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Average Price: $1,141

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$150

$601+

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Description

The E-MU Systems Drumulator 8-Voice Drum Sampler is a timeless piece of gear that brings vintage vibes and modern capabilities to your DJ setup. Originally released in the 1980s, this drum machine quickly became a favorite among musicians for its distinctive sound and ease of use. The Drumulator's 8-voice polyphony allows you to craft intricate beats by layering sounds, giving your music depth and complexity.

Designed with both beginners and seasoned producers in mind, the Drumulator is equipped with an intuitive control panel that makes sound shaping and sequencing straightforward. Its iconic sound has been widely celebrated in various music genres, from rock to hip-hop, thanks to its high-quality samples and reliable performance. Whether you're aiming for retro authenticity or contemporary flair, this drum machine offers a versatile platform for your creativity.

Key Features:

  • 8-voice polyphony for complex beat creation
  • Original 1980s design with modern functionality
  • Intuitive control panel for easy sound manipulation
  • High-quality sample playback
  • Widely used in diverse music genres, from rock to hip-hop
  • Compatible with various setups and interfaces

Product specs

Brand E-MU Systems
Model Drumulator 8-Voice Drum Sampler
Year 1983
Categories Drum Machines, Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

What type of sounds can I expect from the E-MU Systems Drumulator 8-Voice Drum Sampler?

The E-MU Systems Drumulator offers classic 1980s digital drum sounds, including kick, snare, hi-hats, and toms, known for their distinctive punch and character that suit a variety of music genres, especially synth-pop and early hip-hop.

Is the E-MU Drumulator suitable for live performances?

Yes, the E-MU Drumulator is designed for both studio and live settings, featuring intuitive controls and reliable performance, making it a solid choice for musicians looking to incorporate vintage drum sounds into their live acts.

How many voices of polyphony does the E-MU Systems Drumulator have?

The E-MU Systems Drumulator features 8-voice polyphony, allowing you to layer multiple drum sounds simultaneously for complex rhythmic patterns.

Can the E-MU Drumulator be integrated with modern recording setups?

While the Drumulator is an older model from 1983, it can be integrated into modern setups with the appropriate MIDI interfaces or by sampling its sounds into a DAW, providing a classic digital drum sound.

Does the E-MU Drumulator allow for user-sampling?

The E-MU Drumulator does not support user-sampling; it comes with pre-loaded sounds typical of its era, designed for use straight out of the box without additional customization.

SynthMania

SynthMania

ZIF sockets on E-mu Drumulator

Video thumbnail for ZIF sockets on E-mu Drumulator by SynthMania

ZIF sockets on E-mu Drumulator

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for EMU Drumulator Expanded with EPROM set and MIDI kit by DeftAudio

EMU Drumulator Expanded with EPROM set and MIDI kit

DeftAudio

DeftAudio

Video thumbnail for Emu- Drumulator  Some Drum kits by WIRECOOLEY

Emu- Drumulator Some Drum kits

WIRECOOLEY

WIRECOOLEY

Video thumbnail for Free Drum Samples Pack Vol #14 (EMU Drumulator) by SFX-LAB

Free Drum Samples Pack Vol #14 (EMU Drumulator)

SFX-LAB

SFX-LAB

Video thumbnail for Emu Drumulator Drum Machine by Take the Fear out the Gear

Emu Drumulator Drum Machine

Take the Fear out the Gear

Take the Fear out the Gear

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers an authentic 80s sound with 8-bit EPROMs

  • Built like a tank for durability

  • Affordable vintage option compared to SP-12 and SP-1200

  • Versatile across multiple genres like synth-pop and italo-disco

  • Easy and intuitive programming, suitable for beginners

  • Unique sound with historical significance in music production

  • Compatible with affordable replacement sounds for customization

CONS

  • Programming can feel basic and somewhat limited

  • Individual outputs use RCA, which may not suit all setups

Critic Reviews

E-mu Drumulator (EMM Jun 83)

muzines.co.uk

E-MU Systems' Drumulator strikes a chord with its affordability and ease of use, offering a commendable alternative to pricier competitors like the LinnDrum and Oberheim DMX. While it doesn't match their feature set entirely, it delivers all the basics with impressive sound quality and programmability. The dynamic programming and swing feature add a touch of realism to your beats, though swapping sound chips might challenge the less tech-savvy. Its lack of onboard mixing might deter some, but the individual outputs offer flexibility for external mixing. For those seeking a budget-friendly drum machine without sacrificing professional sound, the Drumulator is a compelling choice.

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

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