E-mu Drumulator (1983–1985)
A sample-based drum machine that brought programmable digital rhythms to studios and live acts in the early 1980s
Overview
The E-mu Drumulator is a sample-based drum machine introduced in 1983 by E-mu Systems of Santa Cruz, California. It was designed for both studio and live use, featuring 12 built-in digital drum sounds including kicks, snares, toms, and hi-hats. With 8-voice polyphony and per-note dynamics, it allowed expressive pattern programming. The machine supported user-programmable rhythm segments, with storage for up to 36 segments across 6 banks—though the full capacity details are incomplete. It offered a mono mix output and eight individual outputs, plus the ability to send trigger pulses for external sequencers. The Drumulator was succeeded by the Drumulator II, which added sampling capability.
Specifications
| Production years | 1983–1985 |
| Place of manufacture | Santa Cruz, California, USA |
| Number of drum sounds | 12 |
| Sound type | 8-bit sampled sounds |
| Polyphony | 8 voices |
| Original price | $995 USD |
| Outputs | mono mix output and eight individual outputs |
| Sequencing | user-programmable rhythm patterns (segments), up to 36 segments stored across 6 banks |
Design
The Drumulator uses sample-based synthesis with 8-bit sampled sounds and supports per-note dynamics for expressive playing. Its architecture allows expandable sounds, though specific details on expansion methods are not documented.
Context
Released in 1983, the Drumulator helped democratize digital drum programming by offering realistic sampled drum sounds at an accessible price. It was well received and found regular use in chart-topping music of the era. It competed with machines like the Linndrum and Oberheim DMX and was succeeded by the Drumulator II, which added user sampling.
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