Korg ElecTribe R (ER-1)

When Korg released the ER-1 in 1999, they created something that still holds up today: a compact drum synthesizer that treats percussion as a living, breathing instrument rather than just playback device. Built on analog modeling, it sits alongside the EA-1 bass synth in Korg's first-generation Electribe lineup, and the two machines became instant classics for acid house and techno producers who wanted hands-on control over every element of their sound.

The ER-1 packs ten sound-generating parts into a desktop unit roughly the size of a small mixer: four synthesizer parts with selectable waveforms (sine, triangle, square, sawtooth), two audio input channels for external processing, plus dedicated drum parts for open and closed hi-hats, crash cymbal, and hand clap. Each synth part gets its own filter with cutoff and resonance controls, plus modulation depth and decay parameters. The sequencer runs up to 64 steps per part across 256 patterns and 16 songs, with motion sequencing that lets you automate a single parameter per pattern—incredibly useful for evolving delay effects or filter sweeps. You get 18-bit AD/DA conversion, MIDI In/Out/Thru for syncing with other gear, and a trio of effects: delay (with normal and tempo-synced modes), distortion, and chorus/flanger.

The front panel is covered in knobs and 16 light-up step keys that make programming rhythms intuitive and tactile. Two mono audio inputs let you process external sounds through the ER-1's filter and effects, and ring modulators add experimental texture by cross-modulating the synth parts. The low-boost function on the kick drum is particularly prized—it adds serious punch and can push the sound into crunchy, distorted territory. Community feedback over the years has been consistently positive, with users praising its sonic character and workflow, though the limited polyphony and single-parameter motion sequencing per part are acknowledged trade-offs for the compact form factor. It runs on a 9V adapter and outputs to stereo 1/4-inch jacks plus a headphone jack.