Make an Evolving Synth Lead

You could use numerous creative ways to make an impressive Synth Lead. Consider using different oscillator types rather than classical oscillators offering sawtooth, square, triangle, and sine waveforms. In this article, we will describe and demonstrate AM Sync or Amplitude modulation synthesis, which you can find in some of the latest VST synthesizers.  

Discovering AM Synthesis

AM Synthesis is a sound synthesis in which the gain of one signal is controlled or modulated by the gain of another signal. The signal whose gain is being modulated is called the 'carrier.' The signal responsible for the modulation is the 'modulator.' Another point to remember is that the modulator and the carrier are oscillators in classical AM Synthesis. However, the carrier can also be a different type of signal, such as an instrument or a vocal input. Also, Tremolo is an amplitude modulator that uses a very low-frequency modulator.

On the other hand, Ring Modulation uses one audio signal to Amplitude Modulate another one. To begin with the demonstration, in this tutorial, we will use Spire by Reveal sound, a synthesizer that I find simple and easy to use. Also, we will choose AM Sync among a few other types of oscillators available on the menu. Let us hear the sound after composing a simple sequence with the default settings of the chosen oscillator for the AM sync in SoundBrige.

~AM Sync with Default settings  

Secrets of an Evolving Synth Lead

As you can hear, our synth lead practically sounds like a simple sawtooth waveform. Let's try changing that. I will tweak the parameters on the selected AM Sync oscillator. The critical thing to remember is that 'ctrlB' is the main parameter that requires our considerable attention. You can hear the AM effect in its most transparent form by moving it to the right from its default value. As a result of moving the mentioned parameter to the right, the frequency squeezes and becomes dense.

After making a short introduction, I have automated the mentioned parameter and spiced it up with a bit of a delay effect before the drop. This is what our result sounds like:

~Full Mix with Automation