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synth from “p.y.t. (pretty young thing)” by michael jackson | ToneDB

p.y.t. (pretty young thing)

michael jackson

synth

AI generatedv1.0

Tone Profile

A bright, funky synth sound with a slightly metallic edge and a strong rhythmic pulse. It's percussive and cutting, providing a key element of the song's infectious groove.

Gear

Yamaha DX7instrument
ReverbSweetwater

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The Story

The synth sound on 'P.Y.T.' was created using a Yamaha DX7, which was recorded at Westlake Recording Studios with producer Quincy Jones and engineer Bruce Swedien. The DX7's FM synthesis capabilities were used to create the bright, metallic, percussive character that became a signature element of the track's groove.

Production Credits

Producer: Quincy Jones

Engineer: Bruce Swedien

Recorded at: Westlake Recording Studios, Los Angeles

Signal Chain

Instrument: Yamaha DX7

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Yamaha DX7 or a software emulation of it.
  • Experiment with FM synthesis parameters to create a bright, metallic timbre.
  • Focus on creating a percussive envelope with a sharp attack and short decay.
  • Layer multiple synth voices to add complexity and thickness to the sound.
  • Use a gate or sidechain compression to further enhance the rhythmic pulse of the sound.

Original Gear

  • Yamaha DX7(synth)

Substitutions & Recommendations

Korg Volca FM$150-$180

Alternative to: Yamaha DX7

Authentic Yamaha FM synthesis engine in an affordable format, capable of recreating classic DX7 tones with the metallic, percussive character needed for this sound

ReverbSweetwater
Native Instruments FM8$100-$150

Alternative to: Yamaha DX7

Advanced FM synthesis plugin with extensive DX7 compatibility and presets, offering precise control over the harmonic complexity and percussive envelope shaping

ReverbSweetwater
Yamaha Reface DX$300-$400

Alternative to: Yamaha DX7

Modern recreation of classic FM synthesis with authentic DX7 algorithms, providing the bright, cutting tones with improved user interface for programming

ReverbSweetwater
Elektron Digitone$650-$750

Alternative to: Yamaha DX7

High-end FM synthesizer with advanced sequencing capabilities, perfect for recreating the rhythmic, percussive elements and harmonic complexity of the original

ReverbSweetwater

Sources

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