Hardcore Kicks VSTi 2

Essential VSTi Tool for Hardcore and Hardstyle Producers

Hardcore Kicks VSTi 2 is a specialized virtual instrument tailored for producers immersed in the genres of Hardcore and Hardstyle music. With a firm emphasis on simplifying the creation process of kicks and basslines, this plugin provides a blend of ease-of-use and depth that can elevate both novice and seasoned music production.

User Interface and Sample Management

The interface of Hardcore Kicks VSTi 2 has been finely tuned to cater to user needs. It inherits the sophistication from its predecessor while incorporating substantial enhancements for an even more streamlined experience. The LITE version introduces a novel approach to sample bank management that integrates simplicity with a broad range of editing capabilities. Building upon the foundation of Hardcore Kicks VSTi 1.x, the updated SoundBank offers improved patches, bringing fresh possibilities to kick sound design.

Wave Loader and Wave-Shapers

Producers can effortlessly load and manipulate .wav files with the plugin's wave-loader functionality, which supports the standard 44.100hz format. The intuitive import-to-bank and fast wave selection allow for efficient sound browsing and choice. Wave-shapers offer seven points of shaping, with options to auto-resample waves, produce normalized outputs, and the convenience of drawing the shape directly onto the wave preview.

Comprehensive Filters and Envelopes

Hardcore Kicks VSTi 2 provides an array of five filter types, including lowpass, highpass, bandpass, notch, and peak filters, with full control over their frequency, resonance, and keynote. The filters and their parameters such as cutoff, resonance, keynote, and bypass are fully automatable, allowing intricate modulation during track automation in your DAW.

Envelopes are a strong point for this VSTi, with ADSR controls on amplitude, pitch, and filter, complemented by a graphical preview. These also come with automation capabilities, adding layers of complexity and possibilities to sound design.

Distortion and Equalizer

The software showcases a three-band distortion feature, with a frequency splitter and controls over amount, frequency, and bypass. The high-quality equalizer allows for precision EQ adjustments with a 4-point XY control and adjustable Q-factor.

MIDI Integration

Integrating MIDI functionalities, Hardcore Kicks VSTi 2 supports pitch bend and modulation wheel control over filter cutoff, in addition to a multitude of MIDI CC values. This seamless integration ensures the plugin operates in harmony with MIDI controllers, bridging the gap between physical control and software manipulation.

Presets and Sound Variety

Within the preset management, users will find 24 patches per bank along with a robust support system for saving/loading individual and complete patches/banks. Copy/Paste/Rename functions further enhance workflow efficiency, ensuring that producers can quickly prototype and iterate over their kick and bassline ideas.

Pros

• Specifically designed for hardcore and hardstyle genres
• User-friendly interface and enhanced sound bank management
• Efficient wave-loading and fast sample browsing
• Diverse shaping tools and filters, all with automation capabilities
• Robust MIDI implementation for greater control during production

Cons

• Limited to kick and bassline production
• May require a learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with synthesis
• Some advanced producers may seek even more in-depth features

Hardcore Kicks VSTi 2 goes beyond simply offering a production tool; it offers a specialized experience that underscores both the variety and precise control essential in today's electronic music production, while ensuring that users can create professional-sounding kicks and basslines with relative ease.