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Achieving Analog Warmth with VSTs: A Guide for Modern Producers

Achieving Analog Warmth with VSTs: A Guide for Modern Producers

In the age of digital music production, the warmth and character of analog sound still hold a special place in the hearts of producers and audiophiles. The good news is that you don't need a room full of vintage gear to achieve that coveted analog sound. With the right VST plugins and techniques, you can bring the lush, warm qualities of analog equipment into your digital workspace. Here's how you can do it. Understanding Analog Warmth Analog sound is often described as warm, rich, and full-bodied. This is due to the unique characteristics of analog equipment, such as tape machines, tube amplifiers, and vintage synthesizers, which introduce subtle distortions, saturation, and harmonic overtones. These imperfections create a sense of depth and presence that digital recordings can sometimes lack. Choosing the Right VSTs 1. Analog-Modelled Synths Many modern VST synths are designed to emulate the sound of classic analog synthesizers. Plugins like Arturia's V Collection and U-He Diva, which we have some huge preset packs for. These VSTs capture the oscillators, filters, and modulation characteristics that give analog synths their distinctive sound. 2. Saturation and Tape Emulation To mimic the warmth and saturation of analog tape, look no further than plugins like Softube's Tape, Waves' J37, and Universal Audio's Studer A800. These plugins emulate the behaviour of tape machines, adding subtle saturation, compression, and harmonic distortion that can make digital recordings sound more organic. 3. Analog-Style EQs and Compressors Analog EQs and compressors are known for their musicality and character. VSTs like the Pultec EQP-1A (available from various developers), Waves' SSL G-Master Buss Compressor, and the UAD LA-2A provide the tonal shaping and dynamic control reminiscent of vintage hardware. Techniques for Analog Warmth 4. Layering and Stacking One way to achieve a fuller sound is by layering multiple instances of analog-modelled VSTs. For example, stacking different synth patches can create a richer, more complex texture. Experiment with slightly detuning layers and applying different effects to each one for a more analog-like vibe. 5. Subtle Saturation Saturation can add warmth and glue to your mix. Use tape emulation plugins on individual tracks, buses, or the master channel. Adjust the saturation level to add harmonic richness without overdriving the signal. A little goes a long way in creating that analog warmth. 6. Analog-Style Processing Chains Create processing chains that mimic the signal flow of analog studios. For instance, start with an analog-modelled synth, add a tape emulation plugin, follow with an analog EQ, and finish with an analog compressor. This chain can help infuse your tracks with the cumulative effects of analog gear. 7. Using Noise and Imperfections Analog equipment often introduces noise and subtle imperfections. Embrace these qualities by adding a touch of noise or vinyl crackle using plugins like iZotope Vinyl or AudioThing Vinyl Strip. These imperfections can add character and authenticity to your tracks. Practical Application 8. Drums and Percussion Drums benefit greatly from analog processing. Try using tape saturation on your drum bus to add punch and warmth. Analog-style compressors can glue the drum elements together, giving them a cohesive, powerful sound. Don't be afraid to experiment with distortion plugins to add grit and character to individual drum hits. 9. Basslines For basslines, use analog-modelled synths to achieve that fat, warm sound. Apply subtle saturation to bring out the harmonics and add presence. Analog EQs can help shape the bass tone, ensuring it sits well in the mix without overpowering other elements. 10. Pads and Leads Pads and leads can benefit from the lushness of analog synths. Layering multiple patches and applying tape emulation can create a rich, evolving soundscape. Use analog-style reverb and delay plugins to add depth and space, mimicking the natural reflections of physical spaces. Conclusion: Embrace the Analog Spirit Achieving an analog sound in a digital environment is not just about the tools but also about the approach. Embrace the imperfections, warmth, and character that analog equipment brings. With the right VSTs and techniques, you can capture the essence of analog in your digital productions, adding a timeless quality to your music. Remember, the key to achieving analog warmth is subtlety. Let the characteristics of your chosen plugins enhance your sound without overwhelming it. By combining modern convenience with vintage charm, you can create tracks that resonate with the best of both worlds. Happy producing!

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Breaking Through: How to Get Signed to an Electronic Music Label

Breaking Through: How to Get Signed to an Electronic Music Label

Crafting Your Unique Sound Electronic music has taken the world by storm, with genres ranging from deep house to techno, dubstep to future bass. Aspiring producers and DJs dream of getting their tracks heard by a wider audience and one of the most significant milestones in achieving that is getting signed to an electronic music label. But how do you stand out in such a competitive field? Let's explore the path to getting signed and what it takes to make your mark in the electronic music scene. 1. Master Your Production Skills The foundation of any successful electronic music artist is their ability to produce high-quality tracks. Invest time in mastering your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) of choice, understanding sound design, and learning mixing and mastering techniques. There are countless tutorials, courses, and online communities dedicated to electronic music production as well as preset packs, sample packs and midi file packs designed to give you a kickstart in getting amazing ideas down instantly all of which can be found on our site. Dedication to perfecting your craft is essential. 2. Develop a Signature Style In a saturated market, having a unique sound is crucial. Study different subgenres and experiment with various styles to find what resonates with you. Your music should be a reflection of your identity as an artist. When your tracks have a distinct flavour, they are more likely to catch the attention of label scouts and listeners alike. Building Your Presence 3. Release Music Independently Before getting signed, it's important to release your music independently. Platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, and YouTube allow you to share your tracks with the world. These platforms are not only great for gaining an initial fanbase but also for attracting the attention of labels who often scout for fresh talent online. 4. Engage on Social Media Building a following on social media is critical. Share snippets of your tracks, behind-the-scenes content, and engage with your fans regularly. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok can significantly amplify your reach. Engaging with other artists and participating in the online electronic music community can also increase your visibility. 5. Networking and Collaboration The electronic music scene thrives on collaboration. Reach out to other producers for remix swaps, feature on each other’s tracks, and attend music events, both online and offline. Networking with fellow artists, DJs, and influencers can open up new opportunities and provide valuable industry connections. Getting Noticed by Labels 6. Research Potential Labels Not all labels are the same. Research labels that align with your music style and vision. Listen to their releases, understand their brand, and gauge whether your music would be a good fit. Creating a target list of labels can help focus your efforts. 7. Perfect Your Demo Your demo is your calling card. Choose your best tracks and ensure they are polished and professional. Follow the submission guidelines of the label meticulously. Include a brief but compelling artist bio, highlighting your journey, achievements, and what sets you apart. 8. Leverage Press and Playlists Getting featured on music blogs, popular playlists, and online radio shows can significantly boost your profile. Reach out to bloggers, playlist curators, and online radio stations with your best tracks. A track that gains traction on a major playlist can draw the attention of label A&R representatives. The Signing Process 9. Approaching Labels When you feel ready, send your demo to the labels you’ve identified. Personalize your approach—mention why you chose them and how your music fits their roster. Be professional and concise in your communication. 10. Negotiating the Deal If a label shows interest, congratulations! This is where things get exciting but also require caution. Understand the terms of the contract thoroughly. Consider consulting with an entertainment lawyer to ensure you’re making a sound decision. Pay attention to details about royalty splits, rights, and obligations. Life with a Label 11. Collaboration and Growth Once signed, you’ll likely work closely with the label’s team on producing and promoting your music. This collaboration can open doors to new opportunities, including better production resources, marketing support, and live performance gigs. 12. Touring and Performing Performing live is a significant aspect of an electronic music career. Gigs and tours help build a deeper connection with your audience and promote your music. Your label may help secure bookings and organise tours, allowing you to reach fans around the world. Embrace the Journey Getting signed to an electronic music label is a remarkable achievement, but it’s just the beginning. The music industry is dynamic, requiring constant adaptation and innovation. Stay true to your artistic vision, keep evolving your sound, and never lose sight of why you started making music in the first place. Embark on this journey with passion and perseverance. The world of electronic music is vast and vibrant, waiting for your unique sound to add to its ever-evolving tapestry. Keep producing, keep performing, and most importantly, keep believing in your music. Your breakthrough moment might be just around the corner.

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Creating An Evolving Pad

Creating An Evolving Pad

In this tutorial we will design an evolving pad using multiple LFO's to automate volume and tempo to create a constantly modulating, unique effect. To create this effect we will be using one LFO patched to the volume parameter and another LFO controlling the rate of LFO 1.   Step 1: Open up Serum and we will be using both oscillators and the noise engine so turn them all on. For oscillator A use 'Analog_BD_Sin' & Oscillator B use 'Basic Mini'. Push the unison on Oscillator 1 up to 16 voices and pull the detune amount down slightly. For the noise use 'BrightWhite'. Next push the attack and release on Envelope 1 to about 12 O'clock. This is the base of the sound before we start to affect it.   Step 2: Here is where we start to design the sound and create that evolving effect. First pull the volume down on each oscillator and noise engine and Patch LFO 1 to each volume knob. Pull the amount up the same as the image below.    Step 3: Let's create some panning to widen the sound further. Patch LFO 2 to both oscillators Pan knobs and push the amount up as shown below.   Step 4: Here is where the sound really starts to come alive. Following the image below on LFO 1, right click on the rate knob and in 'Mod Source' select LFO 3. This will now create an evolving sound, speeding up and slowing down thanks to the LFO 3 controlling the tempo of LFO 1. Next unselect the BPM light on LFO 1 & LFO 3. This is important to get the desired effect.   Step 4: Pull down the rate knob in LFO 3 to 0.2Hz as this will slow down the rate of LFO 1. Next in the Matrix section, slightly pull down the amount from LFO 3 to LFO 1 rate. Again this will make the sound smoother which is what we want.    Step 4: Finally in the FX section, add some dimension and reverb as shown below to further widen and soften the sound. Now play some chords on your keyboard and there you have it!

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The Top 10 VST’s For Creating Electronic Music In 2023

The Top 10 VST’s For Creating Electronic Music In 2023

In a world filled with an endless supply of VST plugins it's sometimes difficult deciding which plugin is right for so we've compiled a list of the top 10 plugins that have garnered widespread acclaim in 2023 and become essential tools for music creators across genres.                                                                                                                                      10. Ableton Wavetable. 10th on the list but certainly not least we have Ableton's Wavetable, which, by its name is a wavetable software synthesizer. The concept of it involves using a series of single-cycle waveforms (known as wavetables) to generate complex and evolving sounds. With Wavetable, users can manipulate and shape these waveforms to create everything from lush pads and gritty basslines to cutting-edge leads and atmospheric textures. Pros: Comes free with Ableton Suite saving you some money Effects easily patched to the plugin via the Instrument Rack Cons:  Only compatible with Ableton  Not as many modulation options as some other popular synths https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/surge-ableton-wavetable-presets   9. Arturia Mini V3 In at 9 we introduce Arturia Mini V3, which is a fantastic software emulation of the legendary Minimoog Model D synthesizer. With Mini V3, Arturia brings the power and character of this legendary synth into the digital realm, allowing musicians and producers to experience its rich and distinctive sound without the limitations of hardware. Pros: Waveforms sonically close to the Model D giving a real analog feel Simple and user friendly interface Cons: Not many effects built in  Limited modulation options again  https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/melodic-electronic-mini-v3-preset-pack   8. Lennar Digital Sylenth 1 Lennar Digital Sylenth 1 was one of the first VST's to become a mainstay in almost every producers arsenal when i was released back in 2007 and despite its age it has remained an extremely popular plugin today thanks to its exceptional sound quality, versatility, and intuitive user interface, making it a go-to choice for crafting a wide range of electronic music genres. Pros: Low CPU usage despite its complexities Many built in effects such as phaser, chorus & distortion Cons: Limited oscillator waveforms compared to other popular VST's Some of the built in effects like the EQ & reverb are quite basic   7. u-He Hive 2 Now this is a tasty plugin! At its core, Hive 2 is a subtractive & wavetable synthesizer that delivers warm and punchy analog-style sounds. Its streamlined user interface is designed for intuitive and efficient workflow, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users. Hive 2's interface provides a clear layout with well organised sections for easy navigation and sound shaping. Pros: A wide array of modulation capabilities via the LFO, Shaper, Mod & Function tools. Many waveform options via FM, Complex, Additive, Formants & more. Cons: Despite it's simplicity it can look quite complex to get to grips to initially. No more cons! https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/revolution-u-he-hive-2-presets   6. Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2 Spectrasonics Omnisphere is a flagship virtual synthesizer plugin that has set the standard for sound design and creativity in the world of music production. Developed by Spectrasonics, Omnisphere offers an unparalleled level of sonic possibilities, combining a vast library of sounds with advanced synthesis techniques and innovative features. Pros: Perfect for epic, atmospheric pad and lead sounds  Vast sound library with over 14,000 sounds Cons: Extremely CPU heavy so use sparingly! With 14,000 sounds comes with 63gb needed of hard drive space   5. Arturia Pigments 3 In at 5, we have Pigments 3 by Arturia. This VST is seriously powerful thanks to its many waveform options via the sample, wavetable and analog engines. Not only that but the dedicated modulation knobs for each engine provides an endless amount of opportunities to get really creative. Oh and let's not forget the effects panel giving you even more ways to create unique sounds. Pros: Many ways to customise the sounds via the Function, LFO, Random & Comb sections. Built in granular synthesis via the sampler engine Cons: CPU heavy, so again... Don't overdo it! We can't think of any more. https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/fusion-arturia-pigments-presets   4. Native Instruments Massive X We're getting close to #1 but this is where we start to get into the VST's we absolutely love! Native Instrument's Massive X is a complex synthesizer with a truly exceptional sound. Much like the previous entry Massive X houses many routing options that are easily patched to almost any section of the VST meaning you can get extremely creative, extremely fast. Pros: Use the tracker section to modulate each note individually for maximum customisation. Choose between 16 LFO shapes & random LFO's to create interesting textures. Cons: It can be quite complex to get to grips to initially with so many different aspects. No more! https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/ignition-massive-x-presets   3. Vital Audio Vital Top 3 here we go! Vital Audio's Vital VST is a relatively new software synthesizer that came onto the market in 2020 and it's definitely got that modern sound but best yet it is completely free! The look is slightly basic compared to previous featured VST's but the sound is what we all care about and wow it seriously delivers on that. Pros: It's FREE! And for a synth like this it's definitely worth a purchase Modulate everything in this synth. You can even patch LFO's to the modulation amounts giving you complete control of each parameter. Cons: The look. Not as appetising as some other VST's The distortion effect isn't as refined as it could be https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/underground-va-vital-presets 2. u-He Diva Just missing out on top spot, but a powerhouse nevertheless, introducing u-He's flagship VST Diva. A staple in many producers arsenals, Diva is arguably THE best synthesizer for producing the highest quality basslines and leads. The multiple oscillator, filter, feedback & envelope engines provide the perfect way to create unique sounds and the standard waveforms are the closest you'll get to analog. Pros: A true analog sound in a software instrument The trimmer section provides a great way to evolve any sound into something new and fresh. Cons: Limited modulation options... But to be honest you don't really need them here. https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/dark-progressive-2-u-he-diva-presets 1. Xfer Records Serum Well it's a close one but Serum just tips Diva to the top spot! Serum is probably the most popular software synthesizer today thanks to its many modulating capabilities and absolutely tons of wavetables that that be edited to create sounds that are completely unique depending on how intricate you want to get. The LFO's can be used as step sequencers's and customised further using the matrix section. https://mojulate.com/collections/presets/products/deep-melodic-2-xfer-serum-presets   Pros: Perfect for any element of sound design from leads and basses to complex sequences. Very user friendly interface for quick customisation Cons: Some find the sound of the oscillators to be quite digital. Nothing else!                                                                                                                                      Well... There you go, we hope you enjoyed our Top 10 list and make sure you head over to our presets section to check out some seriously powerful sounds that you can load straight into your favourite VST and get creating!

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Top 10 Sound Design Tips For Electronic Music Producers

Top 10 Sound Design Tips For Electronic Music Producers

Sound design is a crucial aspect of music production that can set your tracks apart from the rest. Here are our top 10 sound design tips to help you create unique and compelling sounds: __________________________________________________________________________ Understand Synthesis: Familiarise yourself with different types of synthesis, such as subtractive, additive, FM (frequency modulation), and wavetable. Understanding how synthesis works will give you more control over shaping sounds.  Layering: Combine multiple sounds to create complex and rich textures. Layering different elements like synths, samples, and real-world recordings can lead to innovative and captivating results. Experiment with Modulation: Use modulation sources like LFOs (low-frequency oscillators) and envelopes to modulate parameters such as pitch, filter cutoff, and amplitude. Modulation adds movement and evolving qualities to your sounds which will always keep your sounds constantly changing thus making them as unique as possible. Explore Unconventional Sources: Don't limit yourself to traditional instruments. Experiment with unconventional sound sources, such as field recordings, household items, or even your own voice, to create unique textures. You can further affect these recordings using various effects plugins such as EQ and distortion. Use Effects Creatively: Apply effects like reverb, delay, distortion, and modulation in unconventional ways. Try chaining effects or modulating effect parameters to achieve unexpected sonic results. This is trial and error, there's no wrong way to create sounds so experiment with placing distortion units at the end of the effects chain after reverb for example, which can really morph the sound. Learn EQ and Filters: Master the art of EQ and filtering. Precise EQ adjustments and creative filtering can transform the timbre of a sound, making it fit better in the mix or giving it a distinct character. EQ harshly on some sounds to completely change their sonic value. Resample and Manipulate: Record your sounds and then manipulate them further. This process, known as resampling, can lead to new and interesting textures that you might not achieve through direct synthesis alone. Record, affect, export, and continue this process until you have something completely new. Experiment with Micro-Timing: Adjust the timing of individual notes or elements slightly to create a more natural and dynamic feel. Subtle variations in timing can add groove and character to your sounds. This technique will help avoid that linear, "digital" sound, and create a thicker texture to your music. Use Envelopes Thoughtfully: Envelopes control how a sound evolves over time. Experiment with envelope settings to shape attack, decay, sustain, and release phases to achieve the desired impact. Experiment with presets and customise them: Presets are a fantastic starting point for any music producer, whether that be a complete beginner or a seasoned pro. These can be used as they are or go one further and customise them to create your own unique sounds to better fit your projects. Check out our latest preset packs which are there to give you those professional sounding leads, basses, pads and more to kickstart your learning and help you better understand everything there is to know about creating release ready music. https://mojulate.com/collections/presets

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