synth from “closer” by nine inch nails | ToneDB
closer
nine inch nails
synth
AI generatedv1.0
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.
Gear
- Sequential Circuits Prophet VSinstrument
- ReverbSweetwater
- Overdrive Pedalprocessing
- ReverbSweetwater
- EQ Pedalprocessing
- ReverbSweetwater
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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.
Original Gear
- Sequential Circuits Prophet VS(synth)
- Overdrive Pedal(pedal)
- EQ Pedal(pedal)
Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet VS
Direct reissue of the original with identical vector synthesis engine for authentic wavetable bass tones
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet VS
Powerful wavetable synthesis with extensive modulation options to recreate complex evolving bass textures
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Overdrive Pedal
Classic distortion pedal commonly used in industrial music for aggressive synth processing
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet VS
Digital wavetable synth capable of complex modulation and harsh industrial bass sounds
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: EQ Pedal
Seven-band EQ designed for bass frequencies, perfect for sculpting low-end synth tones
ReverbSweetwaterFrequently Asked Questions
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