Cymbalism

In a world of ordinary cymbal samples and predictable EDM toppers, 'Cymbalism' from Loopmasters breaks the mould as a collection of live cymbal performances transformed into energetic, one-of-a-kind grooves. No drums, no filler, just metal, motion and meticulous recording.

Performed entirely on cymbals and hi-hats, 'Cymbalism' captures the energy and dynamics of a live drummer while offering endless creative potential for producers. Every loop has been recorded and processed through vintage gear to deliver both natural realism and experimental edge.

'Cymbalism' includes two distinct flavours:

Natural - Five perfectly synchronised mic positions for you to blend in your DAW. Load each mic group (close, overhead, room and vintage setups) on separate tracks to create your ideal mix.

Processed - Full grooves and isolated components including “kicks” and “snares” created entirely from cymbal processing, plus toppers that bring instant movement and sparkle to your beats.

All loops were performed live on a wide array of cymbals and hi-hats, recorded at 44.1 kHz/24-bit quality and phase-aligned for perfect timing and stereo imaging.

Recording took place in the Broadoak Studios live room, a converted barn with high ceilings and unique brick reflections that give the sound natural space and depth.

The session used an intricate 14-mic setup:

• Close dynamic mics on all hi-hats
• Four small-diaphragm condensers for detailed stereo imaging
• A trio of legendary vintage ribbons (RCA 44BX, RCA 77DX, Coles 4038)
• Two large-diaphragm tube condensers placed high for airy top-end detail
• A stereo ribbon or mid-sides pair capturing live room ambience

Signals were captured through the Raindirk Series 3 vintage analog console (formerly of Olympic Studios, London - used by Queen, Bowie, The Stones and Pink Floyd) and classic hardware such as 1176 and LA-2A compressors.

World-class drummer Sacha Trochet performed a wide range of grooves and tempos, swapping between different cymbals to create distinct “kits.” The sessions also included broken cymbals, stacked cymbals and unconventional playing methods to produce uniquely percussive textures.

Once recorded, the loops were mixed, shaped and transformed using a combination of vintage outboard (AMS DMX 1580S, Eventide H3000) and modern signal processing.

This created a range of twisted, remixed loops from full-kit-style grooves to otherworldly toppers and effects. The Natural loops remain unprocessed for full control over mic balance, while the Processed versions push the sound into new creative territory.

Every mic signal was time- and phase-aligned for pristine transients and imaging accuracy. Each mic group has been panned to its natural position and synchronised across all loops, letting you layer mic perspectives seamlessly or isolate the ones you prefer.

The multi-mic structure means you can dial in exactly how much room, air or vintage warmth you want, from tight and intimate to expansive and cinematic.

Any references to any brands on this site/page including references to brands and instruments are provided for description purposes only. For example references to instrument brands are provided to describe the sound of the instrument and the instrument used in the sample. Loopmasters do not have nor do they claim any association with or endorsement by these brands. Any goodwill attached to those brands rests with the brand owner. Loopmasters or its suppliers do not accept any liability in relation to the content of the sample or the accuracy of the description.

Product Details:

• 1.15 GB
• 24Bit 44.1kHz
• 35 Natural Hat Loops
• 196 Alternative Mic Loops
• 200 Processed Hat Loops
• 78 Processed Drum Loops
• 55 Processed Kick Loops
• 23 Processed Percussion Loops
• 20 Processed Snare Loops
• 18 Processed Cymbal Loops