TONEDB

synth from “closer” by nine inch nails | ToneDB

closer

nine inch nails

synth

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Tone Profile

Abrasive and industrial, this synth bass tone is characterized by its distorted and aggressive character with a strong low-end presence. It's a driving force behind the track, providing a dark and rhythmic foundation.

The Story

The industrial bass synth tone on "Closer" was built around Trent Reznor's Sequential Circuits Prophet VS, using its digital vector synthesis capabilities. Producer Flood and engineer Alan Moulder ran the synth through overdrive pedals to create the signature aggressive distortion, then used EQ to emphasize the low frequencies and tame harsh highs. The recording took place at Nothing Studios, Reznor's New Orleans facility.

Production Credits

Producer: Flood

Engineer: Alan Moulder

Recorded at: Nothing Studios

Signal Chain

Instrument: Sequential Circuits Prophet VS

Processing: Overdrive Pedal, EQ Pedal

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a digital wavetable synthesizer capable of complex modulation.
  • Introduce a moderate amount of overdrive to add harmonics and aggression. Adjust to taste.
  • Use EQ to sculpt the sound, focusing on boosting the low end and taming any excessive high frequencies. Consider a low-shelf boost around 100-200Hz.
  • Experiment with slight pitch modulation or LFOs to create subtle movement and interest in the sound.

Substitutions & Recommendations

Sequential Prophet VS Reissue$2500-$3000

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet VS

Direct reissue of the original with identical vector synthesis engine for authentic wavetable bass tones

Native Instruments Massive X$150-$200

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet VS

Powerful wavetable synthesis with extensive modulation options to recreate complex evolving bass textures

Boss DS-1 Distortion$50-$70

Alternative to: Overdrive Pedal

Classic distortion pedal commonly used in industrial music for aggressive synth processing

Waldorf Blofeld$400-$500

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet VS

Digital wavetable synth capable of complex modulation and harsh industrial bass sounds

Boss GEB-7 Bass Equalizer$100-$130

Alternative to: EQ Pedal

Seven-band EQ designed for bass frequencies, perfect for sculpting low-end synth tones

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

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