Tone Profile

An iconic, bright, and driving analog synth lead, characterized by its punchy attack, shimmering Roland chorus, and prominent dotted eighth note delay, defining the sound of 80s synth-pop.

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The main synth riff was performed by Magne Furuholmen on a Roland Juno-60.
• The signal was recorded directly into the mixing console, likely through a high-quality DI box and preamp.
• The Juno-60's internal stereo chorus effect is a fundamental part of the sound's character.
• Outboard studio effects, particularly digital reverb and delay, were used to create the spacious and rhythmic feel.
• The song's tempo is approximately 169 BPM, with the delay often synced as a dotted eighth note (around 266ms).

Recreation Tips

• Use an analog or virtual analog synthesizer. A Roland Juno emulation (like TAL U-NO-LX) is ideal.
• Start with a sawtooth oscillator. You can experiment with adding a square/pulse wave, possibly with PWM, an octave higher or in unison.
• Set the low-pass filter with a fast attack, medium decay, and some resonance to create the plucky, bright character.
• The amplifier envelope should also have a fast attack and a medium decay/release to match the staccato feel of the riff.
• Engage a Juno-style chorus. If unavailable, use a high-quality stereo chorus effect.
• Add a dotted eighth note delay (approx. 266ms at 169 BPM). This is crucial for the rhythmic feel.
• Apply a spacious hall or plate reverb with a moderate decay time.
• The riff is played in a distinctive, arpeggiated style. Practice the melody and rhythm accurately.

Recommended Gear

• Roland Juno-60(Synth)
• TAL U-NO-LX(Plugin Synth Emulation)
• AMS RMX16 (or emulation like Universal Audio AMS RMX16 / ValhallaDSP ValhallaVintageVerb)(Reverb)
• Roland SDE-3000 (or emulation/modern alternative like Soundtoys EchoBoy / ValhallaDSP ValhallaDelay)(Delay)
• Yamaha DX7(Synth)