What once required massive modular synthesizers filling entire rooms can now be accomplished with just a few clicks in modern DAWs. Although software synths replicate the original controls, the sheer number of options can be daunting. But don’t worry—sound designer and engineer Scott Hirsch has you covered. His tutorials break down the essentials of synthesis, starting with simple sine waves and advancing to complex tones using additive synthesis. You’ll learn how to sculpt your sound with filters and envelopes, and practice creating a variety of sounds like a synth lead, a lush pad, a drum beat, and a bass line. Scott also provides practical advice for programming synths in popular software like Arturia, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live.

Delve into the basics of synthesis, beginning with sine waves, and learn how to craft more intricate tones through additive synthesis. You’ll also uncover how to shape your sound using filters and envelopes, while creating various sounds like a synth lead, lush pad, drum beat, and bass line.

Most fundamental synth controls are universally shared across popular synthesizers, making them essential knowledge. We’ll start by exploring the oscillator, which is typically the primary source of sound in synthesis—where everything truly begins.