Either by using sequencers or arpeggiators/ step sequencers. Still the same thing pretty much... Just different approach.

Inputing sounds step-time or recording in a loop by playing each sound individually are probably some of the ways of doing it. I've been making drum tracks for so long I can just play most of it from the keyboard, then qquantize for better timing or just edit out whatever doesn't sound right. Usually recording at slower speeds for accuracy and then speeding it up on playback.

A lot of techno/trance/dance artists and DJs like to use drum loops as well. Sometimes just mixing several of them at once. Prodigy for example did just that with very little sequenced drum patterns involved. I personally like mixing in a bit of drum loops with my drum tracks as well. Helps start the groove sometimes. SOmething to play against before the drum pattern is complete.

cheers,

[This message has been edited by 3351 (edited 09-05-2007).]