LinnDrum (LM-2): drums with multiple buttons
LinnDrum (LM-2): Drums with Multiple Buttons
Introduction
The LinnDrum, also known as the LM-2, is a drum machine that was manufactured by Linn Electronics between 1982 and 1985. Designed by American engineer Roger Linn, the LinnDrum was an upgraded version of its predecessor, the Linn LM-1 drum machine. With its advanced features and high-quality sound, the LinnDrum quickly became a popular choice among musicians and producers in the 1980s.
Sample-Based Drum Sounds
The LinnDrum utilized a sample-based approach to generate its drum sounds. Unlike analog drum machines of the time, which relied on electronic circuitry to create drum tones, the LinnDrum used digital samples to produce more realistic and authentic drum sounds. This gave it an edge in terms of sound quality and versatility.
Expanded Drum Kit
The LinnDrum featured an expanded drum kit compared to its predecessor. It offered a total of 15 sounds, including bass, snare, rimshot, hi-hat, crash, ride, toms, cabasa, tambourine, congas, cowbell, and clap. These sounds allowed musicians to create a wide range of rhythmic patterns and add depth to their compositions.
Individual Sound Controls
One of the key features of the LinnDrum was its ability to control each drum sound individually. Users could adjust parameters such as tuning, panning, and mixing for each sound, giving them precise control over the overall sound of their drum patterns. This level of customization allowed for greater flexibility and creativity in sound design.
Accent Feature and Dynamic Variation
The LinnDrum introduced an accent feature that added dynamic variation to the kick, snare, and hi-hat sounds. This feature allowed musicians to emphasize certain beats or create subtle nuances in their drum patterns. By adjusting the accent levels, users could add a sense of groove and expression to their compositions.
Sequencer and Pattern Storage
The LinnDrum was equipped with a built-in sequencer that offered various sequencing options. Users could record drum patterns in real-time or step time, allowing for precise and detailed composition. The sequencer also provided swing and quantizing features, enabling users to add swing or align their patterns to a specific timing grid.
The LinnDrum had ample memory storage with 56 user patterns and 42 preset drum patterns. Users could store their created patterns and easily access them for live performances or studio recordings. This allowed for quick recall of favorite patterns and simplified the process of arranging drum sequences into complete songs.
Studio-Ready and Popular in the 1980s
With its 15 individual outputs, the LinnDrum was well-suited for studio use. Each drum sound could be routed to a separate output, enabling precise mixing and processing during recording and production. This feature made the LinnDrum a valuable tool for achieving professional-quality drum tracks.
During the 1980s, the LinnDrum gained widespread popularity and was extensively used by professional musicians and producers. Renowned artists such as Sting, Prince, Jean-Michel Jarre, Sheila E., Todd Rundgren, and Peter Gabriel incorporated the LinnDrum into their music, contributing to its iconic status in the era’s musical landscape.
Conclusion
The LinnDrum (LM-2) revolutionized the world of drum machines with its sample-based drum sounds, expanded drum kit, individual sound controls, accent feature, versatile sequencer, and pattern storage capabilities. Its impact on music production in the 1980s cannot be overstated, as it became an essential tool for musicians and producers seeking high-quality and customizable drum tracks.
Sources:
- “LinnDrum” article on Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LinnDrum)
- “Linn Drum LM-2 Drum Machine Overview” article on Synthtopia (https://www.synthtopia.com/content/2013/01/31/linn-drum-lm-2-drum-machine-overview/)
- “Linn Electronics LinnDrum” article on Vintage Synth Explorer (https://www.vintagesynth.com/linn-electronics/linndrum)
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about LinnDrum (LM-2)
What is the LinnDrum (LM-2) drum machine?
The LinnDrum (LM-2) is a drum machine manufactured by Linn Electronics between 1982 and 1985. It is a sample-based drum machine designed by Roger Linn, known for its realistic drum sounds and versatile features.
How does the LinnDrum differ from the LM-1?
The LinnDrum is an upgraded version of its predecessor, the LM-1 drum machine. It features an expanded drum kit with additional crash and ride cymbals, providing a wider range of sounds compared to the LM-1.
What sounds are included in the LinnDrum?
The LinnDrum offers 15 distinct sounds, including bass, snare, rimshot, hi-hat, crash, ride, toms, cabasa, tambourine, congas, cowbell, and clap. These sounds allow musicians to create diverse and dynamic drum patterns.
Can I customize the individual drum sounds on the LinnDrum?
Yes, the LinnDrum provides individual controls for tuning, panning, and mixing each drum sound. This allows users to shape and customize the characteristics of each sound to suit their preferences and desired musical style.
Does the LinnDrum have a sequencer?
Yes, the LinnDrum is equipped with a sequencer that offers swing, quantizing, and memory storage capabilities. It allows users to record drum patterns in real or step time, with or without quantizing, and store them for easy access and arrangement.
How many patterns can the LinnDrum store?
The LinnDrum has 56 user patterns and 42 preset drum patterns, providing ample storage for creating and organizing drum sequences. Users can arrange these patterns into songs for complete track compositions.
Can the LinnDrum be used in a studio setting?
Yes, the LinnDrum is suitable for studio use. It features 15 individual outputs for each sound, allowing for separate processing and mixing of each drum sound. This capability enhances the flexibility and quality of drum production in a studio environment.
Which musicians used the LinnDrum in their music?
The LinnDrum gained popularity in the 1980s and was widely used by professional musicians and producers. Notable artists who incorporated the LinnDrum into their music include Sting, Prince, Jean-Michel Jarre, Sheila E., Todd Rundgren, and Peter Gabriel.