Music Production Knowledge Backlog

Here you can find my latest published content. Use the Search!

Addictive Drums 2 Major Update

Oct 22, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I discuss the new free update for XLN Audio's Addictive Drums 2, which I've used for nearly two decades. The update improves the plugin's layout with modern visuals, UI rescaling for better visibility on 4K screens, and some new features like a multi-band compressor and trigger gate. I'm thrilled with these subtle but impactful changes, making it a pleasure to use moving forward.

Perfectionism in Music Production

Oct 21, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I discuss the challenges many music producers face with perfectionism and overthinking in music production and creativity. I share my approach of setting internal time limits to stay in a creative flow and avoid being bogged down by endless tweaking, emphasizing that the mental aspect of creation is often more vital than acquiring new gear. Chatting with ChatGPT helps me reflect on my ideas and explore these topics further, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on this format.

Descending Generative Polyrhythmic Melodies

Oct 17, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I demonstrate how to create interesting descending and ascending pitch sequences in Bitwig Studio's grid by using modules like pitch bus, octave wrapper, and pitch quantizer. I explain how to maintain pitches within a specific octave, use the transport module for polyrhythmic structures, and combine multiple sequences with different parameters. You can find the patch linked in the description to explore these concepts further.

Drumclone - extract and clone percussive sounds

Oct 14, 2024 Tutorial
In today's video, I introduced Drum Clone, a new free plugin designed for extracting and re-synthesizing percussive sounds from tracks with multiple instruments, which is particularly useful for drum and bass producers like me working with classic breakbeats. I demonstrated how to create a new track with Drum Clone, how it effectively isolates kick drums, and discussed its potential for future models focused on snare drums and hi-hats. Overall, I find it to be a handy tool worth considering, especially if more models are introduced, and I wouldn't mind paying for additional features.

Bitwig 5.2.5: Audio Import & New Features!

Oct 11, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I discuss the updates in Bitwig Studio 5.2.5, focusing on the new audio import behavior settings, like the ability to choose between stretch modes and the reintroduction of the raw import option. I demonstrate how these changes affect sample imports and recordings, and highlight additional interface improvements like devices scrolling into view in the chain. Overall, I find these updates to be positive steps forward, but I suggest further tweaks, such as a consistent raw setting for recordings, would make the experience even better.

Audio Visualizers: Spectrogram, Spectrum, Vectorscope

Oct 07, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I showcase a small touchscreen I bought for $120 and discuss using it as an additional metering screen with custom web-based visualizers I developed. The visualizers, including a vectorscope and spectrum analyzer, are accessible for free through my website and are built using vanilla JavaScript, allowing for easy tweaking and customization. I also provide links to try them out and encourage viewers to share feedback and suggestions.

Kick Ninja, Kick 3 updates, NoteGrabber, Spectrum Analyzer!

Oct 03, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I provide updates on several plugins, including KickNinja's new features like phase locking and improved sample layering, making it one of the best kick drum VSTs available. I also discuss Node Grabber, a straightforward tool for manual audio-to-pitch conversion, although I find it overpriced. Additionally, I share my experiment with creating a spectral analyzer using AI to code web applications, which is accessible online for free.

Plasma by iZotope in Bitwig

Oct 02, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I demonstrate how to replicate the functionality of the Plasma plug-in by iZotope within Bitwig Studio. By using techniques like loud split, EQ adjustments, and saturation, I create a flexible method to achieve similar frequency-specific saturation effects without the high CPU usage. I also provide a free preset for download, encouraging viewers to like, subscribe, and share their thoughts in the comments.

EQ Cloning with Impulse Responses

Sep 30, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I demonstrated how to clone EQ settings using impulse responses, showing the process with tools like an EQ curve analyzer, Ozone 8 EQ, and a convolution device. By recording the output of the Ozone 8 and using a test tone or Dirac signal, I showcased two methods to replicate the linear phase EQ setting. This technique is useful especially if you don't have a built-in linear phase EQ in your DAW like Bitwig.

Kick Drum Resynthesis with Bitwig

Sep 27, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I explore ways to recreate kick drums using only native devices in Bitwig Studio by separating and synthesizing the low-end sine wave from a noisy kick sample. I demonstrate using filters, the Harmonic Split device, and the FX Grid to analyze pitch and volume, ultimately re-synthesizing the low end while discussing the challenges of persisting data within Bitwig. Despite some limitations, such as the inability to save pitch envelope data, I show that this method can effectively replicate kick drum sounds.

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