synth from “invisible touch” by genesis | ToneDB
invisible touch
genesis
synth
Tone Profile
A bright, FM-style synth lead with a percussive attack and a slightly metallic timbre. It's a classic 80s synth sound, cutting through the mix with clarity and punch.
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The Story
Genesis's 'Invisible Touch' features a synth lead sound created primarily with the Yamaha DX7, which was a staple of 80s pop and rock production. The track was produced by Hugh Padgham at The Farm studio in Surrey, with the DX7's FM synthesis capabilities providing the characteristic bright, metallic timbre that cuts through the mix. The original sound was likely layered with additional synths and processed with EQ and compression during the mixing stage to achieve its punchy, present character.
Production Credits
Producer: Hugh Padgham
Engineer: Hugh Padgham
Recorded at: The Farm, Surrey
Signal Chain
Instrument: Yamaha DX7Shop on Reverb
Recreation Tips
- Start with a DX7 or a software emulation like Native Instruments FM8 or Arturia DX7 V.
- Focus on creating a bright, slightly metallic timbre using multiple operators.
- Experiment with envelope settings to achieve a percussive attack.
- Layer the sound with a similar but slightly detuned synth to create a richer, wider sound.
- Use EQ to carve out the necessary frequencies for the synth to sit well in the mix. A high-shelf boost can help with the brightness.
- Apply a compressor to add punch and consistency to the sound.
Original Gear
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- Yamaha DX7Shop on Reverb(synth)
Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Yamaha DX7
Faithful software emulation of the original DX7 with all the classic presets and FM synthesis architecture needed for authentic 80s Genesis tones
Alternative to: Yamaha DX7
Advanced FM synthesizer that can recreate DX7-style sounds while offering more modern features and easier programming for dialing in that metallic, percussive attack
Alternative to: Yamaha DX7
Modern FM synthesizer that captures the essence of 80s digital synthesis with hands-on controls and the ability to create bright, cutting lead sounds like 'Invisible Touch'
Alternative to: Yamaha DX7
Yamaha's own modern take on FM synthesis using the same sound engine concepts as the original DX7, making it ideal for authentic Genesis-style synth leads
Alternative to: Yamaha DX7
Open-source DX7 emulation that provides the core FM synthesis capabilities needed for 'Invisible Touch' style sounds on a budget
Sources
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