Sonicware Intros CyDrums Drum Machine

Sonicware has introduced CyDrums – a new instrument that they describe as a “neo-hyperactive drum machine”.

CyDrums features an 8-track, 128-step sequencer, based on the workflow of the Lofi-12 XT. You can store up to 128 patterns per project, enabling you to create complex song arrangements or seamlessly switch patterns during live performances.

Here’s the official video intro:

Features:

  • 4D Drum Sound Evolution – Wavetable x Velocity & Pressure Modulation
  • 22 Custom-Built Sound Structures
  • Two Insert Effects, Reverb, and Master Effects with Flexible Routing for Versatile Sound Processing
  • 8-Track Drum Sequencer
  • Generative Patterns with Randomization and Probability, Plus Numerous Performance Features incl. VariSpeed and Snip Loop

Here’s an example of the CyDrums in action:

Pricing and Availability:

The Sonicware CyDrums is available now, with an intro price of $399 USD (normally $499).

9 thoughts on “Sonicware Intros CyDrums Drum Machine”

  1. I’m liking this.
    I’ve been on the lookout for something like this for a while.
    I really like the sound of the Korg Volca Drum, but it’s really awkward to use as the sound engine and it’s parameters aren’t clearly defined and tweakable. Also, only 16 steps.
    This seems to be that but on steroids! With a more hands on approach to sound shaping.
    I need to see a few more videos before I take the plunge, but I’m definitely intrigued.
    However, that depends on how it’s workflow is.
    I’ve had a couple of the Liven series (XFM and Texture Lab), and they’re a bit too heavy on the shift / combo button press thing. I actually sold the XFM because of that.
    This looks more menu divey, which I think I’d prefer if given a choice of the two.
    Obviously, it shares the same design as the SmplTrek and Lofi-12 XT. Does anyone have experience using those? And if so what is the workflow like?

    1. I am intrigued too, but if you are on the fence don’t wait too long because the intro price saves you $100. You have a few weeks before the discount expires. And if one of the demos snare sounds like garbage so what, snares are easy to craft with practically any source and some envelope shaping.

  2. Not a huge fan of the tiny knobs on a device at this price, but the design nevertheless looks very interesting and it sounds crazy (in a good way). I appreciate that it can be battery powered. The sequencer looks good although I am not a fan of % probabilities for triggers (prefer more logic-based/algorithmic trigger modes). The switchable FX routing is very welcome.

    Too bad the USB output is only stereo rather than multitrack, but also kind of understandable on a performance instrument – this is designed for the club or the rave rather than the recording studio. On the plus side, the 8 pressure-sensitive pads for real-time sound modulation (up to 2 parameters each) is pretty powerful and makes it a affordable competitor to the Analog Rytm.

    Can’t make up my mind about the sounds yet. It’s clearly fantastic for rough aggressive sounds like Venetian Snares, hard to tell how it plays for more conventional electronic drums or delicate glitchy sounds – the additional sound demos on their site are pretty short and I wonder if they are showing the full range of the machine or just the most ‘intense’ sounds.

    In any case it’s unique and interesting. I’m definitely thinking about buying it!

  3. Thanks for the reminder! I bought the SmplTrek and I LOVED it. The sound quality was not only great but unique. It was a little buggy sometimes but for the most part it was great. Very punchy sounding. I got rid of it because I don’t really produce music (I noodle mostly) so I couldn’t get alot out of it. This was solely a me thing and had nothing to do with this awesome little fella.

  6. I have the OG lofi 12 and I love the thing. Super intuitive workflow and just fun as hell to jam on. It also secretly works great as a multitrack sequencer for external gear. This thing looks and sounds sick. I thought I was done buying gear for awhile, but this is getting preordered.

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