Latvian electronic instrument maker Erica Synths is set to expand its lineup with an exciting new product. The company has collaborated with Canadian Eurorack specialist Hexinverter Électronique to develop Hexdrums, a robust analog drum machine packed with ten sound sources. The new device is scheduled for release later this year.
Hexdrums brings a powerful mix of classic and experimental percussion, offering two distinct kick drum voices for layered or contrasting sounds, along with a snare, clap, rimshot, hi-hats, and ten crash and ride cymbal samples. At the heart of its sound design lies an enhanced version of Hexinverter’s Mutant Machine — a module known for producing unique, modifiable percussive tones. Users can sculpt and fine-tune these textures to meet a wide range of sonic needs.
Each drum sound in Hexdrums features its own individual output, giving producers full flexibility in mixing and external processing. The master output includes a compressor and drive control for shaping the overall tone. The internal sequencer is built for precision and creativity, with features such as shuffle, roll, accent, and ratchet controls, along with per-step micro-timing, step probability, and 16 banks of 16 pattern slots. A sidechain function, triggered by the kick drum, is also included to add dynamic movement and groove to drum sequences.
Most of the sound engines in Hexdrums (excluding cymbals) are based on Hexinverter’s acclaimed Mutant series of Eurorack percussion modules. Hexinverter Électronique initially began work on a standalone drum machine four years ago. However, due to the global pandemic and related supply chain issues, the project was paused, and the company eventually ceased operations in 2023.
Since then, Erica Synths has stepped in to carry the legacy forward, taking over the manufacturing, sales, and support of Hexinverter’s remaining product lineup, which includes the Mutant Brain, Mindphaser, and Mutant Machine.
With Hexdrums, the collaboration breathes new life into a long-anticipated concept, merging the sonic innovation of Hexinverter’s Mutant series with Erica Synths’ reputation for high-quality hardware. The result promises to be a versatile and expressive tool for electronic musicians and producers alike.
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