Surge XT vs Virtual Drummer

Surge XT is a free, open-source virtual instrument plugin and hybrid synthesizer for making music. Each patch has two scenes that can be layered or split, and each scene has three oscillators with 12 algorithms, including wavetable, FM, string, and audio input. Its listed library includes over 2,800 patches and over 700 wavetables. Other features include 12 LFO units, flexible modulation routing, and 16 effect units with 27 algorithms. Performance support includes MPE, Scala and MTS-ESP microtuning, and Open Sound Control. Surge XT runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, with plugin formats varying by platform: CLAP and VST3 on Windows; AU, CLAP, and VST3 on macOS; and CLAP, LV2, and VST3 on Linux. It primarily needs a DAW or another compatible host, though a standalone executable is available. Version 1.3.4 is identified as the stable release for normal production use. The software is licensed under GPL3.

Virtual Drummer is a collection of drum instrument plug-ins for adding drum tracks to music productions. Its titles cover sounds and grooves including Nu Disco, 70s, rock, grunge, punk, contemporary 60s and 70s, and urban or funky styles. The Drummer’s Bundle lists eight drummers, 35 drum kits, 301 styles, 6,941 phrases, 895 presets, and 36 mix presets. Each drummer includes five kits, six mix presets, individual sound-shaping controls, multiple audio outputs, and a master section. MIDI can be dragged into a DAW or sent directly to other instrument or MIDI tracks. Studio One users can see style and drum-element names on piano-roll keys, with style and instrument ranges highlighted. The plug-ins run on macOS and Windows and require 64-bit software. A free Odd Meter MIDI Pack includes over 30 MIDI drum styles. UJAM lists a 30-day trial that runs without limitations. The listed bundle costs $99.50, paid once; individual plug-ins have listed prices from $9.52, paid once.