Brand: Akai
The Akai CR-81 is a vintage drum machine that was first introduced in the early 1980s. It features a synthesized drum sound with eight different voices: bass drum, snare drum, low tom, high tom, closed hi-hat, open hi-hat, crash cymbal, and ride cymbal.The CR-81 has a simple, intuitive interface with easy-to-use controls for each drum voice, including pitch, decay, and tuning. It also has a few useful features such as a built-in metronome, a slotted case for easy transportation, and the ability to sync with other MIDI devices via the IN' and THRU' inputs.One of the distinguishing features of the CR-81 is its unique sound. Unlike other popular drum machines of the time, such as the Roland CR-78 and the Linn LM-1, the CR-81's sounds have a distinctly analog character with a gritty, edgy feel. Additionally, the CR-81's voices are less realistic-sounding than those of competitors, making it well-suited for electronic music styles such as synthpop, new wave, and industrial music.Today, vintage drum machines like the Akai CR-81 have gained a cult following among music producers and collectors who appreciate their unique sounds and vintage aesthetic. The CR-81 remains a highly sought-after classic in the sphere of drum machines and related electronic instruments.