Drum-80 1.1.1

Note:

1. The app includes an AUv3 plugin extension.
2. To access the cymbal samples, a separate in-app download of approximately 180 MB is necessary. The app functions without these cymbal samples as well.

Instrument Background

The landscape of music production has been transformed by the advent of electronic drums, which debuted in the early 1980s. These instruments not only altered musical soundscapes but also significantly changed studio workflows. Producers often favored electronic drums over acoustic counterparts to streamline the recording process, eliminating the need for extensive microphone setups and time-consuming equalization of audio tracks. This shift facilitated faster production, which was particularly beneficial for budget-conscious projects, especially in pop music.

Initially, electronic drums were entirely analog devices that generated sound using basic components like oscillators and white noise generators, supplemented by envelopes and filters. While the resulting drum sounds lacked realism, they were distinct and paved the way for innovative auditory experiences.

A notable limitation of early electronic drums was their inability to replicate cymbal sounds. As a result, producers frequently opted to record real cymbals in tandem with electronic drum sounds. This hybrid approach became commonplace in live performances, where drummers could be seen integrating traditional cymbals with hexagonal pads.

The GSi Drum-80 effectively emulates this hybrid setup. It features two distinct sound engines operating simultaneously: one engine recreates the iconic sounds associated with the Simmons SDS-V drum module (similar to the subsequent SDS-8 model), while the exclusive GSi WLF Engine features multi-sampled real cymbals specifically recorded for Drum-80.

Main Features

• Virtual Analog Engine modeled after the renowned SDS-V drum module
• Optional VCO phase reset
• Supports multiple outputs: one stereo mix, six individual drum synth channels, and one stereo channel for cymbals
• Sampled cymbal sounds (Hi-Hat, Ride, 4 Crashes, and 3 Splashes) from the exclusive GSi WLF Engine
• Full polyphony
• Dedicated section for adjusting cymbal sounds (tuning, leveling, and EQ)
• Stereo 1176-style limiter
• Stereo delay effect
• Stereo reverb effect
• Built-in programmer with unlimited programs
• Embedded user manual
• Available as a stand-alone application and audio plugin (AUv3 for iPad)
• Very low CPU and RAM usage

For audio and video demonstrations, please visit the home page.