Boss DR-01S Rhythm Partner drum machine

General

If you play an acoustic instrument and need some rhythmic accompaniment to play along to during performances, then the DR-01S Rhythm Partner by BOSS is just the thing! It's basically a tool for singer-songwriters that provides virtual percussion and rhythmic patterns that sound great with acoustic instruments such as a guitar, ukulele, piano, or violin.

User-friendly interface

Thanks to this drum machine's user-friendly interface, adjusting rhythms and variations is child's play. Each button controls a separate function, which means you won't have to scroll endlessly through complex menu structures to find the sound you're after. You can store up to 50 of your favourite rhythms and patterns and easily call them up again when you need them.

BOSS DR-01S Rhythm Partner

As well as a large selection of percussion instruments and rhythms, there are also quite a few drum kits and beats available in the Boss DR-01S. Still, the Rhythm Partner is really more of a virtual percussionist than a drummer. It provides smooth, soft accompaniment that won't distract you or your audience from your music. The more you open it up, though, the more variations you get. You can also stack multiple patterns and create unique rhythms. There's also a handy count-in function so you and your Rhythm Partner are sure to start playing at the same time!

Optional footswitches

Another feature of the Rhythm Partner is that it can be controlled by one or two optional footswitches, which you can then assign to different functions like start/stop, tempo up/down, tap tempo, pattern variation and more. You can also set up a double footswitch or two separate footswitches to trigger specific sounds. Connect both to the same stereo jack input and use a splitter if necessary.

Other connectors

BOSS have provided the DR-01S with a built-in 4-inch speaker that offers a great sound for intimate acoustic performances and jam sessions. If you need a little more oomph, use the stereo mini jack line-out to connect more powerful speakers. With the aux in (also a stereo mini jack input), you can hook up external devices like your smartphone or tablet and play your favourite tracks using the DR-01S as a mobile speaker. The Rhythm Partner is powered by an included AC adapter or six AA batteries (sold separately), which means it's portable! Seeing as it only weighs 1 kilogram, there's really no reason not to take your grooves with you wherever you go!

Tips or comments about this product

• Please note: You can find an overview of all built-in rhythms here.