
Metro Boomin, one of the most influential producers in modern hip-hop and trap music, has crafted some of the most iconic beats of the past decade. His signature sound, characterized by heavy basslines, intricate hi-hat patterns, and atmospheric melodies, has become a staple in the genre. But what software does Metro Boomin use to create these groundbreaking tracks? Let’s dive into the tools and techniques that power his production process.
The Heart of Metro Boomin’s Setup: FL Studio
At the core of Metro Boomin’s production setup is FL Studio, a digital audio workstation (DAW) that has been a favorite among hip-hop and electronic music producers for years. FL Studio’s intuitive interface, robust plugin support, and powerful sequencing capabilities make it an ideal choice for crafting complex beats. Metro Boomin has often been seen using FL Studio in studio sessions and social media posts, solidifying its role as his primary DAW.
FL Studio’s Piano Roll is particularly noteworthy in Metro Boomin’s workflow. This feature allows him to program melodies and chords with precision, enabling the creation of his signature dark and moody soundscapes. Additionally, the DAW’s step sequencer is perfect for laying down intricate drum patterns, which are a hallmark of his beats.
Virtual Instruments and Plugins: Building the Sound
While FL Studio provides the foundation, Metro Boomin’s sound is heavily shaped by the virtual instruments and plugins he uses. Here are some of the key tools in his arsenal:
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Nexus by reFX: Nexus is a popular ROMpler that offers a vast library of presets, ranging from lush pads to gritty basslines. Metro Boomin often uses Nexus to layer sounds and add depth to his tracks. Its ease of use and high-quality samples make it a go-to for quick inspiration.
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Omnisphere by Spectrasonics: Known as the “ultimate synthesizer,” Omnisphere is a powerhouse for sound design. Metro Boomin leverages its extensive library of sounds and its ability to create unique textures to craft his atmospheric beats. Whether it’s eerie pads or distorted leads, Omnisphere plays a significant role in his production.
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Serum by Xfer Records: Serum is a wavetable synthesizer that has become a staple in modern music production. Metro Boomin uses Serum to design cutting-edge basslines and futuristic leads. Its visual interface and real-time modulation capabilities allow him to experiment and fine-tune his sounds with precision.
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Kontakt by Native Instruments: Kontakt is a sampler that hosts a wide range of instrument libraries. Metro Boomin often uses Kontakt to incorporate realistic orchestral elements, such as strings and brass, into his beats. This adds a cinematic quality to his music, setting it apart from typical trap productions.
Drum Kits and Samples: The Backbone of the Beat
No discussion of Metro Boomin’s production would be complete without mentioning his use of drum kits and samples. His beats are renowned for their hard-hitting drums, and he relies on a combination of custom kits and industry-standard samples to achieve this sound.
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Metro Boomin Drum Kits: Over the years, Metro Boomin has released several drum kits that include his signature sounds. These kits often feature 808s, snares, and hi-hats that have been meticulously processed to fit his style. Producers worldwide use these kits to emulate his sound.
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Splice: Metro Boomin is known to use Splice, a platform that offers a vast library of royalty-free samples and loops. Splice allows him to browse and download high-quality sounds, which he then manipulates to fit his tracks. This tool is invaluable for staying creative and finding fresh inspiration.
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One-Shot Samples: In addition to loops, Metro Boomin frequently uses one-shot samples to layer his drums. These individual hits allow him to build custom drum patterns that are unique to each track. By layering different snares, kicks, and percussion elements, he creates a dynamic and punchy rhythm section.
Mixing and Mastering: Polishing the Track
Once the beat is laid down, Metro Boomin focuses on mixing and mastering to ensure his tracks sound professional and radio-ready. While he often collaborates with professional engineers for final touches, he uses several tools to refine his mixes:
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iZotope Ozone: Ozone is a comprehensive mastering suite that Metro Boomin uses to add the final polish to his tracks. Its advanced algorithms help balance frequencies, enhance dynamics, and ensure the track sounds great on all playback systems.
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FabFilter Pro-Q 3: This equalizer is a favorite among producers for its precision and flexibility. Metro Boomin uses Pro-Q 3 to carve out space in the mix, ensuring each element sits perfectly in the frequency spectrum.
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Waves Plugins: Waves offers a wide range of plugins for mixing and mastering, and Metro Boomin is known to use several of them. From compressors like the CLA-76 to reverb plugins like H-Reverb, these tools help him shape the sound of his tracks.
The Role of Hardware: Beyond Software
While software plays a significant role in Metro Boomin’s production, he also incorporates hardware into his setup. Analog synthesizers, drum machines, and MIDI controllers allow him to add a tactile element to his workflow. For instance, he has been seen using the Akai MPC series for beat-making and the Roland TR-808 for its iconic drum sounds.
Related Q&A
Q: Does Metro Boomin use Ableton Live?
A: While Metro Boomin primarily uses FL Studio, he has been known to experiment with other DAWs like Ableton Live for specific projects or collaborations.
Q: What kind of headphones does Metro Boomin use?
A: Metro Boomin often uses high-quality studio headphones like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x or Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro for accurate monitoring during production.
Q: How does Metro Boomin achieve his signature 808 bass sound?
A: Metro Boomin’s 808s are a combination of carefully selected samples, precise tuning, and processing using plugins like FabFilter Saturn for distortion and compression.
Q: Does Metro Boomin produce all his beats himself?
A: While Metro Boomin is the primary producer for most of his tracks, he frequently collaborates with other producers and musicians to bring fresh ideas to his music.
By understanding the tools and techniques Metro Boomin uses, aspiring producers can gain insight into the creative process behind his iconic beats. Whether it’s FL Studio, Omnisphere, or custom drum kits, each element plays a crucial role in shaping the sound that has defined a generation of hip-hop and trap music.