Soft synths are powerful tools that can produce an incredible range of sounds. However, many producers and musicians prefer the warm, rich sound of analog synths. Fortunately, there are a number of techniques and tools that can help you achieve an analog sound from your soft synths.
One of the easiest ways to make soft synths sound more analog is to use analog emulation plugins. These plugins simulate the sound of analog gear by using algorithms that mimic the behavior of analog circuits. Some popular analog emulation plugins include u-he Diva, Arturia Analog Lab, and Native Instruments Monark. These plugins can be used to add warmth, depth, and character to your soft synth sounds, making them sound more like vintage analog synths.
Understanding Synths
Synths, short for synthesizers, are electronic musical instruments that generate sound by creating and manipulating audio signals. They have become an essential tool for music producers, sound designers, and composers. Synths come in various forms, including digital synths, analog synths, hardware synths, and software synths (also known as soft synths).
Digital synthesizers use digital signal processing to generate sound. They can produce a wide range of sounds, from realistic acoustic instruments to futuristic and experimental sounds. Digital synths are often more affordable than their analog counterparts and offer more flexibility in terms of sound design.
Analog synthesizers, on the other hand, use analog circuits to generate sound. They have a warm and organic sound that many musicians and producers prefer. Analog synths are often more expensive than digital synths and can be more challenging to maintain. However, they offer a hands-on, tactile approach to sound design that many musicians find inspiring.
Soft synths are software versions of hardware synthesizers. They can be run on a computer or mobile device and offer a cost-effective way to access a vast range of sounds. Soft synths are often more flexible than hardware synths, and they can be used in conjunction with other software tools, such as digital audio workstations (DAWs).
Hardware synths are standalone synthesizers that do not require a computer to operate. They often have a dedicated interface and physical controls for sound design. Hardware synths can be more expensive than software synths, but they offer a unique tactile experience and often have a unique sound that cannot be replicated by software.
synths are versatile and powerful tools for sound design and music production. Whether you prefer digital or analog, hardware or software, there is a synth out there that can help you achieve your musical goals.
Anatomy of a Synth
When it comes to making soft synths sound analog, it’s important to understand the different components that make up a synth sound. Here are the main components of a synth:
Oscillators and Waveforms
Oscillators (or VCOs) are the basic components of a synth sound. They output repeating waveforms that can be modified using three main controls:
- Frequency: the speed at which a waveform completes one cycle of its pattern, measured in Hertz (Hz) and perceived as either low or high pitch
- Waveform: the shape of the waveform, which determines the timbre of the sound. The most common waveforms are sine, square, sawtooth, and triangle.
- Pulse Width: the width of the square wave, which can create different timbres.
Filters and Envelopes
Filters are used to shape the frequency content of a sound. The filter cutoff determines the frequency at which the filter starts to attenuate the sound. There are different types of filters, such as low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and notch filters.
Envelopes are used to shape the volume, pitch, or filter cutoff of a sound over time. The most common envelope is the ADSR envelope, which stands for Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release.
Effects and Modulations
Effects are used to add depth and richness to a sound. Reverb, delay, and chorus are some of the most common effects used in synth production.
Modulations are used to add movement and variation to a sound. LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators) are used to create subtle or drastic changes to a sound over time. They can modulate the frequency, filter cutoff, amplitude, or other parameters of a sound.
In addition to oscillators, filters, envelopes, effects, and modulations, synths may also include noise oscillators, EQ, and resonance control. By understanding the anatomy of a synth, you can start to experiment with different settings and parameters to create warm, analog-like sounds.
Analog Vs Digital
When it comes to synthesizers, there are two main types: analog and digital. Analog synths use analog circuits to generate sound, while digital synths use digital signal processing to create sounds. Here are some of the key differences between the two:
Sound
Analog synths are known for their warm, organic sound. This is because the sound is generated by analog circuits, which can create subtle variations in pitch, timbre, and volume. Digital synths, on the other hand, can sound more precise and clean. However, they can also sound sterile and lifeless if not programmed properly.
Cost
Analog synths tend to be more expensive than digital synths. This is because they require more complex circuitry and are often made with higher-quality components. However, there are some affordable analog synths on the market, such as the Korg Volca series. Digital synths, on the other hand, can be very affordable, with many software synths available for free or at a low cost.
Features
Digital synths tend to have more features than analog synths. This is because they can be programmed to do almost anything. Digital synths can have hundreds of preset sounds, multiple oscillators, and complex modulation options. Analog synths, on the other hand, are often more limited in their features. However, this can be seen as an advantage, as it forces the user to be more creative with the limited tools they have.
Maintenance
Analog synths require more maintenance than digital synths. This is because they have physical components that can wear out or break over time. Analog synths also require periodic calibration to maintain their accuracy. Digital synths, on the other hand, require little to no maintenance.
Conclusion
Both analog and digital synths have their advantages and disadvantages. Analog synths are known for their warm, organic sound, but can be expensive and require more maintenance. Digital synths are more affordable and have more features, but can sound sterile if not programmed properly. Ultimately, the choice between analog and digital comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Characteristics of Analog Sound
When it comes to synthesizers, many people prefer the sound of analog synths. Analog synths have a unique and warm sound that is difficult to replicate with digital synths. Here are some of the characteristics that make analog synths sound so unique.
Hum and Tape
Analog synths have a natural hum that comes from the power supply. This hum is not present in digital synths, and it adds to the character of the sound. Additionally, analog synths can be recorded onto tape, which adds a natural compression and saturation to the sound. This gives the sound a warm and organic quality that is difficult to replicate with digital effects.
Chorus and Reverb
Analog synths often have built-in chorus and reverb effects. These effects were often created using analog circuits, which give them a unique character. Chorus and reverb effects can add depth and dimension to a sound, making it sound more complex and interesting.
Distortion and Saturation
Analog synths can also be overdriven to create distortion and saturation. This can add grit and character to a sound, making it sound more aggressive and powerful. Additionally, analog synths often have a natural saturation that comes from the circuits and components used in their construction. This saturation can add warmth and depth to a sound.
the unique characteristics of analog synths make them a popular choice for many musicians. Whether you’re looking for a warm and organic sound or a gritty and aggressive sound, analog synths have a lot to offer. By understanding the characteristics of analog sound, you can better replicate this sound with your soft synths.
Making Soft Synths Sound Analog
Soft synths have come a long way in recent years, but there’s still something special about the sound of analog synths. Luckily, there are several ways to make your soft synths sound more analog. Here are some tips to get you started.
Choosing the Right DAW and Soft Synth
Choosing the right DAW and soft synth is crucial when it comes to making your soft synths sound more analog. Some popular soft synths include Serum, ACE, Waveform, Circuits, and Massive. Each of these synths has its own unique capabilities and sound design options. When choosing a soft synth, consider the flexibility and capabilities it offers.
Using Saturation and Layering
Saturation is a great way to add warmth and fullness to your soft synth sounds. You can use a saturation plugin to add harmonic distortion to your sounds. This will give them a more analog feel. Layering is another technique that can help you achieve a more analog sound. By layering multiple sounds together, you can create a more complex and interesting sound.
Modulation and Automation
Modulation and automation are important tools when it comes to making your soft synths sound more analog. By modulating parameters like the filter cutoff, you can create more interesting and dynamic sounds. Automation is another powerful tool that can help you achieve a more analog sound. By automating parameters like the LFO rate or the filter cutoff, you can create more complex and evolving sounds.
making your soft synths sound more analog takes some effort, but it’s well worth it. By choosing the right DAW and soft synth, using saturation and layering, and utilizing modulation and automation, you can create sounds that rival those of analog synths. Remember to experiment and have fun with your sound design.
Popular Synths for Analog Sound
If you want to achieve an analog sound with soft synths, you need to choose the right virtual instrument. Here are some popular options that are known for their ability to produce authentic analog synth sounds:
Juno
The Juno synthesizer series from Roland is a classic analog synth that has been used in countless synth-pop hits. The Juno-106 is particularly well-known for its warm, lush sound, but the Juno-60 and Juno-6 are also popular choices. There are several virtual instrument versions of the Juno available, such as the TAL-U-NO-LX and the Arturia JUN-6 V.
Prophet-5
The Prophet-5 from Sequential Circuits is another iconic analog synth that has been used on countless recordings. Its distinctive sound is characterized by its fat, warm, and punchy tones. The Arturia Prophet V is a popular virtual instrument that emulates the Prophet-5, and it includes all of the original synth’s features and parameters.
Jupiter
The Jupiter series of synthesizers from Roland is another classic analog synth that has been used in many synth-pop and electronic music recordings. The Jupiter-8 is particularly famous for its rich, warm sound, but the Jupiter-6 and Jupiter-4 are also popular choices. The Arturia JUP-8 V is a virtual instrument that accurately emulates the Jupiter-8’s sound and features.
When using virtual instruments to achieve an analog sound, it’s important to choose patches that are designed to sound like analog synths. Many virtual instruments come with a variety of presets that are specifically designed to sound like classic analog synths. You can also create your own patches by tweaking the parameters of the virtual instrument to create the desired sound.
there are many virtual instruments available that can help you achieve an authentic analog synth sound. Whether you choose a Juno, Prophet-5, Jupiter, or another classic analog synth, be sure to experiment with different patches and settings to find the perfect sound for your music.
Conclusion
making soft synths sound more analog is not as difficult as it may seem. By utilizing techniques such as sampling, modulation, and distortion, you can achieve a warmer and more organic sound that emulates the classic analog synths of the past.
It’s important to note that while these techniques can enhance the sound of your soft synths, they will never truly replicate the unique characteristics of an analog synth. However, with careful experimentation and attention to detail, you can come close to achieving that classic analog sound.
Remember to always trust your ears when it comes to sound design. Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with different settings and plugins. With practice and patience, you can create unique and compelling sounds that stand out in your music productions.
We hope this guide has been helpful in your quest to make your soft synths sound more analog. Keep exploring and experimenting, and never stop learning and growing as a musician and sound designer.
