The recording playback seems to be in mono so good for putting ideas down and composing. Excellent for practicing musicians, much better than a metronome (although it has one of these also). I like the way you can use it quickly and once you are familiarized, it is easy to operate. It is correctly labeled a rhythm machine and not a drum machine. The drums and percussion sounds are excellent and do sound live (in stereo). Just what I was looking for.