TRONIC by Sampleson isn’t your typical drum machine—in fact, it’s not even a drum machine at all. It’s a generative analog-modeled drum synthesizer that leans into the experimental, offering a unique way to create drum patterns with just a click. Designed for producers who enjoy tweaking knobs and embracing unpredictability, TRONIC is as quirky as it is creative. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it tick.
Erste Eindrücke
TRONIC’s design feels like a mix between modern and early 00s drum machines, an aesthetic that immediately sets the tone for its digitized, and lofi sound palette. Its interface encourages exploration, with a “Beat Generator” button at the center of its workflow. Clicking it gives you access to three distinct generative modes:
- Hit Maker: A simple option for crafting foundational drum patterns.
- Rave Master: Adds complexity with bass and synth elements, leaning heavily into drum and bass territory.
- Synth Hero: Takes a melodic turn, introducing intricate synth arpeggios and embellishments.
Clicking “Generate” immediately creates a drum loop based on the mode you selected, opening the door to tinkering to your heart’s content. This simplicity makes it approachable for creators of any skill level, but its semi-modular connectivity and sound customization options invite deeper exploration for those willing to experiment.
Funktionen und Leistung
As previously stated, unlike most drum VSTs/AUs, TRONIC doesn’t rely on pre-recorded samples. Instead, it generates sounds in real-time using analog-modeled synthesis. The results are often digitized in nature, lofi, and occasionally unpredictable.
One thing I noticed is that many of TRONIC’s outputs lean heavily toward kick drum-centric sounds. While this can work well for crafting deep, rhythmic foundations, I found this worth noting, as it’s important to set the expectation for those who might assume TRONIC generates fully fleshed-out loops with snares, hi-hats, claps, and other typical drum machine components.
That said, by tweaking the Noise Gain parameter, you can create sounds resembling extra percussion, adding more variety to your loops. However, even with this option, TRONIC focuses mainly on generating kick drum sounds, which defines much of its character.
One of TRONIC’s standout features is its semi-modular connectivity, which feels like the true star of the show. Playing around with the connectors offered a compelling argument for why TRONIC’s approach to synthesizing drum beats versus sampling them is refreshingly different. Simple clicks on the connectors, such as selecting “Velocity” and “Note,” didn’t just alter the sound but, in some cases, even made the rhythms feel entirely different.
Sure, you can click “Generate” and be done, but if there’s one thing TRONIC seems to suggest, it’s to embrace your inner child and ask, “What does this button do?” This playful approach to sound design makes the process of crafting beats genuinely fun, with results that often feel as unique as they are unpredictable.
If you feel a loop isn’t quite ready right away, you have two options:
- Keep clicking “Generate” until you find the perfect starting point.
- Dive into the semi-modular connectivity and tweak knobs to sculpt the patterns to your liking.
For me, the second option was what TRONIC seems to be designed towards. Adjusting effects and playing with its modular routing allowed for highly unique and customizable loops. Of the generative modes, my favorites were Hit Maker for its simplicity and Rave Master for its drum-and-bass leanings.
However, I encountered one issue while adjusting the length of the step sequencer. Occasionally, this would seem to break the generated pattern entirely, and the “Undo” function didn’t always resolve the problem. This was the only bug I encountered, and as this is a new plugin, I’m optimistic this will be addressed in future updates.
Für und Wider
Vorteile:
- Retro-inspired design and sound.
- Generative beat styles with three distinct modes.
- Highly customizable through modular routing and effects tweaking.
- Accessible price point.
- Perfect for experimental and lofi music.
Nachteile:
- Many outputs are kick drum-heavy, limiting variety in some patterns.
- Occasional bugs with the step sequencer.
Endgültiges Urteil
Despite the minor issue mentioned earlier, TRONIC remains a fantastic tool for producers experimenting with sound. At under $50, it’s a reasonable purchase for anyone seeking an affordable way to add a touch of delightful weirdness to their productions.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely—but only if you’re ready to embrace its quirks and lean into its experimental nature. For those who do, TRONIC offers a playground of creativity where no two beats are ever the same.
