9
Sound Design Tip:
With XFM synthesis, making small changes to the depth of modulation can result in significant differences in output timbre.
This is because the strength of carrier signal frequency modulation determines the generation of audible sidebands. To
explore the sound design possibilities for creating timbres using XFM synthesis, you could try out the following experiment.
Choose any tone that uses the Extra layer. In edit mode, turn off all other instrument layers, so you can just hear the Extra
Layer.
Adjust the parameter values to the settings listed:
Parameter
Value
XtraType
Jx RxS
XtraTune
C2 /+00
XtraDcay
3000ms
XtraHold
500ms
XtraFltQ
0.5
Xtra DQM
0
Xtra DFM
0
Xtra PFM
0
Xtra Mute
OFF
Xtra Delay
0
XtraD.Tap
0
XtraJxF.Type
HPF
XtraJxFR
0.10
XtraJxMR
4.00
XtraJxXFMod
0
XtraJxCarLev
100
XtraJxModLev
100
XtraJxRingLv
0
XtraSC
OFF
XtraBoost
0
Starting with these settings you will hear a typical synth bass tone with a long sustain. The timbre has a low fundamental
frequency (C2) with some higher harmonic sidebands.
Now select XtraJxXFMod and slowly increase the value from 0 to +100 as you play. As you increase the value you should be
able to hear the timbre change as more audible sidebands are generated. Next try changing the value in the negative range,
0 to -100 and the resulting timbres sound different, particularly in the upper value ranges.
This experiment, although not particularly musical, does show the sound design possibilities for generating timbre variations
using XFM. Once you have a setting you like the sound of, try experimenting further by switching between the different
variations of JingleX. Also use the filter parameters (XtraJxF.Type, XtraJxFR) to shape the generated tone and attenuate
sideband frequencies. Using the filter will help to soften the sound and reduce the inharmonic frequency content.
With a little practice you will quickly start designing some very interesting sounding electronic tones to mix with the Main,
Sub and Dry timbre layers.
Instrument and effect parameters
