Alchemy

Introduction to Synthesis in Logic

So having learned about the basis of synthesis, let's look at what Logic offers us in terms of synthesis and how we can take some of that stuff and really open up that world of synthesis within Logic.

Loading Synths in Logic

Whenever you load a synth into Logic:

• You will want to load it onto a software instrument track.
• Load it in the plugin slot that says Instrument.

If you look at the channel strip, you will be looking at Instrument. Here, you'll find all of the synths and instruments that are available to you in Logic.

Starting with Alchemy

We're going to start with Alchemy. Alchemy is pretty much Logic's flagship synth.

Highlights of Alchemy:

• It is a super powerful synth that can be very simple if you click on Simple, or very advanced if you click on Advanced.
• One of the ways this ties into Logic's overall approach is through a system similar to Apple Loops: tag-based browsing.

Finding Sounds with Tag-Based Browsing

In Alchemy, you can define a sound that you want, selecting a category:

• Sub: Sometimes you may want to look for specific genres.
• You can explore all timbres as well. For example, who doesn't like a fat sub?

Once you define your parameters, you get results based on what you've searched for. You can go through and audition these sounds using your up and down arrows.

Modulating Sounds

Underneath all of that, there's a feature similar to what we looked at with Drummer. You can:

• Move elements around.
• Modulate a sound and change it as you're working with it.

However, if you prefer, you can leave it set and not modulate or evolve that sound.

Performance Section

For example, if I select "After the Snow," I can play it. As I play and hold that, I'll hear transitions between different sounds and states.

While what we see here is simple, it's a mix of:

• Changing modulations.
• Oscillators.
• Adding different effects (including arpeggios).

All of this is happening under the hood.

Exploring the Advanced Tab

When you look in Browse View and even simpler in Simple View, it's easy to get into Alchemy, which comes loaded with great sounds.

However, if we switch to the Advanced tab, this is where all the complex functionality occurs:

• Sources: This is essentially your oscillators.
• Filter: You have access to filtering options.
• ADSR/AHDSR: Adjust the attack, decay, sustain, and release.
• Modulation: Access all your modulation settings.

Alchemy can do so much more than what you initially see in the Simple View. It's a wonderful synth that not only sounds great but also functions amazingly at whatever level you're at.