

Sampler keyboards rely on triggering of pre recorded samples which can be integrated into the hardware, imported or recorded directly. These new technologies make use of digital sequencing while providing a hardware interface with pads, transport control and midi control capabilities. Native Instruments Maschine has quickly taken over this market being used by producers like Zaytoven and Scoop DeVille. The new school of beat machines is dominated by software / hardware hybrids.

It has been used by super producers like Dr. The AKAI MPC in its multiple versions, being the 2000XL the most iconic, is a complete music production suite with endless capabilities such as sampling, sequencing and in some models even synthesis. The use of beat machines in hip hop trace back to its origin. Today we are going to analyze some of the most used gear by beatmakers and producers around the world. Every craft has a particular set of tools and making beats is no exception. These can be used and combined in no particular order, with a sequencer remaining as the anchor in all combinations. To make beats you will need a computer, digital audio workstation, midi controller, virtual instruments (plug-ins), audio interface, speakers, headphones, drum machine, sampler keyboard, synthesizers and musical instruments.
