Trystan Casey
There are several ways to connect electronic drums to a computer, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One common method is to use a USB/MIDI cable, which allows for the recording of both audio and MIDI. This method can be tricky as it differs between drum sets and manufacturers, and may result in latency issues. Another option is to use an external audio interface, which provides the highest audio quality and flexibility in post-production but is also the most expensive method. A cheaper alternative is to use an iRig, which can be plugged directly into a laptop or phone, though this may result in lower audio quality. Additionally, for online drum lessons, an external condenser microphone can be used to improve audio quality by controlling the input volume and reducing distortion.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Connection types | iRig, USB/MIDI cable, External audio interface |
| Connection steps | Download the MIDI utility app, select input and output ports, connect drum module to computer, enable the module, record on a MIDI instrument track |
| Required equipment | Condenser microphones, TRS to TRS cables, audio interface, DAW software |
| Advantages | Volume control, convenience, flexibility, high audio quality |
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What You'll Learn
Using a USB cable
Connecting an electronic drum kit to a computer using a USB cable is a simple process. First, ensure that your drum module has a USB port. Most modern electronic drum modules come with a variety of connection options, including USB ports. Once you've located the USB port on your drum module, simply plug in a standard USB cable. Connect one end of the cable to the USB output on your drum module, and the other end to a USB port on your computer.
After establishing the physical connection, there are a few additional steps to ensure the computer recognises the drum module. Your computer should automatically detect the module as a MIDI device. However, if it doesn't appear in the list of available devices, try selecting "I want to connect with Bluetooth" when prompted. If this doesn't work, restarting your device and repeating the process may help. Additionally, make sure that your drum module is enabled within your DAW and that the correct drivers are installed. If your electronic drum kit came with an installation guide, follow the instructions to install the necessary drivers. You can also visit the manufacturer's website to download the latest driver software that matches your computer's operating system.
It's important to note that when using a USB cable, you might experience some latency or lag between hitting the pad and hearing the sound output. This is a common issue when using a direct USB connection. Additionally, ensure that you have the correct input and output settings configured, especially if you're using a headset with a microphone. For example, in Ladiocast, set Input 1 as USB (e-drums) and Input 2 as the headset microphone. Adjust the main output to Zoom and the Aux out to your headphones.
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Using an audio/MIDI interface
Firstly, ensure you have the right software in place. If your electronic drum kit came with an installation guide, follow the instructions to install the necessary drivers and firmware. If not, visit the manufacturer's website and download the latest version of the drum module's driver software for your operating system.
Next, connect your drum module to the audio/MIDI interface using a MIDI cable. If your drum module supports it, you can also use a USB/MIDI cable straight from your module to your computer. However, this method may result in latency issues.
If your interface has two inputs, connect two TRS cables from the Main Outs on the back of your drum module to the two inputs of your interface. If your interface only has one input, connect a cable from your drum module's L output to the input on your interface.
Finally, create a Stereo audio track and update the input routing to match the input(s) you've connected to your module. You can now start recording your electronic drums, either as a MIDI instrument track or an audio track.
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Using an iRig
To use an iRig, you will need a standard instrument cable and a phone or laptop with a microphone jack. First, connect the instrument cable to the mono-out on your drum module, and then connect the other end of the cable to the iRig. Next, connect the iRig to the microphone jack on your phone or laptop. If you are using an iPhone, you can simply launch the camera app and hit record. If you want to capture video as well, point the camera at your drum set before hitting record. Your phone will then capture the audio from your drum module, replacing the sound of you hitting the pads with the actual sounds from the module. This makes it perfect for drum covers or quick videos for YouTube or blog posts.
For Android users, you may need to download a third-party camera app, such as Cinema FV-5, and set the mic to "external mic" to get the audio working. Additionally, if your mobile phone doesn't have a 3.5 mm jack port, you may need to use an adapter.
It is important to note that using an iRig has some drawbacks. Your drum audio will be in mono, it will be slightly compressed when using your phone, and you won't have the flexibility of getting MIDI information or separate audio tracks for each kit piece. If you need more flexibility and higher audio quality, you may want to consider alternative methods, such as using a USB/MIDI cable or an external audio interface.
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Using an external microphone
Condenser microphones are ideal for capturing the sounds of drums and the human voice. They are very sensitive and can pick up a wide range of frequencies and dynamics. The Blue Yeti microphone, for example, simply plugs into your computer via USB. With this type of microphone, you can control the gain (input sensitivity) and the pickup pattern (the direction the mic takes in sound). If using a practice pad, the cardioid pickup pattern works best, as the microphone will only pick up sounds directly in front of it.
Microphone placement is important to ensure that all the sounds you want to stream or record are clear and balanced. You may need to experiment with placement to get the best possible sound given your gear and space.
If you are using a microphone with an acoustic drum kit, you will need an interface between the drums and the computer. You can use Voicemeeter to mix the audio from your drum kit and microphone, and then output to a video conferencing platform such as Discord or Zoom.
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Using an audio interface
To use an audio interface, you will need to connect your drum module to the interface using a standard 1/4-inch or XLR cable. If your drum module has TRS connections for both left and right channels, you may need a USB mixer. If you are using MIDI, connect the cable from the "MIDI OUT" port on the module to the "MIDI IN" port on the audio interface.
Next, connect the audio interface to your computer via USB or Thunderbolt. Once connected, your drum module will be ready to interact with your computer. You can trigger MIDI signals or record audio directly.
Before recording, you will need to set up your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) to capture the audio. Create a new audio track and set the input to the channel where your module is connected. You can also record MIDI data by creating a new MIDI track and arming it for recording.
With your audio interface and DAW set up, you are now ready to record your electronic drums.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a computer with the right software, an electronic drum kit, and the right cables to connect the two.
You will need a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) such as Reaper, Pro Tools, Garageband, Audacity, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live.
You can connect your drum kit to your computer via a USB cable or a MIDI cable.
Plug a USB cable into the USB output on the back of your drum module, and plug the other end into your computer.
Connect a MIDI cable from the back of your drum module to a MIDI input on your computer.
