Linn LM-1 drum machine emulated in VST plugin

Yep, that'll be an LM-1.
Yep, that'll be an LM-1.

As we explained in our recent Synth icons feature, Linn's LM-1 is a drum machine classic, having being used extensively throughout the '80s and beyond.

It's no surprise, then, that it continues to draw the attention of emulation-happy software developers, and the latest company to recreate the LM-1 is Aly James Lab, which has just released the VLinn LM-1 Drums 32-bit VST plugin for Windows.

The company claims that this provides an extra level of realism because, rather than being based on samples, it models the LM-1's internal circuitry, even being capable of loading EPROM data. The developer goes to great lengths to explain why VLinn LM-1 offers the "closest experience to the real thing" on the Aly James Lab website, where you can also order it.

VLinn LM-1 Drums is donationware, with the minimum payment being €15. 64-bit and OS X versions are scheduled for 2015.

Check out the funky Prince-esque jam below to hear what it can do:

Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.