1. Online Sample Libraries
- Splice: Known for its vast library of high-quality samples, Splice offers a plethora of drum sounds suitable for various genres.
- Loopmasters: Another popular source, providing a wide range of drum samples and loops.
2. Royalty-Free Music Websites
- Free Sound: A great resource for free samples, including unique and user-uploaded drum sounds.
- AudioJungle: Offers a variety of royalty-free drum loops and samples for a small fee.
3. Music Production Software (DAWs)
- Built-in Libraries: Most DAWs like Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro come with extensive built-in drum libraries.
4. Hardware Drum Machines
- Sampling from Classics: Devices like the Roland TR-808 or TR-909 are iconic sources for drum sounds, often used in hip-hop and electronic music.
- Modern Drum Machines: Instruments like the Elektron Analog Rytm offer a blend of analog and digital sounds.
5. Record Your Own
- Field Recording: Capture unique drum sounds by recording real-world objects and environments.
- Drum Kits: Recording acoustic drum kits and processing the sounds can give a personal touch to your productions.
6. Social Media and Online Forums
- Reddit (e.g., r/Drumkits): A community-driven source where users share and discuss drum samples.
- Facebook Groups: Join groups focused on music production to find shared drum samples and tips.
7. YouTube
- Drum Sound Tutorials: Many channels offer tutorials on creating and finding drum sounds.
- Free Sample Packs: Some YouTubers provide free drum sample packs as part of their content.
8. Third Party VST’s
- Plugins or VST’s: Plugins like Battery by Native Instruments or more unique software’s like Jupiter, Spitfire’s new collaboration with Trevor Horn are great options for finding great drum samples. EZDrummer or Superior Drummer also offer realistic drum sounds and kits for your tracks in need of a more organic feel.
9. Professional Sound Designers’ Websites
- Individual Creators: Websites of renowned sound designers often have unique drum packs for sale.
- Collaborative Packs: Look out for collaborative sound packs from multiple creators for diverse sounds.
10. Music Production Forums and Blogs
- Gearslutz, KVR Audio: These forums often have threads sharing drum samples and tips on where to find them.
- Production Blogs: Many music production blogs periodically release free or paid drum packs.
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Final Tips
- Explore Multiple Sources: Don’t limit yourself to one source; explore various options to find the sounds that best suit your style.
- Legal Considerations: Ensure the samples are royalty-free or cleared for use to avoid legal issues.
- Customize and Layer: Modify and layer different samples to create unique drum sounds.
- Trade with Friends: If you have a community of producers you’re friends with, trading samples with each other is another great way to expand your library.
Register to Access Free Courses, Plugins, Projects, Samples & More
When you register with pointblank, you access an array of free sounds, plugins, online course samples, access to our social network Plugged In and much more! Simply register below and visit our Free Stuff page to get your hands on a range of exclusive music-making tools and tutorials provided by the team. Fill your boots!