synth from “the final countdown” by europe | ToneDB
the final countdown
europe
synth
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Tone Profile
An iconic, bombastic 80s synth brass fanfare, defined by its bright, powerful, and slightly metallic character, achieved by layering analog and FM synthesis and drenched in spacious reverb.
Signal Chain
Instrument: Roland JX-8P Synthesizer
Amp: Internal Synth Engine (DCO Analog)
Processing: Lexicon PCM70 Reverb (or similar period studio reverb), Subtle Chorus (optional)
Other: Provided the warm, full-bodied analog foundation of the sound. A factory brass patch (e.g., 'Sound A-5 Brass' or 'Patch 25 Brass Ensemble') was likely used as a starting point and possibly tweaked with a PG-800 programmer.
Recording Notes
- The keyboard parts were performed by Mic Michaeli.
- Recorded in 1985 at Powerplay Studios in Zurich, Switzerland, and mixed at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California.
- Produced by Kevin Elson.
- The synthesizers were recorded directly into the mixing console.
- A significant amount of high-quality digital reverb (characteristic of the era, likely Lexicon units like the PCM70 or 224) was applied during the mixing stage to create the spacious sound.
Recreation Tips
- Layer two distinct synth sounds: an analog-style brass and an FM-style brass.
- For the analog layer (JX-8P emulation): Use a patch based on sawtooth waves with a brassy filter envelope (fast attack, moderate decay/sustain, fairly quick release). Aim for warmth and body. Arturia JX-8 V or Cherry Audio DCO-106 are good software options.
- For the FM layer (DX7/TX816 emulation): Use a classic FM brass patch. This adds the bright, slightly metallic attack. Native Instruments FM8, Plogue OPS7, or the free Dexed plugin are suitable.
- Ensure both layers are played simultaneously (MIDI layered or recorded separately and stacked).
- Apply a generous amount of 80s-style hall or large plate reverb. Emulations of Lexicon reverbs (e.g., Valhalla VintageVerb, UAD Lexicon 224) are ideal.
- A subtle stereo chorus can be added to one or both layers for width, but the reverb is the dominant effect.
- EQ the combined sound to ensure it's bright and cuts through the mix, with a strong upper-midrange presence.
- The original JX-8P patch is often cited as 'Sound A-5' or 'Patch 25 Brass Ensemble'. The DX7 sound is often the 'Brass 1' (Factory ROM1A #13) preset or a variation.
Recommended Gear
- Roland JX-8P(Synth)
- Yamaha TX816(Synth Module)
- Yamaha DX7(Synth)
- Lexicon PCM70(Effects Processor)
- Lexicon 224(Effects Processor)
- Arturia JX-8 V(Software Synth)
- Native Instruments FM8(Software Synth)
- Dexed(Software Synth)
- Valhalla VintageVerb(Plugin Reverb)