The Boss DR-220E Dr. Rhythm is the electronic-oriented version of the DR-220 series, released in the mid-1980s. Compact, reliable, and immediate, it delivers classic electronic and synthetic drum sounds that became staples in electro, early house, synth-pop, and minimal setups.

Unlike the DR-220A (acoustic version), the DR-220E focuses on electronic percussion, making it especially appealing for vintage electronic music production and hardware-based rigs.

Key Features

  • 11 PCM drum/percussion voices (12-bit) + Accent
  • Real-time play grid (4×3 miniature pads, non-velocity / non-pressure sensitive)
  • 32 preset patterns + 32 user patterns (retained in memory after power-off)
  • Pattern length up to 16 steps (12 steps in 3/4 mode)
  • Programming: real-time recording or step-by-step entry
  • Per-voice Accent (0–5) and Volume (0–5) settings
  • Song mode: patterns can be chained into songs up to 128 bars (or 256 using Song Chain), with memory for up to 8 songs
  • Tempo range: 40–250 BPM
  • No MIDI, but sync/control via two 3.5 mm jacks (one DR-220 can control/be controlled by another, or by external trigger/sequencer sources)
    • Trigger output: +5V DC pulse (max 8 ms)
    • Trigger input: recognizes +5V to +15V
    • Note: using CV control “steals” one voice from the master unit (hardware limitation)

Sound set (DR-220E / electronic percussion)
Electronic percussion samples with a character often compared to early electronic drum aesthetics (including Simmons-style tones):

  • LT (Low Tom)
  • MT (Medium Tom)
  • HT (High Tom)
  • CHY (China Cymbal)
  • CB (Cowbell)
  • SLP (Vibraslap)
  • CH (Closed Hi-Hat)
  • OH (Open Hi-Hat)
  • BD (Bass Drum / Kick)
  • SD (Snare)
  • CUP (Cup Cymbal)

Condition and functionality

  • Super clean cosmetic condition
  • Fully tested and perfectly functional
  • All buttons, patterns, outputs, and memory functions work as expected
  • Display is clear and fully readable
  • Very well preserved unit for its age

What is included

  • Boss DR-220E Dr. Rhythm (silver version)
  • Original Casio soft protective pouch
  • No power supply required (battery operated)

Shipping information

Before placing your order, please contact me so we can determine the most secure and economical shipping option. This ensures the item is delivered safely and cost-effectively. While we’ve done our best to estimate the package size and weight accurately, alternative carriers may be available depending on your country or region.

Please note that the listed shipping prices correspond to insured services such as UPS, with full coverage for loss or damage up to the declared item value.

Estimated package: 0.7 kg (28 × 14 × 7 cm)

This item is sold As-Described

This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.

Listed9 days ago
ConditionGood (Used)
Good condition items function properly but may exhibit some wear and tear.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • DR-220E Dr. Rhythm
Finish
  • Silver
Categories
Year
  • 1980s
Made In
  • Japan
Number of Pads
  • 11 Pads
Analog / Digital
  • Digital

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