2.4 Sound Banks: Choose Your Drum Machine
Strudel offers you a collection of legendary drum machines. We call this a "sound bank." Let's explore how to use them to give your beat a unique character!
The Default Sound Bank
By default, Strudel loads a standard electronic drum kit when you use the sound function. This means that, without specifying anything additional, you already have access to basic percussion sounds:
Changing Drums with bank
Do you want your beat to sound like it's coming from an 80s machine? You can do it! The .bank() function allows you to change the drum machine you are using.
For example, to use the sounds of the iconic Roland TR-909, simply add .bank("RolandTR909") to your code:
Replace RolandTR909 with one of these options and hear the difference. Each one has its own personality!
AkaiLinnRhythmAceRolandTR808RolandTR707ViscoSpaceDrumKorgminipops
There are many more banks available, but these are a good starting point for exploration.
Combining Multiple Banks
You can use more than one drum machine at the same time. For example:
Exploring Legendary Drum Machines
These drum machines were real "machines" that were used when there were no computers to create music. Let's take a look at some examples:
Korg Mini Pops 7: The Sound of Space
1966
korgminipops
We start with one of the oldest. The Mini Pops 7 has an unmistakable character. Its rhythms are hypnotic and evocative. Its sound is smooth and analog, perfect for creating ambient soundscapes and old-school electronic music.
This is how it sounds in Strudel:
Example in music: Jean-Michel Jarre used the Mini Pops in his album Oxygène (1976). In particular, the hypnotic rhythm of this machine creates a spatial atmosphere in Oxygène Pt. 4:
Roland TR-808: The Legend of Hip-Hop
1980
rolandtr808
Moving to the 1980s, we find the TR-808, which is probably the most influential drum machine in history. Its deep and powerful bass drum became the definitive sound of hip-hop, electro, and trap. Producers love its punchy bass and crisp snare, characteristics that defined decades of urban music.
This is how it sounds in Strudel:
Example in music: The TR-808 has been used in countless iconic songs. Here are two representative examples:
Daft Punk - "Technologic" (2005)
Marvin Gaye - "Sexual Healing" (1982)
Roland TR-909: The Heart of Techno and House
1983
rolandtr909
Just three years after the 808, Roland released another legend: the TR-909 defined the sound of 90s dance music. Its punchy "four-on-the-floor" bass drum, metallic hi-hats, and cutting snare became the standard for techno, house, and rave. This machine made millions dance in clubs around the world, becoming the backbone of electronic dance culture.
This is how it sounds in Strudel:
Examples in music: Just like the 808, the TR-909 also left its mark on popular music:
Madonna - "Vogue" (1990)
Technotronic - "Pump Up The Jam" (1989)
In the next lesson, we will set aside the drums for the moment and talk about the bass, the element that perfectly complements these rhythms. 👉>>