Drum Machines 101: Top Picks From Legendary Producers (2024)

Drum machines are some of the most essential and versatile tools in the world of music production, no doubt about it.

They can bring rhythm and groove to a track, add depth to compositions, and define the style of a song with their unique sonic characteristics. 

Plus, they have the ability to blend flawlessly with other instruments and provide endless possibilities for creative sound design. 

As producers, knowing which drum machines are worth investing in and which ones just don’t hit the mark is key. 

However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to decide which drum machine fits your needs, budget, and production style.

This is exactly why we’re breaking down the 12 best drum machines in the game, all containing unique features/functions, like:

• Analog and digital sound engines ✓
• Real-time step sequencing ✓
• Extensive pattern storage ✓
• Built-in effects and sound manipulation tools ✓
• Customizable sample libraries/digitally-sampled sounds ✓
• Versatile connectivity options (MIDI, USB, CV/Gate) ✓
• Compact and portable designs ✓
• Standalone operation capabilities ✓
• Hands-on control with intuitive interfaces ✓
• Drum kits & much more ✓

After reading this article, you’ll know the best drum machines available for all budgets and styles 一 from powerful high-end units to more affordable, portable options. 

Even the cheaper ones on the list can deliver impressive sound quality and flexibility so you get the most value for your money. 

This way, you don’t have to worry about compromising on sound quality or creative potential.

Whether you’re in the studio or performing live, these drum machines got you covered.

So, let’s dive in…

#1. Elektron Syntakt: Andrew Huang’s Fav ($899)

The Elektron Syntakt is a hybrid drum machine that combines both analog and digital FM synthesis with an extensive range of drum and percussion instruments/sounds. 

It features a powerful sequencer that allows for deep programming with advanced capabilities like: 

• Probability sequencing
• Polymetric drum patterns
• Micro-timings

Syntakt’s sound design flexibility is epic because of its multiple synthesis engines and extensive modulation matrix 一 allowing for highly dynamic and evolving sounds. 

It also comes with 12 tracks that can be used for either percussion or melodic content, giving you great flexibility when knocking out your own beats. 

The compact and rugged build, combined with intuitive parameter controls, makes the Elektron Syntakt a top choice for both studio production and live performances.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Hybrid of analog and digital FM synthesis
• Deep sequencing capabilities with advanced programming features
• Multiple synthesis engines and extensive modulation options
• 12 versatile tracks for both percussion instruments and melodies
• Perfect if it’s your first drum machine or tenth
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#2. Korg Volca Drum: Loved by Flying Lotus ($170-230)

The Korg Volca Drum stands out for its innovative digital synthesis approach.

To create endless percussive sounds, it uses a unique combination of:

• Digital oscillators
• Modulators
• Resonators

Unlike traditional drum machines that rely on PCM samples, the Volca Drum’s multi-layer engine allows for deep sound design.

It gives you the ability to create entirely unique tones that will make a huge impact. 

It features a six-part engine (each part with two layers) and various modulation options 一 making it ideal for electronic music producers seeking creative flexibility. 

The compact size and battery-powered operation make it a portable choice for on-the-go music production, while its built-in sequencer offers step automation and polyrhythm capabilities. 

The Volca Drum is, of course, a highly regarded option for those looking to push the boundaries of digital percussion instruments, so don’t overlook it.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Unique digital synthesis with digital oscillators, modulators, and resonators
• Multi-layer engine for deep sound design
• Six-part engine with two layers each
• Portable and battery-powered with a built-in sequencer
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#3. Novation Circuit Tracks: Bonobo’s Top Choice ($349)

The Novation Circuit Tracks is a versatile groovebox that combines: 

• 2 polyphonic digital synthesizers
• 4 drum tracks
• A powerful grid-based sequencer

It offers a hands-on approach to music production with 32 velocity-sensitive pads and an intuitive interface.

This unique drum machine really makes drum beat-making, sequencing, and arranging straightforward (and, not to mention, super fun).

The Circuit Tracks also features built-in effects like reverb, delay, and sidechain, which add depth and polish to individual sounds. 

With its MIDI I/O, USB-C connectivity, and battery power option, it can function both as a standalone device and as a part of a larger studio setup. 

It is particularly valued for its affordability, portability, and ability to create fully fleshed-out tracks without needing additional equipment, which is awesome.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Two polyphonic synthesizers and four drum tracks
• Grid-based sequencer with 32 velocity-sensitive pads
• Built-in effects: reverb, delay, and sidechain
• USB-C, MIDI I/O connectivity, and battery-powered
• Perfect for all genres (like hip-hop and any electronic musician)
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#4. Erica Synths Perkons HD-01: Surgeon’s #1 Pick ($1,800; Expensive Option)

The Erica Synths Perkons HD-01 is a high-end hybrid drum machine that combines digital sound generation with analog filtering and overdrive.

It really brings a rich and dynamic sound to the table that stands out in any mix, featuring four drum voices, each with its own multimode analog filter and overdrive.

So, if we’re talking sound-shaping possibilities, it certainly doesn’t lack, along with a raw, gritty character that electronic music producers absolutely love.

The machine also includes a built-in sequencer with extensive modulation options for professional drum beat-making with:

• Complex polyrhythms
• Probability-based sequencing
• Parameter automation

Its hands-on interface is designed for intuitive control, with plenty of knobs and sliders to adjust parameters in real-time, making it an excellent tool for live performance. 

NOTE

The Perkons HD-01’s unique combination of digital synthesis and analog warmth makes it ideal for those looking for a distinct, high-quality drum machine with a powerful sound design potential.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Hybrid digital and analogue synthesis design with multimode filters
• Four drum voices with individual filters and overdrive
• Extensive sequencer with modulation and automation capabilities
• Intuitive interface with real-time control for live performance
• Perfect for all genres (like hip-hop producers looking to experiment with any drum sound, like hi-hats, a crash cymbal, etc.)
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#5. Soma Labs Pulsar-23: Amon Tobin’s Go-To ($2,250)

The Soma Laboratory Pulsar-23 is a groundbreaking semi-modular drum machine that you can play around with all day. 

It offers an experimental way to create your own beats with a unique organismic patching system and highly customizable sound architecture. 

It features four individual sound generators (bass drum, bass, snare drum, and hi-hat) that can be modified and patched using crocodile clips or directly with fingers.

This gives you a way more tactile and intuitive user experience. 

The Pulsar-23 also includes various effects and utilities like LFOs, delays, and distortion, which can be freely routed and modulated for innovative sound design. 

Unlike traditional drum machines, it emphasizes organic and unpredictable rhythms, making it super popular among producers/musicians looking for unconventional and avant-garde sounds. 

I’ve personally played around with this one, and it truly blew my mind.

Its impressive, handmade build and creative potential have earned it a reputation as one of the most unique and inspiring drum machines on the market.

And honestly, I don’t think that’s changing any time soon.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Semi-modular design with unique patching system
• Four sound generators with customizable routing options (bass drum, bass, snare drum, and hi-hat)
• Includes effects like LFOs, delays, and distortion
• Emphasizes organic and experimental sound creation
• Perfect for all genres (like hip-hop)
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#6. Akai MPC One: Kaytranada’s Fav ($699)

The Akai MPC One is a highly versatile drum machine and sampler that combines the best of the MPC series’ classic workflow with modern features and a compact design. 

It includes: 

• A 7-inch multi-touch display
• 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads
• Four touch-sensitive knobs

It provides intuitive control over sequencing, sampling, and drum beat-making. 

The MPC One is equipped with standalone functionality, which means it doesn’t require a computer to operate.

Yes, it integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs like Ableton Live when needed, so that’s super beneficial.

It also offers 2GB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage, and an SD card slot 一 allowing you to load and manipulate samples extensively. 

Pro Tip

It also supports a variety of effects, a built-in synth engine, and a range of connectivity options (USB, MIDI, CV/Gate), making it perfect for both in-studio drummers/production and live performances.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• 7-inch multi-touch display and 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads
• Standalone operation with 2GB RAM and 4GB storage
• Seamless DAW integration with USB, MIDI, and CV/Gate connectivity
• Built-in synth engine and extensive sample manipulation capabilities
• Perfect for all genres (like hip-hop)
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#7. Arturia DrumBrute Impact: Thundercat’s Top Pick ($299)

The Arturia DrumBrute Impact is a fully analog drum machine that delivers punchy, warm sounds, distinguishing itself with its unique analog circuits and versatile drum synthesis. 

It offers 10 distinct drum sounds, including kick, snare drum, hi-hat, and FM drum, each with dedicated controls for tweaking: 

• Tone
• Decay
• Pitch
• More

This way, all musicians can shape their sound precisely how they’d like.

 

Also, the built-in step sequencer supports up to 64 steps with real-time recording, pattern chaining, and polyrhythms.

With it, you’ll have a powerful foundation for dynamic and evolving drum beats. 

Pro Tip

It also includes a “Color” function that can be activated on each drum, adding variations like distortion or pitch modulation to help your drum beat sound more organic/lively. 

The DrumBrute Impact’s intuitive interface, compact design, and affordable price make it an excellent choice for producers looking for a classic analog sound with modern flexibility (win-win).

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Fully analog drum machine with unique circuits
• 10 drum sounds with dedicated controls for deep sound shaping (kick, snare drum, hi-hat, and FM drum)
• Step sequencer with 64 steps, pattern chaining, and polyrhythms
• “Color” function for adding variations like distortion or pitch modulation
• Perfect for all genres (like hip-hop)
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#8. Roland TR-8S: Jeff Mills’ Fav ($749.99)

The Roland TR-8S is an advanced drum machine that merges Roland’s acclaimed Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) modeling technology with modern sampling capabilities.

It delivers an authentic and flexible drumming experience that’s hard to beat.

 

Also, it features models of classic drum machines like the TR-808, TR-909, TR-707, and TR-606, and is capable of importing and manipulating digital samples. 

The TR-8S is equipped with an intuitive 16-step sequencer that supports real-time recording, parameter automation, and advanced pattern creation.

For intricate and evolving rhythmic drum patterns, it’s one of the best.

Pro Tip

It also includes a variety of built-in effects such as reverb, delay, and overdrive, which can be applied to individual tracks or the entire mix for dynamic sound shaping. 

The solid build, intuitive controls, and extensive connectivity options make the TR-8S a popular choice for both live performers and studio producers/musicians looking for versatility and classic sounds in a single package.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• ACB modeling of classic TR-808, TR-909, TR-707, and TR-606
• Ability to import and manipulate user samples/your own samples
• 16-step sequencer with real-time recording and automation
• Built-in effects like reverb, delay, and overdrive
• If it’s your first drum machine, it’s perfect
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#9. Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm: Hainbach’s Top Choice ($99)

The Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm is an ultra-portable drum machine that packs a surprising amount of functionality and sound quality into a pocket-sized format. 

It features 16 sounds and drum patterns with adjustable parameters and comes equipped with an animated LCD display that adds a unique visual element to its design. 

Despite its small size, the PO-12 includes an onboard step sequencer, effects like stutter and distortion, and parameter locks for creative sound manipulation.

Powered by two AAA batteries and equipped with a built-in speaker, it is ideal for making a drum beat on the go or for quick inspiration sessions. 

Pro Tip

The PO-12 Rhythm’s simple interface, affordability, and playful design make it a popular choice for beginners and seasoned producers alike who want a fun and accessible drum machine (and I promise it doesn’t suck, even though it doesn’t look impressive).

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Ultra-portable size with 16 sounds and drum patterns
• Animated LCD display and parameter locks for visual and creative control
• Step sequencer with built-in effects like stutter and distortion
• Battery-powered with a built-in speaker for portable use
• Perfect for all genres (like hip-hop)
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

#10. Behringer RD-8 MKII Rhythm Designer: Legowelt’s Top Choice ($349.99)

The Behringer RD-8 MKII Rhythm Designer is a modern reimagining of the legendary TR-808 drum machine, providing iconic analog drum sounds at a more accessible price. 

It features Behringer’s new Wave Designer and dual-mode filter, which allow for precise control over: 

• Attack
• Transient shaping
• Tonal characteristics

So, needless to say, it’s certainly ideal for modern electronic music production. 

The RD-8 MKII comes packed with an advanced 64-step sequencer that supports polyrhythms, step repeat, note repeat, and real-time triggering.

So you’ll have all the flexibility in the world for creating complex rhythmic drum patterns. 

It also comes with 11 individual outputs for greater mixing control and integration with external hardware or DAWs. 

The faithful sound reproduction and added modern features make the RD-8 MKII a great choice for those looking to capture the essence of classic analog drums with modern upgrades.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Modern reimagining of the classic analogue drum machines
• Wave Designer and dual-mode filter for precise sound shaping
• Advanced 64-step sequencer with polyrhythm and real-time triggering
• 11 individual outputs for flexible integration and mixing
• One of the best modern drum machines available for drum beats

#11. Boss DR-880: Tom Morello’s #1 ($255)

The Boss DR-880 is a highly regarded drum machine known for its realistic sound engine and extensive library of drum (like snare drum), percussion instruments, and bass sounds.

And they’re all derived from BOSS’s acclaimed SRX library which, if you’re unaware, is super renowned in the industry.

It offers 440 drum sounds, 40 bass sounds, and 500 preset patterns 一 providing an impressive toolkit for a variety of musical genres (especially hip-hop and EDM).

The DR-880 also features unique “Groove Modify” and “EZ Compose” functions that allow users to: 

• Create complex rhythms with ease
• Apply different groove feels
• Modify drum patterns on the fly

Its connectivity options are extensive, including MIDI I/O, USB, guitar/bass input, and individual outputs.

This makes it ideal for integrating with other equipment and instruments. 

With its direct guitar and bass inputs and multi-effects processing, the DR-880 is perfect for both studio use and live performance.

Especially for guitarists and bass players who want to enhance their setup with high-quality drum backing tracks.

Standout Features of this Drum Machine

• Realistic sound engine with 440 drum and 40 bass sounds
• “Groove Modify” and “EZ Compose” functions for easy rhythm creation
• Extensive connectivity: MIDI, USB, guitar/bass input
• Direct instrument input with multi-effects processing
• One of the best drum machines available for drum beats

Drum Machines: Final Thoughts

Drum machines are, without a doubt, one of the most powerful tools in a music producer’s arsenal. 

They can help you create tight rhythms, inject unique sound design into your tracks, and experiment with super creative beats. 

Plus, they can help you make sure your music remains dynamic and engaging 一 whether you’re in the studio or performing live. 

And now, you know the absolute best drum machines in the game, used by top producers and DJs who have shaped the sound of modern music.

As a special bonus, you’ve got to check out the most legendary drum plugin in the game: Drum Monkey.

This epic plugin is designed to help producers quickly generate high-quality drum loops in a variety of genres, making it a perfect addition to any drum machine setup. 

With over 3,000 genre-specific drum patterns and a user-friendly interface, Drum Monkey allows you to dial in custom drum sequences that match your production style. 

It also offers built-in mixing tools like velocity, swing, and quantization so your drum patterns are polished and professional. 

For producers looking to fast-track their workflow while maintaining creativity, Drum Monkey is the absolute best.

Whether you’re using a classic hardware drum machine or exploring new plugins like Drum Monkey, you’re equipped with the tools to create captivating beats. 

Now, with the right drum machine, your music will stand out, and your rhythms will always hit the mark. 

Just make sure to keep experimenting and refining your sound, knowing that you’ve now got some of the best gear in the game to back you up.

Until next time…