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Price
Average Price: $1,203
High-end/Boutique
$150
$601+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.
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Description
Designed for those who dare to explore the boundaries of rhythm and sound, the Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23 is a revolutionary organismic drum machine that redefines the way you create music. With its semi-modular design and over 100 patch points, this instrument allows for a truly hands-on experience, making it a playground for both seasoned producers and adventurous beginners. The PULSAR-23 is equipped with four distinct analog instruments: bass drum, bass, snare drum, and cymbal/hi-hat, each offering a wide array of sound design possibilities with adjustable parameters and effects.
What sets the PULSAR-23 apart is its real-time loop recorder and robust master clock generator, complete with seven clock divider outputs. This ensures your beats are always in sync, whether you're performing live or crafting intricate studio compositions. The built-in MIDI-to-CV converter with MIDI learn function further expands its versatility, seamlessly integrating with your existing gear.
For those who love to experiment, the PULSAR-23 includes a random generator and synchronizable LFOs, offering a unique approach to randomness and modulation. The distortion with drive and mix controls, along with a two-channel effects processor featuring delay and reverb, provide all the tools you need to sculpt your sound to perfection.
Key Features:
- Semi-modular design with over 100 patch points
- 4 analog instruments: bass drum, bass, snare drum, cymbal/hi-hat
- Real-time loop recorder and master clock generator
- MIDI-to-CV converter with MIDI learn function
- Random generator and synchronizable LFO
- Built-in distortion, delay, and reverb effects
- Includes adapters, patch cables, and transport bag
Product specs
| Available since | December 2020 |
| Sound Synthesis | Analogue |
| Pads | 0 |
| Effects | Yes |
| Bass | Yes |
| Display | No |
| MIDI interface | 1x In |
| Number of analog outputs | 7 |
| Headphone Connector | Yes |
| Mains Operation | Yes |
| Battery Operation | No |
| Fader(s) | 0 |
| Storage Medium | None |
| Footswitch connection | 0 |
| Headphone Output | 1 |
| Extras | semi-modular |
| Shape | Desktop |
FAQs
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What makes the Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23 unique compared to other drum machines?
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The PULSAR-23 is a semi-modular drum machine that offers a unique approach to sound design with its analogue synthesis and patchability, allowing for extensive customization and creativity without the need for additional modules.
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Does the Soma PULSAR-23 require any patching to start making sounds?
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No, the PULSAR-23 is designed to be immediately playable without patching, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users who want instant sound generation.
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What type of power supply does the Soma PULSAR-23 require?
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The PULSAR-23 operates on mains power and does not support battery operation, ensuring stable performance during extended sessions.
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How many analog outputs does the Soma PULSAR-23 have?
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The PULSAR-23 features seven analog outputs, providing flexibility for routing and integrating with other equipment in your setup.
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Can the Soma PULSAR-23 be used with MIDI devices?
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Yes, the PULSAR-23 includes a MIDI input, allowing it to be synchronized and controlled with other MIDI-compatible devices for expanded performance options.
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Does the Soma PULSAR-23 have built-in effects?
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Yes, the PULSAR-23 includes built-in effects, enhancing its sound design capabilities and allowing for more dynamic and varied sonic textures.
Videos
SUTURE SOUND
Pulsar-23 is my favorite drum machine ever!
Pulsar-23 is my favorite drum machine ever!
SUTURE SOUND
Review: PULSAR 23 by SOMA // 10 Patch ideas, tips, and full tutorial
loopop
WEIRD GEAR: Pulsar-23 Yellow Edition
ANDREW HUANG
Stimming reviews the Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23 (Electronic Beats TV)
Telekom Electronic Beats TV
PULSAR 23 — could this be the BEST drum machine? First impressions!
BoBeats
Best drum machine ever? SOMA Laboratory Pulsar-23 // Superbooth 2019
DivKid
SOMA Laboratory PULSAR-23 Drum Machine Jam Session At Superbooth
Synthtopia
SOMA Pulsar-23 Global Spotlight with 30 artists
Modular World
PULSAR 23 - by Soma Laboratory
COLOR MY SOUND
Reviews
PROS
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Unique biofeedback integration with cv input for therapeutic sound sessions
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Exceptional build quality, durable and reliable
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Highly versatile, integrates well with euro rack and other gear
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Offers infinite creative capabilities, beyond traditional drum machines
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Four sound generators (kick/bass/snare/hats) provide a wide palette of sounds
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Includes a real monophonic synth for bass sounds
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Features semi-random generator SHAOS for creative sound manipulation
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Comprehensive multi-effects setup including delay, reverb, distortion
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Solid construction materials ensure longevity
CONS
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Not a traditional drum machine; lacks step sequencer
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Looper-based operation includes errors, no beat resampling or quantize
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Compatibility issues with eurorack modules due to different voltage
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Only equipped with a Midi-in port, limiting connectivity
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Alligator clips can be uncomfortable, especially in live performances
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High price point compared to some competitors
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23.
Features and functionality
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The Pulsar-23 has 23 modules and clock dividers, making it quick to set up basic techno or electro beats in seconds.
Source -
The Pulsar-23 lacks CV control over attack/decay parameters, limiting pattern changes during live manipulation.
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The Pulsar-23's sequencer can be frustrating for live performances, often needing external MIDI or clock synchronization for smoother operation.
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The Pulsar-23 offers basic quantization to 16th notes, allowing for more precise loop timing.
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The bass module is noted for its deep, rich bass tones, often used exclusively for bass in setups.
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The Pulsar-23 allows triggering of each voice via MIDI, enabling it to function like a mono synth for bass.
Source
Value and pricing
Build quality
User experience
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Some owners find the alligator clips cumbersome and prefer traditional connections for ease of use in live settings.
Source -
The Pulsar-23 is described as intuitive, allowing users to start playing without needing to consult the manual immediately.
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Owners report the patch points can be fiddly, but they allow significant flexibility without the added cost of 3.5mm jacks.
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Pulsar-23 users enjoy discovering new sound combinations, highlighting its potential for continuous exploration and creativity.
Source
Comparisons
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Compared to the Perkons, the Pulsar-23 offers more flexibility with timbre but is still seen as limited without extensive patching.
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The DFAM's lack of MIDI sync and repetitive 8-step sequencer can feel limited without additional modular gear.
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The Pulsar-23 is described as deeper and more experimental than the DFAM, offering a wider range of sounds and integration options.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The Pulsar-23 is described as more of an atmospheric percussive drone synth than a traditional drum machine, excelling in ambient soundscapes.
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It excels in creating dark and noisy soundscapes, aligning with the tonal expectations set by other Soma instruments.
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The Pulsar-23 pairs well with external sequencers, enhancing its functionality in complex setups.
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The Pulsar-23 is favored for experimental sound creation and can be integrated with semi-modular synths and Euro systems.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings
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565
the most creative synth drum
This is the most creative drum-synth ever. Calling it as drum machine I think is a forced definition. The pros: infinite creative capabilities. Great sound generators, just 4 only (kick/bass/snare/hats) but very versatile, you can easily obtain a large palette of different sounds with very interesting sound timbres. The bass sound generator is a real monophonic synth. Also it can be potentially connected to any external sound source based to CV. Master output plus 6 extra separated outputs. Interesting semi-random generator called SHAOS. A good multi-effects setup (delay, reverb, distortion), filters, noise, inverter, envelope generators, S&H, LFOs, VCAs, 8 mini-jack inputs/outputs. Solid construction materials.. The cons: it's not a drum machine in the traditional analog way. No step sequencer but just a looper (that obviously it resend you all within, errors too), no beat resampling and no quantize adjusting (the new produced models have this feature switching the kick sound mode; about the previous models, it's possible to buy a different PCB to self mounting). Different voltage with eurorack modules (you need a scale/offset module). Just a Midi-in port only. Alligator clips are a bit uncomfortable, especially to use in live sessions. And also it's really expensive (but this is not the only case in the world...). After an initial negative response, now I found it as fantastic instrument: if you like experimenting, fading the lines between drones and drumming, I'm sure this is the best choice possible. Thanks for your attention. (Sorry for my english)
Artist usage
Add artist
can be seen in this post from March 17, 2022
Martin L. Gore of Depeche Mode utilizes the Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23 drum machine in their track "My Cosmos Is Mine" from their latest album. The PULSAR-23 provides the baseline and percussion throughout the song, as highlighted in the official audio video released by DepecheModeVEVO on YouTube. Notably, this track was written shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, adding a unique context to its creation.
Around 1:50, James mentioned the Pulsar 23 as being one of his favorite drum machines.
Four Tet uses the Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23, a four-voice, semi-modular analogue percussion synthesizer. This is supported by an article on MusicRadar by Matt Mullen, where Four Tet is seen jamming on this drum machine, which was given to him by Floating Points and Caribou.
Featured in this November 8, 2020 video.
On his most recent tour, Mk.gee used the Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23 to perform multiple songs. He has a yellow edition, which is the Andrew Huang version. This is confirmed by an image from the tour. 
Sitting on top of the moog is an orange Pulsar-23!
In a video by Tape Notes Podcast, dedicated to analyzing Charli XCX's album "BRAT," A. G. Cook, George Daniel, and Charli XCX discuss the composition of the track "Club Classics."
At [3:51] George Daniel say that the drum are made by a <"Pulsar 23 an analog weird drum machine, a russian drum machine">
From Revolver article where Chelsea Wolfe is interviewed about her "favorite things":
FAVORITE DRUM MACHINE SOMA Laboratory Pulsar-23
This was something that Dave Sitek turned us onto. You can create beats with it, as well as drones, soundscapes and melodic lines. It’s just a really interesting instrument; it became the real star of the show on this album. It made it onto a few songs, like “Dusk,” “Unseen World” and “House of Self Undoing.” We got one so that we can sort of continue the work; Ben is basically the musical director for the live show, and he’s been adding more of the Pulsar here and there.
Below the Prophet Rev 2, you can see the Soma Pulsar 23.
Album Usage
The Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23 has been featured on the following albums:
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 Soma Laboratory PULSAR-23, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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