Strengths
+ Versatile sound that blends analog drums, samples and digital synthesis
+ Highly customizable with user samples and open-source synth and effect SDK
+ Per-step randomization and parameter automation
Limitations
- Compact hardware means a lot of functionality is hidden behind shift presses or menus
- Several instruments share front panel controls
- Multi-engine can't be played chromatically (but can be sequenced internally at different pitches)
First announced in January 2021, Drumlogue is a - by now eagerly awaited - percussion-focused addition to Korg's popular Minilogue, Minilogue XD and Monologue.
On paper, there's a lot that appears exciting about the Drumlogue. This is a hybrid drum machine that combines analog percussion synths with a multi-track sample engine and ‘Multi-Engine’, which is an open-source digital oscillator that can be updated with custom synths and effects. Now we finally have our hands on one, is it worth the hype?
I was surprised by how small it is in the flesh. While none of the other instruments in the range are massive, they're all substantial, with a decent crop of controls spread out across spacious interfaces.
