Are Drum Samples BAD? (How to Use Drum Samples)

Drum samples are a hotly debated topic. Some think that using drum samples is bad and evil because you should only record/mix 'REAL drums'. Others think that you should just throw up one microphone and then sample REPLACE everything after recording.

I believe there are certain instances where drum samples can be VERY useful, so let's demonstrate a few uses where I think drum samples can really help.

More on recording drums:

[Jobo]

most underrated drum channel on YouTube, love your videos bro

[jghillstudio]

Using samples is not evil. I used an Alesis DM 5 for years live with pin tech triggers. Only used for certain songs. Using sampled drums on a electronic kit is a must when going midi into a DAW. Great advise Tim on your professional use. Rock on 🤘

[timwilson]

Hey Tim! Fellow Tim here. Loved this video, and your perspective.

[kevinonthedrums]

You should always try to do as much as you can as natural as you can. Then supplement anything you can't get with your setup with samples only as needed. Pretty much what you said in the video. Great video!

[PeterSolod]

Great content as usual! Kinda deserves more views though

[dylanmccormickmoran]

Yea I agree that samples are definitely an advantage! When I record specifically covers I will always try to use as much of the real drums as possible but if I feel the listener will enjoy a piece more by maybe changing out a kick I don’t see a reason not to do it!

[tonyringo]

Once i record drums part how do i add samples without playing and triggering while playing the drums parts again 🥁

[robsco]

I recorded samples of my drumskit because I wanted my signature sound and wanted to use them just like midi (placing everything perfectely on time)...the sound I achieved is great if I listen to each part of my kit separately but It doesn't work when I listen all together, especially with the other tracks of the songs (Guitar, bass, keyboard, voice)...why? It's just a matter of equalization? Pre-amp? Cymbals sound good, snare and tom/floor tom not so much, they have no punch and clarity...
Sorry for my english and my no knowledge. Thank you.

[JulianFernandez]

Samples with no velocity changes will make a crappy performance sound a lot better. for mixing, heck yeas. for personal growth, honest evaluation, stay away from samples.