Step 1
We've selected three different samples to combine for our kick drum. High kick [audio mp3="https://6e80timjxr-flywheel.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1-High-Kick.mp3"][/audio]


Step 2
The next step is to use some EQ to sculpt the sounds. We're trying to remove any harshness, mud or resonances that we don't want. High kick [audio mp3="https://6e80timjxr-flywheel.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/5-high-EQ.mp3"][/audio]


Step 3
Let's now group the kicks together so we can process them as one:

Step 4
Now we have compressed the whole sound we need to re-shape the frequencies. Load up an instance of Ableton's native EQ Eight.
Step 5
Overdrive! And why not! It's important to experiment as much as possible and overdrive often can introduce a whole new energy and texture to your sound. One of the great things about adding distortion to drums is not just the tonal character added, but also the way it softens the transients, whilst simultaneously adding volume. Essentially what happens is the metered volume comes down as is cuts the transient, but the perceived or audible volume comes up. A win-win for all those who are proponents of mixing music as loud as possible.
Step 6
Taking the volume up a further gear, we're going to apply a limiter to the kick. The limiter clips the top of the transient off but make sure you play around with the release as too little or too much could end up making it sound messy or thin. It's often the case that setting the release to Auto can offer the best results.
Step 7
Time to introduce the reverb. Start by sending your kick to an empty available bus. We’ve used Bus C for this. Dial it in all the way.

