What I typically do for my drum sequences is record layers one element at a time (i.e. kick, hat, snare, etc.) and then do a little cleanup.  I must admit, I've never been heavy into drum sequences so my knowledge is lacking ... step sequence wasn't working well for me, especially recording, found it difficult to adjust and manage (could be just lack of knowledge on how to get the most out of step sequencer).
 
I recall using a 3rd party tool some time ago that was very easy/intuitive at producing some dynamic and interesting drum sequences but I can't seem to recall what it was (getting old I guess).  Any hints or recommendations are welcome (bare in mind I could simply be missing out of existing Platinum functionality).
 
Cheers, Rob.

Hi. I am not sure what you mean when saying "working with sequences". (Might be "the new" Matrix view)
Have you tried Addictive Drums 2 (AD2) that comes with SONAR? Or Session Drummer 3 (SD3)? They have lots of MIDI content, that can be used with an array of musical styles (and with great sound). You can preview them through the Browser (B), if you select proper output (output Synth preview output to the synth you are using).
Then just subtract, or add hits to taste. (just ask more questions if in doubt)
Best of luck.

Toontracks EZ Drummer or Superior Drummer is another alternative - although since you already get Addictive Drums with Sonar that is a bit of a side ways move. I'd recommend digging deep into Addictive Drums and possibly expanding that.
 
Keep in mind when using these systems (Addictive, EZ Drummer, etc...) you can always edit (fine tune) the midi tracks after you compile your rough track. You will learn a lot about drum programming by analyzing what they do.
 
Like you, a lot of people don't like the step sequencer.... I like it myself, but mainly because I came from the old Roland Drum machines that programmed that very way back in the 80's. However - once I started using the Piano Roll for drum editing I've never looked back. With drums, the PR is the ultimate step sequencer if you take the time to work with it.
 
Good luck...
 
 

 
 

Rob Ainscough
What I typically do for my drum sequences is record layers one element at a time (i.e. kick, hat, snare, etc.) and then do a little cleanup.  I must admit, I've never been heavy into drum sequences so my knowledge is lacking ... step sequence wasn't working well for me, especially recording, found it difficult to adjust and manage (could be just lack of knowledge on how to get the most out of step sequencer).
 
I recall using a 3rd party tool some time ago that was very easy/intuitive at producing some dynamic and interesting drum sequences but I can't seem to recall what it was (getting old I guess).  Any hints or recommendations are welcome (bare in mind I could simply be missing out of existing Platinum functionality).
 
Cheers, Rob.

I basically do what you do: build up the drums a track at a time. Normally, I start with a minimal kick/snare track that gives me a good feel for the song. I'll clean that up by recording additional beats over the top, then clean it all up in the PRV. After that, I add any fills, then hats, rides and crashes, generally in that order.
 
I do realize that there is midi content available, but I'd rather do all of the drums by hand. I have found that the end result sounds more natural, even though it takes a lot longer.
 
Regards,
Dan
 

Again, more great suggestions ... I'll take a look at Piano Roll.
 
Cheers, Rob.

Geist.

I import Midi grooves from BFD as a starting point, then tweak them in the PRV to add fills, cymbals etc.