Track Analysis: Salute - Saving Flowers Pt.2 Sound Design ?

Introduction

In this article, we delve into the sound design elements of Salute's track "Saving Flowers Pt.2". Understanding these components can help us appreciate the craftsmanship behind the music.

Synthesizer Breakdown

The bass sound in "Saving Flowers Pt.2" is relatively simple yet effective. Instead of employing the traditional Dune bass sound, a technique known as Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) was utilized within the Diva synthesizer. This approach helps avoid common phasing issues that can arise with Dune bass sounds.

Oscillator Settings

In Diva, the oscillators are displayed on the left, with filters in the middle and envelopes on the right. For this track, we focused on Oscillator 2, using a square or pulse wave. The pulse width is modulated by an LFO, creating continual movement in the bass sound. The scope view illustrates this modulation, showcasing the gradual thickness changes of the waveform.

Diva also features a feedback circuit that adds thickness and distortion to the sound. Additionally, envelope one manages filter movement, controlling cutoff and resonance, while envelope two modulates oscillator pitch. This dual-envelope system enhances the punchiness of the bass, resembling an 808 kick drum but with a longer decay.

Effects and Processing

The bass sound is further processed through a Decapitator for distortion, EQ adjustments to boost sub frequencies, light compression, and a chorusing effect to widen the sound. An LFO tool is applied to create a sidechain effect.

Lead Sound Design

The lead sound in the track takes inspiration from familiar synth setups. Utilizing a Serum preset, specifically a saw wave with 12 unison voices, the lead sounds harmonics are further shaped by modulation. The noise oscillator, while set to zero, is used for frequency modulation, providing a unique detuned characteristic.

The lead incorporates a 24 dB low-pass filter with envelope modulation for dynamic response. It has a longer decay to ensure sustain on notes, and compression is used to maintain control over the signal.

After the initial sounds are together, the processing chain involves removing unnecessary high frequencies and lightening the mix with EQ adjustments. The reverb effect adds an ambient quality, while a glue compressor ties together the overall sound dynamics.

Pad and Additional Elements

The pad sound mimics a classic Juno 106 synthesizer and is built using a saw wave with unison. The low-pass filter rounds out the frequencies, providing a warm tone. Processing includes EQ for resonance and cohesion, alongside a light chorus effect to create spaciousness.

Additional percussive elements such as a shaker loop are included to enhance the groove, with sidechain compression to maintain rhythmic intensity. Other rhythmic components like claps are designed to be wide and punchy by layering multiple clap samples panned left and right.

Sample Processing and Final Touches

Sample processing is a crucial step to ensure compatibility with the original sound. Adjusting utility settings for stereo balance helps alleviate phase issues, ensuring clarity and punch. The final touchpoints involve saturation plugins, finishing touches with EQ, and reverb to create depth.

Overall, "Saving Flowers Pt.2" stands out with its uplifting, catchy vibes driven by thoughtful sound design.

Keyword

Keywords: Sound Design, Diva, Bass, Pulse Width Modulation, Serum, Juno 106, Synthesizers, Oscillator, Effects, Compression, Reverb, EQ, Shaker Loop, Phase Issues, Saturation.

FAQ

Q1: What synthesizer was primarily used in the track?
A1: The primary synthesizer used in the track is Diva, particularly for the bass sound.

Q2: How is the bass sound characterized?
A2: The bass sound is characterized by Pulse Width Modulation and a feedback circuit, creating thickness and warmth.

Q3: What lead sound techniques were employed?
A3: The lead sound employed techniques such as frequency modulation, a low-pass filter, and compression for dynamic control.

Q4: How was the pad sound designed?
A4: The pad sound mimics a Juno 106 synthesizer and features a saw wave with unison and low-pass filtering.

Q5: What processing techniques were used for the samples?
A5: Sample processing included EQ adjustments, stereo balancing with utilities, saturation, and reverb for depth and clarity.