Using Max by Cycling ’74 as a Virtual Modular Synthesizer

Many musicians like to use analog modular synths for their music, but not all can afford it. In this article, we will discuss a software called Max, which has an inbuilt modular synth. You can patch and try different combinations just like a real modular synth, but cheaply.  

What is Max, and how can it be useful?

Firstly, Max is software that connects objects with virtual patch chords to create interactive sounds, graphics, and custom effects. A San Francisco-based company - Cycling '74, developed it. Inside Max, there is a synth and sound module called 'BEAP.' Specifically, It contains a vast library of high-quality modules from the modular synth world. In addition, these modules can be patched together in various ways, which opens up a world of possibilities for its users. Further, I will recreate a close emulation of the famous bass line sound from Herbie Hancock's song 'Chameleon.' The sound will be played by patching some of the BEAP modules, hence giving a sense of how this thing can be helpful.  

Creating the bass line sound from 'Chameleon' using BEAP from MAX

  Here is what the original sounds like:  

 

Here is how the Max patch sounds: 

 

PS: This is a digital emulation of an analog sound, so it sounds much cleaner and hence different.  

STEPS

1. Firstly, open Max > Click on BEAP (on the left side options)
    

2. Secondly, search the following and drag out one of each. Also, change the settings to what is shown in the pictures below:

• KEYBOARD
  Leave it on the default settings.  
   

• OSCILLATOR
  In addition to those above, choose saw tooth and set the semitones to -8.30.  
   

• LPF (Low Pass Filter)
  Change: CV1 – 75.3% Res – 81.9%  
     

• VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier)
  Additionally, leave it on the default settings.    
     

• ADSR 1
  Set:   Attack – 19.9ms Decay – 29.9ms Sustain – 62.5% Release – 366ms    
   

• ADSR 2
  Set:   Attack – 50ms Decay – 50ms Sustain – 70% Release – 218ms      
     

• STEREO (Output Module)
  Leave it on the default settings.    
     

3. Patch everything

• To patch, first unlock the patcher by clicking on the bottom left lock sign.
  It should look something like this once you have unlocked it.  
     
• In particular, you have to patch by following these steps. (from top to bottom)

1. Send the 1v/Oct. Out of Keyboard to CV in of oscillator.
2. Send Gate out of Keyboard to Gate in ADSR 1 and ADSR 2.
3. Send signal out of oscillator to signal in of LPF.
4. Send the signal out of ADSR 1 to CV1 in our LPF.
5. Send the Signal out of ADSR 2 to CV in of VCA.
6. Send the output of LPF to Signal in of VCA.
7. Send the output of VCA to the Left and Right channels of Stereo.
8. Finally, the patch would look something like this:  
        

After all, save the patch, which involves two steps:  

1. Firstly, save the file by going to the File menu. (This saves the file)
2. Then, save a snapshot by clicking on the camera icon on the right and then clicking new snapshot. (This saves the settings of each module.)

Nevertheless, this was just a straightforward application of Max. For instance, this software can be used creatively, so don't hesitate to experiment.