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Percussive Basses?

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 12:00 am
by JaKT
I'm sorry in advance, for this seems like a really simple thing to do. And I haven't come across anything that covers this on the forums. So I decided to just go ahead and ask. Hope that's alright with you guys. :W:

But I've been trying to recreate a bass that sounds really percussive? I'm not sure if that's the right way to describe it. Almost like the bass itself is hitting like a drum, in a way.

Here's a good example. (0:55)


I've tried experimenting in NI Massive with Envelopes and LFO's (also the Stepper and Performer) but I just can't seem to figure it out. Wouldn't be surprised if I'm way off. Hopefully you guys can point me in the right direction.

Re: Percussive Basses?

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 12:28 am
by render
You need a synth/sampler and a filter and a daw. Automate filter cutoff from fully open to closed. The easiest method if you get NI massive, it has built in filters and you can automate the cutoff with a performer.
You either hold one note and draw a lot of sharp automations, or make a lot of short notes with the automations its up to you. The basic idea is if you close a lowpass filter relatively fast, it will give you this sharp effect.

Re: Percussive Basses?

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 2:25 am
by JaKT
:) Thanks a ton man.

I found the Performer worked better than the LFO using the right curves for that tight and sharp feel it has. And after tons of tweaking and effects, it sounds really really nice.

Thanks again.

Re: Percussive Basses?

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 9:31 pm
by render
glad I could help, and welcome to the forum!

Re: Percussive Basses?

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2012 9:43 pm
by Sonika
Just adding to what render said, my preferred method is to make the patch in Massive (or whatever synth you're using), and then have a lot of short notes, rather than drawing a lot of automation.