Great drum synthesizer for in the studio

-- update -- I have not used the DRM1 for a long time and I am selling it. I found my self spending too much time trying to create sounds that the DRM1 just seems not capable of making. I've bought the Elektron Syntakt. I find it much more rewarding. -- end update --

The Vermona DRM1 is different from the average drummachine or groovebox in that it has no presets or sequencer, but it does have 8 fully analog channels of drum synthesis. Each channel has 7 synthesis parameters plus panning and volume. It is comparable to something like the vintage Simmons Drumsynths like the SDS8.

Modern analog drums synths all have a sequencer AND less parameters, as far as I know. (Soma Pulsar, Erica Synths Perkons, Arturia Drumbrute, MFB TanzBär, various TR - clones.)

I use it with the Elektron Digitakt, but it would also work great with the Arturia Beatstep Pro. Ofcourse you could also sequence it from your DAW, but be aware that the MKIII does not have USB-midi. So you'll need a midi-interface, or get the new MKIV instead.

It has some great features:

• Many parameters, each with it's own dedicated control

• Individual Outs/Inserts for every channel allows you to record or process each channel individualy. Using a normal cable will remove the channel from the stereo outputs. Using a stereo splitter for send/return will patch the signal back in to the stereo outputs.

• Check the manual for the midi-learn function. You can assign custom note numbers and midi channels to the channels if you want to.

• Built in powersupply

• A great form-factor: it is rack-mountable, with recessed outputs, so it does not take any extra space for making connections. It has feet on the backside so you can use it as a desktop module, but it will also stand quite stable up straight, taking up minimal desk-space.

• It can do many different sounds, but the kicks are especially nice, I think. I also like the DRUM1 and DRUM2 channels. They are great for all kind of bleeps.

• There's a good manual on the Vermona site. Please check it out before assuming anything. I've read a lot of nonsense about the DRM on various forums. : https://www.vermona.com/fileadmin/user_upload/products/drm1mk3/downloads/drm1mk3_manual_en.pdf

On the downside:

• There is a trade-off between flexibillity and ease of use. It's not always easy to find the sounds you want with so many parameters. So If you just want 808-sounds, than your probably better off with a 808 clone.

• I really love the overall sound, but sometimes I wish sounds could be shorter/snappier.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Hands on drum computing monster for studio use

This one's not for the faint of heart. You can't save settings. There is no recall. Neither is there USB connectivity. It's all analog baby.

I pair it with an Octatrack to sample parts when magic moments unfold.

About getting creative when using the DRM as a standalone: You can use the Master out on the back, or plug in TRS cables for each output on the front to separate tracks. When using a Y-style stereo plug you can route the L channel into a send effect and use the R signal, from that effect, back into the DRM. The machine will feed the processed signal back into the Master mix. This basically means you can have 8 effect pedals next to the DRM, one for each track and go nuts.

For me this is an ideal instrument. It's build like a solid piece of metal ( or tank if you prefer ). The knobs feel great. The sound quality is up to par.

I love to get lost when jamming on the DRM. Realising that I will never return to this exact spot in time and space.

Great Drum Synthesizer

The Vermona DRM1 is a great drum synth, capable of TR-808, CR-78 and other vintage drum machine sounds as well as many other interesting bleeps and bloops. Probably the best feature is that each channel can have an independent output, allowing for independent processing of each channel.

Play like DJing

with MPC3000 sequencer, DRM1 get groove.

My rating: 10/10 (5 stars)

best mix