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by redeyedtreefrog 326 days ago
I just bought my first synth, not very originally a Minilogue XD. A much cheaper mid-life toy then a sports car or pilot's licence! I'm interested in any recommendations for learning resources. Synthorial is often mentioned, and various videos on YouTube, plus just messing around or focusing on general music theory. But I'd love a comprehensive website or blog post series that I could gradually work through.
5 comments
diggan 326 days ago
Best way of learning electronic music (including synths, both modular and non-modular) for me has been to have some idea in mind, then figuring out how to translate that to the synth I have in front of me. Currently experimenting with dub techno, so first step is figuring out what sounds are usually used, then recreating the classic synth chord stabs on a Summit, and take everything step by step but adjusted to what I want the end results to be. I've found this perfect because it's usually what I want to be able to do in the end, I have some sound in mind, I just need to adjust the hardware the right way to get it.

Basically the same way I've learn programming ("I want to be able to do X, what steps would let me get the closest?") where you start with the final result, then work your way backwards.

ChatGPT + Search tool been very helpful in figuring out the details.

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henrebotha 326 days ago
The old article series Synth Secrets by Sound On Sound is extremely worth reading. Teaches you not only synthesis but also how musical instruments work, acoustically speaking.
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Parae 318 days ago
I think the best way to learn how to use a synth, is to play in a band with other people. They will ask you to play things you never thought of before. When the drummer starts by "I want to feel like I'm under a bridge when it's raining rocks and frogs". Minilogue xd is perfect for this kind of exercise.
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coldtea 326 days ago
Try this: https://learningsynths.ableton.com/

(there are many pages, click next)

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aa-jv 326 days ago
What you want, is loopop:

Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/loopop

Loopop's in Complete Book of Electronic Music: https://www.patreon.com/loopop

Have fun! Welcome to the club! :)

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