Video Tutorials

Here you can find my latest published Video Music Production Tutorials on Youtube as transcribed Posts. Search and watch for specific content. There are even time markers for all the content. Use the Search!

Creating a Multi-Band Delay Effect with a Synthesizer in the FX Grid

Sep 18, 2023 Tutorial
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 - Adding Features and Making it User-Friendly

Sep 15, 2023 Tutorial
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

Sep 11, 2023 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.

Creating Interesting Sounds and Soundscapes with Tones and Wavetables

Sep 04, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I show how to create interesting sounds and soundscapes using tones and wavetables. I primarily use Bitwig Studio and Serum, but just the wavetable editor in Serum. I demonstrate how to manipulate the wavetable by drawing in different wave shapes and randomizing certain partials. I then export the wavetable and import it into Bitwig Studio's wavetable oscillator. Using the wavetable oscillator, I create a motif by randomizing pitch steps and applying pressure and timbre modulation. I also incorporate effects like convolution reverb and delay to enhance the sound. I then explore using the polygrid to create more complex sounds by drawing in sign partials and modulating them over time. Finally, I use the polygrid to create a pad sound by combining sign partials, applying ADSR envelopes and filters, and adding effects like delay and chorus.

The Art of Trade-offs in Music Production: Finding the Perfect Balance

Sep 02, 2023 Tutorial
Over the years, I've picked up a valuable rule of thumb that's relevant not just in music production, but in many areas of life as well. The essence is this: every action you take involves a trade-off. Take sound mixing, for instance. If you crank up the volume on one track, you're inevitably going to drown out the others. Make everything equally loud, and you lose the elements that should stand out. Plus, boosting the volume too much can sacrifice the dynamics and transparency of the whole mix. So, it's all about finding that perfect balance, that sweet spot where you're giving up just enough to achieve the result you're aiming for.

The Importance of Problem-Solving in Music Production: Finding Solutions Rather Than Relying on New Gear

Aug 31, 2023 Tutorial
The person in the video talks about a German saying that if you want something, you find ways, and if you don't want it, you find reasons. They apply this saying to their music productions and explain that instead of buying new plug-ins or gear to solve their problems, it's better to find a solution using what they already have. They believe it's important to get to the root of the problem and solve it rather than relying on new purchases. They suggest viewing new plug-ins and gear as fun toys to play with rather than problem solvers.

Exploring Bass Synthesis: From FM8 to the Grid

Aug 28, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I talk about my journey of using FM8 for bass lines and how I incorporated that knowledge into using the Scroll in the Grid. I explain how I used one oscillator for a pure sine bass sound and another oscillator with different wave shapes to create overtones. I show how you can recreate these sounds in the Grid by using formant wave shapes and modulating them with a sine oscillator. I demonstrate the use of filters and phasers to further modify the sound. Overall, I discuss how this journey of experimenting with different techniques allowed me to create interesting and unique bass patches.

The Wishlist: Small Changes to Make Bitwig Studio Even More Awesome

Aug 24, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I talk about some small changes I would like to see in future versions of Bitwig Studio. I acknowledge that Bitwig Studio is already amazing and I have no complaints about it. However, there are some features that I think could be improved upon. One feature I feel needs some love is the recorder module in the grid. It lacks persistence, meaning that when you save and reload a preset or project, any recorded data is lost. I suggest adding a feature to persist data or introduce a module similar to the sample and hold that can save values.

Embracing Action: Don't Overthink, Just Do

Aug 21, 2023 Tutorial
The video advises against overthinking and encourages taking action instead. It suggests that starting something and not worrying about the outcome is important. If I don't like what I've started, I can simply start fresh and try something new. The process of doing, practicing, and gaining new information can lead to improvement over time. Eventually, I may even realize that what I had initially thought was not so bad after all. The key takeaway is to take action and avoid overthinking.

How to Learn the Grid: Trial and Error, Research, and Problem Solving in Music Production

Aug 21, 2023 Tutorial
In this video, I discuss how to learn and understand the grid in music production. Many people have misconceptions that taking a course will make them a professional musician, but that's not how it works. A course can provide the basics, but real learning happens through trial and error, researching and experimenting. I explain that it's important to overcome problems on your own and develop problem-solving skills. It's not about memorizing individual modules, but rather understanding how to use them in different contexts. I emphasize the importance of researching online, reading the manual, and exploring different resources to gain knowledge. I also share my own process of learning, documenting, and experimenting with patches. Learning music production is an ongoing process that involves constant learning and building experience.

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