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Pricing and availability

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Saulo Cisneros

Saulo Cisneros

Synsonics Drums from Mattel Electronics - Features & Demo

Video thumbnail for Synsonics Drums from Mattel Electronics - Features & Demo by Saulo Cisneros

Synsonics Drums from Mattel Electronics - Features & Demo

Saulo Cisneros

Saulo Cisneros

Video thumbnail for DEMO SYNSONICS DRUMS - MATTEL ELECTRONICS - 1981 by PianoVintage

DEMO SYNSONICS DRUMS - MATTEL ELECTRONICS - 1981

PianoVintage

PianoVintage

Video thumbnail for Nastiest Drum Machine Ever? (Mattel Synsonics Drums) by HardtekStudios

Nastiest Drum Machine Ever? (Mattel Synsonics Drums)

HardtekStudios

HardtekStudios

Video thumbnail for Synsonics Drums by Mattel. by Magnus Gladén

Synsonics Drums by Mattel.

Magnus Gladén

Magnus Gladén

Video thumbnail for Mattel Synsonics Drums - Vintage Drum Machine by You Are The Robots

Mattel Synsonics Drums - Vintage Drum Machine

You Are The Robots

You Are The Robots

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Synsonics Drums.

Features and functionality

  • The drum machine uses all analog drum sounds and includes a unique 128-step quantized sequencer for recording.

    Source
  • Drum pads require significant force to actuate, impacting playability; better suited for programming than manual use.

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  • The tom sound circuitry involves a VCO and a microcontroller, highlighting its simplicity yet potential complexity in troubleshooting.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Removing internal speakers provides space for modifications like pitch control, decay adjustment, and clock output installation.

    Source
  • Replacing the faulty PN2222 transistor could resolve constant tom sound issues, as transistors can act as gates to control signal flow.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The device requires a 9V power supply with at least 300mA and center-positive wiring; a guitar pedal power supply can be adapted for use.

    Source
  • The power input uses a non-standard, headphone-like plug, which may require an adapter for compatibility with standard power supplies.

    Source
  • Battery compartment issues due to corrosion; careful cleaning needed to avoid damage to the PCB, often affected by old battery residue.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite outdated sound quality by modern standards, the visual design continues to impress, maintaining its appeal as a vintage piece.

    Source
  • Issues may arise from short circuits when attempting modifications, emphasizing the need for careful handling during DIY upgrades.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kid Rock uses Synsonics Drums

Kid Rock

Guitarist, Rapper

Various Artists for Children's Promise

...
Verified via Flickr

In a quote featured on Flickr by b_grrrlie, Kid Rock mentions using Synsonics Drums along with a Casio RZ1, noting the compact sampler's ability to capture elements like an 808 snare.

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 Synsonics Drums, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Casio RZ1
Casio RZ1 Drum Machines
1
Roland TB-303
Roland TB-303 Synthesizers
1

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Community setups

Similar

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    jeromy
    jeromy

    Gear IQ 238