In case you didn't know, IDM stands for Intelligent Dance Music and, if you're really smart, you'll soon have access to a whole swathe of samples that will help you to create it.
The download link below is your gateway to a wide selection of sounds that are inspired by the likes of Aphex Twin, Squarepusher and Autechre.
What you need to know
The IDM samples are split into five key and tempo-labelled construction kits. Each of these contains the Base kit - which contains beats, drum hits, bass loops, atmospheric sounds and two or three other instruments - and an Alternate folder that features a collection of loops made from the raw materials of the Base Kit
All the samples are supplied as 24-bit WAV files so can be imported directly into your DAW or sampler of choice. Because they're royalty-free, you're welcome to use the samples in your music in any way you like - all we ask is that you don't re-distribute them.
The IDM samples are supplied in a zip file, so you'll need to extract them before you can see them. Enjoy!
Example sounds
Beat 160bpm
Synth bass 120bpm
Pad synth 140bpm
Atmospheric sound 165bpm
FX piano 100bpm
IDM samples: click to download
These samples originally appeared on Computer Music magazine's cover DVD. Check out the latest issue for many more.
For more than 70,000 more samples, head to our SampleRadar hub
Tutorials
How to make Aphex Twin-style demonic vocals
How to make a glitchy Aphex Twin-style beat with Novation’s Avril 14 Bass Station II update
