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lead synth from “rockit” by herbie hancock | ToneDB

rockit

herbie hancock

lead synth

80% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A punchy, slightly gritty FM synth lead with prominent pitch bends and a distinctively funky, electronic character.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Yamaha DX7

Amp: Direct Input (Mixing Console Preamp)

Processing: Console EQ, Compression, Subtle Chorus/Phaser (possible)

Other: Extensive use of pitch bend wheel. Sound likely programmed using FM synthesis principles, potentially a brass-like or resonant lead patch.

Recording Notes

  • Recorded direct into the mixing console.
  • The synth line interacts heavily with the turntable scratching performed by Grand Mixer DXT.
  • Likely involved specific patch programming on the DX7 to achieve the desired timbre.
  • Compression used to control dynamics and add punch.
  • The Fairlight CMI was used extensively on the track, primarily for the scratch sounds and orchestral hits, but may have been layered or processed alongside the lead synth.

Recreation Tips

  • Use an FM synthesizer (hardware like DX7 or software emulation like Dexed or FM8).
  • Start with a brassy or resonant lead preset and tweak.
  • Focus on programming the operators/algorithm for a slightly sharp attack and bright, somewhat metallic tone.
  • Practice the characteristic pitch bends, often bending up into the main note.
  • Add subtle compression for punch.
  • Consider a very light chorus or phaser for movement, but keep it minimal.
  • Experiment with slight overdrive or saturation for grit.

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