FM8 Funky Analog Bass Tutorial

This a classic and still very modern bass, with a touch of infectious energy that will work in too many style of music to list here. The sound is very wide but the waveform is very stable, which is how this FM8 funky analog bass stands out so well in a mix. The majority of the work is done in the FM Matrix, it can be made in just a few minutes and easy customized for your own needs. It also does very well with effects, like delay and phasing.

Taking a look at the routing of the synth in the image below shows that it is using all of the main operators, half of which are partially panned in opposite directions to create the width of this FM8 funky analog bass. Although each operator is running a sine wave, the modulation and feedback give the sound an edge while the pitch variations provide the cool phased character.

The envelopes are all programmed uniformly to ensure the delivery and development are consistent. It should also be noted that the Key Sync feature has also been enable on each operator to maintain even triggering (found on the Expert Ops window).

There are some important changes made here in the Master window. First, the overall pitch of the synth has been dropped two octaves. The total number of Unisono Voices has been increased to two. The Detune and Pan parameters have both been turned up to create more width and depth for this FM8 funky analog bass. There is also a small amount of Analog Quality added for more character and warmth.

A Tube Amp is added to give our FM8 funky analog bass some drive, and the Shelving EQ and Peak EQ inserts finish shaping the sound.

I used an arpeggiator preset to help show of this sound by running it through a quick sequence. An audio sample of this bass in action alongside some drums to help give you an idea of how it can be used in a mix.

Don’t forget to shoot us a message before you take off if you have tutorial requests, feedback or would just like to say hello. Thanks for stopping by!

Cheers,
OhmLab