The LinnDrum, introduced in the early 1980s, revolutionized the world of music production by offering realistic sampled drum sounds, paving the way for the iconic ’80s drum sound that continues to inspire musicians today. While the original LinnDrum is considered a vintage classic, several drum machines have come close in terms of both sound and spirit. In this article, we will explore some of the closest drum machines to the LinnDrum, offering musicians a taste of that distinctive ’80s vibe.
- Alesis HR-16 and HR-16B
The Alesis HR-16 series, which includes the HR-16 and HR-16B, is often regarded as a close contender to the LinnDrum. These drum machines offer a similar approach to drum sound sampling and sequencing. The HR-16 series provides a variety of classic drum sounds, making it a popular choice for recreating the iconic ’80s drum machine sound. The HR-16B, in particular, gained recognition for its affordability and versatility.
- Oberheim DMX
The Oberheim DMX, released in the early 1980s, was one of the LinnDrum’s contemporaries and is often considered a close competitor. Known for its warm, punchy sound, the DMX has been used extensively in genres like hip-hop and electronic dance music. Its distinct drum sounds and programming capabilities make it a suitable alternative for those seeking a LinnDrum-like experience.
- Sequential Circuits DrumTraks
The Sequential Circuits DrumTraks, introduced in the mid-’80s, is another drum machine that shares similarities with the LinnDrum. It offers 13 sampled drum sounds and a simple yet effective sequencer. The DrumTraks’ compact size and portability make it an attractive choice for musicians looking to capture that ’80s drum sound on the go.
- Akai MPC Series
While not strictly a drum machine, the Akai MPC series, especially the early models like the MPC60 and MPC3000, has been used extensively for drum programming and sampling in a manner reminiscent of the LinnDrum. These machines offer comprehensive sequencing capabilities, powerful sampling, and the ability to create intricate drum patterns.
- Roland TR-808 and TR-909
The Roland TR-808 and TR-909 are iconic drum machines in their own right, known for their unique analog sounds. While they have distinct characteristics different from the LinnDrum, they played a significant role in shaping ’80s music and continue to be used to recreate vintage drum sounds. The TR-808’s booming kick and the TR-909’s crisp snare are unmistakable.
Conclusion
The LinnDrum, with its iconic drum sounds and contribution to the ’80s music landscape, remains a highly sought-after drum machine. While no drum machine can truly replicate its exact sound and character, several alternatives come close in terms of capturing the essence of that era. Musicians and producers today are fortunate to have access to a variety of drum machines and samplers that can help them recreate the magic of the LinnDrum while adding their unique spin to their music. Whether you’re looking to evoke the spirit of the ’80s or push the boundaries of modern music production, these closest drum machines to the LinnDrum offer a rich palette of possibilities for your musical journey.
