Best Platform for Learning Drums: Freedrum Studio vs. Melodics
When it comes to learning the drums online especially for beginner drummers or first time drummers, there are several platforms that stand out. But which one is the best choice? Two of them are Freedrum Studio and Melodics, both offers unique experiences. If you're trying to pick what drumming app or service that suits you the best, it's important to understand what each platform brings to the table. We'll compare Freedrum Studio and Melodics, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make a decision about your drumming journey.
How Easy Is The Set Up Process?
Getting started smoothly is crucial when you're excited to learn. Freedrum Studio, available on iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows, offers a simple sign-up process via its website or app. Upon first login, users receive a guided tour and access to the "Getting Started Course" to help you begin. Melodics is hosted on their website and through their app that only is available for the iPad and desktop. Melodics has a simple plug-and-play set up where you get a short introduction of the app before starting on level 1.
Overall Thoughts About The Learning Experience
Melodics offers a versatile learning experience by providing lessons for multiple instruments, including drums, keyboards, and MIDI controllers. This broad focus allows users to explore various instruments but can sometimes dilute the specialized drumming content. The platform uses a gamified approach, where users play along with tracks and earn points, which can be motivating for some. The courses are divided into different grades that specify the level of difficulty (1-10) and the app contains both popular songs, mostly from the 60’s-90’s and separate courses that focus on different skills. However, the popular songs are not the original songs but covers made by Melodics.
Freedrum Studio is dedicated exclusively to drumming, ensuring a tailored learning experience. It integrates interactive elements designed specifically for drummers. For the drummer who prefers a dynamic, hands-on learning approach, Freedrum Studio ensures that practice is both effective and fun. The platform gamifies drumming lessons and delivers personalized, real-time feedback to help users focus on specific areas of improvement. Key features include the ability to loop sections, tempo adjustments, and to choose between traditional drum notation or a note highway (think Guitar Hero, but for drums), which is especially useful for the beginners who are not yet comfortable with drum notation. Freedrum Studio also has leaderboards and the option to create your own profile so that you can follow other drummers and compete with drummers worldwide, which can be motivating.
Which Service Is More Affordable?
When it comes to cost, Freedrum Studio offers a free version of the app, allowing anyone to use parts of the app without a paywall or a Freedrum account. But if you want full access to all the courses, you have two options: $14.99/month or $99.99/year ($8.33/month, billed annually), with a 7-day free trial.
Melodics also operates on a subscription model, with pricing that varies depending on if you choose their standard plan or their premium plan and if you pay monthly or annually. Their Premium Plan gives you unlimited practice time and full access to their library and costs $29.99USD/month or $169USD/year. If you aren't interested in playing commercial music, they do offer a Standard Plan for $24.99USD/month or $119.99USD/year. All subscriptions come with a 7-day free trial as well. While the platform offers a free version, it comes with limitations, such as restricted lesson access and a time limit of 5 minutes per day. To unlock the full range of features, you’ll need to subscribe.
Pro’s and Con’s Of Both Apps
Freedrum Studio excels in providing a structured, progressive learning path tailored specifically for drummers. The lessons are designed to build your skills methodically, with each session reinforcing the techniques and rhythms you need to master to play any beat. The platform’s focus on drumming means that every lesson is crafted by drummers, with drummers in mind, ensuring that you’re always learning something directly applicable to your instrument. Freedrum Studio has yet not released any commercial music in the app which some might find is a downside. However, the variation of genres and courses in the app, gives you the skills you need to play any popular song you want.
Melodics, while offering a variety of lessons across different instruments, may feel less specialised for dedicated drummers. The platform’s gamified design feels a little outdated and hard to understand at times and there is no alternative to drummers who prefer drum notation. Melodics has introduced the ability to use their app with an acoustic drum kit, something that Freedrum Studio hasn't made available yet. This feature is in a testing phase for Melodics, and the feedback has so far been mixed, it is still a step in the right direction.
Making the Right Choice for Your Drumming Journey
Both Freedrum Studio and Melodics have their own unique strengths, but they cater to different types of learners. Freedrum Studio is ideal for those who want a focused, interactive drumming experience that’s both flexible and affordable. The ability to compete against other drummers and score high on the leaderboards are also motivating while also feeling like you are a part of a drumming community.
Melodics, with its multi-instrument approach and gamified learning system, might be better suited for those who enjoy playing various instruments, learning a specific song from their library or who are looking for a more casual, game-like learning experience.
Ultimately, the choice between Freedrum Studio and Melodics depends on your personal preferences and learning goals. Whether you’re drawn to Freedrum Studio’s drumming focused approach or Melodics’ broad instrument range, both platforms offer valuable tools for your drumming journey.
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If you’re considering trying out Freedrum Studio, now is the perfect time. They’re currently offering a special promotion where you can get 30 days of access for just $1 by using the code DRUMSFORLIFE at checkout. This is a great opportunity to explore the platform’s unique features and see how it can help you achieve your drumming goals.