Tone Profile

A bright and punchy synth brass sound with a touch of vintage warmth and slight chorus effect. It provides a harmonic foundation without overpowering the lead vocals.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The synth sound in "Man in the Mirror" is largely attributed to the Yamaha DX7, a flagship synthesizer of the 1980s known for its FM synthesis capabilities.
• The DX7 provided a wide range of sounds, and it became a staple in pop and contemporary music production.
• The Roland Dimension D is used to create a sense of width and space in the synth sound. A subtle chorus effect thickens the sound without making it overtly processed.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a Yamaha DX7 or a software emulation. Look for a brass-like patch as a foundation.
• Adjust the filter and resonance to achieve a bright but not harsh tone.
• Use a chorus effect, such as the Roland Dimension D, to add width and depth. Keep the effect subtle to avoid excessive modulation.
• EQ the sound to sit well in the mix, focusing on the midrange frequencies to provide a solid foundation.

Recommended Gear

• Yamaha DX7(synth)
• Roland Dimension D(pedal)