Mac software drum machine??? Please help

[tedzepplin]

I'm looking for drum software to run on my Mac.

I have iDrum and it is great for loading up my own drum samples and programing patterns in step mode but it is horrible for arranging patterns into songs.

I tried a demo of RS-16x and it is great for arranging songs but it only programs patterns in real time. it's too frustrating trying to tap a snare fill with mouse clicks.

The software MUST be able to load up my own drum samples. I don't need any factory provided drum samples. Patterns must be able to be programmed in step mode. It would be great if the volume can be adjusted on individual beats within a patteren. It MUST have a good song arranging interface.

I've searched and found lots of software that can load my samples and program patterns, but no funtion for arranging a drum track for a complete song.

Some people simply respond that I need a sequencer software. but that doesn't help because I don't know what sequencer software I would need. I'm don't know beans about sequencing software.

thanks for any suggestions.

[chrisp2u]

Originally Posted by tedzepplin

Some people simply respond that I need a sequencer software. but that doesn't help because I don't know what sequencer software I would need. I'm don't know beans about sequencing software.

That's typically the way to go. The only thing I can think of that would give you what you need in a single package would be Reason... might be worth a look (http://www.propellerheads.se/), though it's probably more than you'd need. Lot's of fun stuff in there though and pretty affordable compared to other options (ie. buying sequencing/recording software and drum software separately). Download the demo and give it a try.
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c

[funkmuffin]

Its free, and I think it can import your drum samples. The packaged kits leave something to be desired, but if you're willing to set up your own, then it might be what you want.

Now the important question: does it run on Mac? Yes! There's a MacOS installer on the Hydrogen site. http://www.hydrogen-music.org

Its definitely worth a look. Your can program individual measure-by-measure patterns, then arrange those sequentially into your song. Toggling between pattern and song modes is single-click. You'll also have a mixer strip for each drum , and the ability to (if you want) add plugins. There are also "humanize" and swing controls.