In 1978, Toyo Gakki Corporation produced the first version of the Ult-Sound DS-4, a rare 4-channel analog drum synth with rich analog tones and unique functionality. The DS-4 is an unusual and versatile drum synthesizer with sounds originally triggered by drum pads. It was very popularly used among techno-pop groups in the 1980s in Japan and is well known for sounds similar to the Pearl Syncussion and Pollard Drums.
After the first design was released, Toyo Gakki presented the DS-4 ProMuzer, a follow up revision adding an attack pot and incorporating a sample & hold circuit by way of a BEAT SENSE to the master control of the pad triggers. This added more possibilities in sound design. When set on, the BEAT SENSE switch added more variation to rhythms performed on the instrument. This was a very welcome addition for classic drummers as it resulted in more spontaniety in their performance.
The final update, the DS-4 Custom, took on a more colorful yellow and blue to indicate related control sections to help simplify sound design. It also added cascade switching to the SENSE LEVEL pots, so the same pad can trigger multiple, or even all 4 channels. The FINE TUNE slider was replaced with a BEAT TUNE slider, which allowed the performer to control the amount that the intensity a drum pad was hit controlled the pitch attack of the sound. The chromatic note value switch was replaced with a tuning potentiometer, which although less musical became a source of more experimentation. One unfortunate tradeoff in this concept was a lowered reliability in tuning, which is why a shift to a continuous tuning potentiometer instead of an absolute pitch switch was introduced.
An inspiration for many modern drum machines, the DS-4 is heavily sought after for it's immediacy and ease of programming. As a 45 year old drum synthesizer, finding an original for a reasonable price without needing a complete restoration is not the easiest task. This is why the DS-4M project was brought into existence. Using all original schematics as well as original components, many of which are incredibly rare to find, the DS-4M is meticulously built by hand using thru-hole components. Physically, it is built like a tank to last for decades of enjoyment and creativity
What's more, modern MIDI and CV/GATE inputs have been added along with individual outputs and a high quality, balanced MAIN output ready to take the legacy of the Ultimate Sound DS-4 far into the future. The new functions also add an exciting twist: using the SINE or SQUARE waveforms, DS-4M also works as an up to 4 voice synthesizer, or any combination of drums/percussion with synths with accurate tuning as well! What is not to love about that? The DS-4m is built to order in a very limited run, not intended for mass production and will not be available forever, so order yours now.
For more info please visit our Instagram