Elektron Machinedrum SPS-1UW+ MKII (2010)
A and sequencer with 12-bit sampling, 64-step sequencing, and flexible synthesis capabilities.
Overview
The Elektron Machinedrum SPS-1UW+ MKII is a drum machine, synthesizer, and sequencer produced by Elektron as part of its legacy hardware line. It runs on a 12-bit sampling engine with 2.5 MB of sample memory, allowing dynamic sampling and storage across multiple slots. The Machinedrum supports advanced sequencing features like parameter locks per track and LFO modulation of sample start/end points for evolving textures.
Specifications
| Sequencer steps | 16 steps per pattern |
| Sample parameter range | Start = 0, End = 127; Sample Length Hold to 127 |
| Machine types | Rom machine, CTR-8P, INP-GA, INP-GB, MIDI machine, CTRL, MID, CTRL-RE, Ribbon machine |
| Parameter locks | Supported for individual hit control (volume, length, pitch) |
| Accent range | 0-8, accent placement individual per track, amount shared across tracks |
| MIDI CC assignment | Up to six or more CC controls per MIDI channel |
| Headphone jack | Regular pcb-mount 6.3mm (1/4″) socket |
| Delay parameters | LEV=0, FEEDBACK=64, DELAY TIME=127, FILTERF=0, FILTERW=127, MONO=0, MOD=0; Hold FUNCTION + DELAY to 127 |
| Sample memory | 2.5 MB |
| Sample rate | |
| Bit depth | 12-bit |
| Steps (MKII) | 64 |
Design
The Machinedrum uses stereo sampling via delay at full bit rate, with the delay loop degrading over time for lo-fi character. It supports track sharing—CTRL or MIDI machines can share a track with an INP machine—and allows up to 18+ simultaneous machines through an exploit. LFOs can modulate CTR-8P Start/End parameters, and grid edit mode enables copy/paste of parameter locks. The unit features a 12-bit sampling engine with reverb and compression effects.
Context
It succeeded earlier SPS-1 and SPS-1UW MKI models (2005–2007) and was later discontinued. Tips and techniques were widely shared on the Elektron Users Forums and Yahoo Group Mailing List.
Market
Market prices for the Machinedrum SPS-1UW+ MKII range from $1,168 to $1,695, with reports of units selling as high as $3,456. Brand New Old Stock has been available through retailers like Big City Music. Notable users include cEvin Key of Skinny Puppy. Battery replacement may be needed over time, and replacement guides exist for the headphone jack.
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