LM1 Comparison - Sample Journal From Mars

Comparing Two LM1 Drum Machines

The LM1 (often mistaken for the Linndrum) is an incredibly groovy, classic and rare drum machine from the 80s, most notably popularized by Prince. After waiting years to find (and afford) this holy grail of 80s drum machines, we finally acquired one in 2018 (see below, left) and sampled it extensively.

{See video at top of page}

But just a year later, we acquired another unit! This mysterious looking LM1 (see above, right) featured a curiously gray faceplate, softer, more pillowy pads, and sounded somehow warmer and lazier! Oddly enough, the research we've done has provided no explanation for this.

Since we never added the samples from this gray machine to the LM1 From Mars pack, we figured grabbing a few kits from both units would be the perfect way to explore and compare the subtle differences between these amazing machines. you can download the samples for free.

Read the full article covering the history and differences between these two units

The differences in sound are best explored through the one-hits. This is not an extensive multi-sampling, but (3) 18x hit kits from each LM1, including all of the drum voices. We built these into three Ableton drum racks, with a macro knob that switches between the two machines - a very effective way to compare them. We also included the stems from the video above for fun :).

We're curious which LM1 you prefer. Can you hear any other major differences? Is one better suited for a certain style? What do they sound like mixed together?

Contents:

• 110 x 24-bit WAV LM1 Drum Samples.
• (6) 18x Hit Kits and (2) Stems from the video.
• Ableton session and (3) ADG presets.
• Royalty Free.
• 28.3 MB Unzipped.
• LM1 Comparison - About

Ready For:

• Any 24-bit WAV Compatible DAW or Sampler.
• Ableton Live 9.7+ (Not Intro).