This recipe shows how to create a down-bass sound often heard in R&B and drum and bass. By using pitch bend in your DAW and adjusting its range in Massive, you can shape the pitch movement to suit your phrase. We will cover the triangle waveform, amp envelope, and pitch-bend settings.
A Bass Sound for R&B and Drum and Bass
In this recipe we will create a down-bass sound
used in R&B and drum and bass.
Using pitch bend in your DAW
lets you choose the pitch range and add expression to the sound.
Video: Creating the Sound
A Question and Answer from the YouTube Video
I'm a complete beginner. How do I display the white version of the piano roll? I don't know which channel was shown at the start. I want to use it for the hi-hat part but I'm not sure how. Please help.
You can change it in Preferences. Please see the attached image: https://app.box.com/s/1xz7o0ykfov51i2fmnrak9tt1drtg2bb
Choosing the Oscillator
For this sound, select a triangle wave.
Its relatively few harmonics give it a rounded tone.
Amp Settings
Set the attack to its fastest setting so the sound starts immediately,
and set sustain to maximum.
Pitch-Bend Settings
Draw pitch-bend data in your DAW to add expression to the phrase.
Next, adjust Massive's pitch-bend settings
to determine how far the pitch changes
in response to the bend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can pitch bend be used with any synthesizer?
Most synthesizers support pitch bend, but the range and response vary. Adjust the relevant settings on your instrument.
Q2. Why use a triangle wave for a down-bass sound?
A triangle wave has relatively few harmonics and a rounded, smooth tone. In this recipe it provides a clear foundation for hearing the pitch-bend movement.
Q3. What happens if attack is set to maximum?
A longer attack makes the sound rise more slowly. For this down-bass sound, set the attack to its fastest setting so it starts immediately and sounds tight and punchy.
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