As we celebrate the best of 2021 and look forward to 2022, the Erica Synths/Sonic Potions LXR-02 takes the award for best new drum machine.
Our choice of the best new drum machine of the year came down to two very strong contenders. It’s no secret that we’re huge fans of the Vermona DRM1 here at Juno, and the updated MKIV model was one of our favourite new releases of 2021. But can it really be our favourite drum machine release when Vermona themselves would dispute that it’s even a drum machine at all, preferring to refer to it instead as an analogue drum synthesiser?
Instead, our pick of the best new drum machine of 2021 goes to another updated model, albeit one that flew under the radar a bit in its previous DIY incarnation. Erica Synths teamed with Sonic Potions to reboot the LXR drum machine, originally released as a solder-it-yourself kit in 2013.
For the Erica Synths/Sonic Potions LXR-02, the two brands have not only worked together to create a fully assembled drum machine, but also collaborated to improve and develop the hardware and software specs, creating something even more impressive.
The LXR-02 is a deceptively powerful little module. Its six voices are versatile, independent digital drum synths with a choice of oscillators, filters and effects allowing a vast range of sounds. Meanwhile, the seven-track step sequencer takes things a lot further than the familiar 16-step x0x approach, allowing up to 64 steps per track, with options for probability control and parameter automation within sequences.
All in all, the LXR-02 is a drum machine which adds up to more than the sum of its parts. The combination of hands-on control, dedicated volume faders and deep sequencing options makes it a creative, versatile option for studio use or live performance.
Check out our list of the best drum machines here. The Erica Synths/Sonic Potions LXR-02 is in stock now, priced at £468.