DrumCore 4 Guide

Pro Drums Loops and Drum Kit Samples for Songwriters

DrumCore 4 Videos

DrumCore 4 Intro
Install, Register, and Activate DrumCore 4
How to Load a Plug-in in Pro Tools 11
How to Load a Plug-in in Logic Pro X
How to Load a Plug-in in Cubase 7.5
How to Load a Plug-in in Studio One 2 Pro
How to Load a Plug-in in Ableton Live 9 (Mac)
DrumCore 4 Library Locator (Mac)
DrumCore 4 Library Not Found Fix
How to Move the DrumCore 4 Library (FAQ)
Stephan De.Reine Playing DC4 at NAMM




More DC4 Support Videos Coming Soon

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DrumCore 4 Quick Start Guide

For the most comprehensive instructions with images, see the Installation and User Guide pdfs links below this Quick Start (also installed with DC4).

  • 1. Check that your OS (operating system) and DAW (recording software) are compatible with DrumCore 4.
  • 2. DC4 Lite or Prime Link: Download your installer and serial number (2 files). If you have trouble downloading, try a different browser or contact support@sonomawireworks.com for direct download links. A portion of your content will be installed initially (see step 8 for remaining content).
    DC4 Prime Flash or Ultra: Find the Installer on your drive and your serial number on the registration card.
  • 3. Install the plugin.
  • 4. Open your DAW as an Administrator for best results.
  • Create an instrument track in your DAW and load DrumCore.
  • 5. Copy and paste your serial number and enter your other info on DC4's registration page. If you have a username in Sonoma's store, use the "Existing User" side. If you do not have a Sonoma username, use the "Create Username" side.
  • 6. You will receive an email with your iLok activation code. If you don't receive the email, contact support@sonomawireworks.com. Activate DC4 with your iLok username (Your Pace iLok username may be different that your Sonoma DC4 username) so you can manage your license - Don't activate anonymously as that makes it more difficult for you to manage your license. See iLok FAQ below.
  • 7. Press the Activate button and the paste the code in the iLok window.
  • 8. DC4 Lite or Prime Link: Download remaining content using DC4's SETTINGS panel. See download tips like "Wait to preview new content until all owned content has downloaded.'
    DC4 Prime Flash or Ultra: Your content is accessible on your drive.
  • 9. See Chapter 2 in the DC4 User Guide PDF for how to use DC4 in your specific DAW.

Helpful Resources:

DrumCore 4 Installation and User Guides

DrumCore 4 PDF User Guides are available in your DC4 install documents, and will be updated here as more information is added.

DrumCore 4 Installation and Migration Guide (Mac/Win) (3 MB PDF) - v4.3 Updated 9/25/17

DrumCore 4 User Guide (Mac/Win) (18 MB PDF) - v 4.3 Updated 9/25/17

DrumCore 4.3.4 System Requirements

  • Compatible DAWs (64-bit only)*
    • Avid® Pro Tools® 11, 12, 2018, 2019.5 - 2020.12 (Mac and Win: AAX)
    • Apple® Logic Pro® 9 and 10.4.4 (Mac: AU)
    • Apple® GarageBand® 10 (Mac: AU)
    • Steinberg® Cubase® 5 and 6 (Win: VST3) and Cubase 7, 8, 8.5, 9 and 10 (Mac and Win: VST3)
    • Magix Acid Pro 10 v10.0.4 build 29 (Win: VST3)
    • PreSonus® Studio One® 2, 3, 4 and 5 Professional (Mac: AU/VST3 and Win: VST3). Studio One 5 Artist (Mac: AU/VST3 and Win: VST3)**
    • Ableton® Live® 10.1 (Mac: AU and Win: VST3)* and Live 9 (Mac: AU) **
    • MOTU® Digital Performer™ 10.0 (Mac: AU/VST3 and Win: VST3), Digital Performer 8, 9 (Mac: AU)**
    • Image Line FL Studio 20 (Mac: VST3)**
    • Cakewalk® Sonar® X3 and Platinum (Win: VST3)**
    • Cockos REAPER 5 (Mac: AU and Win: VST3)
    • Tracktion T7 and Waveform 9.2.1 and 10 (Mac: AU/VST3 and Win: VST3)**
    • Bitwig GmbH Bitwig Studio 2.5 and 3.x Beta (Mac: VST3 and Win: VST3)
    • Vienna Symphonic Library GmbH Vienna Ensemble Pro 6 and 7 (Mac: AU)**
    • Gig Performer 3.2.7 (Mac: AU and Win: VST3)
    • Acoustica Mixcraft 8 (Win: VST3)
    • Others TBD (Status of using DC4 with other DAWs and other DAW versions)
  • Mac®
    • Mac OS 10.8.5 (Mountain Lion), 10.9 (Mavericks), 10.10 (Yosemite), 10.11 (El Capitan), 10.12 (Sierra), 10.13 (High Sierra), 10.14.5 (Mojave) - DAW must also be compatible with the OS version. See status of newer Mac OS versions below.
    • Intel® Core™ Duo processor (Intel Core 2 Duo or Core i3 or better recommended)
    • 2 GB RAM (4 GB or more recommended)
  • Windows®
    • Windows 7 x64 SP1, Windows 8 x64, Windows 10 x64 through 21H1 (not Win 10 21H2 (Nov. 2021) or WIn 11 or later):
    • Intel Core Duo or AMD Athlon™ X2 processor (Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon X4 or better recommended)
    • 2 GB RAM (4 GB or more recommended)
  • Both Mac and Windows Systems
    • Internet connection for activation and downloading content
    • An iLok account is not required, but is highly recommended. You can activate a DC4 license on your computer, using the iLok License Manager software, with or without a dongle. Or, if you choose to use a dongle, the iLok dongle must be version 2 (black or grey) or 3 (silver). More
    • Monitor with minimum 1280x800 resolution (right click anywhere to set the zoom factor between 50%-100% for smaller screens)
    • Minimum 200 MB free hard-drive space to install plug-in
    • Content space requirements are as follows:
      • DrumCore 4 Lite - Minimum 5 GB free hard drive space (10 GB for installation)
      • DrumCore Prime Link - Minimum 25 GB free hard drive space (50 GB for installation)
      • DrumCore Prime Flash - Minimum 25 GB free hard drive space (50 GB for installation) - or access content from USB Flash drive
      • DrumCore Ultra - Minimum 60 GB free hard drive space - or access content from the 120 GB Solid State drive if included

*Compatibility is subject to change.
You must have Administrator Access on your computer to install DC4. Open your DAW as an Administrator for best results while installing and using DC4.
**See status/caveats for using these DAWs with DC4 below.


Below are DAW and OS versions that are either not on the DrumCore 4.3.4 Compatibility List above or include caveats for use with DC4:

Above is the DC4 compatibility list of DAW and OS versions that work well with DrumCore 4.3.4.

  • These DAW and OS Versions Work Somewhat Well with DC4 with Caveat(s), and/or Require Further Testing
    • 12.1.21: macOS 11 (Big Sur) and macOS 10.15 (Catalina): : Most (if not all) DC4 users on Big Sur and Catalina are reporting success using DC4 with this workaround. Sonoma cannot state that these OS versions are compatible with DC4 yet because users may need to disable security measures for notarization using that workaround. Therefore these OS versions are not on the DC4 compatibility list. DC4 does not work with macOS 12 (Monterey).
    • 3.5.21: Acid Pro 10.0.4 build 29 was added to the compatibility list above. Acid 7 and 8 (Win) are incompatible with DC4 as they support VST2 only (DC4 requires VST3 support).
    • 1.23.21: Studio One 3, 4 and 5 Professional (Mac) are fully compatible with AU (Multi Out and Standard Stereo Out). VST3 on Mac has full stereo (regular) compatibility, but is not compatible with DC4 Multi Out. Studio One 3, 4 and 5 (Win: VST3) have full stereo (regular) compatibility, but not Multi Out. For Studio One 3, 4 and 5 Windows VST3, the DAW must be opened in Admin mode. Studio One 3 and 4 Artist and Prime are 32-bit, so they are not compatible with DC4 like Professional (64-bit) is. Studio One 5 Artist is now 64-bit and users are reporting success using it with DC4.
    • 6.5.19: Ableton Live 10.1 Mac: AU is fully functional with DC4! Win VST3 support is fully functional with DC4 stereo out, but not multi-out. Ableton Live 9 (Mac: AU) works great with DC4! Live 9 (Win) supports VST2 only, so it does not work with DC4.
    • 6.6.19: Digital Performer 10 added VST3 support, and is fully compatible with VST3 (Win) and AU/VST3 (Mac). DP8 and DP9 work great on Mac (AU)! DP8 and DP9 (Win) do not support VST3 plug-ins, so those versions do not work on Windows.
    • 6.7.19: FL Studio 20 (Mac: VST3) works well with DC4! FL Studio 20 (Win: VST3) is not on the compatibility list yet because the MIDI in DC4 sounds distorted and unclear (same for multi-out). Audio loops in stereo-out are working fine in Windows FL Studio 20 and can be used as per normal operation. We will try to find a solution. FL Studio 11 and 12: DC4 loops cannot be dragged to the timeline and DC4 Previews were not working.
    • 2.2.17: Sonar X3 and Platinum (VST3) (Win). DC4 shows up as an Insert Effect instead of as a VST3 Instrument. This does not compromise general functionality, but it does prevent use of Multi Out with DC4.
    • 6.7.19: Tracktion T7, Waveform 9.2.1 and Waveform 10 are working well with DC4 on Mac and Windows except DC4 UI Zoom does not resize. Simple fix: Define the size of DC4 in another DAW (Reaper for example), and the setting for DC4 size will be saved across all DAWs.
    • 6.5.19: Vienna Ensemble Pro 6 and 7 (Mac: AU) - On Mac, the AU version of DC4 in Vienna Ensemble Pro 6 and 7 works great! Vienna Ensemble Pro 6 and 7 do not support VST3 plugins, therefore DC4 won’t work in VE Pro on Windows.
    • 6.12.17: Samplitude Pro X3 (Win: VST3) - Loads as Insert Effect: DC4 functionality is still available to use the plugin as intended, but you may experience some limitation from DC4 not appearing as a VST3 Instrument. DC4 users may experience MIDI limitation because it is NOT a MIDI track, but an Insert Effect. However, you can still drag loops to an audio track, or drag MIDI to a MIDI track and route the track accordingly.
  • These DAW Versions Do Not Work Well with DC4.
    • 12.1.21: macOS 12 (Monterey) is incompatible with DC4. See above for workarounds for macOS 10 and 11.
    • 6.13.19: Harrison Mixbus 32c Version 5
    • 5.8.16: Propellerhead Reason 8, 9, 10 and 10.1 (Win) support VST2 only, but DC4 requires VST3 support.
    • 9.10.12: Sagan Technology Metro 7 (Mac) supports VST2 only and DC4 requires VST3 support.
  • This DAW is working well only with the DC4 Lite edition sold in the Avid Marketplace:
    • 2.8.18: Pro Tools | First: Only plug-ins purchased within the Avid Marketplace will work with Pro Tools First, so purchase the DC4 Lite Edition in the Avid Marketplace if you are using Pro Tools First.

DrumCore 4 Frequently Asked Questions

    What is DrumCore 4?
  1. What are the differences between DC4 editions (Lite, Prime Link, Prime Flash, and Ultra)?
  2. How is DrumCore different from BFD, Battery, Stylus RMX and other similar products?
  3. Will DrumCore 4 work in my 64-bit DAW and OS?
  4. What is the quality of DrumCore content?
  5. How were the audio loops recorded, how are they displayed, and how many audio loops are included in DrumCore 4?
  6. What are GrooveSets and Drum Kits?
  7. May I hear previews and music created using DrumCore?

  8. How Do I Upgrade, Crossgrade or Update DrumCore?
  9. Can content from KitCore 2, KitCore Deluxe, DrumCore 2.5, DrumCore 3 or DrumCore 3 Deluxe be migrated to DrumCore 4?
    What content will not be migrated?
  10. What about migrating content from DrumCore 2.5 or 3 to DrumCore 4 Lite?

  11. How Do I Install DrumCore 4?
  12. What are DC4's default file locations on Mac and Windows?
  13. Can I move DC4 and DC4 content to an external drive?
  14. How do I Back Up DC4?
  15. Is an iLok account or dongle required for DrumCore 4?
  16. How many authorizations am I allowed with DrumCore 4?
  17. How can I fix the error messages: "Library not found. Please select the DrumCore folder containing the library" or "DrumCore Library Not Found"?
  18. How can I download DC4 drums easily? What are eye and cloud icons? Download tips.
  19. Why are there different numbers of MIDI loops than audio loops?
  20. Why isn't DrumCore 4 appearing on my computer or in my DAW's list of plug-ins?

  21. How Do I Use DrumCore 4?
  22. How do I find the right drums for my song in DrumCore 4?
  23. Can I use my MIDI controller to trigger DrumCore sounds?
  24. Can I change the levels for each individual drum?
  25. Can I change the sounds for each individual drum?
  26. Can I save my custom Drum Kit presets?
  27. Why can't I make changes to the audio loops like I can in the MIDI kits?
  28. Why are some of the audio loops red?
  29. I'm dragging audio loops onto the instrument track, and they're not copying over, or if they are, I'm not getting any playback. Why?
  30. Where is the DrumCore 4 Store for purchasing add-on content for DrumCore 4?

  31. What are Sonoma's Policies?
  32. Are these drum recordings royalty-free? Can I use this in music I plan to release publicly?
  33. How do I give credit to the drummer from DrumCore 4 in song credits?
  34. What is Sonoma Wire Works' return policy?


    WHAT IS DRUMCORE 4?

    DrumCore 4 is an AAX/VST3/AU plug-in instrument with 24-bit audio drum loops, MIDI drum loops, multi-velocity sampled drum kits, groove browser, song timeline, mixer, effects and more. DC4 includes royalty-free recordings of celebrity drummers in many styles. DC4 easily integrates with compatible 64-bit recording software.


  1. What are the differences between DC4 editions (Lite, Prime Link, Prime Flash, and Ultra)?

    DrumCore 4 is available in three editions that contain the same plug-in. The differences are how it is delivered (download, USB Flash drive, or Solid State drive) and how much content (GrooveSets and Drum Kits) is included by famous drummers who have played with the bands listed below. All editions can be expanded with content by more than 25 drummers in DrumCore 4’s built-in store. Crossgrade from one DC4 edition to another with more content.

    *Additional GrooveSets and/or Drum Kits by more drummers are available for preview and purchase in the store that is integrated into the DrumCore 4 plug-in. See the Drummer Bios page for more information. Upgrade customers, see the Content Migration FAQ.

    Whichever edition and delivery method you choose, DrumCore 4 now provides more ways to get the content you need easier than ever before.

    Comparison chart for DrumCore 4 Lite, Prime and Ultra.
    DrumCore 4 Upgrade and Crossgrade Options.


  2. How is DrumCore different from BFD, Battery, Stylus RMX and other similar products?

    Great Content - DrumCore content is inventive, surprising and invites you to try new musical ideas. Not unlike playing with a great drummer, using DrumCore is like accessing the brain of a great player and getting a feel for how they approach a beat. You probably wouldn't have programmed it the way they played it. Having incredible live performances by the world's best drummers in a simple, easy to use interface makes DrumCore the most flexible drum plugin on the market.

    Easy - DrumCore is refreshingly straightforward, without a steep learning curve. Since no heavy processing is required, you won't peg your computer while creating your rhythm tracks. Songwriters and music for film/television composers (DrumCore's main user base) don't have much time to read manuals. DrumCore is made for users who appreciate simplicity and having great grooves at their fingertips.

    Organic Sounding - Because the DrumCore library contains real recordings of real drummers, the sounds are organic, and stand out among other drum products. Each drummer was recorded to fit their musical genre and style.

    Varied Genres and Sonic Versatility - From blues and reggae to hip-hop and metal, DrumCore content covers a lot of ground. There's also a whole library of add-on GrooveSets and Kits in DC4's store, so you can expand the reach of your content library even more. See what add-ons are available on the DrumCore Drummer Bios page.

    DrumCore Plays Well with Others - DrumCore Plays Well with Others - The DrumCore 4 plugin comes in 3 formats: VST3, AAX, and AU making it compatible with most modern DAWs, and each Kit is both MIDI-mapped, and customizable, making it easy to use with the external controller of your choice.

    Bang-for-the-Buck - Price-wise DrumCore is an incredible deal. With DrumCore 4 Prime you get thousands of grooves by top celebrity drummers and their multi-sampled drum sounds across a multitude of styles for what other products are charging for a few acoustic kits and MIDI beats. DrumCore audio loops also come in a set format, rather than being split across multiple formats as is common with most other loop libraries.


  3. Will DrumCore 4 work in my 64-bit DAW and OS?

    DC4 is designed to work with most 64-bit DAWs, like ProTools 11 and 12, Logic Pro X, and more. See compatibility list above for OS and DAW versions that work well with DC4.. See the status and caveats list for other DAW and OS versions.

    Good news! Most (if not all) DC4 users on Mac OS 10.15 (Catalina) and Mac OS 11 (Big Sur) are reporting success using DC4. However, we cannot state that it is compatible until we do further testing. In order to use DC4 in these new OSes, you may need to disable security measures for notarization. Here is a workaround if you would like to trust DC4 during installation, which has been fine for users so far. In that article, click "Safely open apps on your Mac", then see section on "How to open an app that hasn’t been notarized." Please report any issues to support@sonomawireworks.com. There is no guarantee that it will work properly until official compatibility is announced in Sonoma's newsletter.

  4. What is the quality of DrumCore content?

    All of DrumCore 4's audio content is recorded at either 48k/24-bit, or down-sampled from 96k or 192k. All analog-to-digital and digital processing was performed with extra care. Distributed sync and the best converters available were used. The content was recorded in professionally designed private recording studios using a mixture of the latest state-of-the-art digital and analog equipment in addition to a large quantity of vintage equipment. A partial list of equipment used on many of the sessions includes:

    1. SSL 9000 consoles
    2. Pro Tools HD
    3. Vintage and new mic preamps by Focusrite, API, Neve, and Millenia
    4. Compressors made by Empirical Labs, Urei, Teletronix, Manley, DBX and Fairchild
    5. EQ by Pultec (EQP1A) and others
    6. Numerous vintage Neumann microphones (including the M50, U47 FET and tube), Coles ribbon microphones, and the AKG C24

  5. How were the audio loops recorded, how are they displayed, and how many audio loops are included in DrumCore 4?

    DrumCore includes the best drummers of each genre performing authentic grooves, using their own drums, in top-of-the-line studios. Many of the grooves in DrumCore were recorded at multiple tempos to capture the nuances of the performances of the artists playing at different tempos. Each of the recordings that were made at a specific tempo is a loop. DrumCore presents a single icon for a multi-tempo groove, which represents related loops in a GrooveSet. DrumCore shows you only the loops that work best for the tempo of your project, making it easy to find what you need. No need to sift through the entire list of files yourself, DrumCore will help you find what you need quickly! When a Groove icon is selected, DC4 plays the loop that was recorded at the tempo closest to your project tempo. When you click on a Groove icon, the information displayed to the right of the large waveform shows the actual loop tempo and file name.

    There are Content Lists and a chart that list how many GrooveSets and audio loops and fills are included each edition of DrumCore 4.

    Because DrumCore shows you only the loops and fills you need for your project tempo, the number of icons in your DrumCore 4 Browser will appear to be fewer than the number of loops and fills in your DrumCore library folder, and in the Content Lists on the website.


  6. What are GrooveSets and Drum Kits?

    A GrooveSet is a series of rhythmic loops and fills (audio and/or MIDI) that have a cohesive feel. DrumCore 4 allows you to browse through the GrooveSets that you own in your content library, or preview and purchase new GrooveSets using the store in DrumCore 4. The number of audio and/or MIDI loops and fills varies for each GrooveSet. More regarding audio loops in the FAQ above. Content Lists of GrooveSets for each edition of DrumCore 4. Additional GrooveSets are $4.99 - $14.99 each.

    Drum Kits are multi-velocity sampled drum kits, including kits by many of the drummers featured on the DrumCore Drummer Bios page. Drum Kits are sold separately from GrooveSets for $4.99 each. List of Drum Kits for each edition of DrumCore 4.

    More info about GrooveSets and Drum Kits can be found in the drumcore-4-user-guide.pdf that was installed with DrumCore 4.

    Each edition of DrumCore 4 includes the same plug-in with various amounts of content:
    DC4 Lite ($49): 24 GrooveSets and 11 Kits (35 x $4.99 = $174 content value)
    DC4 Prime ($249): 160 GrooveSets and 100 Kits (260 x $4.99 = $1200 content value)
    DC4 Ultra ($639): 265 GrooveSets and 139 Kits (404 x $4.99 = $2000 content value)


  7. May I hear previews and music created using DrumCore?
    After you purchase DC4, preview players are built into DC4's Browser (in the plug-in) for each GrooveSet (Searching Tips).
    Before you purchase DC4:
    1. Online Audio Previews of DrumCore 4
    2. DrumCore 4 Demo Video by ILIO (DrumCore 4 drums were used in the audio track)
    3. Songs on SoundCloud that used DrumCore for backing tracks
    4. Theraflu® ExpressMax® Caplets TV Commercial
    5. Montgomery Sunshine (Recorded by Stephen Poff with DrumCore as the backing tracks)
    6. Well-known artists talk about using the sounds of DrumCore


  8. HOW DO I UPGRADE, CROSSGRADE OR UPDATE DRUMCORE?

    Upgrade and Crossgrade pricing is on the DrumCore 4 upgrade page. Email support@sonomawireworks.com with your serial number (or ask them to look it up for you). Tell us which DC4 product you'd like, and we'll steer you in the right direction.

    Looking to update your DrumCore 4.x version to the newest version number? Email support@sonomawireworks.com with your current version and we will provide easy update instructions.


  9. Can content from KitCore 2, KitCore Deluxe, DrumCore 2.5, DrumCore 3 or DrumCore 3 Deluxe be migrated to DrumCore 4?
    What content will not be migrated?

    Yes, qualified customers who have purchased an upgrade from KitCore 2 or DrumCore 3 to DrumCore 4 will be provided with a tool to migrate select previously purchased content to DrumCore 4. Those who qualify for, and purchase a DrumCore 4 upgrade will be given access to, and a license to use, the DrumCore 4 Migration Tool. This tool will migrate select DrumCore 3, KitCore 2, DrummerPack and KitPack content that you have a license to use, that is installed on your computer, and that is also available in DrumCore 4's embedded store, to DrumCore 4.

    If you do not want to install your previous version of DrumCore or KitCore, you DO NOT have to use the Migration Tool. Instead, you may download the content that is part of the DC4 edition you purchased. If you purchased add-on content for your previous edition of DrumCore or KitCore, email support@sonomawireworks.com with proof of purchase - in most cases, most (if not all) of the add-on content you purchased for prior versions can be given to you to download within DC4.

    Content that will NOT be migrated or given to you: non-DrummerPack content and non-KitPack content, and the DrummerPacks that Sonoma no longer has license to offer (e.g. Big Fish Audio's Bone Crushing Drums, Brain: One Stroke Done, Brush Artistry, Jazz Drums, and Roots of South America), and the Bun E. Carlos DrummerPack from Sonic Reality.

    See the DrumCore4InstallandMigrationGuide.pdf that is online and installed on your computer (page 10). Follow those instructions for best results.


  10. What about migrating content from DrumCore 2.5 or 3 to DrumCore 4 Lite?

    Registered users of DrumCore 2.5 and DrumCore 3 cannot upgrade to DrumCore 4 Lite. The DrumCore 4 Lite Upgrade is only for KitCore 2 users. The upgrade path from DrumCore 2.5 and DrumCore 3 is only to DrumCore 4 Prime Link Upgrade, DrumCore 4 Prime Flash Upgrade or DrumCore 4 Ultra Upgrade. The only DrumCore 4 Lite users who will receive the content migration tool are registered KitCore users who purchase the DrumCore 4 Lite upgrade.

    To purchase an upgrade, go to the DrumCore 4 Upgrade Page, and you will be directed to the DrumCore 4 upgrade products that you are qualified to purchase.


  11. HOW DO I INSTALL DRUMCORE 4?

    See the DrumCore 4 Installation Movies and Quick Start above, and see the DC4 Install Guide pdf for the most complete instructions.


  12. What are DC4's default file locations on Mac and Windows? What are DC4's default file locations on Mac and Windows?

    Mac DC4 Default File Locations:

    Mac DC4 Plug-in Must Reside Here:
    • DrumCore Audio Unit plug-in: /Hard Drive/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components/DrumCore.component
    • DrumCore VST3 plug-in: /Hard Drive/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3/DrumCore.vst3
    • DrumCore AAX plug-in: /Hard Drive/Library/Application Support/Avid/Audio/Plug-Ins/DrumCore.aaxplugin

    Mac DC4 Plug-in Preferences Must Reside Here:
    • /Users/[username]/Library/Application Support/DrumCore/com.sonomawireworks.drumcore

    Mac DC4 Profile Folder Must Reside Here:
    • /MacintoshHD/Library/Application Support/DrumCore/profile/[username]
    To see the DrumCore folder in this correct location (not /Users/[username]/Library/Application Support/DrumCore/), you may need to go to the Finder, hold down the Option button, keep the Option button held down while you click on the Go menu, and select the Library folder.

    Mac DC4 Render Path Location:
    • \Documents\DrumCore\Render
    Go to the DC4 SETTINGS panel and set your render path to this, or to where you have moved it on your computer.
    Important: Do not use cloud-based storage systems for your render folder. The lag time of uploading render files to the cloud can cause issues.

    Mac DC4 Log File Location:
    • \Documents\DrumCore\Logs

    Windows DC4 Default File Locations:

    Windows DC4 Plug-in Must Reside Here:
    • DrumCore VST3 plug-in: C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3\DrumCore.vst3
    • DrumCore AAX plug-in: C:\Program Files\Common Files\Avid\Audio\Plug-Ins\DrumCore.aaxplugin

    Windows DC4 Plug-in Preferences Must Reside Here:
    • C:\Users\[username]\AppData\Local\DrumCore\com.sonomawireworks.drumcore
    • C:/Program Data/DrumCore/main-ca.crt
    IMPORTANT: If main-ca.crt is not there, you can either move it back or re-install DC4.
    Windows' ‘ProgramData’ folder is, by default, a hidden system folder. To reveal it in your Win 8 or Win 10 file browser:
    A. Open the Control Panel
    B. Click ‘Appearance and Personalization’
    C. Navigate to ‘Folder Options’ and click the ‘View’ tab.
    D. In ‘Advanced Settings’, click ‘Show hidden files, folders and drives’, then click OK to save that setting.
    If you have an earlier version of Windows, click here for instructions.

    Win DC4 Profile Folder Must Reside Here:
    • C:\Users\[UserName]\AppData/Local/DrumCore/profile/[username]
    or, it might be here depending on your Windows version:
    • (C:)/Program Data/DrumCore/profile/[username]

    Win DC4 Log File Location:
    • C:\Users\[UserName]\Documents\DrumCore\Logs

    Mac & Win Content File Paths:
    DC4 sets the content path to one of these locations, depending on your DC4 edition and OS. Content can be moved to an external Solid State Drive using the instructions below.

    • DC4 Ultra and Prime Flash for Mac and Windows: /DC4/DrumCore
    • DC4 Prime Link and Lite for Mac: /MacintoshHD/Library/Application Support/DrumCore/
      NOTE: This is NOT the "Users" Library folder. It is the top level "MacintoshHD" one, where the DC4 content was installed.
      To find the "MacintoshHD" directory, right-click the name (at the top of the Finder Window) of the current directory, and it will have a dropdown menu and show the hierarchy of the current directory. All will lead back to the Macintosh HD.
    • DC4 Prime Link and Lite for Windows: C:\ProgramData\DrumCore
      Instructions for how to view a hidden Program Data folder are above.

    File paths are also listed in the DrumCore 4 Install Guide pdf (Page 2 & 3).

  13. Can I move DC4 and DC4 content to an external drive?

    While the DC4 plug-in (and some other files described above) must reside on your computer, DC4 allows you to store your content library on an external hard drive - a SSD (solid-state drive) is recommended for best reliability during audio playback. Within the Settings tab, you can indicate the revised location of your content library by using the ‘Choose DrumCore Path’ feature described below.

    First, understand which DC4 files must remain in place by reading this section, then proceed to the next section: How to Move your DC4 Library.

    For DC4 Lite, download and install the intitial 1.5 GB file on your computer's hard drive. It is possible, after installing the 1.5 GB, to change the location of the content (not the plug-in) to an external drive. Then you may use the DC4 SETTINGS panel to download the remaining 2.5 GB of DC4 Lite content to an external drive.

    For DC4 Prime Link, download and install the 4.11 GB file on your computer's hard drive. It is possible, after installing the 4.11 GB file, to change the location of the content (not the plug-in) to an external drive. Then you may use the DC4 SETTINGS panel to download the remaining 15+ GB of DC4 Prime Link content to an external drive.

    For DC4 Prime Flash and Ultra, the content can be stored on the drive. If you run out of room on the flash drive (error code 0), you can move the content to your computer or to a SSD (solid-state drive).

    DC4 content may be moved to an external drive before or after downloading more content within the plug-in.
    However, these items must remain on your computer in default locations summarized here with more details below:
    • DC4 plug-in (about 100 MB)
    • Preferences folder
    • Profile folder
    • Windows only C:/ProgramData/DrumCore/main-ca.cert (more in the "Windows DC4 Default File Locations" section below about where to find this file)
    • DC3/DC2.5/KitCore users: If you need to migrate content to DC4, the Migration Tool application (28 MB) must remain on your computer, or ask support for assistance.

    How to Move Your DC4 Library and Change the DrumCore Library Path:

    • 1. With your DAW closed, COPY (do not MOVE) your DrumCore folder that contains your entire content library (see file path above), including all internal folders*, to the new location on your computer or on an external hard drive (Windows One Drive is not supported). The folder that you copy must continue to be named "DrumCore" in the new location. Do not rename your original or copied "DrumCore" folder to "DrumCore 4" or anything else. Also do not rename your copied "Library" folder.

      *Note for Windows users with Prime Link or Lite: Copying (rather than moving) is recommended, as the DrumCore folder contains both the content library and a certificate that is required by registration and the Migration Tool. You may delete the redundant content library once copying is complete, but C:/ProgramData/DrumCore/main-ca.cert must remain in its original location or you may get Error Code #377. main-ca.cert does not need to be present in the new content library location.

      To troubleshoot a Windows Migration Error: Network Error 377, see section 4.5 in the DC4 Install Guide.

    • 2. Open your DAW and load DrumCore onto an instrument track.

      If you copied/moved your DrumCore folder that contains your content library, you may be immediately prompted to indicate the location of your DrumCore Library on launch.
      If you are not immediately prompted to indicate the location of your library:
      From within the plug-in, click the Settings tab. Then click the button that says, 'Choose DrumCore Path'. A dialog box will open, allowing you to navigate to your desired content location. See the DC4 User Guide pdf "Locating the DrumCore Folder"(Section 9.2) for complete steps on this.

    • 3. Select the folder called ‘DrumCore’ in your desired location. Do not select the "Library" folder inside that DrumCore folder. Click, 'Open'.
      If you have any problems with a "Library not found" error, see FAQ below.

    • 4. If you wish to delete the redundant copy of your content library on your computer, you may do so now - again, keep the necessary files listed above on your computer.

    For more, see the DrumCore 4 User Guide pdf (section 7.2.1) - "Changing the DrumCore Path" or watch the Video Tuorial: Moving DrumCore 4 Content to an External Drive.


  14. How do I Back Up DC4?

    Before the news about the registration and downloads server going down 10-31-22, this was the recommendation: Copy your DC4 installer file, files in the DC4 Default File Locations Lists above, DC4 Content Library files, and songs you'd like to keep to your back up drive. Depending on your DAW, render files are also important to back up if you'd like to keep your sessions in tact after a re-install.

    It is now strongly encouraged to create a Back-up Disk Image of your entire computer so that you hopefully do not have to re-install DC4 from scratch as that will not be possible after 10-31-2022. See Back-up Recommendations.

  15. Is an iLok account or dongle required for DrumCore 4? Using an iLok dongle is recommended per the End of Support Announcement and Back-up Recommendations. An iLok account with Pace allows you to activate DC4 on two computers, and manage activations independently, without needing support to manage it with you. During DC4 installation, the iLok License Manager software will be installed (PACE License Support for Windows), which helps manage DC4 registration on two of your computers, and move them between computers and iLoks. Select whether you want your license to be tied to an iLok dongle (recommended) or to a computer. You may tie your DC4 registration to the iLok License Manager on your computer. Or, if choosing an iLok dongle (recommended), you must have an iLok dongle plugged into a computer during installation. Only iLok 2 (black or grey) or 3 (silver) dongles may be used. If you activate "anonymously" by not signing into your iLok account, you will need to contact support (support is ending 10-31-22) each time you need to change DC4 activations (like if you need to install it on a second computer). This is why creating disk image backups is recommended.

    While you only get one Activation Code for DC4, you can use that code for two DC4 licenses. To manage your DC4 licenses, open iLok License Manager and sign in with your iLok username (may be different from your Sonoma/DrumCore 4 username). Then you can drag a DrumCore license to a second computer or iLok dongle, or deactivate a computer it was activated on previously. There is a video here that shows how to activate licenses using the iLok Manager. Also see the DrumCore 4 Install Guide pdf.


  16. How many authorizations am I allowed with DrumCore 4?

    An individual who purchases and registers DrumCore 4 may authorize it on up to two of their own computers. The DrumCore 4 license agreement allows for one user per license; only one original registered user per serial number may receive support. The license is not transferable to another individual. Consult the license agreement included in the DC4 plug-in installer for the full details, or email support@sonomawireworks.com to request a copy of the license agreement.

    During DrumCore 4 registration, it is recommended that you sign into your iLok account when asked, so you will be able to manage your DrumCore 4 activations. If you sign into your iLok account when registering, you can activate upto two machines or iLoks with your serial number, and you can manage your activations. If you activate without signing in to an iLok account (anonymously), you will not be able to manage your activations, and you will need to contact support if you wish to activate DrumCore 4 on another computer. Email support@sonomawireworks.com if you have questions. Follow the DrumCore 4 Installation Guide.


  17. How can I fix the error messages: "Library not found. Please select the DrumCore folder containing the library" or "DrumCore Library Not Found"?

    There are separate solutions for these 2 problems depending on which error message you receive. See the written instructions and video for your solution below.

    To fix the error message in black text that says, "Library not found. Please select the DrumCore folder containing the library:" [video]

    Select the "DrumCore" folder in the following directory:
    Macintosh HD/Library/Application Support/DrumCore
    or
    (C:)/Program Data/DrumCore/

    Note: If you have moved your DrumCore folder to an alternate location, either on your computer or an external drive, make sure to point the plug-in at the folder called "DrumCore". Do not select the "Library" folder inside that DrumCore folder.


    To fix the error message in red text that says, "DrumCore 4 Library Not Found:" [video]

    When DrumCore 4 is launched the first time, it asks you to select the DrumCore folder. If you selected the wrong folder the first time do the following:

    1. Close your DAW

    2. Go here: MacintoshHD/Users/[username]/Library/Application Support/DrumCore/com.sonomawireworks.drumcore
    To open the DrumCore folder, you may need to go to the Finder, hold down the Option button, keep the Option button held down while you click on the Go menu, and select the Library folder.

    3. Delete the preferences file named: com.sonomawireworks.drumcore

    4. The next time you open DC4, it will ask you for the DrumCore folder.

    The path to this folder is: /MacintoshHD/Library/Application Support/DrumCore
    NOTE: This is NOT the "Users" Library folder. It is the top level "MacintoshHD" one, where the DC4 content was installed.
    To find the "MacintoshHD" directory, right-click the name (at the top of the Finder Window) of the current directory, and it will have a dropdown menu and show the hierarchy of the current directory. All will lead back to the Macintosh HD.
    NOTE: If you moved your DrumCore folder to alternate location, either on your machine or an external drive, make sure to point the plug-in at the folder called "DrumCore". Do not select the "Library" folder inside that DrumCore folder.

    File paths are also listed in the DrumCore 4 Install Guide on page 19.


  18. How can I download DC4 drums easily? What are eye and cloud icons?

    After 10-31-22: No downloading of DC4 or DC4 Drums or Previews will be available per the End of Support Announcement and Back-up Recommendations.

    Before 10-31-22: DC4 Plug-in Downloading Tips:
    If you purchased DC4 as a download from Sonoma's online store, support can reset your downloads in the store. See tips below.
    If you purchased a download from a dealer, and are having trouble, contact support and we can provide direct download links.

    Sonoma Store Downloading Tips:
    • Sonoma's store does not work with download management software. If you use one, try disabling it.

    • If you have a firewall, either try temporarily disabling your firewall, or check the firewall settings.

    • Try switching to a different browser. For example, one Win 10 user had problems downloading with Microsoft Edge and Firefox, but Google Chrome worked. However another user had problems downloading with Chrome, but Edge worked. On Mac some people find Chrome works better than Safari for downloading.

    •Make sure yo have enough space on your hard drive for the download.

    • If that doesn't work, contact support for download links.

    DC4 Content Downloading Tips Pre-10-31-22:
    • Make sure you have DrumCore version 4.3.4 as it includes improved downloading. If you are getting Error Code 360, the security certificate expired because you are running an older version of DC4 and need to update to 4.3.4. Email support if you need help updating.

    • Open your DAW as an Administrator for best results before downloading DC4 content. • DC4 must remain open while you are downloading.

    • Drum Kits that you own will download first, so you will not notice GrooveSet downloading progress until your Kits have completed downloading. Give DC4 a few minutes to start showing progress for GrooveSet downloading.

    • Wait to Preview Content: It is best to allow your owned content to download before "previewing" any new content. Previewing a GrooveSet starts a new download each time you click a preview button on a GrooveSet. This could start too many files downloading at once, which may be tough for your computer and internet bandwidth to handle.

    • If downloading content in the SETTINGS Tab stalls (due to internet interruption or something else): Make sure you have enough space where you are trying to download the content (4 GB for Lite, 20 GB for Prime, or 50 GB for Ultra plus any extra content you may have). Then restart the plug-in, and click "Download All Owned Files" again.

    • If downloading is slow, and you have a firewall: Either try temporarily disabling your firewall, or check the firewall settings to make sure you can download multiple packets easily.

    • If downloading is stuck on a file: Try checking the x next to the file in Settings and try to download it later. If it gets stuck on that same file again, tell support@sonomawireworks.com the name of the file and what is happening. There is a workaround for a rare problem.

    • If the drive where you store your DC4 content becomes full, DC4 can't download more content and you will get Network Error Code 0. For information about how to change the location of your content, see section 7.2.1 of the DC4 user guide that is installed with DC4 and linked to here.

    Eye Icon (Unowned/Preview): DC4's Browser indicated which loops you don't own yet, but could preview (before 10-31-22), with eye icons. Clicking on any loop with this icon will download a preview to your content library. Once it downloads, the icon will turn into a play button. If you wish to purchase a GrooveSet, click the button next to the GrooveSet description in DC4's Browser to go to DC4's Store page for that product.

    Cloud Icon (Owned): DC4's Browser will indicate which loops you own, but have not installed, with cloud icons. When you click a GrooveSet or Drum Kit with a cloud icon, the content starts downloading (before 10-31-22).

    Three options to access content:

    1. Drive (No Longer Available): DC4 Lite/Link users may crossgrade to a DrumCore Prime Flash or Ultra drive from Sonoma or select worldwide dealers.

    2. Migrate (Before 10-31-22): DrumCore 2.5, DC3 and KitCore Upgrades: Migrating is faster than downloading. If you don't have your previous version on the same computer as DC4 for migration, you could download your DC4 edition content, or you could upgrade to Flash or Ultra to install from a drive. Before 10-31-22, email support with proof of purchase for any add-on content you may have purchased for your previous version, so we can give it to you to download within DC4.

    3. Download (Before 10-31-22): DC4 Lite/Link users can go to DC4's SETTINGS tab and "Download All Owned Content" with one click (only the content that you own and that you haven't already downloaded will download). Or click each GrooveSet's cloud icon to queue the downloads you want first. The SETTINGS tab will show download progress for each file; or crossgrade to Flash or Ultra to install from a drive. When you purchase add-on content in DC4's Store the same download options apply. There are a number of factors that will affect the download speed, like your computer's capabilities, your network and firewall settings, how heavily Sonoma's servers are being accessed, and how much space you have remaining on your drive where your DC4 library is stored (flash drive, external drive, or computer).

    We don't expect you to have any problems, but if you do, email support@sonomawireworks.com with your OS and recording software version, how much space you have remaining where you are attempting to download the file, and any screenshot(s) that you think might be helpful.


  19. Why are there different numbers of MIDI loops than audio loops?

    Each MIDI loop in DrumCore was programmed by professionals with the intention to maintain as much feel as possible as performed by the artists, while lining up well with the grid, and without feeling quantized. There are less MIDI loops than audio loops because the MIDI did not have to be recreated at every tempo (like many audio loops were) because MIDI is stretchable without artifacts.


  20. Why isn't DrumCore 4 appearing on my computer or in my DAW's list of plug-ins?

    DrumCore 4 is not a stand-alone application. DrumCore 4 is a 64-bit plug-in and requires a 64-bit host application, so it opens within a compatible DAW. Is your DAW on the DrumCore 4 compatible software list? Make sure your DAW is 64-bit and is compatible with AAX, VST3, or AU plug-in formats.

    If you are on a Mac, and your DAW can operate in both 32-bit and 64-bit mode, it may have opened in 32-bit by default. Open your Applications folder and right-click on your DAW's icon. Select "Get Info." There should be a checkbox marked "Open in 32-bit mode". Make sure this is unchecked and try reopening your DAW. If you still do not see DrumCore, you may want to rescan your plug-in directory. Consult the manufacturer's info for your DAW for instructions on how to do this.


  21. HOW DO I USE DRUMCORE 4?

    See the DC4 User Guide for the most complete instructions.


  22. How do I search for and find the right drums for my song in DrumCore 4?

    Before you purchase DC4, there are some previews of DC4 online.
    After you have DC4, there are many ways to search:

    Using the following menus in DC4, you can filter through DC4's massive library to hone in on the perfect grooves for your project. As you search, you'll find grooves that you own, and more grooves that are available for preview, purchase and download. Browsing and downloading tips below.

    Genre: 22 styles: Alternative, Ballad, Blues, Click Tracks, Country, Dance Hall, Funk, Hip Hop, Industrial, Jazz, Latin, Metal, New Orleans, Pop, Prog Rock, Punk, R & B, Reggae, Retro Rock, Rock, Ska, World Music

    Time Signature: 17 time signatures: 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 7/4, 9/4, 5/8, 6/8, 7/8, 9/8, 11/8, 12/8, 13/8, 17/8, 20/8, 21/8

    Feel: 13 feel options: Shuffle, Shuffle Train, Straight 16ths, Straight 8ths, Straight Feel, Straight Quarters, Swing, Swung 16ths, Swung 8ths, Train, Triplet Feel, Triplet 6-8 Feel, Triplet 12-8 Feel

    Tags: 73 various tags: aggressive, agogo, ballad, basic, big room, blocks, bongos, brushes, cajon, China claves, click, congas, cowbell, crash, cross stick, cut time, cymbals, dark, delay, djembe, double kick, driving, electronic, fast, fills, filtered, flashy, free tempo, gated reverb, ghost notes, glitchy, guiro, hand drums, hi-hat, kick, laid-back, loud, mallet, march, mellow, metallic, MIDI, odd time, offbeat, old school, percussion, pitched, polyrhythm, processed, quiet, retro, reverb, ride, rim, rutes, shaker, side-stick, simple, slow, snare, snares off, sparse, stop time, tambourine, textured, tight, timbale, toms, triangle, udo, uptempo, vintage

    Drummers: Over 25 famous drummers' audio loops, MIDI loops, and/or drum kits are available as part of your DC4 edition or as add-ons:
    Moses Abrego (Ahava Audio) (ODESZA, Sibs Shongwe-La Mer, Pira.md Records)
    Jeff Anthony (Sheryl Crow)
    John Bishop (Bobby McFerrin, Mark Murphy, Ernie Watts)
    Terry Bozzio (Jeff Beck, Frank Zappa, Missing Persons)
    Tony Braunagel (Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, Robert Cray)
    Bill Bruford (Yes, UK, King Crimson, Genesis)
    Matt Cameron (Sound Garden, Pearl Jam)
    Dennis Chambers (Parliament/Funkadelic, John Scofield, Steely Dan, Santanas, Stanley Clark, Maceo Parker)
    Luis Conte (Madonna, Shakira, Santana, Phil Collins, Sergio Mendes)
    Eric Darken (Bon Jovi, Willie Nelson, Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift)
    Discrete Drums (EarthBeat, Heavy Mental II and Kickin Country)
    Ned Douglas (No Doubt, Katie Perry, Dave Stewart, Simply Red)
    Drums On Demand (Blues & Boogie, Jazz & Latin, Solid Rock, Upbeat & Aggressive and Warm & Natural)
    Sly Dunbar (Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Black Uhuru, Jimmy Cliff)
    Graham Hawthorne (pureDrums) (Beyonce, Kid Rock, David Byrne, Paul Simon)
    Fabrice Dupont (pureDrums) (Jennifer Lopez, Mark Ronson, Queen Latifa, Bon Jovi)
    Gregg Keplinger (Herb Ellis, Carter Jefferson)
    Terence Higgins (Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Norah Jones, The Black Crowes)
    MPC LockBox (Akai MPC-style Hip-Hop drums)
    Billy Martin (Medeski, Martin and Wood, Iggy Pop, Maceo Parker)
    Mitch Mitchell-Style RetroDrums by Billy Martin (Jimi Hendrix Experience)
    Jonathan "Sugarfoot" Moffett (Michael Jackson, Madonna, Elton John)
    Tony Morra (Ayeshia Woods, Aja, Amy Grant, Bruce Springsteen & Joe Grushecky)
    Greg Morrow (Dixie Chicks, Van Zant, 38 Special, Hank Williams III)
    Stephen Perkins (Jane's Addiction, Porno for Pyros, Nine Inch Nails)
    Bernard Purdie (Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, James Brown, Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, John Lee Hooker, B.B. King)
    Michael Shrieve (Santana, The Rolling Stones, Steve Winwood)
    Ben Smith (Heart, Taj Mahal, Peter Frampton)
    Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver, The Cult)
    DJ Syze-up (UltraNate, Jamiroquai, Jeff Beck)
    John Tempesta (The Cult, Testament, Exodus, White Zombie, Helmet)
    Gary Thompson (Paul Allen and The Underthinkers, Vulcan Inc. Session Musician, Q5, TKO)
    Chuck Treece (McRad, Bad Brains, Scott Storch, Urge Overkill)
    Alan White (John Lennon, Yes, The Plastic Ono Band)
    Lonnie Wilson (Brooks and Dunn, Rascal Flatts, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw)
    Zoro (Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Sean Lennon)

    DC4's filters narrow down the content to help you find what you need, and include many good results. However, there may be more content available that you would like than shows up in filters. Therefore, we also recommend that you search by using the DC4 Browser: go to each artist, and read the names of their GrooveSets and Kits.

    Read about every drummer and every GrooveSet and DrumKit they offer on the DC4 Drummer Bio Page to get a feel for what genres they play. Previews are not available on that page, so search within DC4 if you'd like to audition GrooveSets while you browse.

    DC4 Browsing and Downloading Tips:

    To see the list of each drummer's GrooveSets and Drum Kits: Open your DC4 plug-in, click the BROWSER tab at the bottom of the plug-in, then click the word "More..."

    To browse only the drums you DO own, press "Show Owned" button to dimmer text. To browse all the drums you DO and DO NOT own, un-press "Show Owned" button to brighter text. There is not a way to browse Only the content that you DO NOT own. However, you can tell if you do not own it in the store, and if there is an "eye" icon (preview icon) on it.

    While there are no previews of Drum Kits, you can listen to a kit's corresponding GrooveSet preview (before 10-31-22) to get an idea of what the kit will sound like.

    Downloading tip while previewing GrooveSets (before 10-31-22): Make sure that you have downloaded all of your owned drums first (click "download all owned content" in DC4's SETTINGS panel). This will ensure that you don't have too many simultaneous download attempts. Click only one preview "eye icon" at a time, wait until you hear it, then move on to the next one. Previewing a GrooveSet downloads that GrooveSet file, just like purchasing it, which can take a while because they are large files. If you click to preview a second file before the first one is downloaded, you'll have to wait until downloading completes for the prior file before hearing the second. If you keep clicking preview files before they are all finished downloading, you can bog down your computer and/or bandwidth by downloading too many files at once. After you purchase a GrooveSet that you have previewed, you don't have to download it again, the database just marks it as owned and you can start using the GrooveSet that you already previewed/downloaded right away.

    For more on DC4 Browser searching, see section 3.2 of the DC4 user guide that is installed with DC4 and linked to here (searching by tags in section 3.2.5).

    If you have trouble downloading or finding the drums you need after following the tips above, please email support.


  23. Can I use my MIDI controller to trigger DrumCore sounds?

    Yes. DrumCore's Drum Kits are all mapped to the General MIDI Level 1 Percussion Key Map, but individual instrument MIDI note assignments can be changed in the Kit Editor, allowing you to create custom maps that work with your specific controller. See the DC4 User Guide pdf (section 5.5.) for more info about using an external controller (external keyboard) with DrumCore 4. If you search for "External Controller" in the Guide you'll find helpful info.


  24. Can I change the levels for each individual drum?

    Yes, using the Kit Editor, which works specifically for the MIDI kits. You can not only draw in individual ADSR envelope curves for each sound, but you can also create drum groups in the Kit Mixer, and apply effects on a per-channel basis. The Kit Mixer allows you to adjust the levels for your drums by either using the groups already embedded in the MIDI kits, or you can create custom groups on each mixer channel, for a more unique sound. See the DC4 User Guide pdf (section 5.5.) for more info about the Kit Editor.


  25. Can I change the sounds for each individual drum?

    Yes, using the Kit Editor, which allows you to make changes to the sampled sounds used in the MIDI kits. There, you can create custom kits by swapping out sounds from one kit to sounds from another, and save your changes to be usable in future projects. You can also layer and blend multiple sounds in a single drum assignment using Velocity Layers. Want your snare to crack when it’s hit hard, and roll off gently when tapped lightly? Velocity Layering allows you to do just that, giving your custom kits greater depth and feel.


  26. Can I save my custom Drum Kit presets?

    Yes, you can save custom kits. See section 5.3.3 in the user guide for further info and screenshots. DC4 saves custom kits to your content library in one of the following locations:

    • DC4 Prime Flash or Ultra for Mac and Win:
    /DC4/DrumCore/Library/DrumKits/User

    • DC4 Prime Link or Lite for Mac:
    /MacintoshHD/Library/Application Support/DrumCore/Library/DrumKits/User
    If the DrumCore folder in the above correct location is hidden, go to the Finder, hold down the Option button, keep the Option button held down while you click on the Go menu, and select the Library folder. The following is the incorrect location: /Users/[username]/Library/Application Support/DrumCore/. If a "User" folder is not in the correct location, you can create one.

    • DC4 Prime Link or Lite for Win:
    C:\ProgramData\DrumCore\Library\DrumKits\User
    Windows' ‘ProgramData’ folder is, by default, a hidden system folder. To reveal it in your Win 8 or Win 10 file browser:
    A. Open the Control Panel
    B. Click ‘Appearance and Personalization’
    C. Navigate to ‘Folder Options’ and click the ‘View’ tab.
    D. In ‘Advanced Settings’, click ‘Show hidden files, folders and drives’, then click OK to save that setting.
    If you have an earlier version of Windows, click here for instructions.


  27. Why can't I make changes to the audio loops like I can in the MIDI kits?

    The audio loops are stereo mixed files which cannot be separated into independent drum sounds.


  28. Why are some of the titles below the Groove icons (audio loops) red?

    With tempo-stretchable audio loops, there is always a limit past which a loop will begin to sound unnatural. If the tempo of your project is beyond the natural range (both too fast and too slow) for a particular loop, the text beneath it will turn red, to let you know that playback might not sound right. For this reason, many of the audio loops in DrumCore were recorded at multiple tempos so that the audio can be stretched across a great range while still sounding perfectly natural, and audio loops that are closest to your project tempo will always deliver the most natural sound. Of course, there are always happy accidents, so when in doubt, let your ears guide you!


  29. I'm dragging audio loops onto the instrument track, and they're not copying over, or if they are, I'm not getting any playback. Why?

    Audio loops must be dragged into an audio track in order to be played. Create an audio track in your session and drag your audio loops into that track to hear playback. Instrument tracks will only work with MIDI information, as they are made to trigger the instrument loaded on them. You can drag MIDI loops to your instrument track, or write a MIDI sequence directly in a region in the track.


  30. Where is the DrumCore 4 Store for purchasing add-on content for DrumCore 4?

    DrumCore 4 add-on content can only be purchased in the DC4 Store that is built into the plug-in. There is no website store for DC4 add-on drums. In DC4, it's easy and convenient to preview GrooveSets before you buy them. You can also listen to a few previews here. See what add-ons are available on the DrumCore Drummer Bios page. Buy DC4 Lite ($49), DC4 Prime ($249) or DC4 Ultra ($639) to access the DC4 Store. More info about the DC4 Store and payments can be found in the DrumCore 4 User Guide (chapter 8).


  31. WHAT ARE SONOMA'S POLICIES?

  32. Are these drum recordings royalty-free? Can I use this in music I plan to release publicly?

    Yes, owners of a license to DrumCore 4, and the content they are using in DrumCore 4, may use the content royalty free in their compositions. Consult the license agreement included in the DC4 plug-in installer for the full details, or contact support@sonomawireworks.com for a copy of DC4's LICENSE.txt.


  33. How do I give credit to the drummer from DrumCore 4 in song credits?

    You are not obligated to give credit to the drummer. If you opt to give credit to the drummer in your album liner notes, or elsewhere, it must be clear that it was not created by the drummer directly for you. After the name of the artist, you must put Drums by DrumCore®, or whichever third party manufacturer produced the drums. See the license agreement included in the DC4 plug-in installer for the full details or contact support@sonomawireworks.com for a copy of DC4's LICENSE.txt.


  34. What is Sonoma Wire Works' return policy?

    Sonoma's Software and Drum Content are Not Returnable
    Sonoma's software and add-on drum content cannot be returned or refunded if purchased from sonomawireworks.com. Email support@sonomawireworks.com if you need advice about compatibility, or if you have any questions, before you buy.
    Sonoma Return Policy and Sonoma's Shipping Policy

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