Drum machines

Notes: Too many of today's rhythm machines are too complex to use. Many musicians wish that they could enjoy casually performing while being backed up by real rhythm patterns rather than just a metronome.

Korg has responded to these wishes with the KR Mini rhythm machine. It features a simple design that eliminates all complex functions, looks that overflow with nostalgia and analog-like controls. Playing a rhythm pattern is easy and intuitive; just press or strike the pads and turn the knobs.

Although operation is simple, there's no compromise with the sound. A total of 60 diverse rhythm patterns are ready to accompany you. Easy, simple and compact, the KR mini can play its role anywhere; it's the rhythm machine that many musicians have been waiting for.

Many musicians wish that they could enjoy casually performing while being backed up by real rhythm patterns rather than just a metronome. Korg has responded to these wishes with the KR Mini rhythm machine. It features a simple design that eliminates all complex functions, looks that overflow with nostalgia and analog-like controls. Playing a rhythm pattern is easy as making selection and pressing play. A total of 60 diverse rhythm patterns and 120 fills are ready to accompany you. Easy, simple and compact, the KR mini can play its role anywhere.

A dedicated knob helps you select the musical genres you want quickly. Six variations and two fills are available within each of the genres. KR mini covers a wide range of genres including 8-beat, 16-beat, rock and pop. In addition, three are eight song patterns containing drum parts that are several measures in length to jam along with.

KR Mini's Chain function lets you easily arrange patterns to create complete songs. Jump from one pattern to another, add fill-ins, and specify the loop end location as well as the number of playback repetitions with ease.

At the push of a button, the 16 pads double up as drum playable drum pads. All of the sounds of the KR mini are available in this mode, and you can finger drum on a whim the pads are velocity sensitive; letting you create even more dynamic drum phrases. Although finger drumming has typically been done using a PC-based system with samplers and MIDI controllers, the compact KR mini, with its built-in speaker and battery-powered operation means that now you can enjoy performing on the street, outdoors, or anywhere you may be inspired.

Two pedal inputs you are available to allow use of optional footswitches, allowing you to use your foot to start/stop the rhythm or to control fill-ins. In a performance environment, you'll be able to smoothly control the KR mini while continuously playing your instrument. The KR mini also has a headphone/speaker output, so you can connect it to your PA system. Use it with a guitar amp or compact multi-channel PA to create a simple setup for live performance.

Notes: It's no secret that we love Teenage Engineering's quirky little Pocket Operator synths and drum machines. Huge portable entertainment value but also proper usable sounds from this drum-focused model.

Supplier's notes:
A pocket-sized drum synthesizer and sequencer with parameter locks, individual step re-trig and punch-in effects.

Pocket operators are cleverly designed on a single circuit board. By placing all vital and sensitive components under the LCD display there's no need for an outer case. By saving this cost, high quality components could be used to guarantee the best possible sound and very low power consumption. The space under the display also doubles as a speaker box.

Experience a fresh new way to create music using your thumbs. With its pocket size, its animated graphics, real synthesizer engines, sync, punch-in effects, built-in speaker, alarm clock and impossibly low price, making electronic music has never been this much fun!

Notes: I'm the operator with my pocket calculator. Which is actually a drum machine. Cult classic digital beatbox which integrates really nicely with the Sonic Charge MicroTonic plugin.

Supplier notes:
Drum synthesizer and sequencer with para-meter locks, punch-in effects and unlimited sounds with micro-tonic VST through data transfer.

Unlimited sounds:

PO-32 is the first pocket operator which allows unlimited sounds. in addition to the 16 preset sounds, you can use sonic charge micro-tonic VST to craft your own unique sounds and transfer them wirelessly to PO-32 with the built-in microphone, or alternatively by using a cable.

Upgraded hardware platform:

PO-32 has a built-in microphone for transferring and receiving data over sound. it also has a removable lock tab for write protection of patterns. the hanger strength is increased for extra durability, and on the backside of unit there are some useful combo reminders.

New pro-case:

CA-X silicone pro-case is the best companion for PO-32. with an updated design, this case includes a hole for microphone, anti-slip feet, neck strap, battery protection and pro feel buttons. it is also compatible with all pocket operator models.