Re: [Evolver] Sound Design Question: Seeking Warm Analogue 'Avalon-esque' Sound from PB101
2007-03-05 by marzzz@aol.com
In a message dated 3/5/07 2:39:28 PM, mikewelch7@... writes:
I'm an amateur musician new to synthesis. I'm using a DSI MEK on a
rock oriented track and am looking for some assistance in desigining a
sound. The song began with a keyboard riff using the MEK's 'Mountain
Hall' preset (B101).
A rough draft of the song is at: www.myspace.com/mikewelch7 (first
song on profile - 'Swallowed the Mountain')
During the verses (i.e., when singing begins, but not during the
pre-chorus or chorus), I'm seeking to take the organ-like riff out of
the mix, and am looking a single-note pad that removes the digital
oscillators out completely, that is very warm, sounding almost like a
violin. The sound should rise to peak rather quickly, have some
'vibratto' then fade.
The sound I'm going for is very similar to the Prophet tones heard all
over Roxy Music's 'Avalon' album - it should be very warm and sound
good in a mix.
The sound you hear during the verses isn't far off, but when listened
to on headphones sounds too harsh.
Could anyone well versed in synthesis provide some general pointers on
how I should begin to construct this sound?
Your assistance would be greatly appreciated!
There is a preset from the original Evolver (or maybe PolyEvolver?) soundset called "J-Strings" or "JP-Strings" or something similar that with slight tweaking most definitely evokes the "Avalon Pad" that I know you are looking for. Check the DSI website and download every preset bank until you find it....then move the digital OSC's up an octave to match the analog OSC's, and you will be all set.
I have always wanted to know what synth was used on Avalon to get that sound (one of my all-time favorites, the very definition of "lush"), are you certain it was a Prophet 5? Some have speculated it was a Yamaha CS-80. The album was produced in 1982.
-Marshall
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