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Average Price: $640
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$150
$601+
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Description
MFB's Tanzbär drum-computer offers fourteen analogue percussion instruments as well as a synthesizer for bass- and melodic voices. Its integrated step-sequencer allows flashlight-programming and storage of up to 144 patterns. All parameters can be recorded per step! Because of its ability to control and call up all functions on the fly, while the unit is running, Tanzbär is ideally suited for live performances.
Using the fill-function, patterns can be chained for longer sequences. In addition, every pattern offers A/B variations that can be switched manually or automatically for further flexibility. Also, Tanzbär allows saving 16 flame and roll-variations.
The step-length is controllable per instrument, allowing easy creation of polyrhythmic structures. Possible resolutions are 32th and 16th steps as well as 16th- and 8th triplet-steps. The shuffle amount can be continuously controlled globally and per instrument.
Each instrument offers three accent intensities. Add the bend-function to create glides and LFO-like sweeps for bass drum 1/2, snare drum and toms 2/3.
In addition to the percussion-instruments, Tanzbär offers addressing external instruments using its two CV/Gate outputs; one being able to control dynamics via a third CV-output. The same tracks are routed to the internal bass- and melody-synthesizer voices. An ideal solution to pre-listen and program patterns without any need for external equipment.
The CV/Gate-sequencer offers a range of three octaves and is programmable using two methods. All parameters are output via MIDI, allowing control of external instruments. The drum-computer can be synchronized via MIDI- and clock-signals.
Finally, Tanzbär not only offers a master volume knob but individual level controls and mute-functions per instrument. The unit provides a stereo output as well as twelve individual outputs.
TANZBAER has the following dimensions: 330 x 170 x 60 mm. An external power supply is included.
Instrument parameters:
Bassdrum 1: Decay, Pitch, Pitch Modulation, Transient Level, Transient Type, Noise Level, Noise Filter, Distortion Bassdrum 2: Decay, Pitch, Transient Level Snare: Pitch, Detune, Noise Level, Noise Decay, Blend Tone 1/2, Decay, Tone Pitch Rimshot: Pitch Cymbal: Decay, Tone, Blend Ping/Cymbal Open Hihat: Decay, Tone Closed Hihat: Decay, Tone Claves: Decay, Pitch Claps (Stereo): Decay, Reverb Length, Clap Intensity, Clap-Number/Pattern Low Tom/Conga: Decay, Pitch, Noise Level Mid Tom/Conga: Decay, Pitch, Noise Level Hi Tom/Conga: Decay, Pitch, Noise Level Cowbell: Decay, Pitch Maracas: Decay Bassline: Filter, Pitch Melody: Pitch
Owner's manual
MFB Tanzbär User ManualProduct specs
| Brand | MFB |
| Model | Tanzbar |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | Germany |
| Categories | Drum Machines |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output |
| Polyphony | 13 Voices |
FAQs
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What type of synthesis does the MFB Tanzbär drum machine use?
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The MFB Tanzbär drum machine uses analog synthesis to produce its sounds, providing a warm and classic tone that is highly sought after in electronic music production.
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How many voices of polyphony does the MFB Tanzbär offer?
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The MFB Tanzbär offers 13 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered drum patterns without voice-stealing issues.
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Does the MFB Tanzbär drum machine have MIDI connectivity?
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Yes, the MFB Tanzbär features MIDI input and output, making it easy to integrate into your existing MIDI setup for synchronization and control.
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Is the MFB Tanzbär suitable for live performances?
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The MFB Tanzbär is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build, intuitive interface, and ability to produce dynamic, analog drum sounds on stage.
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Can the MFB Tanzbär be used to control other MIDI devices?
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Yes, with its MIDI output, the MFB Tanzbär can send MIDI signals to control other MIDI-compatible devices, making it versatile for studio and live setups.
Videos
Perfect Circuit
MFB Tanzbar Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Booming sound with crispy hi-hats
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Unique sound quality that becomes indispensable
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Integrates well with other gear, especially digitakt
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Rich and deep sound profile
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Capable of syncing with modular via MIDI efficiently
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Offers a spectacular analog experience
CONS
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Quirky and challenging to program initially
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MFB Tanzbär.
Build quality
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Some owners have experienced issues with the separate output ports becoming non-functional, possibly due to dust causing crackling noises when jacks are moved.
Source
Comparisons
Value and pricing
Features and functionality
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The Tanzbär 1 is noted for its classic, analog sound but lacks versatility, with limited parameters per sound and challenging programming.
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The Tanzbär's design includes knobs per function, offering immediacy but less deep control compared to the menu-driven Elektron Rytm and Dave Smith Tempest.
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The live recording feature, known as "roll record," requires the sequencer to be running, and it's not well-documented, adding to its cryptic operation.
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Step programming is straightforward, but recording toms live is preferred for a more intuitive and musical experience.
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Use cases and applications
User experience
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Owners highlight the Tanzbär's sound improvements over the smaller MFB-522, suggesting enhanced sonic capabilities despite its toy-like predecessor.
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Owners suggest using an external sequencer to simplify the Tanzbär's complex programming, despite concerns about losing its unique groove.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 19 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
MARTIN STIMMING gives Electronic Beats TV a tour of his audio gear in this Slices Tech Talk. His set-up is based around Cubase and various analogue processors and synthesisers
In this interview with medslaus the camera points to one of these machines at 1:53
In the YouTube video titled "Keinemusik’s Rampa and &ME talk Tech and TEILE (Electronic Beats TV)" by Telekom Electronic Beats TV, Rampa can be seen with an MFB Tanzbär in the background. The layout of the knobs on the device confirms it is indeed the MFB Tanzbär.
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 MFB Tanzbär, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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