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Average Price: $1,542
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$601+
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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
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What type of synthesis does the Dave Smith Instruments Tempest use?
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The Tempest is a hybrid drum machine, utilizing both analog and digital synthesis to create a wide range of drum sounds and textures.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Tempest offer?
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The Tempest provides 6 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex layering and sequencing of multiple drum sounds simultaneously.
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Can the Tempest be used with other MIDI devices?
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Yes, the Tempest features MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and USB MIDI, enabling integration with other MIDI devices and DAWs for expanded control and sequencing.
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Is the Dave Smith Instruments Tempest suitable for live performances?
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The Tempest is well-suited for live performances, offering real-time control over parameters and a robust interface for dynamic sound manipulation on stage.
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Does the Tempest support USB connectivity?
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Yes, the Tempest includes USB MIDI, allowing for easy connection to computers and integration with digital audio workstations.
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What are the primary sound design capabilities of the Tempest?
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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.
Videos
Sequential
Dave Smith Instruments- Tempest Analog Drum Machine- Roger Linn Design
Reviews
PROS
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Co-designed by legendary Dave Smith and Roger Linn, ensuring high-quality design
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Six analog voices with both digital and analog oscillators for versatile sound
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Real-time beat creation and manipulation without stopping play
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Song mode allows complex pattern arrangement, rare in current drum machines
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Pressure-sensitive slide controllers for dynamic sound modulation
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Built-in effects maintain pure analog signal path for superior audio quality
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Unique timbre that cuts through the mix, ideal for live performances
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Capable of creating both drum and melodic synth sounds, doubling as a keyboard synth
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Extensive modulation options with multiple envelopes and LFOs
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Performance-oriented with features like beat-synced delay and stutter effects
CONS
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Complex interface may be overwhelming for beginners
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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
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Owners find the Tempest less intuitive than expected due to frequent use of the shift function, requiring attention to the screen for parameter adjustments.
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Voice stealing is a notable issue when using the Tempest standalone for bass and synth duties alongside rhythms, which some users find frustrating.
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An inconsistency exists when modulating digital oscillators' amplitude from zero with an envelope, causing unpredictable playback, which can be frustrating for users.
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Owners note that the Tempest's pads are highly responsive with excellent velocity response, enhancing its playability as a live instrument.
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Value and pricing
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Due to its discontinued status, the Tempest's resale value is high, often allowing owners to recover or even surpass their initial investment.
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Use cases and applications
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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.
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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.
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The Tempest is best suited for users who enjoy creating unique, unconventional sounds and are willing to invest time in programming.
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Features and functionality
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The Tempest's sequencer offers high-resolution note placement, allowing for precise rhythmic control, unlike the Elektron which uses retrigs for similar results.
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The Tempest lacks FM and ring modulation, which are integral to the Evolver's sound palette, impacting its tonal versatility.
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The Tempest's voice architecture includes 4 oscillators (2 analog, 2 digital/sample playback), but lacks a true ring modulator, affecting cymbal creation methods.
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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.
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The Tempest allows dynamic assignment of voices through stereo outputs, but individual voice connection removes them from the stereo mix.
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Comparisons
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Owners highlight the Tempest's deep tone-shaping capabilities, though some find it challenging to dial in desired sounds compared to Elektron models.
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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.
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Other
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It's been noted that Tempest cannot load user samples, aligning with its design philosophy focused on synthesizing original sounds.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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