BFD2 offers the user the ability to load and use their own samples. Any sample in nearly any format can be used, making BFD2 highly flexible relative to Eco and many other drum sampler plug-ins by competing companies. BFD Eco is limited to the samples it comes with and the samples found in the various BFD Expansion packs offered by FXspansion. As well, BFD2 can use samples up to 24 bits, whereas Eco can only use 16 bit samples.
Although some might argue that the sound quality of 16 bit samples is only marginally lower than that of 24 bit samples, BFD2’s ability to use 24 bit samples offers a greater variety of options to the user during the mixing and mastering stage. For example, 24 bit recordings offer a somewhat greater dynamic range, allowing for more breathing room when mixed with other sounds. However, the compact disc format uses 16 bit by default, so if you intend to distribute music on CD, 24 bit elements in your track will be dithered to 16 bit anyway.
In audio production, velocity refers to the intensity with which an instrument, such as a drum kit, is played. The harder the hit, the higher the velocity. When producing samples of an acoustic instrument, many production companies create samples with multiple velocity layers for increased realism. Unlike BFD2, the samples BFD Eco uses are limited to 24 velocity layers, while BFD2 offers as many as 48, which greatly increases realism when producing drum tracks.
For most home users, BFD Eco will more than suffice as their main acoustic drum sampler. Although the bit-depth and number of velocity layers may be relatively limited, this will be of little concern in most cases. However, if you want to produce sampled drum tracks with maximum realism or plan to sell your music, BFD2’s relative comprehensiveness and flexibility may provide a significant advantage in drum production.