Donner Essential D1 Finger Drum Machine & Step Sequence Combined, Boast Color-Coded UI, 12 Tracks Sample, 16 RGB Beat Pads, 64 Preset Beat Patterns, 5 Endless Encoders, Reverb & Delay Effects

Review for Donner Essential D1 Finger Drum Machine & Step Sequence Combined, Boast Color-Coded UI, 12 Tracks Sample, 16 RGB Beat Pads, 64 Preset Beat Patterns, 5 Endless Encoders, Reverb & Delay EffectsI am in the process of setting up a small SOHO recording studio, having assembled some of the key components I was looking for, now sourcing bits of kit to add creativity and automation to the workflow. This is a finger drum and sequencing machine to make creation of drum/percussions sequences as easy as possible. Powered by a DC power adapter and the rear features 3.5mm headphone jack, 3.5mm aux in, MIDI in, MIDI out for controlling either this machine or other MID devices and L/R sound output for monitor speakers. There is also a multi functional USB-C port which serves as a general PC interface to load/backup samples as well as firmware updates. Beautifully presented in an 80s inspired look with coloured lighting for easier location of keys in low lighting and a backlit LCD display allows easy view of settings etc. Great for live use such as a live DJ session or for preparation in a recording scenario. Full control over the sound creation with the various knobs allowing to set ADSR parameters to get a sound unique to your project. I have a basic understanding of music and spent hours experimenting with the almost limitless abundance of options and settings. The internal memory banks have 4GB of storage capacity to allow a good level of samples to be stored on the machine. This is great for beginners and seasoned pros alike and will grow with your experience. Overall a flexible powerful drum and sequence machine which is beautifully presented, creative and versatile for use in a variety of different projects.

This is a well made piece of equipment. With a premium feel that warrants is price. Lots of features are packed in, and it will take some time to learn. Sound quality of the samples is impressive, but the biggest perk is the option to add in your own, either from a downloaded source or you own recorded samples. There are some nice simple delay and reverb effects built in to, and a couple of encoders to tweak samples. I like the illuminated buttons and the reassuring feel of the pads. For those looking for a mid level beat machine, this is the way to go!

This D1 is the revamped and upgraded replacement for Donner’s B1. It is smaller than the B1 width wise and is more intuitive. The enclosed instruction booklet will quickly be redundant-but if you happen to want a more comprehensive detailed book of words the full instructions can be downloaded from Donner. This new model is reasonably easy to use, it has a lot of hands on controls and a few fun features thrown in.I’m a beginner in the world of beat machines, sequencer etc. I didn’t want a machine that was overly simple or one that was so complicated that I would be overwhelmed. The K.O. 2 seemed fiddly and not well laid out. The Circuit Rhythm model was the closest competitor, but lacked an LCD screen and the buttons were all lumped together; four more and it could be used as a chess board. In the end this Donner was an easy winner. It looks as user friendly as it is. Buttons spaced, and their lighting coordinated with that of the faders to make life easier. The Donner also has an LCD screen, small, yes-but so useful until second nature takes over. One small issue with the screen, it only shows the first nine letters of folder titles so it might be difficult to find the one you’re looking for. Another small issue is the wording denoting each buttons’ purpose. It’s quite small and in dim surroundings might be difficult to see. Not an issue once the position of all the buttons have been memorised. I thought they might look good backlit, but changed my mind when I realised the machine would look more like a Christmas decoration.Samples have to be downloaded from the Donner Control App, (which has now been renamed Donner Connect) as the D1 isn’t a sampler. The downloads are mono. For the price that is only to be expected. The output sound is impressive and the 4GB internal storage is a pleasant addition.The touch pads are sensitive and include velocity sensors so they respond quickly and accurately when more volume is required.When I first placed the unit on a flat surface it wobbled, not much but enough to be annoying after not so long. Putting my hand on either end of the unit and twisting (a little) soon put that right.I feel that I’m at the beginning of a journey of not the world of beat machines. I’ve just about mastered the basics but realise I have a long way to go to understand all of this D1’s full capabilities. A journey I’m looking forward to-with a lot of adventures on the way! I love it.