Circuits: Analog-Style Drum Machine Plugin by UJAM

Circuits is aimed at producers who like the sound of classic drum machines but do not own the hardware. UJAM says the kits capture analog warmth and the slightly rough character of older electronic drums, which digital drum sounds can struggle to reproduce.

The Mix control runs 12 processing presets that combine effects such as low-end thump, stereo widening, slap delay and EQ carving. The vintage samples can also be used as a separate accent layer when you want punch and sparkle without crowding the rest of your percussion.

Because the drums are not tied to one genre, you can use them in many styles where a retro electronic feel is wanted.

The plugin includes 20 styles with 23 ready-made patterns each, for a total of 460 patterns across the library. Patterns can be dragged into your DAW as MIDI, and the interface can be resized.

The Boost control is a special control. According to UJAM, it lets you carve the mids, boost the sub and add high-end shimmer, then pushes the result into a compressor. Setting it to negative gives a tighter mid-range knock. The Beat Intensity control makes quick energy changes, for example between a verse and a chorus.

Circuits suits producers making electronic music who want quick, characterful drum parts. It is also useful for adding a retro layer to a drum part that needs more punch without taking up much space in the mix.