Getting Started

From zero to drumming

FingerDrumPad's interactive tutorial walks you through every control the first time you open the app. Here's the path that awaits.

Nine steps to your first session

A condensed preview. Each card expands into the full tip below.

  1. Open the app

    On first launch, an interactive tutorial begins. Watch demos of each feature and actually tap the pads to experience them. Once it's done, you're ready to play.

  2. Start tapping and playing

    Just tap and sounds play. Hit multiple pads at once, long-press cymbals to choke. With just a few taps, you're already a drummer.

  3. Arrange pads to your liking

    Move pads and change their shapes in Pad Edit mode. Start from the pre-built layouts and gradually customize them to your style — until everything fits your hand.

  4. Adjust your touch feel

    Switch velocity mode to "Touch Estimated" in Settings and run calibration for natural dynamics matched to your hand. Haptic feedback strength is up to you, too.

  5. Add sounds

    Use SF2 files or AUv3 plugins as sound sources. Load your favorite drum, synth, and piano sounds onto your pads. The AUv3 audition sheet scans the plugin for mapped notes, so you always pick the right starting note.

  6. Create beats

    Tap steps in the Sequencer to build rhythm patterns. Export your beats as MIDI and bring them into your DAW.

  7. Sharpen your rhythm

    In Training mode, play along with patterns and repeat to chase high scores. Experience the thrill of consecutive Perfects.

  8. Play with your favorite songs

    Choose a song, hit play, and layer drums on top for an ensemble. Slow the song down without changing its pitch, skip by 10 seconds, scrub to any moment, and dial in the perfect Volume Mix. Feel like the drummer in the band.

  9. Connect with external devices

    Connect via USB cable and control your DAW or external instruments from FingerDrumPad. In the studio or on stage.

Recommended environment

Designed for iPad. Also runs on iPhone — fully functional, with a tighter layout.

Recommended

iPad

The roomy display lets you spread pads across the screen and perform comfortably with both hands. This is how FingerDrumPad was meant to be played.

iPhone

All features work on iPhone too. The smaller screen means a tighter layout — perfect for casual practice on the go.

Headphones or speakers

Connect headphones or speakers for the best sound experience. Plug in and play quietly even late at night.