While many synths specialize in their synthetic instrument emulations, the Sculpture synth in Logic Pro takes a unique approach to instrument modeling.
You can choose the string material, where and how it is plucked, and morph many of its parameters. Its vast array of features can be daunting to learn; but we’ll show you how each section works, so you can experiment and create original and vibrant synth parts.
String Material
In the central Material pad, click and drag on the gray dot to mix between the four string material types:Nylon,Wood,Steel, andGlass. This varies the stiffness and damping characteristics.
The sound of each string type will vary depending on how Object 1, 2, and 3 hits the string. Also, you may use the in-built morph points/pad oruse automation in your DAWto alter the string type in real-time. This can help bring your synth to life.
Here are the parameters in this section:
The effect of all these sliders will vary as you play below and beyond middle C. For more great Logic synths, check outhow to use the Retro Synthandhow to use the ES2 synth.
Amp Envelope
On the right of the Material pad, you may see the dedicated amplifier envelope. It demonstrates standard ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) controls. Look intothe different types of synthesisfor a refresher on the topic. Remember that your release and decay times can be impacted by your chosen parameters in the string section, such as Media Loss.
TheKeyandPickupSpreadbuttons on the right serve a separate function. Click and drag vertically on theKeybutton to determine the panning based on the pitch of your MIDI notes. Do the same on thePickupoption to widen the stereo position of the two pickups.
Global Controls and Delay
Along the top of the interface, you may find global controls like the three keyboard modes:poly(can play up to 16 notes at once);mono(can play one note at a time);legato(smooth transition between notes when the first is held down before the next).
Other global parameters include:
On the right of the Material pad, you can find an in-builtDelayeffect. A unique feature is itsSpreadandGroovepad which is worth experimenting with.
Waveshaper
The Waveshaper lies directly above the Material pad and permits additional waveform adjustments. Use theTypemenu to select one of the four waveshaping curves (Soft Saturation,Vari Drive,Tube-like Distortion, andScream).
TheInput Scalelets you boost or cut harmonic content and the input signal. TheVariationdial alters the wet/dry balance whenVariDrvis selected, and changes the symmetry of the shaping curve when the other options are active.
At least one and up to three objects are needed to excite, disturb, or dampen your chosen string type. The challenge is to learn how each object’s effect interacts with one another. Press the number by each Object to turn them on/off.
Turn the central dial to alter theStrength, and move the left-hand slider to alter theTimbre(tonal color). TheVeloSens(Velocity Sensitivity) slider alters how sensitive your MIDI is to each note’s velocity. TheVariationslider varies and adds tonal elements. The effect of each of these sliders changes between object types.
TheGatemode buttons (KeyOn,Always, andKeyOff) let you control when the object is operating. Use the Type pop-up menu to select how to impact the string, such asStrike,Bow,Pluck, and more.
The Pickup section on the left gives you another dimension of control regarding how and where your string is impacted. Think of it like the pick for an electric guitar. The thickness of the horizontal green line reflects the stiffness of the string. PressCtrl + click > Enable String Animationto see how your string vibrates.
Click and drag on the sliders numbered1,2, and3to move the position of each of the objects. Drag the sliders for PickupAandBto move them; these two pickups are shown as transparent bell curves in the display. Use theInvertbutton along the bottom to invert the phase of Pickup B; the effect will vary per the positioning of your pickups.
The filter section includes five filter-type buttons (HiPass,LoPass,Peak,BndPass, andNotch). Click on theFilterbutton to switch it on/off.
The parameters in this section include:
The Body EQ functions both as a basic EQ and a body response simulator. Select theLo Mid Hioption from theModellist to use a standard EQ. Shift the dials to boost or cut each frequency section.
Choose the other modes for body EQ simulation. The parameters vary from the EQ controls and can generate diverse effects.
LFOs and Envelopes
Sculpture has two LFOs and envelopes. On the right and left respectively, you can set a modulationTarget(e.g.Cutoff) and adjust the intensity with the lower slider. Use theviaoption to control modulation intensity through velocity or MIDI controls. Activate/deactivate any of the modulation sources by pressing on their number icons.
The LFO parameters include:
You can enableJitter(stutter effect),Vibrato(pitch modulation),Velocity/Note on Rnd(random modulation), andCtrl A Ctrl B(MIDI-controlled modulation) with the tabs along the bottom of this section. The parameters work just like in the LFOs.
You can set each of the ADSR phases in the envelope section, sync the timing to milliseconds or your project’s BPM, and adjust theTimescalein the top-right. TheVariModslider determines the intensity of modulation variation.
The Morph function in Sculpture lets you easily adjust many parameters to generate a dynamic and evolving sound. You can draw and plot your morph points and the path between them.
The five points consist of the four corners and the center. The red ball represents the current point position. TheAutoselectbutton selects the nearest morph point. TheRndbutton randomizes all parameters of selected morph points. And theIntslider controls the intensity of the randomization.
The Morph Envelope lets you adjust the timing of the plotted points insyncorms(millisecond) mode. Make sureEnvis enabled to see your points in the pad. PressCtrl + click > Clear Morph Envelopeto clear your morph points.
Sculpt Unique Sounds With Sculpture
Once you’ve chosen a keyboard mode and base string sound, control how it vibrates with the Objects and Pickups. Sculpt the tonal elements with the Waveshaper, Body EQ, and Filter sections. Then, add in some variety with the Delay, LFOs, envelopes, and other modulation controls.
Add in the use of morph points, and your synths will gain dynamism and vitality.
