There are plenty of ‘big’ things it’s worth learning when it comes to music-making. Whether that’s mastering an instrument, learning the ins and outs of a new DAW, studying theory or devising a whole new way of being creative. The little things matter too, and we’re focusing on that this issue. Don’t expect any groundbreaking theses on the future of synthesis techniques, or mammoth deep-dives on the development of a certain sound – what follows over the next few pages is a collection of our favourite quick, simple tips. Short, sharp ideas aimed at helping make your music-making life better, from ways to improve your studio layout to beating writer’s block to creative methods for engaging with existing gear. Little by little we hope to help you hack your way to a happier, more productive time in the studio!
6 pro synth programming techniques
Ditch those presets and program standout synth sounds for yourself! Go beyond basic sound design with these quick pro tips
1 Modulation fades
Heavy modulation of oscillator pitch or filter cutoff can sound a little over-the-top if applied to the entire duration of a sound. Many synths allow a ‘fade in’ to be applied to modulation routings though. You might find this as a ‘fade’ parameter attached to an LFO, or within your synth’s modulation matrix. This can be a great tool for adding tremolo to just the release tails of synth chords, or creating bold EDM-style bass with distinctive ‘wobbles’.
2 Looping envelopes
Denne historien er fra October 2021-utgaven av Future Music.
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Denne historien er fra October 2021-utgaven av Future Music.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
SONIC DESTRUCTION
From overdriven signal paths to rhythmic malfunctions, there’s plenty of creativity to be found by doing things just a little bit wrong
Feed Me
EDM producer Jon Gooch revives his cartoonish Feed Me moniker. Danny Turner finds out how the use of live instrumentation changed his production approach
Exploring Akai MPC
Leo Maymind takes a detailed look at an iconic groovebox whose influence helped shape modern hip-hop and much more besides
Liars
Dissolving the contours of rock and electronics, Danny Turner charts the making of Liars’ 10th album with Angus Andrew and Laurence Pike
Jean-Michel Jarre
The pioneering musician who introduced generations to futuristic sounds the first time around is at it again. He joins Matt Mullen to talk experiments in VR gigging, spatial audio and more...
Noise
With roots as far back as 1913, noise is the genre that’s also a state of mind
1010 Music Bitbox mk2 £549
Rob Redman finds out whether this updated sampler box of tricks contains any more surprises
Erica Synths and Sonic Potions LXR-02 £499
Rob Redman braces himself for another resurrected blast from the past
Modal SKULPTsynth SE £169
Modal are back with an update to their SKULPT synth. Bruce Aisher takes a listen to see if it can rustle up a big sound
Reason Studios Reason 12 £399
Now in both DAW and plugin realms, Reason gains a sampler and refreshed Combinator. Si Truss investigates