Boom

Boom is a standalone drum machine plugin that originated as part of Pro Tools' Creative Collection before demand warranted its independent release. The instrument models the sonic character and workflow of classic hardware drum machines, particularly the TR-808 and TR-909, while incorporating design elements from machines like the CR-78 and TR-606.

The core architecture centers on ten distinct drum kits with ten individual drum channels each. Rather than offering sample playback, Boom employs synthesis-based drum voices with meaningful control over tuning, decay, volume, and panning per drum. Each channel includes a dedicated tuning screw mechanism for surgical sound design adjustments, enabling significant tonal variation within a kit. Users can freely mix and match drums across kits to construct custom configurations, with MIDI triggering mapped to standard pitch notes.

The included sequencer provides step-based pattern programming, though the plugin also accepts external MIDI input from DAW arrangements or controllers. Fifty included presets span electronic, dance, and urban production contexts, offering reasonable starting points for genre-specific work.

Boom suits producers seeking a hardware-inspired drum machine with genuine sonic flexibility and straightforward interface design. The synthesis-driven approach yields characterful, punchy tones well-suited to electronic and hip-hop production. However, the plugin's macOS 12 maximum compatibility and lack of Apple Silicon native support represents a significant limitation for modern users on M-series hardware. The plugin remains available in AU and VST formats for Windows and Intel Mac systems, maintaining relevance primarily among established users of the Pro Tools ecosystem.