High Hat: A Free Hi-Hat Generator Plugin (Mac & Windows)
Programming hi-hats is one of the slowest parts of making a beat. You tweak rolls, nudge velocities and swap samples until the groove finally bounces. High Hat is WavGrind's free plugin that does the heavy lifting for you: press one button and it generates a full eight-bar hi-hat sequence.
What is High Hat?
High Hat combines hi-hat sounds, eight-bar patterns, factory presets, and pitch, reverb, delay and output controls in one simple plugin. It's made for producers who want lit hi-hat patterns fast, without programming every note by hand.
How it works
1. Generate unlimited hi-hat possibilities
Each press of Generate creates a new eight-bar sequence with a different hi-hat sound and variation in pitch, reverb and delay. Keep generating until something clicks.
2. Start from hit-ready presets
The factory presets each come with endless variations. Go straight to a familiar style, or start somewhere unexpected.
3. Shape the sound
Tune the hat, add reverb, dial in delay and set the level. Four controls keep the sound right in front of you.
Try it in your browser first
You don't have to install anything to hear it. The High Hat page has an interactive demo: press Play, explore the factory presets, generate a pattern, adjust the four controls and export MIDI.
Is High Hat free?
Yes, completely free. Enter your first name and email on the High Hat download page and the installer lands in your inbox within a minute or two. If you can't see it, check your spam or promotions folder.
System requirements
- Mac: macOS 11 or later (Apple Silicon and Intel), as AU and VST3 plugins plus a standalone app.
- Windows: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit Intel/AMD), as a VST3 plugin plus a standalone app. Windows on ARM isn't supported.
Learn more about hi-hats
Want to understand what makes a great hi-hat pattern? Read our ultimate guide to hi-hats, then grab some free 808 drum kits to build the rest of your beat.