Sampler Vs Drum Machine – What’s The Difference?

If you have recently picked up a music-making hobby, or perhaps one of your children, you might be learning too many different options for accompanying items. 

Perhaps you have watched a live music show and seen a solo guitarist tapping something with his foot or heard about how Ed Sheeran does a lot with loop pedals and drum machines; then you might have some idea of what these things look like. 

Both a sampler and drum machine look relatively similar from a distance, and they can also act in the same way. 

What is a sampler?

As the name suggests, a sampler will take samples of sounds, instruments, vocals, and noise and can alter the sound and play it back. One of the cool things about a sampler is that they store a considerable amount of sounds, and they can be accessed quickly – so they are perfect for musicians who want to add some extra layers to their work, create music and give depth to a live performance. 

Samplers and drum machines both offer solo players to bring more instruments and beats and take over the rhythm so the guitarist can dip into some lead riffs. 

With a sampler, you can have a whole range of sounds playing, including keyboards, organs, pianos, and even synthesizers. 

The sounds can be split across a keyboard so that they can be played back when you need them, and they can also be programmed to different pitches. You can use a sampler in unison with a drum machine if you want to. 

Most samplers have a lot of software that can help change how the output sounds, giving a unique vibe to the music. Filters, effects, oscillators, and other features can create interesting sounds. 

While hardware samplers were the most popular, software options have increased in popularity. You will often see samplers used on stage with EDM, dance, jungle, and hip-hop groups. 

What is a drum machine?

Thankfully the drum machine is very much what it sounds like. It is a small-sized electronic device that can be used to create percussion and drum sounds. Of course, if you want the best drum machine, if you are going to invest. 

A drum machine is made up of a number of touch-sensitive pads that the user will tap to create beats. A drum machine is an excellent purchase because many offer a built-in sequencer that will play the composite back for you. 

When you first start using drum machines and extras, it can be a little tricky to find the sound you are looking for. But drum machines come with many pre-programmed options, and you can change them and modify them to meet your needs. Typically you will use synthetic drum sounds or use the playback function for pre recorded samples. 

Drum machines make a fascinating choice and are the option that many people go for because they have a relatively easy entry point, and you can tap out straightforward beats or get as complex as you like. 

Although software had taken over the need for a physical drum machine for a few years, the job of using the actual device is far beyond using the software. And they make playing live music as a soloist more interesting to watch. It allows the musician to change things as they go too. 

What is the difference between a drum machine and a sampler?

One of the most significant differences between a drum machine and a sampler is that a drum machine will be fully loaded with drum and percussion sounds. Not only that, but the build-in sequencer will make a massive difference to the type of sounds that you are able to make. 

Drum machines are ideal for those who want to create simple backing tracks and beats to play an instrument along with. Not only that, but they are suitable for solo performance and for keeping the tempo as you play your instrument. 

Samplers offer different types of playing options; you can create full instrumental loops that are more sophisticated – but not always easy for beginners. 

Most people who start playing an acoustic guitar will begin with a high-quality drum machine and then, over time, will also invest in a sampler. This means that even as a solo player, you can create the feel and sound of a full band. Without the hassle of having to have practiced with a full band. 
Guitars and drum machines are best friends, but it is essential that you get your technique down: How To Develop Great Guitar Technique ~.