The Behringer LM Drum reintroduces the iconic sound of the LinnDrum, blending classic tones with modern capabilities. Equipped with 109 authentic drum sounds, a 64-step sequencer, and an analog filter section, this drum machine offers the perfect mix of retro charm and contemporary features. Ideal for those who adore the 1980s sound or wish to craft fresh beats with a vintage vibe, the LM Drum promises to be a solid addition to any studio setup. But how well does it perform in real-world applications? Let’s take a closer look at its sound, operation, and features.
A Nod to the LinnDrum Legacy
The Behringer LM Drum is designed as a tribute to the legendary LinnDrum, combining the classic sounds of the past with updated features aimed at both nostalgic users and contemporary producers. Since its release, the LM Drum has received several firmware updates, adding highly requested improvements like per-sound tune control, MIDI CC support, and auto-save features. These updates have further enhanced the drum machine’s performance, making it a more versatile tool for music production.
Design and Build Quality
Upon unboxing, the LM Drum immediately reveals its resemblance to the original LinnDrum, with a robust construction and a user interface that evokes the 1980s. While familiar to those who used the original, Behringer has thoughtfully incorporated additional features to make it a more capable device for modern music creation.
The controls feel well-built, offering a satisfying resistance, though some knobs may feel slightly “wobbly,” a minor issue considering the price point. The 16 velocity-sensitive pads with aftertouch stand out, offering a promising level of expressiveness. A modern display further enhances the user experience, making it easier to navigate menus and tweak sound parameters.
Sound Performance: Classic Meets Contemporary
The core of the LM Drum’s appeal lies in its “fat” sound. Behringer blends classic LinnDrum samples with new sound design options, offering 109 drum sounds out of the box. These include samples from the original LM-1, LM-2, and some modern extensions. The result is a drum machine that captures the punchy kicks, sharp snares, and iconic hi-hats synonymous with the 1980s sound.
Beyond the stock samples, the LM Drum also allows users to create custom sounds via the Synthtribe tool (available for both MacOS and Windows), which can be stored in a sound library and edited directly on the machine. The combination of digital and analog circuitry, including the 3320 VCF and 2164 VCA, gives the machine a dynamic, warm character that many modern machines lack.
Custom Sound Design and Editing
For those looking to push the boundaries of their drum sounds, the LM Drum offers ample opportunities for customization. The integrated wave designer, coupled with high/low-pass filters, allows users to shape their drum sounds to perfection. Behringer uses both digital samples and analog filtering to create sounds with a warmth and depth that can’t be achieved with purely digital systems. The 8/12-bit sound of the LM Drum brings a nostalgic feel to modern sound creation, delivering both precision and warmth.
Intuitive and Flexible Sequencing
The Behringer LM Drum’s 64-step sequencer offers a variety of options for beat programming. Features like swing, flam, randomization, and probability controls allow for more organic rhythms, moving beyond the rigid grid of traditional drum machines. Users can choose between playing with the touch pads, which feature quantization and groove adjustments, or opt for step programming for a more structured approach.
With the ability to save up to 128 patterns and 8 complete songs, the LM Drum is an excellent tool for live performances. The quick pattern-changing functionality and various pad modes make it easy to trigger sounds in real-time. Furthermore, the machine supports both step-mode programming and real-time recording, offering flexibility for spontaneous musical expression.
Connectivity and Integration
A standout feature of the Behringer LM Drum is its connectivity. Equipped with MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB MIDI, and separate individual outputs for each sound, the LM Drum seamlessly integrates into any setup. This allows producers to process individual drum sounds with external hardware or effects and easily record tracks directly into a DAW.
The inclusion of analog trigger outputs further expands the LM Drum’s capabilities, enabling synchronization and control of external synthesizers or modular systems. This feature is particularly useful for experimental music producers or live performers looking to incorporate the LM Drum into a hybrid setup.
12-Bit Sound: A Vintage Feel
One of the defining features of the LM Drum is its 12-bit sound, which mirrors the vintage aesthetic of the original LinnDrum. This bit depth gives the LM Drum its characteristic grainy, assertive sound that has become synonymous with 1980s music. In contrast to modern 24- or 32-bit systems, the LM Drum’s reduced resolution provides a unique, organic texture that shines in genres like synthwave, hip-hop, and electronic music.
The 12-bit converter and DAC circuitry contribute to the LM Drum’s punchy sound, imparting a natural compression and saturation to the samples. This gives the drum sounds a bold presence in mixes, requiring little post-processing. The combination of digital samples and analog filtering results in a sound that’s both warm and lively, without sacrificing precision.
Expanding Sound Creation with Sample Import
Beyond the factory-installed sounds, the LM Drum also allows users to import their own samples. By processing these through the 8/12-bit engine, users can create drum sounds with a personalized vintage or modern feel. The machine also supports sampling, allowing users to record their sounds directly through the 12-bit converter, enhancing the vintage character of their drums.
A Perfect Blend of Vintage and Modern
The Behringer LM Drum is more than just a recreation of the LinnDrum; it’s a modern drum machine that captures the spirit of the original while adding new features. The ability to import and edit sounds, along with flexible connectivity options, makes it a versatile tool for both producers and live performers.
The sound quality is exactly what users expect from a LinnDrum replica—powerful, full of character, and highly customizable. Despite the wealth of features, the machine remains easy to use, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced producers.
Whether it’s the perfect LinnDrum alternative depends on individual expectations. Nostalgic users will appreciate the authentic sound, while modern producers will value the advanced features. Regardless, the LM Drum offers a compelling combination of vintage charm and contemporary technology, making it a must-have for anyone looking to capture the spirit of the LinnDrum in their music production.
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