Linn LM-2 “LinnDrum” Drum Machine

Thud-tick-whack-tick…

The LM-2 drum machine from Roger Linn is an absolute classic, and the model you probably refer to when mentioning “LinnDrum”. Incidentally this is also printed in large letters on the front. When first launched it was considered to be one of the most realistic sounding drum machines.

Countless classic hit records have been made with – or built around – the beefy Linn sounds. The iconic beat from Michael Jacksons “Billie Jean” is a good example.

gear-legacy-linn-lm2-linndrum-panel

Building the groove

Operating the LM-2 is pretty straight forward with pattern/song based recording process.

Patterns have to recorded in real time, but can be quantized to perfection.

  • Select beat resolution
  • Record and refine a pattern
  • Proceed to the next patterns, until you have all variations
  • Chain the patterns into a song

The buttons are velocity (accent) sensitive to allow for some dynamics.

Expanding the sound set

Besides the factory sound set, you can get different sound sets on EPROM chips. These have to mechanically replace the chips from the factory sounds, and will be triggered instead. With a proper EPROM burner you could even make your own chips. So important producers brought a small bag with “their” Linn Sounds to use in sessions.