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Audio engineering · Recording

Drum replacement

What is drum replacement? A clear definition from the audio engineering and recording section of our glossary, with 12 related terms, tools to try and further reading.

Definition of Drum replacement

Drum replacement is the practice, in modern music production, of an engineer or producer recording a live drummer and replacing (or adding to) the sound of a particular drum with a pre-recorded sample. For example, a drummer might play a beat, whereupon the engineer might then replace all of the snare hits with the sound of a hand-clap. It is considered by some to be one of the most arcane practices of the modern music production industry and is an example of the considerable influence of computers in modern music, even in genres not strictly classified as "electronic music."

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Frequently asked questions

What is Drum replacement?

Drum replacement is the practice, in modern music production, of an engineer or producer recording a live drummer and replacing (or adding to) the sound of a particular drum with a pre-recorded sample.

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