Logic Pro X: Introduction to Subtractive Synthesis Part 1

Logic’s collection of instruments is awash with synthesisers and whilst the EFM1 provides some Frequency Modulation synthesis and Sculpture lets us dabble in the world of Physical Modelling, most of Logic’s synths are based on a Subtractive Synthesis engine.

This week, we’re going to go back to school to find out what Subtractive Synthesis is and to understand how we can use the ‘modules’ of a synthesiser to shape and build new sounds. For many years, I’ve found that explaining Subtractive Synthesis works well if you picture the Olympic rings - five overlapping circles, with each one representing a different module of a Synthesiser. And as it’s an Olympic year, why wouldn’t we?!

Here is Part 1; an introduction to one of my favourite subjects.

00:00 Intro
00:43 What is Subtractive Synthesis?
02:24 The Olympic Rings
03:21 What is an Oscillator?
05:28 Synths as musical instruments
07:21 Filters
08:32 Volume/Amplifier
09:23 Synth signal flow
10:43 Sound shaping
11:36 LFOs
16:00 Envelope overview
18:02 ADSR
21:35 Theory summary
22:06 ES M Oscillator and Filter
26:00 Volume section and Decay
28:49 Filter Decay
31:07 Velocity within the ES M
32:15 Overdrive and Glide
32:45 Filter Resonance
35:45 Filter Env with Resonance
36:44 Summary

[ahashtaghope]

Jono, that was brilliant! You have such a gift to explain complex stuff clearly and make it understable and enjoyable - thank you so much! It really is such a privilege to get to learn from you.

[holly-qeqd]

I learn so much in your videos, thx so much

[Giannboy]

Once again a fascinating simplification of what looks like total confusion. This was very helpful Jono! So, thanks!

[frits-barth]

This video of yours made my day, Jono, it is wonderful! Thank you so much!

[JohnLynagh]

Thank you so much for this tutorial Jono. It's like you have lifted a fog in my mind. Dying to try some this stuff out. The idea of inventing your own unique sound is so cool and synthesis is like a the magic tool that help us do that. Looking forward to the next parts already.

[chrisrodenmusic]

Brilliantly articulated. Thanks, Jono!

[OorTouch]

You’re a great teacher! Thank you JB! 🤟🏽

[sreeram]

Thanks a lot.. You have simply simplified the Synths for me !! 🙏

[nicholasdavies]

Wonderful. Thanks for saving me having to put my daughter through university!

[tinusplotseling]

Thank you again Jono, all your video’s have been really helpful! I have a question for you: Is there a possibility that you make a video in which you explain how to do proper balancing on logic pro x projects? I’m struggling to find the right order to do so. If you can, it would be great.

[Skribbles]

If logic would simply redo their interfaces and make them more like serum or massive they would get so many more users and alchemy would become so popular but instead they are busy giving us patches and updates that aren't nearly as desired or needed or necessary

[mikeingrassia]

If i understand correctly, sidechain compression has a similar effect to the sound as LFO? That pulsing sort of quality as it moves out the way if other elements?

[youtubevideos]

Dude Apple has changed the name to just "Logic Pro" half a decade ago and you are still making videos with the old name in 2024?