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Average Price: $140

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$150

$601+

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Description

Step into the world of rhythm with the Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine, a staple for both novice beatmakers and seasoned musicians. This classic piece of equipment, originally released in the late 1980s, is renowned for its high-quality PCM samples and intuitive interface, making it a favorite among electronic musicians and producers. With its robust sound library, the HR-16 offers a wide array of drum and percussion sounds that have stood the test of time, allowing users to craft everything from tight, punchy beats to expansive, ambient soundscapes.

Designed for flexibility, the Alesis HR-16 provides 49 preset patterns and space to store 100 user patterns, enabling you to create and save complex sequences with ease. Its user-friendly layout features large buttons and a clear display, making navigation straightforward even during live performances. The HR-16’s MIDI compatibility allows seamless integration with other gear, providing endless possibilities for expanding your setup. Whether you're laying down a foundation for a new track or experimenting with intricate rhythms, the HR-16 is a reliable partner in creativity.

Perfect for studio work and live gigs alike, the Alesis HR-16 continues to be a respected tool in the music community for its durability and versatility. Its timeless design and functional capabilities ensure that it remains a relevant and inspiring choice for musicians looking to explore new rhythmic horizons.

Key Features:

  • 49 preset patterns and storage for 100 user patterns
  • High-quality PCM samples for authentic drum sounds
  • Intuitive interface with large, easy-to-use buttons
  • MIDI compatibility for integration with other equipment
  • Durable design suitable for both studio and live performances

Product specs

Brand Alesis
Model HR-16 High Sample Rate 16-Bit Drum Machine
Finish Gray
Year 1980s
Categories Drum Machines
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output
Number of Pads 16 Pads
Polyphony 16 Voices

FAQs

What type of sound samples does the Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine offer?

The Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine features a variety of high-quality 16-bit digital samples, including acoustic and electronic drum sounds, suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

How many pads does the Alesis HR-16 have for live performance?

The Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine is equipped with 16 velocity-sensitive pads, allowing for dynamic live performances and programming.

Can the Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine be integrated with other MIDI devices?

Yes, the Alesis HR-16 includes MIDI input and output, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-compatible devices and setups.

How many voices of polyphony does the Alesis HR-16 support?

The Alesis HR-16 supports 16 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered drum patterns.

Is the Alesis HR-16 suitable for use in a modern studio setup?

While the Alesis HR-16 is a vintage drum machine, its MIDI capabilities and unique sound make it a valuable addition to both modern and retro studio setups.

AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

ALESIS HR-16 Vintage Drum Machine 1988 | HD DEMO

Video thumbnail for ALESIS HR-16 Vintage Drum Machine 1988 | HD DEMO by AnalogAudio1

ALESIS HR-16 Vintage Drum Machine 1988 | HD DEMO

AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

Video thumbnail for Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine - Overview by FarewellOldFriends

Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine - Overview

FarewellOldFriends

FarewellOldFriends

Video thumbnail for One of the Best Kick & Snare Ever ! The Legendary Alesis HR16 Made a Beat Using the HR16 Drums ⚠️🎶🎶🔥 by DJ ROCK CEE TV

One of the Best Kick & Snare Ever ! The Legendary Alesis HR16 Made a Beat Using the HR16 Drums ⚠️🎶🎶🔥

DJ ROCK CEE TV

DJ ROCK CEE TV

Video thumbnail for Alesis HR-16 drum machine: From studio staple to forgotten classic by Justin Joe

Alesis HR-16 drum machine: From studio staple to forgotten classic

Justin Joe

Justin Joe

Video thumbnail for Alesis HR-16 High Sample Rate 16 bit Drum Machine: Why I Use It by Powercoat Music

Alesis HR-16 High Sample Rate 16 bit Drum Machine: Why I Use It

Powercoat Music

Powercoat Music

Video thumbnail for Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine from 1987 by Bata

Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine from 1987

Bata

Bata

Video thumbnail for How to program the Alesis HR-16 drum machine by Capital University Music Technology

How to program the Alesis HR-16 drum machine

Capital University Music Technology

Capital University Music Technology

Video thumbnail for Alesis HR-16 a classic Drum Machine by Take the Fear out the Gear

Alesis HR-16 a classic Drum Machine

Take the Fear out the Gear

Take the Fear out the Gear

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers classic yet highly musical and usable drum sounds

  • Features 4 outputs for realistic sound in home recordings

  • User-friendly with easy programming and dynamic pads

  • Highly customizable with 49 drum samples and 8 levels of velocity sensitivity

  • MIDI-mappable for integration with DAWs and versatile sound options

  • Switchable sound chips for unlimited sound variety

  • Affordable pricing compared to modern software controllers

  • Sync track feature maintains perfect sync with other recorded tracks

  • Suitable for sampling into DAWs and samplers

CONS

  • Button pads may require cleaning and maintenance due to age

  • Some buttons can be hard to press, affecting creative flow

  • Drum sounds may be perceived as common or generic by some users

Critic Reviews

Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine (SOS Jan 88)

muzines.co.uk

While the Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine boasts impressive features like 16 touch-sensitive pads and a robust MIDI interface, its sound quality leaves much to be desired. The review praises its versatile programming capabilities and ease of use, particularly for creating complex patterns. However, the reviewer criticizes the weak and delicate sound of its bass drums and toms, suggesting they lack the punch many drummers seek. The absence of dedicated MIDI Thru and certain advanced features found in pricier competitors also detracts from its appeal. Overall, the HR-16 is recognized as a serious contender for newcomers but may not satisfy seasoned users looking for powerful sounds.

3.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mike Shinoda uses Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine

Mike Shinoda

Singer, Guitarist

Linkin Park

...
Verified via LP Association Forums

Listed in this article, used for the recording of the original Xero demo tape in in 1997

See how Ulrich Wild uses Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine

Ulrich Wild

Music Producer, Audio Engineer

Deftones

...
Verified via YouTube

At 23:51 in the YouTube video "Static-X 'Push It': Inside the Song w/ Ulrich Wild - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro," Ulrich Wild discusses the use of the Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine, highlighting its role in generating the heavy drum sounds for the track "Push It." He also mentions how Wayne's programming was implemented with the Alesis HR-16 during the creation of the song.

See how Paul Hertzog uses Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine

Paul Hertzog

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Paul Hertzog, film composer

Paul Hertzog confirmed that he used an Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine while working on the "Kickboxer" official motion picture soundtrack, stating: "In addition to the D-50, I used a Yamaha DX-7 and TX-7, an Oberheim OB-8, an early edition of the Ensoniq Mirage, and an Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine."

Album Usage

The Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
ihcilon

ihcilon

Gear IQ 182

bryankielty

bryankielty

Gear IQ 86

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