Erica Synths has revealed an exciting preview of its upcoming drum machine, HEXDRUMS, set to hit the market later this year.
The HEXDRUMS is a fully analog drum machine developed in collaboration with Canadian Eurorack innovator Hexinverter. Although Hexinverter announced its closure in 2022, Erica Synths has since acquired and revived much of its product line—particularly its acclaimed drum modules. This latest release continues that revival, bringing Hexinverter’s unique sonic identity into a fresh standalone unit.
Built upon the “DNA of Hexinverter’s Mutant circuits,” HEXDRUMS pays homage to traditional drum machine designs while incorporating modern enhancements. Erica Synths describes the machine as “forged out of deep respect for traditional designs with innovative improvements and the combined spellwork of its makers.”
The unit features a hands-on, performance-friendly layout and offers 10 distinct sound sources. These include two kick drums (BD9 and Bass Drum), a reworked Mutant Machine, Snare Drum, Clap, Rimshot, HiHats, and cymbals. The cymbals section integrates Erica Synths’ own 10 sets of crash and ride samples, rounding out a robust percussion palette.
Each drum voice comes with its own individual output. For the main mix, sounds are panned across the stereo field and processed through a Compressor and Master Drive section, both inspired by Hexinverter’s Mutant Glue module. A standout feature is the kick drum-controlled sidechain function, which allows users to infuse their patterns with rhythmic dynamism and movement.
“Our plan was always to use the Mutant Drum DNA to create a next-level desktop drum machine,” said Stacy Gaudreau of Hexinverter Électronique. “We began early work on one before the pandemic. I’m so glad that the Erica Synths crew was able to carry out the vision and finish the dream!”
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