Producer’s Guide

Get to grips with Arturia’s DrumBrute

Starting from humble origins as a software synth developer, Arturia have carved out a reputation as a well respected analogue hardware manufacturer. The MiniBrute and MicroBrute monosynths impressed, being neither clones nor soundalikes of the many classic analogue designs that now fetch top dollar.

Released at the back end of 2016, the DrumBrute builds on the Brute range’s heritage and takes advantage of the design experience gained in the creation of Arturia’s BeatStep sequencer range, making for an inspiring and comprehensive modern drum machine at a very reasonable price point.

For most electronic producers, immediately obvious drum machine reference points might be Roland’s early TR models - the 808, 909 and 606. The DrumBrute certainly isn’t intended as a retro tribute act to these classic beatboxes, but it does contain some instruments – not least the two kick drums and simpler percussion voice – that do pay homage to these classics.

In this guide and its accompanying videos, we’ll explore the sounds of the DrumBrute, give you tips and tricks for becoming a programming master, and find out how to integrate it with other gear.