If you haven’t checked out the Polyend Drums yet, here’s a great place to start! The below demo shows off just how deep the Drums goes in terms of functionality… and sounds like Aphex Twin in the process. It’s pretty sick. Shout out to Isobutane for crushing it on this one.
Get the Polyend Drums: Sweetwater | American Musical Supply
Four Analog Voices, Hundreds of Possibilities
The sound engine combines four analog voices based on modern SSI chips with digital synthesis and sampling capabilities.
Each analog voice features dual SSI2130 oscillators, a dedicated analog noise source, additional digital oscillators and a signal path built around an SSI2140 multimode filter and SSI2164 VCA. The result is a flexible architecture capable of producing everything from classic drum sounds and percussion to basses, synth leads and evolving textures.
The digital side expands things even further with virtual analog, wavetable, FM, physical modeling and sample-based instruments. In total, users have access to:
- 50 instrument types
- More than 500 sound mutations
- Eight independent LFOs
- Multiple synthesis methods across analog and digital engines
A Sequencer Built for Exploration
Sequencing is where Drums separates itself from more traditional drum machines. The system offers eight tracks with up to 64 steps per track, alongside parameter locks, probability, micro-timing, independent track lengths and playback speeds.
Generative tools such as Euclidean sequencing, random pattern generation and beat generators provide additional creative options, while song mode allows arrangements to be built from up to 48 songs and chained patterns.
Notable sequencing features include:
- All-parameter locks
- Real-time recording
- Step conditions and probability
- Independent track play modes
- Micro-timing adjustments
- Euclidean and generative sequencing tools
- Designed for Live Performance
Its X0Y morphing system allows users to blend between sounds and kits in real time, while dedicated fill triggers, track mutes and rapid pattern switching make it easy to reshape arrangements on the fly.
Effects That Become Part of the Groove
Effects processing is divided into three sections: inserts, sends and a master chain.
Ten insert effects can be sequenced per track, allowing effects changes to become rhythmic elements rather than static mix decisions. Meanwhile, two send buses provide access to 52 additional effects, while the master section includes an eight-band EQ and compressor with sidechain functionality.
Studio-Grade Audio and Connectivity
Powering everything is a dual-core processor supported by additional controllers dedicated to analog management and peripheral functions. Audio runs at 32-bit floating-point resolution and 96kHz internally, with 24-bit/96kHz converters handling both input and output duties. Connectivity includes:
- Stereo outputs
- Eight individual track outputs
- Stereo headphone output
- Stereo audio inputs
- MIDI In, Out and Thru
- USB-C connectivity
With 32GB of internal storage and extensive I/O options, Drums is equally comfortable operating as the centerpiece of a studio setup or as part of a larger hardware rig.
How much does the Polyend Drums cost?
Get the Polyend Drums at the links below for $2,699 in either Black or Silver finishes:
