Simmons SDE

The Simmons SDE, introduced in 1986, is a drum expander module designed to augment electronic drum kits with additional percussion sounds. It utilizes FM synthesis to generate a variety of metallic and mallet-like tones using the Yamaha YM2203C 2 operator chip. Sounds range from xylophones, bells, marimbas, and vibraphones and various experimental FM clangs. The SDE is particularly noted for its capability to produce gritty, digital sounds, making it suitable for genres that require distinctive percussive textures. While it was intended to complement electronic drum setups, its unique sound palette has also found applications in broader musical contexts. It has been used by Autechre and Bintus.