DMC60 vs XO

DMC60 is a drum machine and sampler for use in a DAW or as a standalone desktop app. Its sequencer holds 99 patterns, with six swing settings from 50% to 71% and independent track lengths. Sampling tools provide eight banks of 16 pads, with transient, even, marker-based, and live chopping. It loads WAV, AIFF, AIF, and FLAC files, or can turn a folder into a kit. Sampling can use 12-bit, 24-bit, or 32-bit float resolution, with playback for vintage character or at the stored resolution. DMC60 also includes a keygroup synth and 21 synthesized drum voices inspired by the 808 and 909. Mixing features include track EQ, master compression, eight send buses, and six insert slots per track, bus, and master; projects can be exported as audio or stems. It supports VST3 on Mac and Windows, AU on Mac, DAW sync, and Ableton Link in standalone mode. Pricing is $9.99 per month or $129.00 one-time.

XO is a drum sample organizer and instrument for macOS and Windows. It arranges samples by sonic similarity so users can audition sounds and rhythms rather than search folder by folder. The library includes more than 8,700 one-shot samples and more than 240 editable beat presets. XO sorts samples regardless of their storage location or format, including duplicates and files on external drives, and provides filters and search. For creating patterns, it includes Groove Templates, pattern nudging, and an Accentuator for adjusting feel and dynamics. Users can drag and drop samples, kits, stems, or complete beats as audio or MIDI, raw or processed. XO supports VST, VST3, AU, and AAX hosts, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, FL Studio, Reason, Reaper, and Cubase; a standalone app is also available. It supports MIDI, sample import, live performance tools, and eight pattern tracks. XLN Audio offers a 10-day full-feature trial without payment details. XO costs £76.20, paid once; XO + 4 expansions costs £95.40, paid once, and XO Complete costs £399.50, paid once.