Foundational patches are a great way to speed up your workflow. The concept is actually quite simple. In subtractive synthesis, we start with a lot of sound, and then use filters and other parameters to shape it over time.
Foundational patches take this idea to the next level.
Rather than start with simple waves and subtract sound, start with full sounds, and shape them.
Today’s foundational patch is the Supersaw, but this concept works with any patch that you think might be a good starting place.
Bass Sounds – 1:41
The supersaw is a great place to start for a bass sound because it is complex and punchy.
It’s worth considering using a utility device to make it mono, or routing both oscillators through one output.
Here’s another video on creating bass patches in Ableton.
Mono Synth Gliss Lead – 2:29
This has got to be my favorite sound to play. Something about the way the pitch slides to where it is going makes me feel like I have access to a layer of expression I don’t typically have when I am playing piano.
In this case, the sound itself isn’t a mono sound, by the synth is. Meaning it only has the ability to play one pitch at a time.
Synth Brass – 3:28
Synth Brass is a ton of fun to make. There are three components that are integral.
- A breathy attack (about 100 ms)
- A quick pitch envelope (preferable two going in opposite directions)
- Key tracking so the higher notes get the characteristic buzzy timbre.
What to do now?
Grab a copy of the quick synth map so you can easily remember all the parts of a synth, as well as what they do.
Try recreating some of these sounds so you can get a handle on putting these concepts into action!