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XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2: Jazz Collection

The XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2: Jazz Collection is a professional-grade software drum expansion bundle designed to provide authentic jazz percussion performances. It includes two specific ADpaks, Modern Jazz Brushes and Modern Jazz Sticks, alongside dedicated MIDI groove libraries to facilitate intricate rhythmic programming.

XLN Audio XLN Addictive Drums 2: Jazz Collection
XLN Audio XLN Addictive Drums 2: Jazz Collection
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Overview

The XLN Addictive Drums 2: Jazz Collection is a comprehensive software package aimed at producers and composers requiring high-fidelity jazz percussion. The collection is built upon the Addictive Drums 2 engine, serving as a specialised toolkit that covers a broad spectrum of jazz styles, from traditional swing to contemporary fusion. The bundle is defined by its inclusion of both brush and stick articulations, ensuring that the subtle nuances of jazz performance are captured with accuracy.

Included ADpaks and MIDI Packs

The collection is comprised of four primary components:

  • Modern Jazz Brushes ADpak: Focuses on the delicate textures of brush work, featuring a wide range of hit variations and velocity layers.
  • Modern Jazz Sticks ADpak: Provides the punch and clarity required for more assertive jazz and fusion styles.
  • Brushes Grooves MIDI Pack: A library of MIDI patterns specifically performed and formatted for brush articulations.
  • Sticks Grooves MIDI Pack: A collection of MIDI patterns designed for standard stick performances.
British Drum Company British Drum Co. Maverick 14 x 5.5 Maple Snare Drum
British Drum Company British Drum Co. Maverick 14 x 5.5 Maple Snare Drum

Key Features and RealSweep System

One of the standout technical features of the Jazz Collection is the RealSweep system. This purpose-designed technology allows the software to replicate the continuous circular motion of brushes on a drumhead, rather than just triggering static samples. This system enables realistic legato-style transitions and sustained textures that are essential for authentic jazz ballads and uptempo swing. The ADpaks also feature a diverse range of hit variations, allowing users to program complex fills and improvisational passages that avoid the 'machine-gun effect' common in lesser drum samplers.

Sound Character and Articulations

The sonic character of the Jazz Collection is described by the manufacturer as being captured in unrivalled detail. The Modern Jazz Brushes expansion specifically addresses the intricacy of jazz drumming by providing the nuance required for improvisation. The variety of velocities and articulations allows the software to stray away from conventional, rigid drum programming, offering a more organic and fluid sound suitable for professional studio environments.

Target Audience and Comparisons

The Jazz Collection is best suited for jazz composers, session producers, and songwriters who require realistic drums without access to a live drummer and high-end recording space. While alternative hardware like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the Sonor AQ2 Maple Snare offer the physical experience of acoustic play, the XLN Jazz Collection provides a digital solution for those needing a pre-engineered, mix-ready jazz sound. It stands apart from general-purpose kits, such as the Gear4Music Junior 3 Piece, by focusing exclusively on the sophisticated technical requirements of the jazz genre.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the XLN Addictive Drums 2: Jazz Collection?
The collection includes the Addictive Drums 2 engine, the Modern Jazz Brushes ADpak, the Modern Jazz Sticks ADpak, and two corresponding MIDI groove packs.
How does the RealSweep system work?
RealSweep is a technology designed to replicate the continuous motion of brushes on a drumhead. It allows for realistic sweeping sounds and textures that are difficult to achieve with standard sample triggering.
Can I use the ADpaks without the Addictive Drums 2 engine?
No, these ADpaks are expansions designed specifically to run within the Addictive Drums 2 software engine, which is included in this collection bundle.
What is the primary difference between the two ADpaks in this bundle?
The Modern Jazz Brushes ADpak focuses on soft, textured brush performances and sweeping motions, while the Modern Jazz Sticks ADpak provides the sharper attack and clarity of traditional wooden sticks.
Does this collection support MIDI programming for fills?
Yes, the diverse range of hit variations and velocities is specifically designed to allow for the programming of intricate fills and improvisational sections.
Is the Jazz Collection suitable for live performance?
While primarily a studio tool, it can be triggered via electronic drum kits or MIDI controllers in a live setting, provided a computer running the software is integrated into the rig.
What is the typical price for the Jazz Collection?
The manufacturer indicates a typical price point of approximately £149.
How does this compare to a physical snare like the DW Drums Collectors Series Stainless Steel?
A physical snare offers organic acoustic response, while the Jazz Collection provides a complete, multi-mic'd kit environment in a digital format, including pre-recorded articulations and room sounds.
Are the MIDI grooves included in the bundle?
Yes, the bundle includes both the Sticks and Brushes Grooves MIDI Packs, which provide professional patterns ready for use in a DAW.
Can the sounds in the Jazz Collection be customised?
Yes, through the Addictive Drums 2 engine, users can adjust levels, pitch, envelopes, and effects for each drum in the kit to suit their specific mix.
Is this software suitable for beginners?
While it offers professional-grade depth, the included MIDI packs make it accessible for beginners to achieve a polished jazz sound without deep knowledge of drum programming.
Does the collection feature both traditional and modern jazz sounds?
Yes, by offering both brush and stick variations along with flexible processing in the engine, it covers everything from classic swing to modern jazz-fusion.