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Description

Unleash your rhythmic creativity with the Dave Smith Instruments Tempest 6-Voice Drum Machine, a powerhouse designed for both studio and live performance. This drum machine isn't just about beats; it's a fully analog, 6-voice polyphonic synthesizer crafted to produce rich, dynamic sounds. Each voice is equipped with two analog oscillators, digital oscillators, and comprehensive modulation options, allowing for an expansive sound design palette.

The Tempest provides a hands-on approach with real-time control over every aspect of your music. Its intuitive interface and touch-sensitive pads allow for expressive performance, while the powerful sequencer enables complex rhythm programming. With its ability to store and recall intricate patterns and songs, this drum machine is perfect for both spontaneous jam sessions and detailed production work.

Key Features:

  • 6-voice polyphonic analog synthesis for a wide range of sound creation
  • Dual analog oscillators and digital oscillators per voice
  • Comprehensive modulation with envelopes and LFOs
  • Responsive touch-sensitive pads for dynamic performance
  • Sophisticated sequencer with real-time control
  • Ability to store and recall patterns and songs
  • Built-in effects for added sound manipulation
  • MIDI and USB connectivity for seamless integration with other gear

Product specs

Brand Dave Smith Instruments
Model Tempest 6-Voice Drum Machine
Year 2011 - 2018
Made In United States
Categories Drum Machines
Analog / Digital Hybrid
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Polyphony 6 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Dave Smith Instruments Tempest use?

The Tempest is a hybrid drum machine, utilizing both analog and digital synthesis to create a wide range of drum sounds and textures.

How many voices of polyphony does the Tempest offer?

The Tempest provides 6 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex layering and sequencing of multiple drum sounds simultaneously.

Can the Tempest be used with other MIDI devices?

Yes, the Tempest features MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and USB MIDI, enabling integration with other MIDI devices and DAWs for expanded control and sequencing.

Is the Dave Smith Instruments Tempest suitable for live performances?

The Tempest is well-suited for live performances, offering real-time control over parameters and a robust interface for dynamic sound manipulation on stage.

Does the Tempest support USB connectivity?

Yes, the Tempest includes USB MIDI, allowing for easy connection to computers and integration with digital audio workstations.

What are the primary sound design capabilities of the Tempest?

The Tempest excels in creating both classic and modern drum sounds, with extensive modulation options, effects, and real-time performance controls for versatile sound design.

Sequential

Sequential

Dave Smith Instruments- Tempest Analog Drum Machine- Roger Linn Design

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments- Tempest Analog Drum Machine- Roger Linn Design by Sequential

Dave Smith Instruments- Tempest Analog Drum Machine- Roger Linn Design

Sequential

Sequential

Video thumbnail for Bad Gear - Dave Smith Tempest by AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Dave Smith Tempest

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Video thumbnail for 'The Tempest' Innovative Analog Drum Machine / Synth from Dave Smith + Roger Linn by Dubspot

'The Tempest' Innovative Analog Drum Machine / Synth from Dave Smith + Roger Linn

Dubspot

Dubspot

Video thumbnail for Tempest Analog Drum Machine - Dave Smith Roger Linn by sonicstate

Tempest Analog Drum Machine - Dave Smith Roger Linn

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for How BAD was the DSI TEMPEST Really??!? by Noir Et Blanc Vie

How BAD was the DSI TEMPEST Really??!?

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Tempest Analog Drum Machine Video Compilation- Roger Linn Design by Sequential

Dave Smith Instruments Tempest Analog Drum Machine Video Compilation- Roger Linn Design

Sequential

Sequential

Video thumbnail for ONE MINUTE SYNTH REVIEW!!! Ep. 6 Dave Smith Instruments Tempest by Noir Et Blanc Vie

ONE MINUTE SYNTH REVIEW!!! Ep. 6 Dave Smith Instruments Tempest

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Tempest - FIRST LOOK! // My new Favorite Drum Machine? [ Ep. 17 ] by JAde Wii

Dave Smith Tempest - FIRST LOOK! // My new Favorite Drum Machine? [ Ep. 17 ]

JAde Wii

JAde Wii

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Tempest Retired ? by Musician Paradise

Dave Smith Instruments Tempest Retired ?

Musician Paradise

Musician Paradise

Video thumbnail for DSI Tempest: An Analog Drum Machine for the Digital Age by Retrothusiast

DSI Tempest: An Analog Drum Machine for the Digital Age

Retrothusiast

Retrothusiast

Reviews

PROS

  • Co-designed by legendary Dave Smith and Roger Linn, ensuring high-quality design

  • Six analog voices with both digital and analog oscillators for versatile sound

  • Real-time beat creation and manipulation without stopping play

  • Song mode allows complex pattern arrangement, rare in current drum machines

  • Pressure-sensitive slide controllers for dynamic sound modulation

  • Built-in effects maintain pure analog signal path for superior audio quality

  • Unique timbre that cuts through the mix, ideal for live performances

  • Capable of creating both drum and melodic synth sounds, doubling as a keyboard synth

  • Extensive modulation options with multiple envelopes and LFOs

  • Performance-oriented with features like beat-synced delay and stutter effects

CONS

  • Complex interface may be overwhelming for beginners

  • High price point, though recent dips make it more accessible

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dave Smith Instruments Tempest 6-Voice Drum Machine.

User experience

  • Owners find the Tempest less intuitive than expected due to frequent use of the shift function, requiring attention to the screen for parameter adjustments.

    Source
  • Voice stealing is a notable issue when using the Tempest standalone for bass and synth duties alongside rhythms, which some users find frustrating.

    Source
  • An inconsistency exists when modulating digital oscillators' amplitude from zero with an envelope, causing unpredictable playback, which can be frustrating for users.

    Source
  • Owners note that the Tempest's pads are highly responsive with excellent velocity response, enhancing its playability as a live instrument.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Due to its discontinued status, the Tempest's resale value is high, often allowing owners to recover or even surpass their initial investment.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Tempest naturally cuts through live mixes, making it a preferred choice for performances with other musicians, whereas the Rytm excels in controlled headphone environments.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the Tempest as a bass synth for its punchiness, likening it to the Pro-One, rather than solely as a drum machine.

    Source
  • The Tempest is best suited for users who enjoy creating unique, unconventional sounds and are willing to invest time in programming.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Tempest's sequencer offers high-resolution note placement, allowing for precise rhythmic control, unlike the Elektron which uses retrigs for similar results.

    Source
  • The Tempest lacks FM and ring modulation, which are integral to the Evolver's sound palette, impacting its tonal versatility.

    Source
  • The Tempest's voice architecture includes 4 oscillators (2 analog, 2 digital/sample playback), but lacks a true ring modulator, affecting cymbal creation methods.

    Source
  • The Tempest's polyphonic MIDI implementation was significantly improved in OS versions 1.1 and 1.2, enhancing its use as a 6-voice polyphonic synth.

    Source
  • The Tempest allows dynamic assignment of voices through stereo outputs, but individual voice connection removes them from the stereo mix.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners highlight the Tempest's deep tone-shaping capabilities, though some find it challenging to dial in desired sounds compared to Elektron models.

    Source
  • The Elektron Rytm is favored for its sample support and machine variety, offering more sound design options, while the Tempest excels in live performance playability.

    Source

Other

  • It's been noted that Tempest cannot load user samples, aligning with its design philosophy focused on synthesizing original sounds.

    Source

Build quality

  • Users report occasional noise issues, particularly with oscillators running in the background when compression or distortion is active.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Dave Smith Instruments Tempest

soundonsound.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Tempest 6-Voice Drum Machine is a powerhouse of synthesis and percussive prowess, marrying the expertise of Roger Linn and Dave Smith. Its deep engine offers rich analog and digital sound creation, making it a versatile tool for live performance and sonic exploration. While its unfinished status and high price might deter casual users, dedicated musicians will find immense potential within its responsive pads and robust synthesis capabilities. Despite some drawbacks like the lack of onboard reverb and limited beat memory, the Tempest promises a unique and professional-level experience for those ready to dive deep.

positive

Sonic LAB: Review Tempest Analog Drum Machine

sonicstate.com

The Tempest Drum Machine, a collaboration between Dave Smith and Roger Linn, brims with analog charm and creative potential. With its robust control surface, 16 pressure-sensitive pads, and dual ribbon controllers, it’s designed for real-time beat-making. The synthesis engine is rich, offering a blend of analog and digital oscillators, making it versatile for both drum and synth sounds. However, the absence of user sample import limits its scope slightly. While the machine excels in sound creation, ongoing OS development and lack of odd time signature support may deter some. It’s a pricey piece, but its unique features and live performance capabilities make it a worthwhile consideration for serious musicians.

Dave Smith Instruments & Roger Linn Design Tempest review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Tempest, a collaboration with Roger Linn, is a powerhouse drum machine that blends analogue and digital elements seamlessly. Its hybrid sound engine excels in both drum and synth roles, offering a classic Linn/MPC feel with extreme tweakability for live and studio use. However, the OS needs refinement, with missing features and bugs that await fixing. Despite this, the Tempest's unique sound and performance capabilities make it a standout, potentially a future classic. If you can navigate its quirks, its sonic and creative possibilities are unmatched.

positive

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