Dr. Groove
I’ve been researching the new generation of music gear lately, specifically compact synthesizers, sequencers, samplers, and drum machines. Putting together a groove on a small drum machine feels more like play than serious work. What I need right now is play.
I’ve been thinking about ways to create a live set using newer modules like the Korg Volca series and similar instruments. I’m not necessarily looking to spend a metric ton of money to start. Getting started with inexpensive modules will enable me the capacity to swap out more feature-rich modules later. I’ve been sniffing around for some of these modules, either on sale or used.
Long ago, I had, for a very brief period of time, a Boss DR-202 Dr. Groove drum machine. What I enjoyed about this particular machine was how easy it was to play with. I can get a groove going, doodle around with a rhythm here, or an effect there, and end up with something I like pretty quickly.
This afternoon, I was spelunking in a local music shop when I looked in the locked glass case with used gear in it. There was Dr. Groove. I got a great deal on it and the shop threw in a power adapter. I took it home, plugged it into tinny little speaker I had lying around, and started to test it out.
I don’t know how many hours this afternoon and evening I played with this gizmo. I’m looking forward to downloading the manual to find how to get Dr. Groove to send MIDI clock data to other pieces of gear I have.
I can’t wait to see where this new road leads.
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