dance floor.
  • 4+4 Freedom without RestrictionsThe STARRYKEY 25's 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons are compatible with all mainstream DAWs, allowing you to dial in the exact instrument tones or FX functions you need. While its pitch and modulation wheels add that little extra control, giving you complete freedom over your sound.
  • Compact Keyboard with A Full-sized RangeThe MIDI STARRYKEY 25's 25 velocity-sensitive and Aftertouch keys give you nuanced control, while its semitone and octave switching functions let you access the same range as a full-sized keyboard. The STARRYKEY 25 reduces 25 keys to square inches, providing a compact keyboard that meets all your playing needs!
  • Multi-color Backlit PadsThe ultra responsiveness of the STARRYKEY 25's 8 velocity-sensitive backlit pads breathes life into your rhythm. In addition, each holds up to 3 different drum kits with 24 selectable custom tones, allowing you to create your unique sound.
#TOP 15

Singing Machine SML652BK HDMI Groove Mini Portable Karaoke System

Singing Machine

Features

  • Two microphone inputs for duets (one microphone included) Option to operate chord-free with 6 “C” size batteries (AC adapter included. Batteries not included)
  • Portable and works with all music and karaoke apps. Karaoke system with Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming from compatible devices (external devices not included)
  • Easy to use and great for kids! Connect to your TV for scrolling CDG lyrics via the included RCA cable (TV not included). Built-In speaker for a dynamic sound system
  • Party on with six voice-changing effects: Echo, Male, Female, Robot, Chipmunk and Radio. Multi-colored LED lights match the mood and your music.
  • Line-in to connect to your personal smartphone, tablet, MP3 or other audio devices. Secure resting cradle fits a variety of tablets or other mobile devices.
#TOP 16

Korg Drum Machine (ELECTRIBE2SRD)

Korg

Features

  • Pattern chaining: string patterns together to create full songs. Users can chain with nearly no limitation, which means that you can also create entire sets of music!
  • In addition to onboard content, 400+ bonus patterns will be available for free from kora (optional SD card required)
  • Original value indicator: users can now see the original position of any knob on the panel for any part onscreen
  • Complete tools for the creation and performance of any genre of electronic music - with Able ton export lauded Items: AC adapter (DC9V), MIDI adapter cable x 2, Able ton Live 9 lite (License card included)
  • One-level undo: don't like what you just recorded? You now have an undo available with the press of a couple of buttons
#TOP 17

Novation Circuit Tracks

Novation

Features

  • Sound Collective: Register your Circuit Tracks today to get access to free plugins and content with Novation Sound Collective.
  • FX on everything: Douse synths, drums, and incoming audio in lush reverb and delay, make your mix pump with sidechain, and punch with the master compressor.
  • Comprehensive connectivity: Connect to your studio with full-size five-pin MIDI in, out, and thru, and analogue sync out. Mix and apply effects to two audio inputs and listen through stereo out or with headphones.
  • Two synth tracks, two MIDI tracks, and four drum tracks: everything you need to create and perform music.
  • Acclaimed, hands-on sequencer: Create 32-step patterns, chainable for up to 256 steps sequences per track. Go off-grid with microtiming, and keep your music evolving with probability and pattern mutate.
#TOP 18

Roland SP-404A Rhythmic Effects Linear Wave Sampler

Roland

Features

  • Sample anytime, anywhere with the built-in mic and battery power
  • Can be triggered from the 16-step sequencer in the TR-8 Rhythm Performer (TR-8 system version 1.50 or later required)
  • AIRA black-and-green color scheme to match existing AIRA hardware
  • “Sounds by Loop masters” SD card includes over 100 new stereo samples, effects, and one-shots
  • 29 DSP effects, including filter, delay, unique voice effects, subsonic, looped, and more
#TOP 19

Hand-rolled Electronic Drum Pad Set

Lazmin112

Features

  • Standard drum setting guarantees your interesting drum playing enjoyment just like real drum set.
  • Equipped with speed-adjustable accompaniments and recording function, the best helper for peactice.
  • Multiple sound effects and professional demonstration songs will make your beating more diverse.
  • With rechargeable built-in battery, the sufficient power allows for long time relaxing playing.
  • The soft and light weight pad can be rolled into a compact size for easier carrying and storage.
#TOP 20

Roland AIRA Compact T-8 Beat Ultra-Portable Bass Machine Sounds

Roland

Features

  • Real-time recording and powerful performance features like step loop, mute, fill, reload, and pattern shift
  • Craft on-the-fly acid jams or trap bangers with the intuitive 16-step sequencer, shape sounds with onboard controls, and flip and dice beats with hands-on tools that stimulate ideas and put the fun back into your flow.
  • Color and process sounds with delay, reverb, overdrive, and sidechain compression
  • Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology faithfully recreates the tonality and behavior of vintage Roland instruments
  • Classic TR-REC drum sequencer with 64 user patterns and up to 32 steps each
  • Comprehensive connectivity with audio, MIDI, and sync I/O plus AIRA Link
  • With the T-8 you can create infectious tracks in seconds flat with a miniature rhythm factory powered by pristine TR drums (TR-808, TR-909 & TR-606) plus bass from the inimitable TB-303.
  • AIRA Compact puts Roland’s legendary creative magic in the palm of your hand. Jam, perform, and develop ideas anywhere with genre-defining sounds.
  • Advanced rhythm programming with probability, sub step, last step, and velocity
  • Class-compliant USB-C audio/MIDI interface—no drivers needed
#TOP 21

Alesis SR-16 | Studio-Grade Standalone Drum Machine With On-Board Sound Li-brary

Alesis

Features

  • Seamless MIDI Connectivity - Complete MIDI support for use with keyboards, computers, DAWs and electronic drum kits
  • Connectivity Covered - 4 (stereo pairs) outputs; 2-function footswitch jacks for start/stop and count/A/B/fill
  • 50 Preset / 50 User drum kits with 233 sounds assignable to any pad
  • A Studio Icon - Legendary classic drum machine for songwriters, live performers and remix engineers
  • Professional drum machine with 12 velocity sensitive pads (with Dynamic Articulation(TM))
  • In Demand Sound - 233 professional sounds included, built-in digital effects for added realism and powered by Alesis exclusive Dynamic Articulation
  • Production-Ready Features - Sound stacking, step editing, stereo samples with reverb and ambience
#TOP 22

IK Multimedia UNO Synth portable monophonic analog synthesizer

IK Multimedia

Features

  • Great-sounding all-analog audio path with 2 oscillators and multimode filter
  • Works stand-alone, or with MIDI keyboards and computers
  • Easily programmable with 100 included presets
  • Battery or USB powered
  • Built-in 2-octave multi-touch keyboard with arpeggiator and step sequencer
#TOP 23

teenage engineering Pocket Operator PO-16 Factory Lead and Chord Synthesizer and Sequencer

Teenage Engineering

Features

  • LETS YOU EASILY PROGRAM CHORDS - The 16 punch-in play styles enable you to programs chords, transpositions, and arpeggios.
  • WORKS AS STANDALONE - You can use the PO-16 Factory alone with the use of the onboard Knowles speaker. No need for external gears.
  • PROVIDES MULTIPLE LEAD SYNTH TONES - The teenage engineering PO-16 Factory provides 15 assorted synths ranging from FM, wavetable, subtractive synthesis, to physical modeled string.
  • SYNCS WITH MULTIPLE UNITS - You can connect PO-16 Factory with 2 other Pocket Operators using standard stereo audio cables. You can also sync PO-16 with external devices like a PC.
  • OFFERS A MICRO DRUM MACHINE SAMPLE - Aside from lead and chord synth tones, PO-16 also has a cool micro-drum machine in the manufacturer sound preset list.
#TOP 24

BeeFly USB Microphone

BeeFly

Features

  • Package and Warranty: Including 1*USB Microphone,1*Portable Microphone Stand, 1*USB 2.0 Cable, 1*User Manual. BeeFly Microphones always provide 12-Month warranty to meet more needs and improve quality continually.
  • Plug and Play: Not compatible with Xbox ,PS3 and Phones.The usb microphone for computer with a USB 2.0 data which is compatible with Laptop or PC including Windows and Mac system .No need driver installation and complicated debugging.Because of the cardiod directional pick-up pattern, make your mouth is facing the front of the microphone to ensure perfect sound be picked up.
  • Cardiod Directional Pick-up Pattern :Computer microphone for laptop Ensures high sensitivity which reduces pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source, to make sound quality is clear and pure. Additional volume knob itself, you can mute or adjust gain easily and quickly according to your needs.Suitable especially for recording, gaming, video conference, online meetings for work etc.
  • Excellent Sound Quality:BeeFly usb condenser recording microphone built-in sensitivity chip, the frequency response is 192kHz/24bit in order to provides you a clear and smooth vocal, There is no weird beeping, echo sound or other background noise to disturb you. You can immerse yourself in your game or recording moments.
  • Foldable and Portable: The recording microphone for computer with solid sturdy metal construction design and stable tripod stand ,provide excellent flexibility and portability ,easy to adjust and secure the angle position of the usb microphone.
#TOP 25

Akai Professional XR20

Akai Professional

Features

  • Over 700 sounds produced by Chronic Music
  • Backlit LCD
  • Microphone input and Headphone output
  • Bright, glowing, backlit pads that follow the beat
  • 99 Preset patterns and 99 User patterns
#TOP 26

DigiTech Automatic Drum Machine Pedal Multi Effect Processor (SDRUM-U)

DigiTech

Features

  • Drum sounds and patterns can also be created by tapping the kick/snare touch pads
  • BeatScratch Technology creates drum patterns by strumming your guitar or bass strings
  • Stay in your creative flow with SDRUM – gone are the days of having your creative flow disrupted by searching through lists in a frustrating attempt to find the beat you want
  • Guitarists can quickly generate professional and authentic sounding drum beats for live performances, songwriting, and practice
  • 5 drum kits and studio quality samples for professional sounding drums
  • Supports three different parts (e.g. verse/chorus/bridge) for each song that can be switched on the fly for enhancing live performances and exploring song ideas
  • Alternative instruments/voicings for even more customization
  • 36 song memories with 12 different Hats/Rides styles
  • JamSync connectivity for interfacing with JamMan loopers
#TOP 27

Roland VERSELAB MV-1 ZEN-Core Professional Song Production Studio

Roland

Features

  • Access project - SEQUENCER VIEW
  • CLIP / TONE / FX EDITING
  • VERSELAB Project Editor
  • MASTERING CONTROLS
  • Music production can require a lot of time, money, and expertise. And for many new producers, it’s hard to know where to begin. VERSELAB has everything you need to make radio-ready tracks without all the complications, so you can focus on what matters most—your music.
  • VERSELAB MV-1 is an all-in-one song production studio with authentic Roland sounds and songwriting tools to assist modern music makers at any level.
  • CLIP and SECTION EDITING
  • BOUNCE STEMS
  • MIXING CONTROLS
  • Zenbeats PLUG and PLAY for MV-1
#TOP 28

Native Instruments Maschine Plus Standalone Production and Performance Instrument

Native Instruments

Features

  • 8GB of Samples
  • MASCHINE+ Selection Software Bundle - Mac/PC Stalone
  • Stalone Groove Production Control Surface 96kHz/24-bit Audio Interface with Groove Production Software
  • VST
  • AAX
#TOP 29

Sonicware Liven XFM [FM Synthesizer Groove Box] 3 new FM engines

SONICWARE

Features

  • Rich interface with MIDI IN/OUT, SYNC IN/OUT, and LINE IN/OUT
  • 6-note polyphonic
  • Sequencer with 4 track, 64 steps & 128 patterns
  • Battery operated, built-in speaker
  • Four types of FM synth engines
#TOP 30

Korg Volca Beats Analogue Rhythm Machine and Korg 9V600MACPP 9v 600ma Power Supply

Korg

Features

  • ・Real analog sounds created with reference to classic rhythm machines
  • ・SYNC jack and MIDI IN connector allow synchronized performances with multiple units or with your DAW
  • ・Active Step function generates new bass lines by removing or inserting steps.
  • ・Maximum effect from minimal parameters - a unique advantage of analog
  • ・The Electribe series step sequencer
#TOP 31

IK Multimedia UNO Drum Portable Analog/PCM Drum Machine (IP-UNO-DRUM-IN)

IK Multimedia

Features

  • Usb and 2.5mm MIDI, audio in and out
  • Save up to 100 Kit and 100 pattern presets
  • 6 analog voices, up to 12 PCM voices
  • 12 multi-touch, double-velocity pads
  • 64-Step sequencer, 8 parameters per step
#TOP 32

Akai Professional MPC2000XL MIDI Production Center Drum Machine Sampler

Akai Professional

Features

  • 8 ins/outs option installed
  • Ram is full

Things to Consider When Looking for the Perfect standalone drum machines

What is a good starter drum machine?

Here are our top five beat machines for beginners: Arturia DrumBrute Impact (Our Pick) Korg Volca Beats (Best Value) Roland TR-8S Rhythm Performer (Best Premium)

How long does it take average person to learn drums?

The short answer is, it takes most beginners at least 4-6 months to get decent at playing drum basics. To become a good enough drummer, it usually takes at least 10 to 12 months, if not more, even for the quickest of learners. It depends on several factors, most notably the frequency of practice.

Is learning drums harder than guitar?

Yes, generally speaking, drums are harder than the guitar. Of course, to play at a professional level, both instruments require the same amount of work. But if your goal is to have fun with music as quickly as possible, the guitar is your best bet.

What drum machine does Timbaland use?

In addition to his software programs, Timbaland uses an Ableton device called a Push, which controls the software using light-up pads. 1. Tim creates drum racks on his Push—in other words, he assigns drum sounds to each one of the pads. 2.

Do drum machines have speakers?

Many drum machines have built-in speakers or headphone outputs, but if you want to set yourself up with your recording rig, sync your machine with a DAW or have it running alongside your other musical hardware—there's just a few extra steps to take.

What drum machine did Michael Jackson use?

The LM-1 became a staple of 1980s pop music and helped establish drum machines as credible tools. It appeared on records by artists including the Human League, Gary Numan, Mecano, Icehouse, Michael Jackson and particularly Prince. The LM-1 was succeeded in 1982 by the LinnDrum.

What songs use drum machines?

List Of Drum Machines And Songs That Use Them
11.Bentley Rhythm Ace
1000 Knives
2424.Man Parrish Hip Hop (Be Bop) Don't Stop
Hip Hop (Be Bop) Don't Stop
2525.T La Rock It's Yours

How do you get real sounding drums?

Tips For Creating Organic Sounding Drums
  1. Turn off your DAW grid/snap settings and move drum hits manually by very small amounts before and after the beat. ...
  2. If you're making four-to-the-floor music, try locking at least the first kick of each bar to the grid, then experiment with micro-timings throughout the bar.

Did Phil Collins use a drum machine?

Phil was an ardent proponent of — and early adopter of — electronic drums. He would frequently use drum machines to heighten the atmosphere of a song, a practice that began with “Duchess” off Genesis's Duke in 1980, which featured a Roland CR-78 programmed to deliver a robotic, hypnotic beat.

Are drum machines still used?

Drum machines were a staple in popular music until the early 2000s, when software emulations began to overtake hardware drum machines. That said, drum machines are still used today, especially in electronic and hip-hop music.

How many hours a day should you practice drums?

A beginner drummer should practice at least 30 minutes a day, and an advanced drummer should practice at least one hour a day. If drummers practice these amounts of hours a day they will progress steadily and in time become proficient at their craft.

What is the first thing a drummer should learn?

An excellent first step is to learn to hold your drumsticks. Working with the drumsticks is what you need to do while drumming. You will learn to play basic beats, and it will prove rewarding since, after learning them, drumming will become easy for you.

Editor's Notes

All in all, our testing team spent 76 hours on the research before they come up with the compilation of the 32 best standalone drum machines out there. We've analyzed over 1504 of real buyers' reviews to get the full picture of the current situation on the market. In this selection, you'll find models with an average rating of 284 - so rest assured all of them are worth your consideration.

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.