Using the TR-606 uniPulse version
The following guide shows how to install the ‘normal’ uniPulse version in the DR-55. This does however require a new case and additional power supply.
It should however be possible to install the ‘TR-606’ version of uniPulse instead. It is much smaller and should fit inside the case. We do not have a guide for this yet, but it should be pretty straight forward:
For the trigger points, the install guide below can be used. The 606 uniPulse has 2 supply voltage inputs, both of which I would connect to the 6V behind the power switch.
If you would like to try this, you may get in touch and we can supply further information if needed.
Modding the DR-55 extensively
One of our customers, Landon Balk, used the uniPulse midi interface to add midi to his Boss DR-55.
He also completely modded his machine and constructed a custom case.
You can purchase the case directly from him: facebook site or website.
This manual shows how to install uniPulse in the Boss DR-55 based on his instructions.
Please read carefully before purchasing the uniPulse mod. If you want this to be done by a tech, get a quote first!
Preparing the DR-55
Unlike most other drum machines the DR-55 needs to be modified a bit before uniPulse install is possible. The modification consists of replacing four jumper wires with diodes. You can use pretty much any kind of diode like 1N4148.
It will be hard to fit the uniPulse board in the original case. An external case like this one is probably a good choice. Here you can see the uniPulse board (on the right) sitting in the case and wires connected to the DR-55 main board.
A close-up shows where to solder the wires from uniPulse. Wires marked 1-5 are pulse outputs P1-5 from the uniPulse.The 5th connection is an extra sound (just the snare ‘body’)
Powering uniPulse
We recommend to power uniPulse from an external 12V-15V DC power supply. Just make sure to connect GND of uniPulse to GND of the DR-55
Configuring uniPulse
You can use the uniPulse configurator to upload your configuration. You need to set up the Pulse outputs as: Positive, Rect, 6V. Linking the velocity to the voltage will give you some velocity control
You can find a configuration file here