Control resonance to avoid acid-like tones
Problem: bass has an acid-like or gritty tone
Keeping the resonance of the filter around 7% helps avoid an acid-like tone, which can be too harsh or gritty for most EDM genres. This small adjustment ensures the bass remains clean and professional-sounding. It's a…
Use high resonance on filter to emphasize natural frequency of sample
Problem: sample lacks definition or gets lost in the mix
Resonance acts as a frequency booster, highlighting the sample's inherent tonal character. When resonance is cranked, it creates a 'squeal' that can be sculpted with a low cut to avoid harshness. This technique is…
Set low-pass filter resonance to 26% for a punchy bass attack
Problem: flat or lifeless bass attack
Using the low 24 filter in Serum with 26% resonance creates a distinct 'knock' sound on the bass attack. Higher resonance increases the filter's Q value, emphasizing the cutoff frequency and adding transient punch.…
Use resonance and cutoff modulation for dynamic filtering
Problem: static or flat sound
Assigning an envelope to control the cutoff of a resonant filter creates dynamic timbral changes. The M2.0 12 filter with 100% resonance adds thickness, while the envelope modulates the cutoff for movement. This…
Use resonance to add distortion without plugins
Problem: bland 303 line lacking character
Increasing the resonance on a 303 synth can naturally add distortion and drive, eliminating the need for additional plugins. This is a common technique in trance and other electronic genres where a gritty, distorted 303…
Preserve resonances in drum samples for unique character
Problem: over-processing drum samples to remove character
Resonant peaks in drum samples (like TR-999 hi-hats) add tonal uniqueness and recognizability. The urge to flatten these resonances is a common mistake, as it removes the sample's defining character. Instead, use narrow…
Add a small amount of resonance to enhance presence
Problem: lead lacks presence or clarity
Adding a small amount of resonance to the filter can help the lead cut through the mix by emphasizing certain frequencies. This is a subtle but effective technique in trance production, where the lead needs to be present…
Use analog 12dB filter for smooth resonance
Problem: harsh or over-resonant filter
The analog 12dB filter type provides a warmer, more musical roll-off compared to steeper filters. Setting the resonance to 20 avoids harshness while allowing the filter to 'sing' with the LFO modulation. This choice is…
Use resonance for expressive, moody sounds
Problem: sound lacks emotional depth or character
Adding resonance to a synth sound can create a more expressive and moody character. This technique is useful for creating sounds that are emotionally engaging and can be used in a variety of contexts, such as leads,…
Assign 12dB filter for smooth resonance control
Problem: harsh, abrupt filter transitions
Using a 12dB filter in Serum allows for smoother resonance control compared to steeper filters. This is ideal for creating sweeping filter effects without abrupt changes in the sound's character. The 12dB slope provides…
Avoid over-processing resonating frequencies unless necessary
Problem: over-EQing leading to unnatural sound
The speaker advises against cutting resonating frequencies (like harmonic spikes in vocals) unless they cause audible ringing or unwanted resonance. They compare it to the sound of a glass vibrating when touched,…
Use FabFilter Pro-Q3 to cut resonant frequencies in bass
Problem: Resonant peaks causing harshness in bass
Identifying and reducing resonant peaks (e.g., around C) in the bass prevents harshness while maintaining warmth. This technique ensures the bass remains smooth and sits well in the mix.
Enhance bass warmth by reusing resonant peaks strategically
Problem: Bass lacking warmth or presence
Reusing a resonant peak in the mid-range adds warmth to the bass without overloading the low end. This technique balances clarity and richness in the bass tone.