Behringer revives LinnDrum

With the explosion of analogue drum machines, Behringer is about to expand the market with a LinnDrum clone.
The company has shared a first look at the new instrument in a Facebook post.
“We love to share with you the progress of our first sampling drum machine. We’re super excited that the unit has passed all audio tests today and much of the user interface development is now also completed. Man, this thing grooves;-),” the company says.
Behringer points out, however, this is still a prototype and a long way from production.
It also promises more developments in this instrument sector, telling followers that “this is just the beginning and there is so much more in the pipeline”.
The company already produces a dozen drum machines and a couple of e-drum kits.
The Rhythm Designer RD-8 is typical of the current crop of drum machines, boasting 16 drum sounds, a 64-step sequencer, a wave designer and dual-mode filter.
News of the LmDrum has been well received online, with former LinnDrum owners welcoming the revival.
“As a former owner of a LinnDrum, I absolutely love the fact you kept with the original colours and overall feel of the original! It’s got a vintage look with just enough of the modern touch!” says one post.
“This is great! Inspired by the Linn, but with lots of modernisation. And it looks fantastic – I’m sure it will be a long wait, but I’m totally there for this one,” another fan adds.
Another gushes: “Wow this looks great! I use my LinnDrum all the time and this would be a welcome addition.”
There’s no indication of when the new product will hit the market.
The original LinnDrum was manufactured by Linn Electronics between 1982 and 1985. About 5,000 units were sold and its sounds appeared on hits including Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s Relax, a-Ha’s Take On Me, Tears for Fears’ Shout and Madonna’s Lucky Star.