Want to sketch a drum beat, then arrange variations into a track? Hydrogen is a pattern-based drum machine where you place percussion hits, repeat patterns, and combine them in a song sequence.
Patterns and song arrangement
Hydrogen separates beat-making into patterns and song arrangement. In the pattern editor, mark steps on a timeline to place drum sounds and create a repeating rhythm. Make separate patterns for a verse, fill, or other variation, then arrange them in the song view to build a longer sequence.
This pattern-based workflow suits loop writing: adjust a beat on its own, then reuse it where it belongs in the arrangement. Timing, velocity, and pitch adjustments let you change the feel or emphasis of individual hits.
Drum kits and samples
Ready-made drum kits come built in, and more can be downloaded from the sound library inside the app or built from your own samples. Each instrument can hold several velocity layers, so soft and hard hits sound different, and swing and humanize settings loosen up a stiff, mechanical groove.
- Use separate patterns for rhythmic variations.
- Bring in custom percussion samples.
- Adjust hit velocity, pitch, and timing.
Mixer and track balance
The mixer has level, pan and effect sends for each drum. Hydrogen can be played from a MIDI keyboard or pads, and finished songs export to WAV or FLAC audio or to a MIDI file for use in another program. It is free, open-source software under the GPL.
Pros
- Build repeating drum patterns on a step timeline
- Combine patterns into longer song arrangements
- Load percussion samples of your own
- Shape instrument levels with the built-in mixer
Cons
- Drums only; no melodic instruments
- Windows build gets less testing than the Linux version
System requirements: Windows 10, Windows 11
Can Hydrogen arrange several patterns into a song?
Yes. Build separate patterns, then place them on the song timeline.
Can I export my beat to use elsewhere?
Yes. Export to WAV or FLAC audio, or to a MIDI file for a DAW.
Is Hydrogen free?
Yes. It is open-source software released under the GPL.
Can I control it with a MIDI keyboard?
Yes. MIDI input lets you trigger drums from a keyboard or pad controller.