Loops versus programmed drums
A drum loop is a recorded or programmed beat that repeats seamlessly, usually one, two or four bars long. It gives you a groove with feel already in it, which is handy for sketching or when you want a live drummer’s timing. Programmed one-shots give you more control; many producers use both, a loop for texture and their own kick and snare on top.
Getting a loop to sit
Check the loop’s length in bars after you set the tempo: if it doesn’t line up with your grid, the stated BPM may be half or double the real one. High-pass the loop if you are adding your own kick, and use a transient shaper to bring out or soften the attack. Slicing the loop into hits lets you rearrange it into a new pattern, which also makes it sound less like a stock sample.
Tempo appears on each card when the source states it or our analysis can detect it.