Updates

The Analog Revolution in Modern Drum Production

From Digital to Desk: How One Mixer Found His Sound

Joel Wanasek has been in the thick of modern rock and metal production for years. His mixes have punched through radio speakers and streaming platforms alike. But three years ago, he made a change that shifted everything about how he works.

He bought an SSL Origin 32 console.

"I had to ditch the habits that I had from mixing in the box for many years and kind of relearn everything," Wanasek tells me from his studio. "Certain things in your ITB workflow don't translate well with analog."

The transition wasn't immediate. After years of in-the-box mixing, moving to analog meant unlearning some deeply ingrained habits. But the results speak for themselves - his recent work includes projects spanning from active rock radio hits to underground metal, all carrying a distinctive punch that cuts through today's loudness wars.

The Sample Wars: Navigating Modern Drum Production

We're living through perhaps the loudest era in music history. Active rock mixes are hitting levels that seemed impossible a decade ago. In this environment, getting drums to cut through becomes both an art and a science.

"The major problem we have in modern music is that we are trying to get stuff to smash and we're at the loudest point probably in human history," Wanasek explains. "Some of those rock mixes are at like -4.2 LUFS, which is so loud that it's insane."

This creates a unique challenge. How do you get drums to punch through something that dense and aggressive? The answer, according to Wanasek, lies in smart sample selection and layering techniques.

His go-to arsenal centers around Drumforge products, particularly the Savior cymbals and the various Arsenal libraries. "Those are my favorite sampled cymbals on the planet," he says about the Savior set. "They just sound awesome. There's something about that room and those TRX cymbals - they just cut. They sound so clean, so crisp."

But it's not just about picking the right samples. It's about how you layer them.

The Art of Layering: Building Drums That Move

Wanasek's approach to drum construction is methodical but flexible. He typically starts with a foundation - whether that's programmed drums or real kit recordings - then builds from there.

"My favorite sets of samples are Drumshotz and the Snare and Kick Arsenal," he explains. "That is like the bread and butter of my sound. I can create any sound in the world very quickly through that combination."

His process often involves multiple layers for each element:

For Kicks: He'll blend direct samples with ambient room samples, particularly loving the "Wood Room Kick 3" from the Kick Arsenal for its spread and depth.

For Snares: He uses a combination of one-shots for consistency and multi-samples for variation, depending on the musical context. "There are certain hits that you just want to be consistent every time," he notes. "But then maybe you have a part where they're doing faster eighth note snares and you want a more dynamic snare so it doesn't sound robotic."

For Ambience: This is where Drumforge SOAP comes in - what he calls "the most gnarly, coolest sounding and most interesting ambiance that's ever been done." He'll often gate it with Arcus for tighter sounds or let it fly for more spacious mixes.

The key insight here is automation. Wanasek doesn't just set levels and forget them. He's constantly riding the ambient samples up and down depending on the section. A verse might need just a touch of room sound to avoid sounding too clicky, while a chorus might want the full ambient treatment.

Real vs. Programmed: The Modern Reality

One surprising revelation from our conversation is just how prevalent programmed drums have become in professional production. Even bands with stellar drummers are often using programmed kits for entire albums.

"You can always tell by the cymbals," Wanasek says with a laugh. "I can name an artist on the radio, and I can probably tell you exactly what samples they use."

This isn't necessarily about cutting corners. Sometimes it's about efficiency - producers working on tight schedules need the consistency and flexibility that samples provide. Other times, it's about sonic consistency across an album.

"A lot of people don't understand this, but in the big leagues, it's kind of like a song a day," he explains. "The artist comes in, they write a song that day, and onto the next tomorrow."

But here's the thing - real or programmed doesn't matter to the end listener if it serves the song. Wanasek gave me an example from a recent project where he replaced a crash/ride with a programmed crash cymbal because it wasn't articulate enough on the chorus for a radio single. The song went to number five on the active rock radio charts. Nobody cared about those replaced hits or noticed them.

The Console Difference: Why Analog Still Matters

Three years into his analog journey, Wanasek has strong opinions about the sonic differences between console and computer mixing. The change affected more than just his sound - it changed his entire approach.

"Switching to mixing on a console probably reduced 50 to 60% of the EQ that I do," he tells me. "Maybe more like 70 to 75%. The tone shaping characteristics and ability on a board, and the distortion it adds naturally, and the way it just separates things - I just need so much less EQ than when I'm mixing in a computer."

He's also simplified his plugin usage dramatically. Gone are the mix bus chains loaded with tape emulations and vintage compressor plugins. "When you're in the box, you need to emulate all that extra saturation. But an analog desk already does that. It has a ton of musical distortion in it."

The low end is where he notices the biggest difference. "You can't get the bass movement in the computer that you get from console mixing. Even at the loudest levels, you can actually feel the bass note, and it cranks better."

Processing Philosophy: Less is More

With his analog setup handling much of the heavy lifting, Wanasek's drum processing has become less surgical. His typical chain might include:

• Minimal SSL EQ for tone shaping (he particularly likes a touch of 200Hz for punch, especially on kick rooms)
  
• His custom-modded ADR Express limiter (a rare piece he calls "very badass")
  
• Distressors on cymbals for control and saturation
  
• Smart C2 compressor on the mix bus to glue it all together
  

For plugins, he's moved away from some of his old Waves favorites toward newer tools like JST Heat and JST LOFI. "Heat is just more fun for me," he says. "Everything's got a flavor. Decapitator, Saturn - they're great plugins. Heat is an awesome plugin. They all sound different."

The key philosophy here is choosing the right tool for the job, not defaulting to the same chain every time. "Every day you're building a different house, and sometimes you need a screwdriver, sometimes you need a hammer."

Genre Flexibility: Adapting the Approach

Working across multiple genres, from deathcore to active rock to pop, means Wanasek can't rely on templates. His approach changes based on the sonic goals of each project.

For metal: Tighter, clickier drum sounds. Faster tempos mean less low-end punch, more attack. He might use DF-Clip 2 to control transients or Transient Designer to tighten sustain.

For active rock: More space, longer subs, fatter snares with more ring. He'll let the ambiance fly harder and might use limiters instead of clippers to soften rather than sharpen.

"It's not so much genres, but more so what kind of sound the band wants," he explains. "Some bands want it to sound like 2001 - and I love that because those are the best mixes ever from that era. Other times it's like 'let's make this really hyped up and over-processed."

The Human Touch in a Digital World

Perhaps the most interesting part of our conversation was Wanasek's perspective on the future of drum production. As AI and digital tools become more sophisticated, he sees a potential counter-movement toward more human, collaborative approaches.

"I like collaborating with people. I have no desire to collaborate with a computer," he says. "I will use computers to speed up my workflow, but I like making records. To me, it's about people and collaboration."

His advice for the future? Try to make things that are timeless. Don't chase trends. Chase greatness.

"Don't be so against old technology. One way to make things sound fresh is to take something old and put a new spin on it. That's why I have analog gear in my room - it's got a different sound and it's unique."

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When I asked about common mistakes he sees in developing mixers, Wanasek was quick to point out one major issue: over-hyping drum shells.

"People over-hype their drum shells to the point where there's just click, and they completely disconnect from the cymbals. All you have are samples floating in space, and it just sounds terrible."

The solution? Listen to real drummers in real rooms. Understand how a kit sounds when it's all working together. Don't process individual elements in isolation.

"If you lose that pocket, your mix is going to suck and you will get beat every time by a real mixer. A real mixer always knows how to find the pocket."

Looking Forward

As we wrapped up our conversation, Wanasek was in the middle of mixing several projects he's excited about. He’s working on new material from artists like Ice Nine Kills, Fuel, Celldweller, Catch Your Breath, VOILA, and The Haunt. He's also working on completing some highly anticipated projects with Drumforge, too.

But perhaps more telling than any specific project is his approach to each one. Whether it's a death metal band or a radio rock single, he starts with the same question: What does this song need?

"A great mixer isn't trying to just impose their sound on the band," he reflects. "A great mixer is taking the producer and the band's vision and enhancing it and giving that back to them. But better."

In an era where many things can sound the same, that philosophy, combined with his unique analog/digital hybrid approach, keeps his work standing out in a crowded marketplace.

Joel Wanasek's recent work spans multiple genres and includes collaborations with producers and artists across the rock and metal spectrum (Credits). For more information about Drumforge samples and plugins mentioned in this article, visit drumforge.com and joeysturgistones.com

 

Arcus has been updated!

What's new?

• Updated for latest OS compatibility.
• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems
• Implement VST3 bundles and manifest generation.

Installation Instructions:

To install v1.0.3, you'll need to run the latest version of the installer for your operating system.

To those of you who did not opt out of receiving product update emails, this will have already been sent to your inbox. If you're an owner of Arcus and have not received this email, write us at support@drumforge.com and we'll make sure you're taken care of!

Kickforge, the ultimate Kick Drum Sampler, has been updated with compatibility updates and bug fixes.

What's New:

• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Support for protected products running in the Apple Sandbox.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems.
• Added Audio Preview on regular click in Drumshotz loader (Ctrl+Click still supported).

Bug Fixes:

• Fix updater to support the latest macOS version.
• Bug Fix - Plugin crashing Reaper when opening the browser/preset menu.

DF-Clarify 2 & DF-Transient 2 have been updated!

What's new?

• Replace the “Help” window with a popup menu to fix issues related to the modal window.
• Manual linked to an online resource. (Access Manual via the plugin GUI)
• Updated for latest OS compatibility.
• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems

Installation Instructions:

To install these new versions, you'll need to run the latest version of the installer for your operating system.

To those of you who did not opt out of receiving product update emails, this will have already been sent to your inbox. If you're an owner of either plugin and have not received this email, write us at support@drumforge.com and we'll make sure you're taken care of!

Yet to try DF-Clarify 2 or DF-Transient 2? Grab a free trial by visiting the product pages!

DF-Q2 & DF-CLIP 2 have been updated!

What's new?

• DF-Q2 v2.2.1
• DF-CLIP 2 v2.3.2
• Reduced Binary Size to Improve Loading Time.
• Replace the “Help” window with a popup menu to fix issues related to the modal window.
• Manual linked to an online resource. (Access Manual via the plugin GUI)
• Updated for latest OS compatibility.
• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems

Installation Instructions:

To install these new versions, you'll need to run the latest version of the installer for your operating system.

To those of you who did not opt out of receiving product update emails, this will have already been sent to your inbox. If you're an owner of either plugin and have not received this email, write us at support@drumforge.com and we'll make sure you're taken care of!

Yet to try DF-CLIP 2 or DF-Q2? Grab a free trial by visiting the product pages!

Drumforge Matt Greiner, made in collaboration with Matt Greiner from August Burns Red, as well as Atrium Audio. This amazing Drum Sampler Plugin has been updated with New Features & Samples! Along with our standard compatibility updates and bug fixes.

 

What's New:

• New drum samples added
  • 3 Kicks, 5 Snares, 2 Sets Of Toms, 2 Chinas, 1 Ride, 1 Hi Hat Cymbal.
• Now including 'The Messenger China'! The very same make & model of the China that was used on the record!
• The newly added DW “True Cast” Bell Bronze Snare is a Major Collectors Item - #12 of only 100 made worldwide and Extremely Sought After!
• New Presets!
• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Updated Logo.
• Support for protected products running in the Apple Sandbox.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems.
• Added Audio Preview on regular click in Drumshotz loader (Ctrl+Click still supported).

Bug Fixes:

• Fix updater to support the latest macOS version.
• Fix misstriggers on articulations that don't have alternate articulations when using alternate mode.

1. Launch the Updater application and select “Add/Remove Components” and select only 'Sounds'. Be sure that all DAWs are closed before updating! 
   
2. Just let it do its thing until Complete.
3. Once run, click Restart.
4. Select Add/Remove Components again and leave all options Checked and click Next.
5. When Complete Click 'Finish'.

Important: If you have any custom maps or presets, please BACK UP before running the updates.

Drumforge Classic, the incredible OG Drumforge Sampler Plugin has been updated, with compatibility updates and bug fixes.

What's New:

• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Support for protected products running in the Apple Sandbox.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems.
• Added Audio Preview on regular click in Drumshotz loader (Ctrl+Click still supported).

Bug Fixes:

• Fix updater to support the latest macOS version.
• Fix an issue causing a crash when clicking the “Send” tab in the Mixer.

1. Launch the Updater application and select “Update Components”. Be sure that all DAWs are closed before updating! 
   
2. Uncheck "Audio Plugins" and click Next.
3. Once run, click Restart.
4. Select Update Components again.
5. Check Audio Plugins and click Next.
6. Click Update and then Finish.

Important: If you have any custom maps or presets, please BACK UP before running the updates.

Drumforge Bergstrand, the incredibly popular Drum Sampler Plugin has been updated, with compatibility updates and bug fixes.

What's New:

• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Support for protected products running in the Apple Sandbox.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems.
• Added Audio Preview on regular click in Drumshotz loader (Ctrl+Click still supported).

Bug Fixes:

• Fix updater to support the latest macOS version.
• Fix misstriggers on articulations that don't have alternate articulations when using alternate mode.

1. Launch the Updater application and select “Update Components”. Be sure that all DAWs are closed before updating! 
   
2. Uncheck "Audio Plugins" and click Next.
3. Once run, click Restart.
4. Select Update Components again.
5. Check Audio Plugins and click Next.
6. Click Update and then Finish.

Important: If you have any custom maps or presets, please BACK UP before running the updates.

Drumforge Savior, the incredibly popular Drum Sampler Plugin has been updated, with compatibility updates and bug fixes.

What's New:

• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Support for protected products running in the Apple Sandbox.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems.
• Added Audio Preview on regular click in Drumshotz loader (Ctrl+Click still supported).

Bug Fixes:

• Fixed the issue causing a crash when clicking the “Send” tab in the Mixer.
• Fix updater to support the latest macOS version.
• Fix misstriggers on articulations that don't have alternate articulations when using alternate mode.

1. Launch the Updater application and select “Update Components”. Be sure that all DAWs are closed before updating! 
   
2. Uncheck "Audio Plugins" and click Next.
3. Once run, click Restart.
4. Select Update Components again.
5. Check Audio Plugins and click Next.
6. Click Update and then Finish.

Important: If you have any custom maps or presets, please BACK UP before running the updates.

Drumflex v1.4.2 is now available!

What's new?

• Updated for latest OS compatibility.
• Compatibility fix for Fusion DLC-protected software running on Apple M4
  systems.
• Resolve incompatibility issues between wrapped Audio Units plugins and
  recent GarageBand versions on Intel-based systems

Installation Instructions:

To install v1.4.2, you'll need to run the latest version of the installer for your operating system.

To those of you who did not opt out of receiving product update emails, this will have already been sent to your inbox. If you're an owner of Drumflex and have not received this email, write us at support@drumforge.com and we'll make sure you're taken care of!

DF-SMACK v1.0.2 is now available!

Now with support for Apple M4 processors along with some latency/delay compensation related bug fixes.

Installation Instructions:

To install v1.0.2, you'll need to run the latest version of the installer for your operating system.

To those of you who did not opt out of receiving product update emails, this will have already been sent to your inbox. If you're an owner of DF-SMACK and have not received this email, write us at support@drumforge.com and we'll make sure you're taken care of!

We’re excited to announce that Drumforge is now offering free trials for select products! This means you can experience the power and precision of Drumforge plugins first hand before making a commitment.

Whether you’re looking to shape your drum tones, mix like a pro, or bring your music to life with cutting-edge tools, our free trials give you the chance to test out our plugins in your own studio environment.

Here’s how it works:

• Visit a product page and find the Download Free Trial button.

• Click the button and enter your contact information - provide an email address where we can send you the download.

• To begin your 14 day free trial, simply install the software, open a supported DAW. Next, the software activation screen will appear either during startup or when you first attempt to load the plugin. You’ll need a free iLok account. No dongle required. No Code required!

Our goal has always been to empower music creators with tools that inspire creativity and deliver exceptional results. With free trials, we’re making it easier than ever for you to unlock your potential and discover how Drumforge plugins can transform your mixes.

The future of drum mixing starts here.