This guide shows how to create a bright, powerful SuperSAW in MASSIVE. It covers choosing sawtooth waves, setting oscillator pitches, detuning, shaping the ADSR envelope, layering voices with unison and adding spatial effects. These sound-design techniques can be used in many genres, making them useful for beginners and experienced producers alike.
Recreating a SuperSAW in MASSIVE
This time we’ll build a sound using the classic sawtooth waveform.
We’ll start with techniques for making a saw sound bright and expansive.
This sound can be used in many contexts, regardless of genre,
so it’s a useful one to learn.
How to Create the Sound
Selecting and Setting the Oscillators
As the name suggests, select SAW,
then set the pitch of each oscillator an octave apart.
It can also help to detune the oscillators slightly.
Volume ADSR
Set Attack to its fastest setting so the sound starts immediately.
The original tutorial recommends maximum Release; this lengthens the tail after the key is released. Sustain, rather than Release, controls the held note’s steady level.
These settings help produce a powerful sound.
Using Unison
Increase the Unisono value to layer voices.
Slightly spread their Pitch and use Pan to widen the stereo image.
Effects
Apply Reverb and Delay to taste to add a sense of space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What genres is SuperSAW suited to?
SuperSAW is a versatile sound that can be used in many contexts. It appears in leads and melodies across EDM, pop, R&B, drum and bass and other genres.
Q2. What is detuning?
Detuning means shifting the pitches of multiple oscillators slightly apart. This creates thickness and width for a fuller, brighter sound.
Q3. Can I create a similar sound without MASSIVE?
The basic principles apply to other synthesizers too. A plug-in with sawtooth waves, layered oscillators, unison and effects can create a similar sound, although the exact controls and result may differ.
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