Gear article
XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2: Rock Collection
The XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2: Rock Collection is a professional drum production software bundle designed for modern rock music. It features high-fidelity samples recorded at the historic Fairfax Recordings studio, providing users with a comprehensive set of virtual instruments, MIDI grooves, and processing tools.
Overview
The XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2: Rock Collection is a digital delivery bundle tailored for producers and musicians seeking authentic, high-impact rock drum sounds. The collection is built upon the Addictive Drums 2 engine, a versatile platform that allows for deep manipulation of drum samples, including mixing, effects processing, and MIDI management. The package specifically includes two acclaimed ADpaks and two MIDI packs designed to streamline the creative composition process.
The Fairfax ADpaks
The core of the Rock Collection is found in the Fairfax Vol. 1 and Fairfax Vol. 2 expansions. These kits were recorded at the facility formerly known as Sound City, a studio synonymous with some of the most influential rock albums in history.
- Fairfax Vol. 1: This ADpak focuses on ultra-modern, radio-ready rock tones. It is designed to deliver the energy and liveliness required for contemporary rock tracks that need to cut through a dense mix.
- Fairfax Vol. 2: Complementing the first volume, this expansion provides additional organic and explosive drum sounds, recorded with the same meticulous attention to detail and tuning to ensure a natural feel.
Sound Character and Engineering
The sound of the Rock Collection is characterised as natural, organic, and explosive. By recording in a world-renowned acoustic environment, XLN Audio captured the specific room characteristics that define modern rock drum production. The drums are presented as 'perfectly tuned' out of the box, though the internal engine allows for significant tonal shaping, including pitch shifting, envelope control, and built-in EQ and compression.
Creative Tools and Workflow
Beyond the raw samples, the Rock Collection includes two fully-featured MIDI packs. These packs are designed for 'break-neck speed' composition, providing professional-grade grooves that can be dragged and dropped into a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). This workflow suits songwriters who need to build rhythmic foundations quickly without sacrificing the nuance of a real performance.
Target Audience and Comparisons
The Rock Collection is ideally suited for studio engineers and home producers focused on modern rock genres. While physical kits like the British Drum Co. Maverick or Tama Starclassic Performer offer the tactile experience of acoustic playing, the XLN software provides a curated 'studio-perfect' sound that is pre-engineered for professional records. It serves as a digital alternative for those who may not have access to the high-end signal chains required to record premium snares like the DW Drums Collectors Series Stainless Steel or Sonor AQ2 Maple in a professional room.
Related gear
£339.00 ($431)Tama
Tama Starclassic Performer LTD Edition 14" x 5.5" Snare Drum Dusty Rose
£703.00 ($893)DW Drums
DW Drums Collectors Series 14" x 5.5" Stainless Steel Snare Drum
£29.99 ($38)Remo
Remo 10 Lollipop Frame Drum
£239.00 ($304)Sonor
Sonor AQ2 14 x 6 Maple Snare Drum Maple Brown Fade
£38.00 ($48)Sela
Sela Melody Tongue Drum 5.5“ C5 Black
£382.00 ($485)Natal
Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 8" Snare Drum Sunburst
£99.99 ($127)Gear4Music
Junior 3 Piece Drum Kit by Gear4music Green
Frequently asked questions
- What is included in the XLN Addictive Drums 2: Rock Collection?
- The bundle includes the Addictive Drums 2 software engine, the Fairfax Vol. 1 ADpak, the Fairfax Vol. 2 ADpak, and two specific MIDI packs for rock composition.
- Where were the Fairfax ADpaks recorded?
- They were recorded at Fairfax Recordings (formerly Sound City), a world-famous studio in Los Angeles known for its legendary rock and roll history.
- Is a physical disc included with the purchase?
- No, the Rock Collection is provided via digital delivery, allowing for immediate download and authorisation through the XLN Audio Online Installer.
- Can I use these drums for genres other than rock?
- While specifically curated for rock, the high-quality recordings and flexible engine make them suitable for metal, pop, and alternative genres that require powerful drum sounds.
- Does this collection require the full version of Addictive Drums 2?
- The Rock Collection includes the Addictive Drums 2 engine, meaning you do not need to own any previous version of the software to use it.
- What makes Fairfax Vol. 1 different from Vol. 2?
- Fairfax Vol. 1 is geared towards ultra-modern, radio-ready rock tones, while Vol. 2 offers a different selection of perfectly tuned, explosive drum sounds recorded in the same space.
- Can I customise the drum sounds within the software?
- Yes, the Addictive Drums 2 engine allows you to adjust tuning, levels, room ambience, and apply various effects like EQ, compression, and saturation.
- Are MIDI grooves included in this bundle?
- Yes, the collection includes two fully-featured MIDI packs designed to help users create drum parts quickly with professional patterns.
- How much does the Rock Collection typically cost?
- The typical price range for this specific digital delivery bundle is approximately £149.
- Is this software compatible with all major DAWs?
- Yes, Addictive Drums 2 functions as a VST, AU, or AAX plugin, making it compatible with Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, and others.
- How does the sound compare to a physical snare like a Natal Walnut?
- While a physical Natal Walnut snare provides a specific walnut wood resonance in a live room, the Rock Collection offers pre-processed, studio-quality captures of similar high-end gear recorded in a legendary acoustic space.
- Are the drums recorded with effects or dry?
- The drums are recorded in meticulous detail with natural room acoustics; however, the engine provides numerous presets and tools to apply professional processing as needed.