Korg Rhythm KR-55 - modified

Modified with are separate outputs, plus an updated kick drum mod that allows radical warping of the sound via two knobs. More details below. One of our favourite drum machines, modded by us to give increased flexibility and creativity.

Korg KR-55 for sale in excellent working order. One our favourite preset drum machines - the KR machines just have a sound of their own.

Details of modifications:

1. Separate outputs. Accessed via six mini-jacks on the left hand side panel. Sounds still play from the main output when the separate output is used.


2. Kick drum mod - this is a new iteration of our previous mod - switch turns the mod on, and then two knobs give some pretty radical control of the sound of the kick. This takes some getting used to as it is possible to totally "lose" the sound at some settings. Experimentation is the key here...

In perfect working order - all pots move smoothly and noiselessly and all pots, switches and knobs function exactly as they should. (It is always possible with vintage equipment that crackly pots/sliders may develop over time when equipment has not been used - even during shipping - this can usually be easily rectified either by a few turns or in extreme cases, with suitable switch-cleaning spray).

More about the KR-55:

These are great drum machines - 48 rhythm patterns (plus intros and fills) which can also be tweaked by the swing parameter, opening up a huge variety of different rhythms. It features a trig out for analogue synths/sequncers. Sonically all-analogue and good and meaty.

From the Vintage Synth Explorer KR-55 page: The KR55 was, for its time (1979), an advanced preset rhythm drum machine with up to 96 preset rhythm patterns! These patterns cover the whole gamut of presets (Waltz, Samba, Rhumba, Bossa Nova, Tango, Slow Rock, Swing, Rock, etc.). The KR55 also featured a "swing beat" control to add a variation to the groove. Each drum sound's level can be individually adjusted for each pattern. It can also be externally controlled via footswitch jack for the Start/Stop and Intro/Fill switches. The KR55B was a black-chassis version released a few years later in 1982 with twice as many rhythm patterns. It has been used by Jean-Michel Jarre, Trio and Depeche Mode.

Specifications:

Sounds - 12 Tones: Bass Drum, Snare Drum, HiHat x 2, Cymbal, Low Conga, High Conga, Rim Shot, Claves, Cowbell, Tom Tom x 2
Patterns - KR55 - 48 Rhythm patterns: Waltz, Jazz Waltz, Rock, Ballad x 3, 5/4 Beat x 3, Mambo, Rumba, Beguine, Pops x 3, Rock x 12, Disco x 6, Foxtrot, Shuffle, March, Swing x3, Bossanova x3, Chacha, Samba, Afro, Enka, Tango, Habanera
16 Intro Rhythms
16 Fill-In Rhythms
KR-55B - 96 Rhythm patterns
Controls - Level for each Drum Sound, Tempo, Swing Beat, Start/Stop, Intro/Fill
Keyboard - None
Effects - None
Control - Start/Stop and Intro/Fill functions triggered by external footswitch

Condition

Very good cosmetics overall. Has light ageing of the case and a few scuffs. All mods are on the left-hand side panel.

Voltage Information

100v Japanese model. For customers on 220/240v supplies we will supply a high quality step-down transformer free of charge with your purchase - let us know if this is not required. On North American mains (115/120v supplies) this unit will run without a transformer (we run all our tests using 120v power); however, a step-down transformer is recommended for extended use. We do not recommend using cheap, generic Chinese mains transformers - please ask if you have any questions about powering this unit.

Tax

For sales in UK/EU, this item is on the margin scheme for second hand goods. VAT-free sales are not possible for this item.

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Our returns policy is 14 days, but we will always endeavour to seek a mutually satisfactory solution to any issues that arise. If 14 days have elapsed from receipt of goods, we reserve the right to refuse a refund or exchange,

You must retain the original packing materials and utilise them for any return – if this is not possible, you must return goods using packaging that matches the level of protection we employ: failure to do so may result in us refusing the return.

Goods must be returned in the same condition as supplied to remain eligible for a full refund. Important: in the case of new items, they must also be in the original packaging which, aside from any seals etc, must also be in mint condition (please take care with this); we reserve the right to charge a restocking fee of up to 25% if this is not adhered to.

Read our full returns and refunds information here: https://soundgas.com/pages/returns-refunds