Essential Information About the Essential D1 Drum Machine
- Compact 12-channel groovebox for sample playback with user import and factory Loopmasters content.
- Smooth sequencer with real-time or step-by-step recording, parameter locking, and uGrid.
- Complete effects section: 8 channel effects, 2 Send & Return effects (reverb, delay), and bus compressor.
- Professional connectivity: main outputs, headphones, auxiliary input, MIDI DIN In/Out, and USB-C for MIDI and management via the Donner Control app.
A Modern Groovebox That Fits Into Any Setup
Designed by Donner, the Essential D1 condenses the essentials of a contemporary drum machine into a lightweight and sturdy format. Built to integrate naturally with your hardware or software workstation, it combines the simplicity of a classic drum machine with the flexibility of a modern sampler. Its clear interface, LCD screen, and RGB controls promote an immediate creative flow both in the studio and on stage.
Who Is It For and What Are Its Uses?
Ideal for beginner to advanced producers and beatmakers, the Essential D1 targets styles such as electro, techno, house, hip-hop, trap, synthwave, or ambient. Thanks to its sample import and built-in effects, it is suitable for quick groove composition as well as sound experimentation, compact live sets, and custom kit creation.
Features and Innovations
Based on sample playback, the Essential D1 offers 12 channels and up to 12 voices of polyphony to layer kicks, snares, percussion, and textures. The sequencer provides up to 64 steps per pattern, 4 patterns per song, and 64 songs, with real-time recording, step workflow, parameter locking, and uGrid for micro rhythmic variations. On the sound side, you have 8 channel effects (including pitch, filter, envelope, distortion, bit crusher, humanize, panning), 2 Send & Return effects (reverb, delay), and a bus compressor to glue the mix. Velocity-sensitive pads, RGB faders, and encoders make playing instinctive, while USB-C ensures class-compliant MIDI and content management via the Donner Control app.
Technical Specifications
Sound Engine
- Sample playback on 12 channels, maximum polyphony of 12 voices.
- Sample format: .wav files at 44.1 kHz, 16-bit.
- User sample import and factory content designed by Loopmasters.
- 8 types of channel effects (including pitch, filter, envelope, distortion, bit crusher, humanize, panning).
- Send effects: reverb and delay (Send & Return).
- Main effect: bus compressor.
Sequencer and Performance
- Real-time recording and step sequencer.
- 64 steps per pattern, up to 4 patterns per song, maximum 64 songs.
- 4-beat step sequences up to 64 steps and 256 beats maximum.
- Parameter locking and uGrid for advanced sound and rhythmic variations.
- 16 velocity-sensitive RGB backlit pads, 4 RGB backlit faders.
Display and Controls
- LCD screen: 128x64 pixels.
- 1 clickable endless encoder (VALUE) and 5 endless encoders with touch function.
- 2 potentiometers (FX MASTER and MASTER).
- 16 backlit touch-click buttons.
Connectivity
- Outputs: 3.5 mm (1/8") TRS headphone, main 2x 6.35 mm (1/4") TS.
- Inputs: 3.5 mm (1/8") TRS auxiliary.
- MIDI: 2 five-pin DIN connectors (IN, OUT).
- USB Type-C: MIDI data transfer and control via the Donner Control app.
Power Supply
- AC input: 100V-240V, 50Hz-60Hz.
- DC output: 9V 1A, center positive.
Software Compatibility
- Compatible with Mac and Windows without dedicated driver.
- Content management, global settings, and updates via the Donner Control app.
Dimensions and Temperature
- Dimensions: 270x130x41 mm; weight: 620 g.
- Operating temperature: between 0degC and 35degC (32degF - 95degF).
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