if you're on ableton then operator must be given a shot. best i've come across so far. there are some synths that do pretty decent percussion but i do find it pretty rare in the software world. the envelopes are usually to flabby and they start clicking when you want fast responses. i like sonic charge's utonic as well but a pro featured sampler will usually do the trick.
iproducer #4 - Unlink and Conquer + Bonus on Vimeo near the end of this video you can see how to do a basic tuned kick with operator.
nothing wrong with using samples. if you're on a digital setup there are things you wont be able to imitate, and capable analog drum machines and a proper interface to record them with will be expensive. the trick is to be extremely critical about your source sounds (that goes for everything not just drums). i'd recommend you to get a copy of some of the goldbaby sample packs. the mpc packs and the tape 808 and 909s are extremely handy for building kicks and they've got very nice warm and analog character to them. the kind of samples that work for you.