Master Class: Vocoders

Wendy Carlos recorded the first mainstream performance of a vocoder for her soundtrack to Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange, using a 10-band version she developed with Bob Moog in 1970. From there, it was quickly established as a featured component for countless pop, funk, and dance hits—and is often confused with an effect known as the talk box, which is an entirely different method for embossing the characteristics of the human voice onto a musical performance.

Over the past 45 years, there have been many successful vocoders—both hardware and software. The earliest hardware units from Bode, Roland, Moog and Korg found their way into top artists’ studios. Nowadays, software versions are baked into leading DAWs from Ableton, Apple, and Propellerhead, to name a few.

Although vocoders are typically used for creating “robot vocals,” they are capable of generating a wide variety of effects. But to get the most from this unique processor, it is essential to understand how a vocoder works. Here’s my essential guide for Music Radar.

LINK: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-vocoders-a-complete-guide

Master Class: Roland TR-8S

With the introduction of the TR-8S, Roland not only advanced the popular TR-8’s sequencing tools and iconic sound, but added sample import (via SD card) and expanded its editing features to a point where it truly is an instrument in its own right. Between performance-oriented patterns and sophisticated sound design amenities, you’ll get the most from this beast once you understand how to mold its sonic resources to match your artistic identity.

I'm also testing the waters for expanding this blog to include downloadable presets and examples for selected educational material. If you already own a TR-8S, below is a link to two original kits (with patterns) based on custom analog drum samples I created last month.

Master Class Link: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/how-to-master-the-roland-tr-8s

Download the TR-8S kit/patterns  [Instructions included]

Master Class: Novation Peak

Novation Peak

The Novation Peak has generated a serious buzz in the synth community by combining its innovative Oxford oscillators that deliver analog-grade resolution with a fully analog signal path, as well as modulation options such as polyphonic aftertouch and a pair of Animate buttons capable of real-time patch morphing.

With a front panel packed full of familiar controls, Peak gives you direct access to these and many other important functions. This Music Radar masterclass digs deeper into the synth, unveiling a world of functionality that sets it apart from many modern polyphonics. In this tutorial, I investigate those options.

LINK: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-the-novation-peak

Master Class: The Minimoog Paradigm

Minimoog Model D

The synth that started it all.

Make no mistake, the Minimoog Model D was the synthesizer that kickstarted our industry. Its architecture has been the basis for countless analog monosynths to follow and its sound remains so distinctive that Moog recently reissued a circuit-perfect, limited-edition version for those with a devotion to authenticity.

But the modern era has brought us software and hardware versions of the Minimoog architecture that update the synth’s essential characteristics in ways that reflect the march of technology since 1971. For example, the Arturia Mini V has modulation amenities that would be impossible to do with analog hardware alone, whereas the Roland SE-02 offers far more flexibility than the original. And ApeSoft Mood, an iOS take on the Mini, approaches the original’s iconic filter behavior while adding sampling and FM to its array of Moogish oscillators. Consequently, if you’re in the mood for a Model D but can’t afford the real thing, these hardware and software interpretations can get you there, but with greater flexibility than the original and at a price that won’t break the bank.

My Music Radar masterclass shows you how to get the most out of of each of these synths.

LINK: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/how-to-get-the-best-out-of-the-moog-model-d-and-3-emulations

Master Class: Korg Prologue

If you’ve read the specs, Korg’s new Prologue polysynth is far more complex than either of its siblings—the Minilogue and Monologue—though it shares their heritage. Consequently, the Prologue’s analog side is similar, but with a few notable upgrades.

The Prologue’s digital side, however, has some groundbreaking innovations. This Music Radar Master Class takes a close look at its synthesis engine and explains how to make the most of it.

LINK: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/the-ultimate-guide-to-getting-the-most-out-of-the-korg-prologue

Master Class: Korg Gadget

In 2017, Korg expanded Gadget’s range by introducing an identical version for Mac OS, bringing its intuitive approach to the desktop. The full install of Gadget for Mac is bundled with more than 30 plug-ins, including the recording gadgets Zurich and Rosario, as well as a virtualized collection of their most iconic hardware synths.

Though many of Gadget’s synths are so immediately approachable that there’s no real need for tutorials, others can look a bit cryptic to new users. Even if you’re an experienced synthesist, there are nuances in each of the instruments that go beyond the obvious functionality. So, for this Music Radar master class, we’ll dig deeper into the more sophisticated gadgets, exposing possibilities that may not be immediately apparent.

LINK: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/the-definitive-guide-on-how-to-use-korg-gadget-for-mac