How do I get my drums to sound punchy?

Answer 1

Two main ways that come to mind are transient shaping and parallel compression.

Transient Shaping - this involves taking the initial part of the sound (referred to as transient) and shaping/processing it in a way that it gives it more presence. This will make it sound punchier and cut through your mix. Typically done with third party transient shaping plug-ins from Neutron, Neutron, SPL, Schaack Audio... to name a few.

Parallel Compression - this involves creating a return track for your drum sound(s). On the return track load up a compressor (1176, Ableton Glue compressor, 3rd party glue compressor). Quick attack, longest release possible, 2-8 ratio, adjust threshold to get gain reduction, adjust make up gain to bring back to normal level.

-Now send your drums (typically kick, clap, snare) to this return track. Turn the volume of your return track down all the way and slowly bring it up to blend in with the volume of your drums (so you're not making them louder but instead just hitting harder)

Answer 2

If you're in Ableton just use Drum Buss it's lit and simple to use.