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Average Price: $350

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$601+

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Description

The Simmons SDS 8 is a classic piece of electronic percussion history, bridging the gap between traditional drumming and electronic innovation. Renowned for its distinctive sound, the SDS 8 became a staple in the kits of many 1980s drummers and producers. This versatile drum machine offers a distinctive hexagonal pad design that stands out visually and functionally, providing an authentic feel for electronic drum enthusiasts.

With its analog sound engine, the SDS 8 delivers rich, punchy sounds that are perfect for both live performances and studio settings. Musicians appreciate its ability to produce a diverse range of sounds, from deep kicks to sharp snares, thanks to its comprehensive control over pitch, decay, and noise parameters. Its analog synthesis capabilities give it a unique edge over purely digital counterparts, making it a coveted tool for those looking to recreate vintage sounds or craft entirely new ones.

Whether you're a DJ looking to add dynamic drum fills to your set or a producer seeking that classic 80s vibe, the Simmons SDS 8 offers a robust platform that is both user-friendly and deeply customizable. Dive into a world of rich analog sound with this distinctive drum machine that has stood the test of time.

Key Features:

  • Analog sound engine for rich, punchy tones
  • Distinctive hexagonal pad design for authentic drumming experience
  • Comprehensive control over pitch, decay, and noise parameters
  • Ideal for both live performances and studio settings
  • Capable of producing a wide range of drum sounds, from deep kicks to sharp snares

Product specs

Brand Simmons
Model SDS8 5-Channel Drum Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1983
Made In United Kingdom
Categories Electronic Drum Modules

FAQs

What type of sounds can I create with the Simmons SDS 8 drum machine?

The Simmons SDS 8 is known for its iconic electronic drum sounds, characteristic of the 1980s. It can produce a range of synthesized drum tones, including punchy kicks and snappy snares, making it ideal for electronic and synth-pop music.

Is the Simmons SDS 8 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Simmons SDS 8 is well-suited for live performances due to its robust construction and ease of use. Its distinct electronic sounds are easily recognizable and can add a unique element to live electronic or retro-themed sets.

How does the Simmons SDS 8 connect to other equipment?

The Simmons SDS 8 can be connected to other equipment via standard audio outputs. It typically interfaces with mixers and amplification systems for live or studio use, allowing for integration into a broader electronic drum setup.

Can the Simmons SDS 8 be used with modern electronic drum pads?

While the Simmons SDS 8 was designed in the 1980s, it can still be used with modern electronic drum pads that have compatible trigger outputs, allowing you to take advantage of its classic sounds with contemporary gear.

What makes the Simmons SDS 8 unique compared to other drum machines of its era?

The Simmons SDS 8 stands out for its signature hexagonal pad design and its ability to produce distinct, synthesized drum sounds that became synonymous with the 1980s music scene, offering a different sonic palette compared to other drum machines of its time.

RetroSound

RetroSound

Simmons SDS 8 "Electronic Drums" Analog Drum Synthesizer (1984) Sound Edit

Video thumbnail for Simmons SDS 8 "Electronic Drums" Analog Drum Synthesizer (1984) Sound Edit by RetroSound

Simmons SDS 8 "Electronic Drums" Analog Drum Synthesizer (1984) Sound Edit

RetroSound

RetroSound

Video thumbnail for Simmons SDS 8 "Electronic Drums" Analog Drum Synthesizer (1984) User Drum Set & Sounds by RetroSound

Simmons SDS 8 "Electronic Drums" Analog Drum Synthesizer (1984) User Drum Set & Sounds

RetroSound

RetroSound

Video thumbnail for Me checking a Simmons sds 8 drum module by DX5

Me checking a Simmons sds 8 drum module

DX5

DX5

Video thumbnail for Abusing the Simmons SDS 8 by Stazma

Abusing the Simmons SDS 8

Stazma

Stazma

Reviews

Critic Reviews

Simmons Sounds (ES Jun 84)

muzines.co.uk

The Simmons SDS8 is a budget-friendly evolution of the iconic SDS5, boasting improved rubber pads for enhanced playability and an onboard stereo mixer for great value. Despite its lower price, it maintains the classic Simmons sound, delivering powerful presets and extensive user programmability. However, the non-modular design limits customization compared to its predecessors. Overall, the SDS8 is praised for its robust construction and sound quality, offering drummers a versatile electronic kit that's a worthy addition to any setup.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
S

unique snare drum

Cost: only 2th Hand around 400 Versatility: 5 Sound: 5 Ease of use: 4 Build quality:5

bass drum snare toms

The snare is a must! rich and full. For use it u need to send an audio imput (i use mpc 60) or Arturia beat step pro

Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Frusciante uses Simmons SDS 8

John Frusciante

Guitarist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via Photo

John Frusciante, in a post on his label Acid Test's Facebook page, mentions using the Simmons SDS 8 among various instruments throughout his career.

See how Moderat uses Simmons SDS 8

Moderat

Music Producer

...
Verified via Emusician

Feeding this desire to stray from the grid, II made use of a variety of sample and filter sources to achieve a sound that’s “sh*tty in a good way,” according to Ring. The eclectic list includes Roland Space Echo, Korg Stage Echo, Roland MC-202 MicroComposer, TR-77, and TR-808, Vermona DRM-1, Yamaha PSS-570 and VSS-30, CasioTone MT-70, Electro-Harmonix Big Muff pedal, various Boss pitch-shift pedals, Electro- Harmonix Memoryman, Simmons SDS 8 drum synthesizer, Sakae snare drum, Korg Monotribe, Roland Juno-60, Crumar Multiman-S, Waldorf Rocket, Korg MS-10 and Korg MS-50.

See how Adrian Utley uses Simmons SDS 8

Adrian Utley

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Portishead

...
Verified via YouTube

in this video, the Polyend Seq is clearly sequencing the Simmons SDS 8

See how James Murphy uses Simmons SDS 8

James Murphy

Singer, DJ

LCD Soundsystem

...
Verified via EMusician

This item is listed in the article.

See how Michael Cavanagh "Mickey Cavs" uses Simmons SDS 8

Michael Cavanagh "Mickey Cavs"

Drummer

King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard

...
Verified via Photo

Michael Cavanagh is seen using the Simmons SDS 8 in a series of photos from Instagram posts and stories. The images show him with this drum machine alongside a mixer, illustrating its role in his setup.

See how Alex Van Halen uses Simmons SDS 8

Alex Van Halen

Drummer

Van Halen

...
Verified via Not So Modern Drummer

In this article, they talk about what Alex has used over the years, in the photos you can see a SDS8.

See how Luke Million uses Simmons SDS 8

Luke Million

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Swiss

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram Video Luke Million is seen using a Simmons SDS 8.

See how Perrin Moss uses Simmons SDS 8

Perrin Moss

Drummer, Music Producer

Hiatus Kaiyote

...
Verified via YouTube

Perrin Moss discusses his use of the Simmons SDS 8 to enhance the range of sounds in his live performances during an episode of the Broken Record Podcast.

See how Jimmy Brown (2) uses Simmons SDS 8

Jimmy Brown (2)

Drummer

UB40

...
Verified via Muzines

Basically the units he used were the Simmons SDS7 and 8, DMX, Syncussion, live toms and live cymbals.

See how Kyle Hall uses Simmons SDS 8

Kyle Hall

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Facebook

per this gear list for Zug Island release, posted to his FB page:

Gear used to make Zug Island: Elektron Machine Drum Simmons SDS8 Drum Synthesizer Akai MPC 1000 Zoom R24 digital Multi track Nord Lead 2 Future Retro Revolution Boss DS-1 Distortion pedal Boss DD-6 Digi Delay Boss RV-5 Digi Reverb

See how Dubka uses Simmons SDS 8

Dubka

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Dubka - Studio Tour" by MusicRadar Tech, Dubka is shown using the Simmons SDS 8 drum machine.

Album Usage

The Simmons SDS 8 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 Simmons SDS 8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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