BFD Drums has released BFD 3.5, a major update for the ex-FXpansion drum plugin with new features, UI and a $59 sale.
The BFD drum plugin has a rollercoaster ride history. The first three versions were developed by a small, very talented British team called FXpansion. In 2016, ROLI bought FXpansion with the team and the portfolio including the BFD 3 plugin. In 2020, shortly before the ROLI insolvency, inMusic took over the plugin and the team.
Since then, things have been very quiet around the flagship drum studio plugin. But today the journey finally continues. BFD Drums, the new brand has released BFD 3.5, a major feature update.
BFD Drums BFD 3.5
The long-awaited new version builds upon its legacy and introduces significant changes. The first is immediately recognizable when you first open the plugin.
BFD Drums BFD 3.5 introduces a revamped, darker interface with a new mixer and a streamlined sound browser for the easiest BFD experience. In the last version, this was a bit more complicated to operate.
Then, it introduces new advanced modeling technology for tom resonance and cymbal swells. In the drum editor, you can now work with the tech, model, and mic section to fine-tune every drum’s tuning, damping, and individual mic levels and placements.
Another significant change in the BFD Drums BFD 3.5 is the extended multi-effects sections. It now hosts 48 high-quality audio effects, including 13 AIR Music Tech effects. AIR algorithms were expected to be included in the plugin after the inMusic takeover.
BFD 3.5 also extends the core library with new kits and mix-ready presets. It now ships with 51 kits with a vast selection of drums to suit any genre, from rock to jazz to metal. There are 60 mix-ready preset BFD kits with custom parameters, articulations, and effects.
Further, users can now benefit from native Apple Silicon support, including AAX and macOS/Windows VST 3 compatibility.
First Impression
It took a long time, but I’m happy to see that the BFD 3 plugin is alive again. Also positive, they have reduced the regular price to $199.99. Even better, BFD Drums is celebrating the new BFD 3.5 version with a big $59 sale for a limited time.
BFD Drums BFD 3.5 is available now for an introductory price of $59,99/54€ instead of $199,99 until April 3, 2025. Version 3.5 is a free update for existing users.
Plus, you can buy BFD expansion packs with an up to 50% discount for a limited time. It runs as a VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin on macOS (native Apple Silicon + Intel) and Windows.
More information here: BFD Drums
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