Do I need EZ-Drummer type thing?

[Nail Soup]

I'm gradually improving my set up, and wondering if EZDrummer (or similar product) would benefit me. The product, and the associated expansion packs, seem like a lot of money. I'm willing to pay, but I suspect that what I have might be good enough for my needs.

 

What do I have?

• Studio one plug-in called "Impact"
• It is easy to use
• Supports velocity layers
• Can be programmed in grid mode (piano roll) or via tapping MIDI pads
• I can construct my own kits from WAV files.
• Has standard features like choke groups, changing the envelope of the sound etc.

Features that EZ Drummer that I think I don't need:

• Midi Loops (I program drums from scratch... probably sounds worse as a result, but I want it to be my own work)
• Changing Mic placement

So, here is where I'd appreciate advice:

• Are there any other features of EZ-drummer type plug-ins that I should take into consideration?
• Am I making a mistake to dismiss MIDI loops and mic placement ?
• Any other thoughts/advice on the topic?
• Is it easy to obtain packs of drum his with velocity layers for my Impact?

 

 

 

[Dad3353]

21 minutes ago, Nail Soup said:

So, here is where I'd appreciate advice: ...

• Are there any other features of EZ-drummer type plug-ins that I should take into consideration?
  No, not really, for what you're doing. EZ-Drummer can be played from an e-kit, 'live', or recorded from such a kit; I don't know if that's the case with Impact or not.
• Am I making a mistake to dismiss MIDI loops and mic placement ?
  No, except for the ease of using a MIDI loop as a basis for 'tweaking' to one's needs. I often do this, as what I'd do from scratch would be close to what's in the MIDI file. All I need to do, using a MIDI file, is change to what I really want (dynamics, subtleties, accents, 'more' or 'less', depending ... MIDI Drum files can be sourced from anywhere, though, not just EZ-Drummer.
  Mic placing is of limited use for the type of stuff you or I are doing, I suspect. I do use the Mixer a lot, though, to change or eliminate 'bleed', or add/subtract 'ambience' mics. Nuances, though.
• Any other thoughts/advice on the topic?
  If what you're doing ain't broke, don't fix it. There are dozens of 'rabbit holes'; choose wisely.
• Is it easy to obtain packs of drum his with velocity layers for my Impact?
  Here, at PreSonus..? About £30 a pop, I think. Here's one...
  Tom Brechtlein Drums Vol.1 - Stereo ...

Hope this helps. 

 

[Newfoundfreedom]

Whether you need it or not, only you can decide.

What I will say is it's an absolutely superb bit of software. 

If you are recording however, Superior Drummer 3 is in an entirely different league. 

Edited July 6, 2021 by Newfoundfreedom

[Dad3353]

1 minute ago, Newfoundfreedom said:

Whether you need it it not, only you can decide.

What I will say is it's an absolutely superb bit of software. 

If you are recording however, Superior Drummer 3 is in an entirely different league. 

I concur, on all counts, with the proviso that Superior Drummer 3 is far more expensive. Worth it, for many, but far more expensive just the same.