Nine Essential Features, How-Tos, and Reviews of Synths for Guitar and Bass

Unlock a world of sonic possibilities by integrating synthesizers into your guitar or bass rig. Synths for guitar and bass offer a vast array of sounds, from classic analog warmth to cutting-edge digital textures. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the world of synthesis, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know.

Pedal Phreakery Vol. 3 : Nine features, how-tos, and reviews on synth for guitar and bass

by Kristi Sher

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	28405 KB
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE

We'll delve into nine essential features to look for when choosing a synth, provide step-by-step how-to guides to help you get started, and offer in-depth reviews of the top synths for guitar and bass in the market.

Essential Features to Consider

1. Oscillators: The building blocks of any synth, oscillators generate the raw waveforms that form the foundation of your sound.
2. Filters: Sculpting and shaping your sound, filters control the frequency response, removing or boosting specific frequency ranges.
3. Envelopes: Modulating the volume, filter cutoff, or other parameters over time, envelopes add dynamic expression to your playing.
4. Modulation: Adding depth and interest to your sound, modulation allows you to control one parameter with another, creating complex and evolving sounds.
5. Effects: Enhancing your synth's sonic capabilities, effects such as reverb, delay, and distortion add layers of depth and atmosphere.
6. Controls: The interface of your synth, controls allow you to interact with the parameters and tweak your sound in real time.
7. Connectivity: Ensuring seamless integration into your setup, connectivity options such as MIDI, USB, and audio inputs/outputs are crucial.
8. Size and Portability: Whether you need a compact pedal for your guitar or a full-sized keyboard synth for your bass, consider the size and portability of the synth.
9. Ease of Use: From intuitive knobs and sliders to complex menus, synth usability can vary. Choose a synth that aligns with your skill level and workflow.

Step-by-Step How-Tos

1. Connecting Your Synth: Learn how to properly connect your synth to your guitar or bass and ensure optimal signal flow.
2. Creating Your First Patch: Discover the basics of patch creation, from choosing oscillators to setting envelopes and filters.
3. Modulating and Effects: Explore the art of modulation and effects to add depth, movement, and atmosphere to your synth sounds.
4. Troubleshooting Common Issues: Equip yourself with troubleshooting tips to quickly resolve any setup or performance problems.

Reviews of Top Synths for Guitar and Bass

Korg MS-20 Mini

Features:

• Semi-modular analog synth with 2 oscillators, filter, envelope generator, and VCA
• Extensive patch bay for creating complex modulations
• Compact and portable design

How-To:

• Creating a Basic Patch on the Korg MS-20 Mini
• In-depth Review of the Korg MS-20 Mini

Moog Sub 37 Tribute Edition

Features:

• Analog monosynth with 2 oscillators, filter, envelope generator, and LFO
• Semi-modular design with patch points for external modulation
• Classic Moog sound with modern features

How-To:

• Getting Started with the Moog Sub 37 Tribute Edition
• In-depth Review of the Moog Sub 37 Tribute Edition

Roland TB-3 Touch Bassline

Features:

• Digital recreation of the iconic Roland TB-303 bass synthesizer
• Touch-sensitive interface for intuitive bassline creation
• Built-in step sequencer and effects

How-To:

• Creating a Bassline with the Roland TB-3 Touch Bassline
• In-depth Review of the Roland TB-3 Touch Bassline

Electro-Harmonix Synth9

Features:

• Analog guitar synthesizer pedal with 9 different synth engines
• Extensive parameter controls for shaping your sound
• Compact and pedalboard-friendly design

How-To:

• Exploring the Electro-Harmonix Synth9
• In-depth Review of the Electro-Harmonix Synth9

Line 6 HX Stomp XL

Features:

• Multi-effects processor with a dedicated synth engine
• Wide range of synth models and effects
• Compact design with expression pedal

How-To:

• Creating Synths with the Line 6 HX Stomp XL

Pedal Phreakery Vol. 3 : Nine features, how-tos, and reviews on synth for guitar and bass

by Kristi Sher

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	28405 KB
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE