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Pollard Syndrum Quad

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Page last updated Mar 31, 2026

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Description

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Step into the world of electronic percussion with the Pollard Syndrum Quad, a trailblazing piece of DJ gear that revolutionized drum machines with its innovative design. Originally launched in the late 1970s, the Syndrum Quad set the stage for electronic drums with its unique analog circuitry capable of producing a wide range of percussive sounds. Unlike traditional drum machines, the Syndrum Quad is renowned for its ability to create synthetic drum sounds that are both warm and versatile, allowing you to tailor your beats to fit any musical genre.

The Syndrum Quad is equipped with four drum pads, each connected to its own analog synthesizer channel. This setup not only allows for diverse sound creation but also provides the flexibility to individually adjust parameters like pitch, decay, and sweep, granting you unparalleled control over your percussion output. Its distinctive sound-shaping capabilities make it a sought-after piece for electronic music producers and DJ enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're seeking to add a classic touch to your modern setup or to explore the iconic sounds that defined an era, the Pollard Syndrum Quad opens up a world of rhythmic possibilities. With its unique analog sound generation, this drum machine remains a favorite for those looking to inject a bit of retro flair into their music production.

Key Features:

Four drum pads with individual analog synthesizer channels
Adjustable pitch, decay, and sweep controls for each pad
Classic analog sound generation
Versatile sound shaping for a wide range of percussive styles
Ideal for both live performance and studio production

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pollard Syndrum Quad.

Features and functionality

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The Syndrum Quad is notable for its ability to perform Sample and Hold (S&H) effects, making it appealing for experimental kits and live jamming.
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The Syndrum Quad includes 4 drum pads and extensive control options, allowing diverse sound manipulation possibilities.
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Use cases and applications

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The Syndrum Quad was reportedly used in dub reggae production and by Yellow Magic Orchestra, highlighting its role in shaping modern video game music.
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Owners suggest creating sample packs from the Syndrum Quad due to its unique historical significance and sound capabilities.
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The Syndrum Quad's S&H capability and unique sound palette are ideal for experimental sampling and live performances.
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User experience

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Some users find the Syndrum Quad redundant if they own a Juno 60, as similar sounds can be achieved with the latter.
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Owners find the Syndrum Quad to have significant historical value, making it a desirable piece for collectors despite its maintenance needs.
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Build quality

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The Syndrum Quad often requires a thorough cleaning due to dust accumulation, which can impact performance if not addressed.
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Artist usage

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Prince

Singer, Guitarist

Prince

Verified via Guitarcloud

Prince used a set of Pollard Syndrums on For You. They are mentioned in the credits.

Kraftwerk

Composer, Music Producer

Kraftwerk

Verified via Photo

a syndrum quad can be seen in this rack

Ryuichi Sakamoto

Keyboardist, Composer

Yellow Magic Orchestra

Verified via Discogs

Ryuichi used Syn-Drums on his "Thousand Knives" album, according to the liner notes.

cEvin Key

Drummer, Keyboardist

Skinny Puppy

Verified via Side-line

"First keyboard was a Moog Multimoog, analog synth, pre MIDI. I got it about 1982 and still have it. I had a Roland TR-808 before that and Pollard Syndrums, so it wasn’t my first piece of gear."

Mathew Jonson

Music Producer

Cobblestone Jazz

Verified via YouTube

In a Tech Talk on Electronic Beats TV, Mathew Jonson discusses using the Pollard Syndrum Quad in his studio.

Yukihiro Takahashi

Singer, Drummer

Yellow Magic Orchestra

Verified via YouTube

Yuki uses a Pollard Syndrum Quad and drum modules from 1978-1980. It is distinctly used in their first three studio albums, most notibly during the percussion break on Rydeen. It can also been seen and heard in live videos/recordings from 1978-1980. The source I used is one of many, but inlcludes an in-depth look at most of the equipment used for their live shows during this time,

Ali Score

Drummer, Composer

A Flock of Seagulls

Verified via YouTube

Ali Score is seen using the Pollard Syndrum Quad during live performances, as captured in the full show video of A Flock of Seagulls at The Ace in Brixton, uploaded by Astrolux777 on YouTube. This rare and costly piece of equipment is a staple in his setup.

Graeme Edge

Drummer

The Moody Blues

Verified via Archive

Graeme Edge used the Pollard Syndrum Quad, as detailed in an article by The Drum Experts on vintage electronic drums.

David Robinson

Drummer

The Cars

Verified via Matrixsynth

"The Cars drummer David Robinson had two Syndrum Quads and eight Syndrum pads can be seen (along with the self-contained Synare pads) in his drum array in videos of live performances."