What software is required to use Retroplex?

Retroplex is an ADpak expansion, meaning it requires a full version of XLN Audio's Addictive Drums 2 to function. It cannot be used as a standalone plugin.

What is the primary drum kit featured in this pack?

The expansion features a Ludwig Vistalite drum kit, which is famous for its acrylic shells and its association with 1970s rock music.

How many kick drums are included in the Retroplex ADpak?

There are two different kick drums included, each offering a unique sonic flavour to help the drum kit sit effectively in different types of mixes.

Which cymbal brand was used for this expansion?

A selection of hand-picked Zildjian cymbals was used to complement the kit, chosen specifically for their bright and vibrant sound.

What musical genre is Retroplex best suited for?

It is specifically designed for 70s glam rock, though it is versatile enough for various styles of rock and roll that require punchy, powerful drums.

What makes Vistalite drums sound different from wood drums?

Vistalite drums are made of acrylic, which provides a more precise, punchy tone with complex harmonics compared to the warmer, more resonant sound of traditional wood shells.

Can the Retroplex sounds cut through heavy guitar tracks?

Yes, the kit was designed to be bold and outrageous, specifically so it can rise above a wall of electric guitars, bass, and vocals in a dense mix.

Was this kit recorded in a studio?

Yes, it was recorded in a professional live room to capture the natural room acoustics and the massive scale of the drum sound.

Is this expansion suitable for modern rock?

While it is marketed as a 'retro' kit for glam rock, its punchy and precise characteristics make it very effective for modern rock and alternative productions.

What is the typical price for the Retroplex ADpak?

The typical price for this expansion is approximately £78 (GBP).

Does this pack include any percussion instruments?

The manufacturer description focuses on the Ludwig Vistalite kit and Zildjian cymbals; it does not mention additional percussion like frame drums or tongue drums.

How does the Retroplex sound compare to a maple snare?

Unlike the warm and rounded tone of a maple snare, such as the Sonor AQ2, the Retroplex Vistalite sound is more about power, punch, and precise projection.

Gear article

XLN Audio Retroplex ADpak

The Retroplex ADpak is a dedicated expansion for XLN Audio's Addictive Drums 2 software, specifically designed to replicate the powerful and punchy sound of 1970s glam rock. It features a meticulously recorded Ludwig Vistalite kit, known for its distinctive acrylic shells and precise tonal quality.

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Overview

The Retroplex ADpak is a virtual drum expansion for XLN Audio's Addictive Drums 2 engine. It is focused on delivering a 'massive' and 'outrageous' sound profile inspired by the glam rock era of the 1970s. The kit is built around the iconic Ludwig Vistalite, a drum set famous for its transparent acrylic construction and its ability to project through dense arrangements. This ADpak was recorded in a professional live room to capture the natural resonance and power required for rock and roll productions.

Drum Configuration and Hardware

The expansion features a comprehensive setup designed for maximum impact:

Kicks: Two different kick drums are included, each providing a unique flavour to ensure the low end can be tailored to the specific needs of a mix.
Snares: The kit includes the characteristic Vistalite snare sound, providing the punch and precise tone necessary for the genre.
Cymbals: A selection of hand-picked Zildjian cymbals was chosen for their bright and vibrant characteristics, intended to complement the complex harmonics of the acrylic drum shells.
Toms: The kit utilizes the standard Vistalite tom configuration, maintaining a cohesive sound across the kit.

Sonic Character

The Retroplex sound is defined by its 'power' and 'punch'. Because acrylic shells lack the porous nature of wood, they produce a very focused and bright attack with a sharp decay. This results in a precise tone that allows the drums to rise above 'a wall of electric guitars, bass, and vocals.' The included presets and raw samples are designed to feel 'glued together,' providing a cohesive sonic image that is both bold and historically evocative.

Target Audience and Use Cases

Retroplex is primarily suited for producers and musicians working within rock and roll, specifically those seeking the aesthetic of 1970s glam. Its ability to sit prominently in a mix makes it ideal for high-energy tracks where the drums need to be a focal point. While specialised for retro styles, the clarity of the Vistalite samples allows them to be used in modern alternative rock or any production requiring a punchy, non-traditional drum tone.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to other ADpaks or physical snare alternatives like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the DW Collectors Series Stainless Steel snare, the Retroplex kit offers a specific 'acrylic' timbre that is harder to achieve with wood or metal. While a maple snare like the Sonor AQ2 or Natal Walnut offers warmth and mid-range richness, the Retroplex Vistalite prioritizes projection and a 'larger-than-life' presence. It serves as a more aggressive alternative to standard studio kits, offering a unique visual and sonic heritage not found in traditional wooden kits like the Starclassic Performer.

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Frequently asked questions

What software is required to use Retroplex?: Retroplex is an ADpak expansion, meaning it requires a full version of XLN Audio's Addictive Drums 2 to function. It cannot be used as a standalone plugin.
What is the primary drum kit featured in this pack?: The expansion features a Ludwig Vistalite drum kit, which is famous for its acrylic shells and its association with 1970s rock music.
How many kick drums are included in the Retroplex ADpak?: There are two different kick drums included, each offering a unique sonic flavour to help the drum kit sit effectively in different types of mixes.
Which cymbal brand was used for this expansion?: A selection of hand-picked Zildjian cymbals was used to complement the kit, chosen specifically for their bright and vibrant sound.
What musical genre is Retroplex best suited for?: It is specifically designed for 70s glam rock, though it is versatile enough for various styles of rock and roll that require punchy, powerful drums.
What makes Vistalite drums sound different from wood drums?: Vistalite drums are made of acrylic, which provides a more precise, punchy tone with complex harmonics compared to the warmer, more resonant sound of traditional wood shells.
Can the Retroplex sounds cut through heavy guitar tracks?: Yes, the kit was designed to be bold and outrageous, specifically so it can rise above a wall of electric guitars, bass, and vocals in a dense mix.
Was this kit recorded in a studio?: Yes, it was recorded in a professional live room to capture the natural room acoustics and the massive scale of the drum sound.
Is this expansion suitable for modern rock?: While it is marketed as a 'retro' kit for glam rock, its punchy and precise characteristics make it very effective for modern rock and alternative productions.
What is the typical price for the Retroplex ADpak?: The typical price for this expansion is approximately £78 (GBP).
Does this pack include any percussion instruments?: The manufacturer description focuses on the Ludwig Vistalite kit and Zildjian cymbals; it does not mention additional percussion like frame drums or tongue drums.
How does the Retroplex sound compare to a maple snare?: Unlike the warm and rounded tone of a maple snare, such as the Sonor AQ2, the Retroplex Vistalite sound is more about power, punch, and precise projection.