Korg DDD-1 (1986)
A digital programmable drum machine with 14 velocity-sensitive pads and 18 internal sound sources, notable as Korg's first MIDI-equipped drum machine.
Overview
The Korg DDD-1, released in 1986, is a sampling drum machine also known as "Dynamic Digital Drums." It features 18 internal sound sources, including bass and tom sounds that can be edited to resemble congas or bongos. The unit includes a 16 x 2 backlit LCD display and 32 push buttons for programming. It was Korg's flagship drum machine in 1986 and marked a significant step forward as the company's first drum machine with MIDI capability.
Specifications
| Polyphony | 18 voices |
| Velocity expression | Yes |
| Display | 16 x 2 backlit LCD |
| Trigger pads | 14 assignable velocity sensitive trigger-pads |
| Push buttons | 32 |
| Filter | None |
| Bit depth | 12-bit |
| CPU | 78C10 |
| Weight | 3.2 kg |
| Original price (UK) | £799 GBP |
| Original price (US) | $995 |
| MIDI | Yes – Korg's first MIDI-equipped drum machine |
Design
The DDD-1 uses a 12-bit digital sound engine with ROM-based samples and includes a CARD IN slot for expandable sound storage. It features an AUDIO INPUT, LEVEL and VOLUME controls, SWING function, and a PATTERN- button for sequence navigation. Running the SYSTEM RESET returns all panel controls to their default positions. The unit has some individual outputs, though the exact count and types are not specified.
Context
The Korg DDD-1 was positioned as the company's flagship drum machine in 1986. A contemporary review noted, "If you want a drum machine which doesn't sound like one, this is it," highlighting its natural, non-repetitive drum tones. As Korg's first drum machine with MIDI, it represented a major advancement in the brand's rhythm instrument lineup.
Market
Current listings show units selling around $168.71, with expandability supported by modern programmable PCM cards such as those from Deftaudio. No common issues or maintenance concerns were found in available research.
eBay Listings
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