Roger Linn, the mastermind behind some of the most iconic drum machines in music history, has shared his views on the modern recreations of his legendary LinnDrum. With Behringer’s LMDrum and GForce Software’s IconDrum both launching in December 2024, Linn’s opinions offer fascinating insights into the evolution of his groundbreaking designs. These recreations have generated significant buzz among music producers and enthusiasts, sparking debates about authenticity, innovation, and the future of classic music hardware and software.
Behringer’s LMDrum: A Familiar Face with New Features
Behringer’s LMDrum, a hardware-based recreation, was initially teased in 2021 and finally hit the market in late 2024. Visually, it’s a near replica of the 1980s drum machines that defined an era—the LM-1, LinnDrum, and Linn 9000. From the outside, it mirrors the aesthetic and layout of Linn’s originals, but under the hood, it operates on an entirely different system.
In his critique, Linn acknowledged the effort put into recreating his designs but noted that the user interface and system architecture of the LMDrum diverge significantly from his original vision. He described the new interface as “confusing,” particularly for musicians accustomed to the streamlined workflow of the original LinnDrum machines.
An important detail Linn highlighted is that Behringer did not seek his permission to replicate his designs or sounds. While this isn’t uncommon in the world of recreations, it raises questions about intellectual property and respect for original innovators. Despite this, the LMDrum has attracted attention for its affordability and accessibility, making it an intriguing option for modern producers seeking that vintage LinnDrum sound.
GForce’s IconDrum: The Software Alternative
On the software side, GForce Software released the IconDrum, a digital emulation of Linn’s legendary drum machines. Unlike Behringer’s hardware-focused approach, GForce has opted to modernize the LinnDrum experience within a software environment, appealing to producers who prefer working in digital audio workstations (DAWs).
Interestingly, Roger Linn has not publicly commented on the IconDrum as of yet. However, the software has been praised for its authentic sound modeling and added features that allow users to customize and manipulate classic drum tones in ways not possible with the original hardware.
Why Do LinnDrum Recreations Matter?
The revival of classic instruments like the LinnDrum reflects a broader trend in the music industry. Producers today are drawn to the nostalgia and timeless appeal of vintage gear, but they also seek modern features and conveniences. Reproductions like the LMDrum and IconDrum aim to bridge this gap, offering both the charm of retro sounds and the flexibility of contemporary technology.
For musicians, these recreations provide a chance to tap into the sonic signature of hits from the 1980s and beyond. From Prince’s iconic beats to Peter Gabriel’s groundbreaking rhythms, the LinnDrum remains a cornerstone of music history. The new recreations ensure that its legacy continues to inspire.
What’s Next for Drum Machine Innovators?
Roger Linn’s critique sheds light on the challenges of reimagining a classic instrument for modern times. While some may see the LMDrum and IconDrum as tributes to Linn’s genius, others argue that true innovation lies in creating entirely new tools that build on the foundation he laid.
Linn himself remains active in the world of music technology, continually pushing boundaries with his own designs, such as the LinnStrument. His dedication to innovation serves as a reminder that while recreations have their place, the future of music technology lies in forward-thinking design.
Final Thoughts
As Behringer and GForce Software make their mark with LinnDrum recreations, the music world watches closely. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original LinnDrum or a newcomer exploring these instruments for the first time, the availability of these modern recreations opens up exciting possibilities.
Stay tuned as Roger Linn and other pioneers continue to shape the future of music technology. For now, these recreations offer a unique opportunity to revisit—and reimagine—the sounds that changed music forever.
