The Bullfrog Drums is a sample-based drum machine from Erica Synths that packs seven voices, a built-in microphone, factory samples by Richie Hawtin and a lot more into a compact, sturdy package.
Drum machines come in all shapes and sizes, but Erica Synths’ latest release is one of the more well-rounded options to land in a while. The Bullfrog Drums is a hands-on, sample-based drum machine with seven voices, a step sequencer and a built-in microphone for live sampling – all housed in the brand’s signature aluminium enclosure.
The seven voices aren’t limited to a kick, snare and hi-hats. Because it’s sample-based, you can load in anything from abstract noise and chord stabs to drones – whatever suits the track. Seven banks of factory samples come preloaded, curated by Richie Hawtin and the Erica Synths team, with room for up to 16 banks of your own. Total sample memory sits at 64 MB.
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Sequencing is where the Bullfrog earns its keep as a performance tool. The XOX-style step sequencer supports up to 64 steps per pattern, with ratchets, probability settings and microtiming adjustments built in. This means you can get rhythms that feel loose and human rather than rigidly on-the-grid. There’s also a CV/Gate sequencer on board, so it can drive external synthesisers directly, and MIDI in and out via both DIN and USB-C.
For sampling on the fly, a line input and built-in microphone are both included, and a built-in speaker means you can hear what you’re doing without patching anything in. Each voice has its own level control and seven parameters for sound shaping, with parameter locks and automation per track rounding out the hands-on control.
Key features at a glance
- 7 sample-based drum voices
- Factory samples by Richie Hawtin and Erica Synths
- Up to 16 banks for user samples, 64 MB total sample memory
- Built-in microphone and line input for sampling
- Built-in speaker
- XOX-style sequencer with ratchets, probabilities and microtiming
- Up to 64-step sequences
- CV/Gate sequencer (1V/Oct)
- 4 banks of 16 patterns and 4 banks of 16 kits
- MIDI in and out via DIN and USB-C
- Memory backup via USB-C
- Stereo output and 3.5mm headphone output
Pre-orders are open now here. For local enquiries, head here.
