Instruments Commonly Used in Electronic Dance Music

Get familiar with the instruments commonly used in electronic dance music so you can better understand the music you’re hearing.

Synthesizers

Synthesizers are one of the most common instruments used in electronic dance music. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small tabletop units to large-scale modular systems. Synthesizers can create a wide range of sounds, from simple melodies to complex soundscapes.

Common types of synthesizers include:

-Analog synthesizers: These synthesisers create sound by generating electrical signals that are converted into sound waves. Analog synthesizers are often prized for their warm, organic sound.
-Digital synthesizers: These synthesisers create sound using digital signal processing technology. Digital synthesizers can create a wider range of sounds than analog units, and are often more versatile and user-friendly.
-Modular synthesizers: These synthesisers are made up of a collection of modules that can be interconnected in a variety of ways. Modular synthesizers often offer a greater degree of flexibility and creativity than other types of units.

Drum machines

Drum machines are machines that generate or reproduce sounds, usually rhythms, drum kits or percussion sounds. They are commonly used in electronic dance music to provide the beats and rhythmic foundation for a track. Drum machines can be either physical hardware devices or software plugins.

There are a wide variety of drum machines available on the market, from simple, entry-level devices to feature-packed drum workstations. Some of the most popular brands include Roland, Korg, Akai and Yamaha.

Samplers

One of the defining features of electronic dance music is the heavy use of samples. Samples are short snippets of audio that can be looped or played back at different speeds to create new sounds. Samplers are used to create new drums beats, bass lines, and melodies. Many samplers can also play back pre-recorded samples from CDs or other sources.

Sequencers

Sequencers are devices or software that generate and play back music or sound. They can be used to create entire pieces of music or to generate new sounds. Sequencers are often used in electronic dance music, because they can create complex and repetitive patterns. Some common sequencers include Ableton Live, FL Studio, Reason, and Logic Pro.

MIDI controllers

In electronic dance music, MIDI controllers are often used to control various parameters of a track or performance. Common MIDI controllers include keyboard controllers, drum pads, and wind controllers. Often, these devices are used to trigger sounds or samples stored on a computer or other electronic device.

Software instruments

Instrumental music has always been a staple of electronic dance music, from classic tracks like Kraftwerk’s “Trans-Europe Express” to modern hits like Avicii’s “Levels.” But what instruments are actually used in EDM? Here’s a look at some of the most common software instruments used in electronic dance music.

1. Drum machines and samplers. These are perhaps the most essential tools for any electronic musician, providing the bedrock for any track. Popular drum machines and samplers include the Roland TR-808 and 909, the Akai MPC series, and the Native Instruments Maschine.

2. Synthesizers. Synthesizers are also key in many electronic productions, often used to create distinctive melodic hooks or basslines. Classic analog synthesizers like the Moog Minimoog and Roland TB-303 are still widely used today, while digital options like Native Instruments’ Massive are also popular.

3. MIDI controllers. MIDI controllers come in all shapes and sizes, from simple keyboard controllers to complex pads and mixers. They’re used to control other software instruments, making them an essential piece of gear for any producer working with virtual instruments.

4. Audio effects processors. Effects processors are used to shape and manipulate the sound of other instruments, often giving them a unique character or coloration. Common effects include reverb, delay, EQ, and compression.