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Simmons SDS-V Drum Synthesizer

Simmons SDS-V Drum Synthesizer

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$2,900.00 Price Tier: High-end

4.0 (1)

1 Critic Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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9 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jun 02, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 2, 2026.

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5.0 (1)

$2,900.00 15 available Used

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Average Price: $2,900

High-end/Boutique

$150

$601+

Price Tier

In the Drum Machines category, Simmons SDS-V Drum Synthesizer is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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High-end

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Description

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Step into the world of electronic percussion with the Simmons SDS-V Drum Synthesizer, a pioneering machine that stands as a cornerstone in the evolution of drum machines. Initially released in the early 1980s, the SDS-V is revered for its distinctive hexagonal shape and its contribution to the sound of countless iconic tracks. This drum synthesizer offers a modular design that allows musicians to tailor their setup to their specific needs, whether you're looking to recreate the classic sounds of yesteryear or explore new sonic landscapes.

The SDS-V is equipped with five drum modules, each featuring its own set of controls for tailoring the sound, including pitch, decay, and filter settings. This flexibility provides drummers and producers with the ability to craft highly expressive and dynamic percussion sounds. Its analog circuitry is celebrated for producing punchy, warm tones that can cut through any mix, making it a favorite among both vintage enthusiasts and modern producers alike.

Key Features:

Modular design with interchangeable drum modules
Analog circuitry for warm, punchy tones
Individual controls for pitch, decay, and filter on each module
Iconic hexagonal pad design
Widely used in the 1980s by influential artists and bands
Ideal for both live performance and studio use

Videos

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Ritchie DeCarlo

Simmons SDSV Analogue electronic drum set demo SDS5 # 1

Ritchie DeCarlo

1982 Simmons SDSV Drum Synthesizer Demo Record

Andralyn de Bagschaghe

Simmons SDSV Tech Walkthrough and 220/110 Voltage Conversion

Synthesizer Keith

Simmons SDSV 1737 Preset 1

The Simmons Guy

Simmons SDSV 368

The Simmons Guy

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Simmons SDS-V Drum Synthesizer.

Software and compatibility

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The AlyJamesLab emulator for the SDS-V offers comprehensive tone and modulation control but lacks support for Mac OS X.
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Comparisons

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Users compare the sound quality of sample packs, noting some available online are "muddy" compared to curated personal collections.
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Features and functionality

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The SDS-V sample pack includes 86 samples across Bass, Snare, Tom Tom, Hi Hat, and Cymbal modules, offering a broad range with 24-bit, 48000 Hz quality.
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The inclusion of rare hi-hat and cymbal modules makes this SDS-V setup notably unique and increases its value significantly.
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Value and pricing

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A typical 5-module SDS-V is valued at around $1400, but the addition of hi-hat and cymbal modules raises the estimated worth to approximately $2000.
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Build quality

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The SDS-V's metal casing often shows wear, with common issues like chipped paint and dents from extensive touring use.
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Setup and maintenance

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Replacement knobs and caps are primarily available in the US, potentially complicating repairs for UK-based owners.
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Critic Reviews

SDS-V Drum Synthesizer, 1981

wearethemutants.com

The Simmons SDS-V Drum Synthesizer, released in 1981, is celebrated for its pioneering role in electronic percussion, with its sleek, futuristic design and hybrid sound generation combining analog synthesis and digital sampling. While it gained popularity among top drummers like Phil Collins and Roger Taylor, the SDS-V faced criticism for its hard polycarbonate drum pads, which were later replaced due to user complaints of physical strain. Despite its innovative approach, the kit's distinctive sound and aesthetic ultimately became a fleeting trend. Overall, the SDS-V remains a notable, if niche, piece of drum history.

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