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Description

Discover the Linn Electronics Linn 9000, a groundbreaking drum machine that combines cutting-edge technology with the robust performance that musicians crave. As a trailblazer in the world of drum machines, the Linn 9000 offers a unique blend of sequencing capabilities and sampling features that cater to both studio producers and live performers. Renowned for its innovative approach, the Linn 9000 allows for seamless integration into any setup, making it a versatile tool for musicians across genres.

At its core, the Linn 9000 features an advanced 18-voice polyphonic sampler that provides a rich palette of sounds, from crisp snares to booming bass drums, enabling users to create complex rhythms with ease. Its intuitive interface and user-friendly design make it an ideal choice for both seasoned professionals and aspiring artists looking to explore new sonic territories. With the ability to store and recall patterns effortlessly, the Linn 9000 ensures that your creative ideas are never lost, but rather, are ready to be brought to life at any moment.

The Linn 9000 also supports MIDI connectivity, allowing for expanded control and synchronization with other devices, making it a powerful centerpiece in any electronic music setup. This device's enduring popularity is a testament to its reliability and the unique sound it brings to every production.

Key Features:

  • 18-voice polyphonic sampler for versatile sound creation
  • Integrated sequencer with pattern storage capabilities
  • MIDI connectivity for enhanced control and integration
  • Intuitive interface designed for easy navigation and use
  • Durable construction suitable for both studio and live environments

Product specs

Brand Linn
Model 9000 Integrated Digital Drums / Midi Keyboard Recorder
Finish Black
Year 1984 - 1986
Made In United States
Categories Drum Machines, Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Pads 18 Pads
Polyphony 18 Voices

FAQs

What are the key features of the Linn 9000 drum machine?

The Linn 9000 combines a digital drum machine with a MIDI sequencer, featuring dynamic sensitive rubber pads and 18-voice polyphony. It includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it versatile for both live performance and studio use.

How does the Linn 9000 compare to the LinnDrum?

The Linn 9000, released in 1984, is an evolution of the LinnDrum, offering integrated MIDI sequencing and more advanced features like dynamic pads. It was designed to provide greater functionality and flexibility for musicians and producers.

Is the Linn 9000 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Linn 9000 is designed for live performances, featuring 18 dynamic sensitive pads that allow for expressive playing. Its MIDI capabilities also enable seamless integration with other equipment, making it a versatile choice for live setups.

How many pads does the Linn 9000 have and are they velocity-sensitive?

The Linn 9000 features 18 dynamic sensitive rubber pads, allowing for expressive and nuanced performances. This makes it ideal for both studio production and live performance environments.

Can the Linn 9000 be used as a MIDI controller?

Yes, the Linn 9000 can function as a MIDI controller, offering MIDI Input, Output, and Through. This allows it to control other MIDI-compatible devices, making it a versatile tool in a digital music setup.

zibbybone

zibbybone

Linn 9000 Vintage Drum Machine Demo

Video thumbnail for Linn 9000 Vintage Drum Machine Demo by zibbybone

Linn 9000 Vintage Drum Machine Demo

zibbybone

zibbybone

Video thumbnail for Lexicon 200 and Linn 9000 by SynthMania

Lexicon 200 and Linn 9000

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for ***-Song Creation Tutorial with the Linn 9000: Electric-City*** by Neon Nights: 1980s Music Production

***-Song Creation Tutorial with the Linn 9000: Electric-City***

Neon Nights: 1980s Music Production

Neon Nights: 1980s Music Production

Video thumbnail for Fun With the Linn-9000 Drum Machine - Sequencer by century3horizons

Fun With the Linn-9000 Drum Machine - Sequencer

century3horizons

century3horizons

Video thumbnail for Sequencing a Linn 9000 Creating  a song on the fly with the Linn 9000, Linndrum, DX7,Juno 106 by Neon Nights: 1980s Music Production

Sequencing a Linn 9000 Creating a song on the fly with the Linn 9000, Linndrum, DX7,Juno 106

Neon Nights: 1980s Music Production

Neon Nights: 1980s Music Production

Video thumbnail for Forat / Linn 9000 Demo playing LM1 and how to load custom sounds by INHALTVIDEO

Forat / Linn 9000 Demo playing LM1 and how to load custom sounds

INHALTVIDEO

INHALTVIDEO

Video thumbnail for Testing a Linn 9000 Drum Machine after clean up. by Ronan Chris Murphy

Testing a Linn 9000 Drum Machine after clean up.

Ronan Chris Murphy

Ronan Chris Murphy

Video thumbnail for Forat / Linn 9000 How to Sample a Custom Sound and Edit by INHALTVIDEO

Forat / Linn 9000 How to Sample a Custom Sound and Edit

INHALTVIDEO

INHALTVIDEO

Reviews

PROS

  • Simple operation with a revolutionary drum pad design

  • Great onboard sound samples with punchy drums

  • Robust MIDI-sequencer and sampler function

  • Mixing sliders enhance usability

  • Can store an entire set of drums to the pads with sample mod

  • Individual tuning, leveling, and panning for each drum

  • Built-in sequencer with tight, precise internal timing

CONS

  • Known for having internal issues and random wires soldered on

  • Prone to battery leak problems and hardware issues

  • Requires specific A/D card, disk drive, and extra memory for full functionality

  • Risk of Phihong power supplies smoking or catching fire

  • Limited repair options with long turnaround times

  • Stock sounds not universally excellent; about 80% are fantastic

  • Sequencer limited to one MIDI out

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Linn Electronics Linn 9000.

Comparisons

  • The Linn 9000, despite its advanced features, faced commercial failure due to flawed software and unreliable components, unlike its predecessors, the LinnDrum and LM-1.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Linn 9000 sold only a bit over 1000 units, contrasting with the 5000 units of the LinnDrum, highlighting its limited adoption.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Akai MPC, also designed by Roger Linn, reportedly included LinnDrum samples, offering continuity for users familiar with Linn Electronics' sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Smaller artists or studios in the late 80s might have used the LinnDrum due to lower resale prices as larger artists moved on to newer technology.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Blast from the past: Linn 9000 | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Linn 9000 is an ambitious relic of the 80s that promised a groundbreaking fusion of drum and MIDI sequencing, offering a glimpse into the future of music production. Its cutting-edge features, including velocity-sensitive pads and extensive sequence capacity, were overshadowed by an unstable software launch and a hefty price tag, leading to the downfall of Linn Electronics. Despite its rocky start, the 9000's influence is undeniable, laying the groundwork for future iconic machines like the Akai MPC60. While it was a commercial failure, it remains a cherished piece of music history, revered for its visionary design.

Linn 9000 (EMM Apr 85)

muzines.co.uk

The Linn 9000 is an ambitious machine that combines a drum machine with a digital sequencer, offering unique features like pressure-sensitive pads and MIDI control. However, its high price tag and notable omissions, such as the lack of step-time programming, diminish its appeal. While the sound quality and innovative drum programming features impress, the machine's hefty weight and operational limitations make it less accessible for non-technical users. Though future updates may address some issues, the Linn 9000 currently feels like a promising but incomplete product.

Recording Without Tape (EMM Mar 86)

muzines.co.uk

The Linn 9000 promises much but delivers inconsistently, plagued by software crashes and underwhelming sound-sampling compared to cheaper alternatives. While its real-time programming and integrated storage for drum patterns and keyboard sequences are commendable, its lack of step-time programming and frequent operational glitches limit its potential. The absence of digital drum voices in the Linn Sequencer variant removes its most praiseworthy features, leaving a product that feels incomplete and overpriced. Despite its accuracy in MIDI data storage and user-friendly design akin to a tape recorder, the Linn Sequencer's design flaws and high cost overshadow its strengths, making it a frustrating choice for serious musicians.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jurgendriessen

Great vintage drum machine

With the sample mod by Bruce Forat you can store a whole set of drums to the pads. Great vintage sounding and the internal timing is tight and precise. You can tune each drum and each can be leveled and panned individually to the output. It also has a build in sequencer.

jordansynth

Fitting end to the Linn drum machine line.

This review is of the base Linn 9000 model without the sampling option. It definitely is part of the LinnDrum heritage but unlike the first two Linns, only about 80% of the stock sounds are fantastic. It really does feel like the prototype for the MPC, with the MPC-60 fully realizing the ideas implemented in the 9000. The sequencer is tight but limited to one MIDI out.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Vince DiCola uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Vince DiCola

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Gearslutz

Discussed on this forum post about DiCola's Equipment.

See how Stock Aitken Waterman uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Stock Aitken Waterman

Music Producer

...
Verified via Muzines

They take turns behind the desk, Aitken laying a guide keyboard line down from a Roland D50, and Stock building a rhythm pattern with a Linn 9000 and a Roland TR727.

See how David Frank uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

David Frank

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In a user-uploaded photo from Keyboard Magazine, May 1986, David Frank is shown using the Linn Electronics Linn 9000 drum machine.

See how Wally Badarou uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Wally Badarou

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Level 42

...
Verified via Muzines

"At home I have a DX7, a Prophet 600, the Linn 9000, a couple of TX racks, a Macintosh with Performer sequencing software, and an eight-track mixing desk for making some rough cassette mixes and to add effects. I just use it for recording ideas, which I later work out in Nassau. I create by improvising, and having a recorder open all the time."

See how Phil Driscoll uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Phil Driscoll

Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this youtube at the 30:20 mark you can see as Phil Driscoll is playing a Kurzweil K250on stage , and to the left of him is the legendary Linn 9000 drum machine.

See how Richard James Burgess uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Richard James Burgess

Drummer, Composer

Landscape

...
Verified via Roland MC-8 Micro-Composer

" I always liked the timing of the Linn 9000 and I still have mine."

See how Roy Hay uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Roy Hay

Guitarist

Culture Club

...
Verified via Muzines

"I basically used everything you can think of except the Synclavier. I wrote and programmed most of the stuff here on the 9000 and the Studio 440 then transferred all the drum parts to a Fairlight III via a Simmons converter. For one song the basic program was on a Linn, then I had a clap from the Emulator, a bass drum from the Fairlight and a conga from the DX. Which meant I was using the Fairlight as a bass drum."

See how Rupert Hine uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Rupert Hine

Music Producer

...
Verified

Rupert Hine utilizes the sequencer component of the Linn Electronics Linn 9000 as a 32-track recorder, as documented in "The Thinking Man's Guide To Production" (Electronics & Music Maker, June 1986). The MDB Window Recorder complements this setup by serving as a modern equivalent to tapelooping and is triggered from the Linn 9000. Additionally, on the Thinkman album, Hine employed other instruments such as the PPG Wave 2.2, some DX7s, and a Prophet T8, which he described as "the best analogue synth around at the moment."

See how Rod Modell uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Rod Modell

Music Producer

Waveform Transmission

...
Verified via YouTube

In the interview, at 3:54, he mentions he uses the Linn 9000.

R

Rupert Greenall

Music Producer

The Fixx

...
Verified via Muzines

In this interview with The Fixx, it is mentioned that Rupert Greenall uses a Linn 9000 drum machine.

See how Afrika Islam uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Afrika Islam

Music Producer, DJ

The Rock Steady Crew

...
Verified via Facebook

In this Facebook photo, Afrika Islam showcases his Linn 900, his Roland 909, and his SP-12.

See how Kinny Landrum uses Linn Electronics Linn 9000

Kinny Landrum

Keyboardist

...
Verified via reddit

"A Prophet T-8 was the main controller, although not used all that much as sound source. A Yamaha DX-7 and TX-7 were used for all the electric piano sounds. A lot of the strings were a combo of two Roland synths, the MKS-70 and the D-550. I used an Akai s1000 a lot and a Linn 9000 as sequencer, drum machine (this was before powerful computers were easy to transport). An Emulator 2 was used for the guitar and many other samples."

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 Linn Electronics Linn 9000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Yamaha DX7
Yamaha DX7 Synthesizers
11
E-Mu Emulator II
E-Mu Emulator II Synthesizers
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Yamaha TX816
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4
Yamaha TX7 Desktop Module
Yamaha TX7 Desktop Module Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3
Atari 1040 ST
Atari 1040 ST Computers & Peripherals
3

Community setups

Show yours
resonancestudios

resonancestudios

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