As the 2025 NAMM show approaches, the flood of gear announcements has begun. Sonicware, the Japanese company known for its affordable synths, samplers, and grooveboxes, has unveiled CyDrums, a cutting-edge drum synth with an enticing price tag.
At its core, CyDrums is a drum synthesizer and sequencer powered by a dual-oscillator wavetable synthesis engine. It comes loaded with 64 proprietary wavetables, offering 520 preset sounds and 128 drum kits. For those who love to experiment, the synth provides ample tools to create custom patches.
With 22 preset “sound structures,” CyDrums specializes in crafting a range of drum sounds. It covers everything from bass drums, snares, and rim shots to toms, cymbals, claps, and hi-hats, many of which include multiple variations. For added versatility, it also features a non-percussive synth structure, enabling users to incorporate melodies and basslines into their tracks.
The CyDrums’ 8-track, 128-step sequencer allows for programming up to 128 patterns per project. Drawing inspiration from Sonicware’s Lofi-12 XT workflow, this sequencer supports advanced features like polyrhythms, randomization, probability-based sequencing, and Elektron-style parameter locking. Performance-oriented modes, such as VariSpeed, mimic tape machine playback with timestretching capabilities, enhancing the creative potential.
The device includes 15 backlit pads that go beyond triggering sounds. These velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads enable control over synth parameters and effects, making CyDrums a great tool for expressive live performances.
Each of the synth’s eight tracks features a multi-mode filter, adjustable ADR amp envelope, and a distortion module. The effects engine boasts 22 insert effects, including chorus, flanger, reverb, delay, ring mod, overdrive, bitcrusher, compressor, and vinyl noise simulation. Five master effects—like a sidechain compressor and a looper—provide the ability to process entire patterns.
Sharing the compact design of Sonicware’s SmplTrek and Lofi-12 XT, CyDrums includes a 1.5-inch OLED display, an onboard mono microphone and speaker, and both battery and mains power options. Weighing just 0.5 kg, it’s built for portability.
The connectivity suite includes 1/4-inch stereo inputs and outputs, a 3.5mm headphone jack, MIDI in/out, USB MIDI and audio, and sync in/out via 3.5mm minijacks. Storage is handled via a 32GB SDHC card, which comes preloaded with presets and wavetables.
CyDrums offers a compelling value at $499, with an introductory price of $399. This powerful drum machine is available now and promises to be a versatile addition to any setup.
Sonicware’s CyDrums combines affordability with advanced features, making it a strong contender for producers and performers alike.
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