The Volca Drum provides six parts, each with two layers, from which the user selects any one of 5 oscillator waveforms including sine, sawtooth, and HPF noise. Additionally, the user can select from three types of pitch modulators and amplifier envelope generators, each optimized for drum sounds. Edit layers separately or together while adding bit reduction, wave-folder depth, overdrive, and distortion. A waveguide resonator adds sympathetic resonances to the sound and provides two selected types including tube, which adds the resonance of a cylindrical object such as a drum body or a long pipe; or strings, which adds the metallic resonance of a string.

The onboard step-sequencer allows the user to manually input up to 16 steps per pattern, but also can be used for real-time recording. The pattern chaining function can chain up to 16 sequences to construct patterns with up to 256 steps. Use the motion sequence function to record knob movements during real-time recording and reproduce them during playback. There are a total of 69 different parameters that can be recorded and played back. Additional features and functions include Active Step, which replaces steps for each part; and Slice, which finely divides a step to allow drum-rolls; an Accent function that can be specified in 16 levels; and a convenient Choke function for specific grouping of parts.

The Volca Drum can be synchronized with other Volcas and Electribes via the trigger I/O. Additionally, the machine features a standard 5-pin DIN connector for connecting to other sequencers, allowing the unit to perform as a drum module.

The Korg Volca Drum is a digital percussion synthesizer that harnesses the power of physical modeling to create sounds and patterns unlike most other drum machines, making it well suited for musicians and producers working in the studio or performing live on stage. The machine utilizes dual-layer drum parts, comprehensive motion sequencing, and sequencer tricks to generate a variety of standard percussive sounds and eccentric drum styles.