Music Production Knowledge Backlog

Here you can browse the latest published tutorials, guides, tools, articles, music posts, videos, and releases in one timeline. If you want a smaller overview, start with Polarity Music tutorials, Bitwig guides, Building Bitwig Grids, helpers, articles, music videos, releases, or the music hub. If you want something specific, use the search.

MinimalAudio Current: Beautiful Pad Sounds
Tutorial - Okt 13, 2023 MinimalAudio Current: Beautiful Pad Sounds

In this video, I discuss my thoughts on the granular engine in the synth and how I miss having a record button. I demonstrate how I use my vocals recorded in a DAW to create a pad sound, adjusting the pitch and experimenting with various settings. I also showcase the use of wave tables, a morphing filter, LFOs, and effects like reverb and delay to create a textured and evolving sound.

Building a Dynamic Sampler Plugin in Plugdata - Part3
Tutorial - Okt 12, 2023 Building a Dynamic Sampler Plugin in Plugdata - Part3

In this video, I demonstrated how to make improvements to our small plug data sampler. I showed how to utilize symbols and send/receive objects to simplify the patch, as well as addressed bugs and added a solution to the clicking problem when writing and reading from the same array. Additionally, I explained how to convert the length of the buffer from seconds to milliseconds and sync it with the host's BPM using the playhead object.

Exploring the Powerful Features of Current Synth - Create Epic Bass Sounds!
Tutorial - Okt 11, 2023 Exploring the Powerful Features of Current Synth - Create Epic Bass Sounds!

In this video, I introduce a new plugin called Current by Minimal Audio which combines various features that musicians love. The plugin includes wavetable oscillators, a granular engine, sub oscillator with harmonics, a sampler, and a range of filters. Additionally, the plugin offers modulation sources, keyboard controls, macro controls, and an impressive effect section.

Exploring Formant: Amplifying and Modifying Signals in Bitwig Studio
Tutorial - Okt 10, 2023 Exploring Formant: Amplifying and Modifying Signals in Bitwig Studio

In today's video, I explain the Formant module in Bitwig Studio. The module amplifies the incoming signal around 0.5, allowing for modifications to waveforms. It can be used to create wobble bass sounds, shape waveforms, and add vocal qualities to signals.

Ambient Sounds with Synplant: Creating Soundscapes
Tutorial - Okt 09, 2023 Ambient Sounds with Synplant: Creating Soundscapes

In this video, I demonstrate my process for creating ambient sounds and tracks using the Synplant synthesizer. I start by exploring different sounds and using the randomize feature to find new ones. I then adjust the envelopes and effects, and also incorporate Supermassive and Paul Stretch for added texture and ambiance.

PlugData: Exporting VST Clap Plugins
Tutorial - Okt 06, 2023 PlugData: Exporting VST Clap Plugins

In this video, I introduce the latest version (0.8) of Plug Data, a tool for creating VST and CLAP plugins from Pure Data patches. I demonstrate how to export a Pure Data patch as a VST plugin using the new feature in version 0.8. Although GUI elements cannot be exported with the plugin, this method offers a straightforward and free way to create native plugins using Pure Data.

Melodic Techno: Creating Catchy Beats in Bitwig Studio
Tutorial - Okt 05, 2023 Melodic Techno: Creating Catchy Beats in Bitwig Studio

In today's video, I show you how to create a music track in Bitwig Studio. I start off by using various modules and sequencers to generate a melodic sequence. Then, I add convolution and delay effects to create depth and ambiance. Finally, I layer in drums and bass, apply sidechain and modulation, and add some additional melodies to complete the track.

SynPlant 2: The Future of Synthesizers
Tutorial - Okt 04, 2023 SynPlant 2: The Future of Synthesizers

In my latest video, I discuss SynPlant 2, a groundbreaking synthesizer with the new GenoPatch feature that uses machine learning to create FM patches from samples. This feature allows users to generate multiple FM patches from a single sample, with options to adjust tuning, volume, and grow out different sound variations. I believe this is a game-changing innovation in the world of synthesizers and hope to see other synths incorporate similar features in the future.

Quick and Easy Generative Patch Tutorial
Tutorial - Okt 03, 2023 Quick and Easy Generative Patch Tutorial

In this video, I demonstrate how to create a quick generative patch using Bitwig. Starting with a simple setup, I gradually make it more complex over time, showing easy steps for everyone to follow. By utilizing modules like the polygrid and counter, you can create unique melodies and rhythms, and further modulate them to add variation and interest to your patches.

Creating Reactive Visuals with TouchDesigner and Bitwig Studio
Tutorial - Sep 29, 2023 Creating Reactive Visuals with TouchDesigner and Bitwig Studio

In yesterday's video, I showed how to connect TouchDesigner and Bitwig Studio using TD Bitwig, but many viewers were more interested in creating visuals in Bitwig. So in today's video, I demonstrate how to create generative visuals in TouchDesigner and synchronize them with music in Bitwig using TD Bitwig. I explain the steps to create a noise texture, mix layers, map audio envelopes to visuals, and use macros and remotes to modulate parameters for an interactive and visually appealing experience.

Unlocking Unique Sounds: Exploring Interesting Sound Design Techniques
Tutorial - Sep 26, 2023 Unlocking Unique Sounds: Exploring Interesting Sound Design Techniques

In this video, I explore interesting sound ideas by using various techniques. I start with a simple sine oscillator setup and then incorporate feedback and phase modulation to create inharmonic overtones. I demonstrate how tools like pitch mapping, filtering, and sampling can be used creatively to manipulate and design unique sounds.

Unleash Bitwig Studio's Modulation Power: Create Mind-Blowing Transitions!
Tutorial - Sep 22, 2023 Unleash Bitwig Studio's Modulation Power: Create Mind-Blowing Transitions!

In this video, I discuss the topic of using the transit plugin in Bitwig Studio and whether it is worth it. While some may find the presets of the plugin useful, I personally find that I can easily replicate the effects and transitions using Bitwig Studio's modulation capabilities. I explain how to create similar effects within Bitwig Studio, showcasing the flexibility and potential of the software.

Creating a Multi-Band Delay Effect with a Synthesizer in the FX Grid
Tutorial - Sep 18, 2023 Creating a Multi-Band Delay Effect with a Synthesizer in the FX Grid

In today's video, I show how to create a multi-band delay effect using the polymer synthesizer as input. I demonstrate how to use the FXgrid, filters, and a mod delay to create the effect. I also implement macros for resonance, feedback, and filter cutoff. To make changing the delay timings easier, I use a step mode interface. I explain the logic behind it and how to map it to each delay. I discuss the limitations of the grid for creating interface controls and the need for better interfaces. I give examples of how the effect sounds and suggest adding a convolution reverb. I also mention the possibility of using pitch quantization and panning for more control. Overall, it's a creative way to achieve a multi-band delay effect with a flexible interface.

Building a Dynamic Sampler Plugin in Plugdata - Part2
Tutorial - Sep 15, 2023 Building a Dynamic Sampler Plugin in Plugdata - Part2

In this video, I continued working on my sampler or looping station patch inside Plug Data. I made some improvements to make it more dynamic and turned it into a plugin-like interface. First, I addressed the issue of fixed numbers by using the sample rate module to get the current sample rate of the DAW. This allows the patch to adapt to different sample rates. I also used a dynamic variable for the buffer size by using the send and resize commands. This way, the buffer size can be changed based on the desired length of audio to be recorded. Next, I made the fade out delay time dynamic by subtracting 200 milliseconds from the buffer length. I also added a feedback feature to create a decaying audio signal.

Synthesizing Snare and Rimshot Sounds: Easy Setup for Drum and Bass & Dubstep | Tutorial
Tutorial - Sep 11, 2023 Synthesizing Snare and Rimshot Sounds: Easy Setup for Drum and Bass & Dubstep | Tutorial

In this video, I'm going to show you my setup for synthesizing snare and rimshot sounds using the pulley grid in my DAW. I use the pulse oscillator because it already has a lot of overtones, so I don't need to use as much post-effects distortion. I set the frequency to around 150-160 Hz for a deep snare sound. I use an AD envelope to trigger the sound and apply an EQ5 in the PostFX to analyze and shape the signal. By adjusting the sync, I can create two partials or amplify the second harmonic. I add a Moog low pass filter and use the shape output of the AD envelope for frequency modulation. This creates a nice snare sound. I also add some noise using a noise burst and a mixer. I shape the noise with segments and use a high pass filter. I then apply a hard clip and use dither and diffusion for added spice. The EQ is crucial for shaping the sound, and by cutting below 1k and boosting around 1k, I can create a rimshot sound. I can also tweak the settings to create deep snare sounds. I can detune the oscillator slightly for a wider sound. Overall, there are many possibilities for customization using these knobs and EQs. I can also add pitch modulation if desired. Finally, I can apply a convolution effect to add roominess to the sound. This setup is great for drum and bass, dubstep, and other genres, providing a clean and focused sound.

Building a Dynamic Sampler Plugin in Plugdata - Part1
Tutorial - Sep 08, 2023 Building a Dynamic Sampler Plugin in Plugdata - Part1

In this video, I demonstrate how to use Pure Data as a plugin inside Bitwig. I explain the process of recording and sampling audio into an array, manipulating the playback speed, and adding fade-in and fade-out effects. By understanding these techniques, viewers can explore creating their own plugins or prototype their own audio projects.

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