Programming Arpeggiated Trance Sequences in FM8

This video tutorial shares a lot of great knowledge in regards to programming arpeggiated trance sequences in FM8, perfect for those producing progressive and other forms of electronic music!

This lesson focuses on equal parts sound design a and arrangement in a way, because the arpeggiator tool in FM8 allows you to bring your sounds to life with fairly complex sequences. Arpeggiated Trance sequences are at the very heart of the Trance music movement, and sub genres like Progressive Trance rely heavily upon them to create a rather hypnotic atmosphere for the listener to enjoy. Many times a pluck synth is used for the arpeggiated element in a song of this type, but it can really be just about any sound in the mix. Let’s see how this one is put together.

Starting out in the FM Matrix, this sound is really quite basic, with a small amount of feedback and modulation routing to provide more interest and character, the main operators are routed into the filter (Operator Z). The operator envelopes are all kept very simple, with a small amount of release to avoid any unwanted clicking. The total number of Unison Voices is increased to three on the Master window. While we’re here, some Detuning and Panning are also added to spread the sound out more, while Analog Quality is added for more character. This type of sound is ideal for arpeggiated Trance sequences, with a few more changes.

Before we set up the arpeggiator, the Filter Envelope must be set up. A very short pluck style envelope curve is used in this example, and is a classic choice for arpeggiated Trance sequences in general. Now, when the sound is run through the arpeggiator in FM8 we will get fairly short bursts of sound, making it easy to become absorbed in and quite easy to work with in a mix. Once the right shape has been found for the sound, you can begin programming the arpeggiator to automate the desired changes in pitch, etc.