Gear article
Mooer MDM1 Micro Drummer
The Mooer MDM1 Micro Drummer is a compact, digital drum machine pedal designed for guitarists and bassists to provide rhythmic accompaniment during practice and performance. It features 121 built-in drum patterns across 11 musical genres, housed in a micro-sized chassis common to the Mooer Audio product line.
See live pricesOverview and Design
The Mooer MDM1 Micro Drummer is a dedicated rhythm utility designed to fit onto crowded pedalboards where space is at a premium. Unlike full-sized drum machines, it focuses on a streamlined interface that allows users to quickly dial in a beat without deep menu diving. The pedal is constructed with a metal housing and features a standard footswitch for engaging the effect and managing tempo.
Patterns and Genres
The pedal comes pre-loaded with 121 drumbeats, organised into 11 distinct musical genres. Each genre contains 11 variations, allowing for a diverse range of rhythmic styles. The available genres include:
- Pop, Rock, and Metal
- Blues, Jazz, and Funk
- R&B, Latin, and Reggae
- Punk
Users can navigate these genres using the Mode control, while an LED indicator provides visual feedback to identify which parameter is currently being adjusted.
Controls and Functionality
Sound shaping is managed through three primary knobs: Volume, Tone, and Speed. The Volume control adjusts the output level of the drum patterns relative to the guitar signal, while the Tone control modifies the frequency response of the drum samples. The Speed knob allows for manual adjustment of the beats per minute (BPM).
For real-time adjustments during performance, the MDM1 includes Tap Tempo functionality. This is activated by holding down the footswitch, allowing the user to sync the drum beat to the live tempo of the music.
Comparison to Alternatives
In the market for utility pedals, the MDM1 competes with other compact tools such as the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor or the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay, though it serves a unique rhythmic role. While it lacks the extreme pitch-shifting capabilities of the Digitech Whammy Ricochet or the modulation of a Fender Hammertone Flanger, it provides a functional foundation for solo practice that traditional effects like the Behringer UC200 or EHX Big Muff cannot offer. It is particularly suited for players who require a simple, set-and-forget rhythm section without the footprint of a larger workstation.
Related gear
£97.00 ($123)Electro Harmonix
Electro Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer w/ Tone Wicker
£129.00 ($164)Digitech
Digitech Whammy Ricochet Guitar Effects Pedal
£85.00 ($108)Fender
Fender Hammertone Flanger Pedal
£19.90 ($25)Behringer
Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus Pedal
£259.00 ($329)Dunlop
Dunlop Mick Ronson Cry Baby Wah
£77.00 ($98)Yamaha
Yamaha FC7 Expression Pedal
£175.00 ($222)Boss
Boss DD-3T Digital Delay Pedal
£99.10 ($126)Boss
Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor Guitar Pedal
Frequently asked questions
- How many drum patterns are included in the Mooer MDM1?
- The pedal features a total of 121 drum patterns. These are divided into 11 different genres, with each genre offering 11 distinct rhythmic variations.
- Which musical genres are covered by the Micro Drummer?
- The MDM1 includes patterns for Pop, Blues, Funk, Punk, Rock, R&B, Latin, Metal, Jazz, and Reggae. This variety ensures compatibility with most standard guitar playing styles.
- How do you control the tempo of the drum beats?
- Tempo can be controlled in two ways: using the dedicated Speed knob on the face of the pedal or by utilizing the Tap Tempo function. Tap Tempo is activated by holding down the footswitch.
- Does the Mooer MDM1 have a Tone control?
- Yes, it includes a Tone control knob. This allows the user to adjust the character of the drum sounds, making them brighter or darker to suit their amplifier setup.
- How do you select between different genres and patterns?
- The Mode Control knob is used to select the genre and the specific pattern. The onboard LED will change colour to indicate which parameter is currently being modified.
- Is the Mooer MDM1 a digital or analogue pedal?
- The MDM1 is a digital pedal, as it utilizes stored drum samples and digital processing to generate its 121 rhythmic patterns. This allows for the high variety of sounds within its small chassis.
- What is the typical price for this pedal in the UK?
- The typical price range for the Mooer MDM1 Micro Drummer is approximately £79. This makes it an affordable option for players looking for a basic rhythm tool.
- What size is the MDM1 pedal?
- The MDM1 is part of Mooer's 'Micro' series. It features an ultra-compact footprint designed to save space on a guitar pedalboard.
- Can the volume of the drums be adjusted independently?
- Yes, the pedal features a dedicated Volume control. This allows you to blend the drum patterns with your guitar signal or set them to a specific level for practice.
- Does the pedal require a battery?
- Like most Mooer Micro pedals, the MDM1 typically requires an external 9V DC power supply. Due to its small size, it does not have an internal compartment for a 9V battery.
- How does the LED help the user?
- The LED colour indicates the current status and which parameter is available for adjustment. This is essential for navigating the 11 genres and 11 patterns with a single Mode control.
- Is the MDM1 suitable for live performance?
- While primarily used for practice, the Tap Tempo functionality and metal housing make it capable of live use. However, it is best suited for simple rhythmic backing rather than complex song structures.
