Module 3 of 6: Sound Design

G5 workstations in Studio 1		Native Instruments' Kontakt

Summary

Sound Design is where you really get to grips with your creative potential through the use of modern music software. Expert producers show you how to utilise the latest instruments and plug-ins to create your own unique sound and deliver productions and remixes to rival the professionals. Includes in-depth sampling and synthesis, plus insider remix tips and an essential guide to mixing and mastering. Very creative, full of tips and tricks.

Content

Introduction

Analysis of sound - waveforms and bitdepth

Guide to frequency ranges and sample rates

Relationship of pitch to frequency

Ear training using test tones

Signal Flow

Signal flow in Reason

Creating Send & Return effects via the Mixer

Creating "dub" style delay feedback

16 step drum programming. Pattern switching tricks

Pattern Sequencing

Using the Matrix to replicate the classic 303 "acid" sound

CV gating tricks using the Matrix pattern sequencer

Filtering and modulation

Build your own effects patches (eg sidechain compressor)

Creative Sampling with Kontakt

Using the Loop Editor

Automation in Kontakt

Sampler mode and DFD mode explained

Elastic audio: Tone Machine, Time Machine and Beat Machine

Kontakt - Synthesis and Sound Design

Recap on analogue synthesis

Waveforms, oscillators, filters & envelopes

Modulation Sources, Effects and Groups

Learn to design your own sounds

Create a classic bass synth and analogue syndrum kit

Effects routing - Group inserts and instrument inserts

Introducing Reaktor - Ensembles & Instruments

How to create twisted beats with Limelite

Classic synth sounds with Junatik

Spice up your beats with Random Stepshifter FX

How to create truly unique effects

Freeze, zZZzZ, Slicemanipulator, Gate, Delay and Filter

Build Your Own Synthesizer in Reaktor

Use macros to assemble your own custom built synth

The structure of a synth or effects unit - tutorial ensembles

How to connect the components of your synth

Create your own FX

Reverb, Vintage compressor, Analogue style filter and Vocoder

Remix and Mash-Up Techniques

Vocal cut-ups and pitch changing techniques

Extract an acapella from your favourite track!

How to ‘steal the feel' of an existing rhythm

Automating instrument and effect parameters

Filtering using Tonic. Vocoding beats and vocals

Mixing & Mastering

Tips and tricks for a good mixdown

How to use Spectrum Analyzers

Mastering - a guide to Compression, EQ and Limiting

Cutting your track to vinyl

Can't take the course in London? Take our Sound Design Course Online.