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Drum Library User Guides

Getting Started with Drum Libraries

Includes information on getting started with MixWave drum libraries.

Updated 1 day ago

This guide will walk you through the essential hardware and software setup, allowing you to get started quickly using MixWave drum libraries.

Required Hardware

Before you dive into the software, you'll need to have the right hardware for playback and MIDI input.

  • Computer
    Your computer needs to meet these system requirements to ensure smooth operation.

  • Audio Interface (Optional but Recommended)
    While not required to use our drum libraries, an audio interface provides cleaner audio output when working in a DAW. Some popular options include:

    • Apogee Duet

    • RME MADIface XT II

    • Universal Audio Apollo Twin

  • MIDI Controller or Electronic Drum Kit (Optional)
    Our libraries can be played using a MIDI keyboard, e-drum kit, or by programming MIDI directly in your DAW. Many users prefer connecting a Roland, Alesis, or Yamaha e-kit via USB or MIDI to trigger the library in real time.

  • Headphones or Studio Monitors
    For accurate playback, connect headphones or monitors to your computer or audio interface to monitor the drum output.

 

Required Software

Kontakt or Kontakt Player

MixWave drum libraries require Kontakt Player (free) or the full version of Kontakt. You can run Kontakt as a standalone application or as a plugin inside your DAW. Standalone mode is ideal for practice or quick testing, while DAW mode offers full production capabilities.

Learn more about Kontakt here .

 

Native Access 2

Native Access is used to download, activate, and manage your Kontakt products. After purchasing a MixWave library, you’ll receive a serial number to add and activate in Native Access.

Get started by creating a free Native Instruments account , and downloading Native Access 2 .

 

Supported DAWs

MixWave libraries work with any DAW that supports VST3, AU, or AAX plugins via Kontakt. View a list of supported DAWs here .

 

Setting Up Your Hardware

Here’s how to get started with a MIDI controller or electronic drum kit:

  • Connect Your MIDI Device
    Plug your MIDI keyboard or e-drum kit into your computer via USB or MIDI interface. Make sure any necessary drivers are installed.

  • Enable MIDI Input
    In Kontakt’s standalone or plugin settings, ensure your MIDI device is selected as an input source.

  • Audio Monitoring
    Use your headphones or speakers to listen to the drum output through your audio interface or system output.

 

Using the Library

Standalone Mode

  • Open the Kontakt or Kontakt Player application from your Start Menu (Windows) or Applications folder (macOS).

  • Click the gear icon to open Audio & MIDI Settings. Select your audio output and MIDI input device.

  • Load your MixWave drum library by selecting it from the Library browser or using the file browser to locate the .nki instrument file.

 

DAW Integration

  1. Open your DAW and start a new session or project.

  2. Insert Kontakt on a new instrument track.

  3. Load the Library inside Kontakt by selecting the instrument (.nki) file.

  4. Arm the track for monitoring or recording to trigger the drum sounds live or record MIDI.

 

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • No sound? Ensure the library is loaded correctly and your MIDI input is assigned in Kontakt.

  • Latency issues? Lower your audio buffer size in Kontakt standalone or DAW audio settings.

  • Library not showing in Kontakt? Confirm that you added the serial in Native Access and completed the installation. Restart Kontakt after installation.

 

Library Downloads

You can download your purchased drum libraries and future updates through Native Access 2 .

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