Portrait of Roger Linn
Photo: Create Digital MediaSource · CC BY-SA 2.0
Imaging & Audio

Roger Linn

LM-1 programmable sampled-sound drum machine

United StatesEvidence: high confidenceChecked July 2026

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Who is Roger Linn?

Roger Linn is an inventor associated with United States. Their documented work in imaging & audio includes LM-1 programmable sampled-sound drum machine, the contribution at the center of this evidence-backed profile.

Roger Linn invented the LM-1 Drum Computer, the first programmable sampled-sound drum machine, and designed its LinnDrum successors. His company history identifies the machine’s use on numerous 1980s hit records, while NAMM credits it with opening a new era of electronic dance music and sampling for DJs.

Known forLM-1 programmable sampled-sound drum machine
FieldImaging & Audio
Associated withUnited States
Evidence reviewed2 sources
01

What did Roger Linn invent?

invented the LM-1 Drum Computer, the first programmable drum machine using sampled sounds

02

What did Roger Linn accomplish?

The LM-1 and LinnDrum became defining rhythmic hardware on 1980s pop recordings and an influential sampling platform.

03

What is known about Roger Linn today?

Roger Linn’s official site records his first-person January 2025 commentary, August 2025 interview, and May 2026 LinnStrument firmware release.

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