Polarity Music & Production Blog
Here you can read my latest published entries in my blog, articles, music and videos.
Mar 09, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I explained what formants are and how they can be used to simulate a robotic voice. I showed how this can be done in Bitwig using the XP filter and vector 8. I also demonstrated how this can be achieved using Vital, a subtractive wavetable synthesizer, and a vocoder. Finally, I shared a free preset called Bitwig Lama which can be used to create this effect.
Mar 07, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I explain why there is no sine wave in a classical subtractive synthesizer. This is because sine wave has no overtones and therefore makes no sense in terms of subtractive synthesis. I explain how the filter section can be used to target and amplify the fundamental frequency as well as other partials in the harmonic series. I also provide an overview of other synthesis methods such as additive synthesis, Wavetable synthesis, FM synthesis, phase distortion, vector synthesis, granular synthesis, and physical modeling. In each of these methods, sine waves make more sense. Finally, I explain why a saw and pulse waveforms are used in polysynth - because they give different harmonic overtones.
Mar 07, 2023 Tutorial
I love using the pitch shifter device in Bitwig Studio to create creative sound effects in my productions. You can dial in the amount of shifting with a big knob in the middle, and the maximum number is 12 semitones up and 12 semitones down. The grain control allows you to change the update rate of the internal buffer, which can result in a grain delay effect. The mixed knob lets you blend in the dry signal with the pitch shifted signal to add some shimmer to the sound. I find that the lower values of the grain size work best for creating unique and interesting sounds. You can also use the pitch shifter in parallel with different settings for each layer to get a variety of different sounds.
Mar 07, 2023 Article
This article provides five tips for producing music. The first tip is that there is no right or wrong way to produce music, as long as it sounds good. The second tip is to get your mastering right, especially if you plan to distribute your music on vinyl. The third tip is to not obsess over details initially and instead focus on building a good foundation with a few elements. The fourth tip is to keep things in motion, using modulation to create movement in your tracks. Finally, the fifth tip is to experiment and find what works best for you as a producer.
Mar 03, 2023 Bitwig Guide
I used the Test Tone device in Bitwig Studio to demonstrate how it can be used for testing speakers, effects chains, or other sounds. I showed how to use the oscilloscope to view the waveform of the sound, as well as how to adjust the frequency, gain, and bipolar modes. I then demonstrated how to use the Test Tone to create a monophonic synth by modulating the gain with an ADSR and adding a vibrato with the mod wheel. I also showed how to use the Test Tone to create a polyphonic synth with the instrument selector. Finally, I demonstrated how to use the Test Tone to create a ring modulator with a source effect.
Mar 01, 2023 Tutorial
I recently bought the Minimal Audio Cluster Delay plugin, and in this video I gave an overview of what it can do. I showed how to adjust the delay, add effects, sync it to a beat, and use the randomization button to get a random preset. I also mentioned that the plugin is currently on sale for $50.
Feb 28, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I explain how to use DP Meter 5 to measure loudness levels and gain staging. I also explain the different modes, such as RMS mode, EVO mode, and dial mode. I show how to use the RMS integrated value, RMS momentary, RMS momentary max, true peak max, crest factor, and loudness range. I also explain how to use the gain setting, match button, and reference level. Lastly, I explain why you should use EVO instead of RMS, and how frequencies are factored into the numbers.
Feb 24, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I show viewers a technique for creating a kick drum and bass sound out of the same oscillator in order to avoid phase issues. I explain how to use an envelope, add math module, noise, attenuate, and filter to achieve this sound. I also provide tips for tweaking the sound to fit a certain genre.
Feb 22, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I'm talking about how automation can be used to progress your track, how to use it as an arrangement tool, and why it's the most important thing you have in your tool belt. I explain how I use automation to draw in value changes over time and introduce a storyline to my arrangement. I also discuss how I use modulation to give my sound an organic feel and how to use automation to make more drastic changes to progress my track. Finally, I demonstrate how I use automation to introduce a groove and rhythm to the listener and give them a sense of when something is happening in the track.
Feb 17, 2023 Tutorial
I showed how to create a beat repeater with the FX grid by splitting the drum loop into four recorders and sequencing them. I explained how to use the phase input to evenly step through the split device, and how to use the phase signal to rearrange the playback order. I also showed how to use the mirror output to create a faster playback with finer grains. Finally, I demonstrated how to use a step sequence to blend in the repeater.
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