Introduction
The Behringer LM DRUM is a versatile drum machine that recreates the iconic sounds of the first sample-based drum machines from the 1980s. It enhances these with a more adaptable programming environment, inspired by the RD-8 and RD-9, and offers the ability to sample sounds and create custom banks. The LM DRUM features up-to-date MIDI and USB connectivity, individual voice outputs, and can be integrated with electronic drumkits or pads for instrument-like playability with full velocity sensitivity. This manual aims to guide you in customizing your LM DRUM to your specific needs and maximizing its potential.
Top Panel
The top panel houses the primary controls for the LM DRUM. Key sections include:
Navigation
Navigation through menus and settings is managed by dedicated buttons and a data control. Buttons 31 (NO) and 33 (YES) are used for stepping back and forward through menu pages or confirming selections. Buttons 35-38 and the data control (34) are used for scrolling through options and adjusting values.
Control Section
This section includes controls for MIDI, USB, Sync, Tempo, Step Repeat, Note Repeat, Autofill, and Trigger functions. The MIDI button (1) accesses MIDI options, allowing configuration of RX and TX channels, USB forwarding, and Soft Thru. The USB button provides access to USB options. The Sync button (3) manages synchronization sources (Internal, MIDI, USB, Analog Sync) and sync rate. The Rand button (4) enables random triggering of sounds on specific steps. Step Repeat (5) and Note Repeat (6) allow for rhythmic variations. Autofill (7) adds fill patterns, and the Trigger button (8) activates selected drum sounds or step/note repeats.
Tempo Section
Controls for setting the tempo include the Rate control (9) for precise BPM adjustment and the Tap button (10) for setting tempo by ear. These controls also adjust Swing, Probability, and Flam values. Swing is a unique parameter affecting timing variance.
Edit Section
This section contains buttons for Save (11), Copy (12), Erase (13), and Dump (14) operations. These allow users to save current patterns or songs, copy them to new locations, erase data, and perform SysEx dumps to external software for backup or transfer.
Mode Section
Buttons 15-18 allow selection of different operational modes: SONG (15) for managing songs, PATTERN (16) for pattern selection and editing, STEP (17) for step-time pattern creation, and PADS (18) for real-time pattern creation using pads or external MIDI controllers.
Program & Playback Section
This section includes controls for Length (19), Sample (20), and Bank (21). Length sets the number of steps in a pattern. Sample provides access to user sampling menus. Bank (21) allows selection of sound/sample banks, each containing 127 sample slots. Factory banks are pre-loaded with LM DRUM sounds, but user samples can also be allocated.
Additional controls in this section include Mute (24), Solo (25), Forward (26), Record (27), Stop (28), and Play/Pause (29) for controlling playback and recording.
Menu Section
The Menu button (30) accesses various sub-menus for detailed parameter adjustments. These include Step Size, Probability, Flam, Note Repeat, Polymeter, Filter, Preferences, MIDI Map, Trigger Assign, Bitcrusher, Metronome, Options, and About. The default menu displays current parameter settings.
Top Row Parameters:
- BIT: Displays the bit level of the current sample (default 12-bit).
- SAMP: Shows the currently assigned sample.
- DIST: Adds distortion to the sample.
- PLAY: Selects playback mode (Forward, Looping, Reverse). Decay can be adjusted by holding Tap and using the data control.
- TUNE: Adjusts the sample's tuning if a physical tune control is available.
Middle Row Parameters:
- Bxx: Displays the current sample bank.
- Mxx: Shows the current step block (e.g., 16, 32, 48, 64). Autoscroll can be enabled/disabled.
Bottom Row Parameters:
- Pattern Number (01-16)
- Song Number (1-8)
- Pattern Name: Can be edited via Tap + Tap button combination.
- MODE: Indicates current mode (Pattern, Song, Setlist).
- Tempo, Flam, Probability, Swing: Parameters adjustable via Tap and Rate controls.
The second screen accessed via the data control allows editing of sample parameters like Level, Start, Length, Loop, Playback mode, Tuning, and Level.
Step Size, Probability, Flam, Polymeter, Filter
Step Size
Sets the duration of each step in a pattern (e.g., 1/8th note, 1/16th triplet). The available options depend on the global or pattern setting.
Probability
Allows for random activation of drums on specific steps within a pattern. A probability of 100% means the drum always sounds, 50% means it sounds half the time, and 0% means it never sounds. This can be set per drum, per step, or globally.
Flam
Introduces a slight timing variation (flam) to drum sounds. The amount and application (per drum, per step) are configurable.
Polymeter
Enables different step lengths for different drums within a single pattern, creating complex rhythmic relationships rather than polyrhythms.
Filter
A dual-mode filter (Low Pass/High Pass) with adjustable cutoff frequency and resonance. Filter automation can be recorded into patterns.
MIDI Map & Trigger Assign
MIDI Map
Allows re-assignment of MIDI notes to individual drum sounds. The defaults map standard MIDI notes to specific drums for both transmit (TX) and receive (RX) functions.
Trigger Assign
Configures the three analog trigger outputs on the rear panel to trigger specific drums. These settings are global.
Bitcrusher, Metronome, Options, About
Bitcrusher
Reduces the bit depth of sounds (from 11-bit down to 1-bit) to introduce graininess and distortion, altering the sound's character.
Metronome
The metronome can be switched off or set to sound on a specified number of beats (1-9). It can be used for real-time programming.
Options
This sub-menu offers various miscellaneous settings, including Random Closed Hat, Velocity THD, Velocity Sensitive Pad, Chromatic MIDI In, Sample Record Mode (AGC, Normalized, Raw), Auto Save, Beep On/Off, LCD Brightness, and LED Brightness.
About
Displays current firmware versions for the MCUs and allows restoration of factory settings. A backup of custom programming is recommended before performing a factory reset.
Wave Designer, Analog Filter, Volume, Input
Wave Designer
Allows alteration of the transients of selected drums via Attack and Sustain controls. This affects the main outputs and feeds into the analog filter.
Analog Filter
A dual-mode filter (Low Pass/High Pass) that modifies the timbre of sounds. It can be switched on or off, and its cutoff frequency and resonance are adjustable. Filter automation can be recorded.
Volume
The Master Volume control (50) sets the overall output and headphone volume.
Input
The Input control (48) adjusts the gain for recording user samples, suitable for line-level signals or dynamic microphones.
Rear Panel
The rear panel provides all physical connections for the LM DRUM:
- MAIN OUTPUTS (55): 6.35mm TS jacks for main stereo outputs.
- HEADPHONE OUTPUT (56): 6.35mm TRS stereo jack for headphone monitoring.
- REC INPUT (57): 6.35mm TS jack for sampling audio into the LM DRUM.
- VOICE OUTS (58): 3.5mm TS jacks for individual voice outputs.
- TRIGGER OUTS (59): 3.5mm TS jacks for +5V analog triggers, assignable to voices.
- SYNC IN (60): 3.5mm TS jack for external analog sync.
- SYNC OUT (61): 3.5mm TS jack for synchronizing external devices.
- MIDI IN (62): 5-pin DIN for receiving MIDI control.
- MIDI OUT (63): 5-pin DIN for sending MIDI control to external devices.
- MIDI THRU (64): 5-pin DIN to mirror MIDI In.
- USB (65): USB 2.0 Type B for MIDI control, firmware updates, and SynthTribe app connection.
- POWER SOCKET (66): For connecting the 12V PSU.
- POWER SWITCH (67).
Additional controls on the rear panel include Pan Controls (52) for stereo panning, Voice Select buttons (53) for choosing sounds, and Mixer controls (54) for setting output levels.
Programming
The LM DRUM offers flexible programming options through a hierarchical selection process: Song -> Pattern -> Parameter settings.
Step Time Programming
Patterns can be created step-by-step with the playhead running or stopped. Drums are selected via Voice Select buttons (53), and steps are triggered by pressing the Step buttons. Double presses can select alternate sample variations for certain drums.
Real Time Programming
Patterns can be programmed in real time using the Step/Pad buttons, an external MIDI keyboard, or electronic drum pads. Sounds are recorded with velocity sensitivity, which can be edited later. Quantization is recommended for precise timing.
Chromatic Programming and Playing
Allows for playing and recording tunable sounds chromatically using the pads or an external MIDI keyboard. Octave can be adjusted. MIDI channels for chromatic voices can be configured via SynthTribe.
Micro Timing
Enables fine adjustment of step timing, shifting steps slightly ahead or behind the beat.
Creating a Song
Songs are constructed by chaining patterns. Users can select patterns for each slot, set repeat counts, and choose an end mode (Stop, Loop, Hold). The LM DRUM supports up to eight songs at a time.
Chaining Patterns
Patterns can be played sequentially by selecting the next pattern while the current one is playing.
Chaining Songs
Songs can be chained similarly to patterns, allowing for seamless transitions between songs.
Setlist
A Setlist feature allows songs to be arranged in a specific order and repeated. Each slot can be configured for a specific number of plays.
Sampling
The LM DRUM allows users to create and use their own samples. This can be done directly via the Rec Input socket or by loading .wav files into the SynthTribe software and downloading them.
Direct Sampling
Connect an audio source to the rear panel's Rec Input (57). Select a bank, then use the Sample button (20) to activate recording. Adjust Input Level (48) and Threshold. Press Yes to arm, and Tap + Yes to start recording. After recording, samples can be trimmed, previewed, discarded, or saved. The sample can then be named and assigned to a pad.
Using SynthTribe
.wav files (under 1MB) can be loaded into SynthTribe, converted to mono 12-bit/24kHz format, and downloaded to the LM DRUM. SynthTribe also includes a Librarian function for backing up and restoring samples.
Sample Management
Access the sample menu by pressing and holding Tap and then pressing Sample. This displays all samples in memory. Default samples in banks 1-7 are locked and cannot be deleted. Options include Select All, Deselect All, Load to Bank, Delete, Trim, and Rename.
Safety Instructions
General Precautions:
- Read and follow all instructions and warnings.
- Keep the apparatus away from water, except for outdoor products.
- Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Do not block ventilation openings. Install according to manufacturer's instructions.
- Protect the power cord from damage.
- Do not install near heat sources.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs. Consult an electrician if the plug does not fit your outlet.
- Use only manufacturer-recommended attachments and accessories.
- Use only specified carts, stands, tripods, brackets, or tables, and exercise caution to prevent tip-overs.
- Unplug during storms or long periods of non-use.
- Servicing should only be performed by qualified personnel.
- Connect to a MAINS socket outlet with protective earthing.
- Ensure disconnect devices remain readily operable.
- Avoid installation in confined spaces.
- Do not place naked flame sources on the apparatus.
- Operating temperature range: 5°C to 45°C (41°F to 113°F).
Electrical Safety:
- Terminals marked with the lightning bolt symbol (⚡) carry sufficient electrical current to constitute a risk of electric shock. Use only high-quality professional speaker cables.
- The presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the enclosure is indicated by a lightning bolt symbol (⚡).
- To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the top cover or rear section. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
- Do not expose the appliance to rain and moisture. Avoid dripping or splashing liquids. Do not place liquid-filled objects on the apparatus.
- Service instructions are for qualified personnel only. Do not perform servicing other than that contained in the operation instructions.
Legal Disclaimer: Music Tribe accepts no liability for loss arising from reliance on descriptions or statements herein. Specifications and appearances are subject to change without notice. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Limited Warranty: For warranty terms and conditions, visit community.musictribe.com/support.
FCC Compliance Information
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by:
- Reorienting or relocating the receiving antenna.
- Increasing the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connecting the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consulting the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician.
This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Important Information: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Music Tribe can void the user's authority to use the equipment.
WEEE Directive: This symbol indicates that the product must not be disposed of with household waste. It should be taken to a licensed collection center for recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Proper disposal helps prevent negative environmental and health impacts.
EU Declaration of Conformity: Music Tribe declares compliance with relevant EU directives (2014/35/EU, 2014/30/EU, 2011/65/EU, 2015/863/EU, 2012/19/EU, 519/2012, 1907/2006/EC). Full text available at https://community.musictribe.com/.
