What synthesizer was used for the pads on Comfortably Numb?

Pink Floyd used an EMS Synthi AKS synthesizer to create the ethereal pad sounds on 'Comfortably Numb'. The Synthi AKS was a British modular analog synthesizer known for its unique matrix patching system and distinctive sound character.

How to recreate Pink Floyd Comfortably Numb pad sound?

To recreate the pad sound, use multiple slightly detuned oscillators with a low-pass filter and slow LFO modulation for movement. Add chorus and reverb effects to create the spacious, evolving character typical of the original EMS Synthi AKS patch.

Where was Comfortably Numb recorded?

Comfortably Numb was recorded at Britannia Row Studios in London. The track was produced by Bob Ezrin and David Gilmour, with James Guthrie serving as the engineer during the sessions.

What makes the EMS Synthi AKS sound unique?

The EMS Synthi AKS featured a distinctive pin matrix patching system instead of traditional patch cables, which allowed for complex modulation routing. Its analog oscillators and filters had a characteristic warm, slightly unstable quality that contributed to its ethereal sound.

pads from "comfortably numb" by pink floyd

comfortably numb

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Tone Profile

The pads are lush and evolving, providing a dreamy and sustained backdrop. They're characterized by a warm, slightly detuned, and ethereal quality, typical of early synthesizer sounds.

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EMS Synthi AKS(instrument)
Roland Juno-106(synth)
Lexicon 224(pedal)

The Story

The lush pads on 'Comfortably Numb' were created using an EMS Synthi AKS synthesizer, a British modular analog synthesizer known for its distinctive matrix patching system. The track was recorded at Britannia Row Studios in London and produced by Bob Ezrin and David Gilmour, with James Guthrie as engineer. The patch likely utilized multiple oscillators with slight detuning and filter modulation to create the evolving, ethereal character that provides the dreamy backdrop to the song.

Production Credits

Producer: Bob Ezrin, David Gilmour

Engineer: James Guthrie

Recorded at: Britannia Row Studios, London

Signal Chain

Instrument: EMS Synthi AKSShop on Reverb

Recreation Tips

Start with a subtractive synthesizer and create a patch with multiple oscillators slightly detuned from each other.
Use a low-pass filter with a slow LFO to create movement and evolution in the sound.
Add chorus and reverb to enhance the spaciousness and depth of the pads.
Experiment with different filter settings and LFO shapes to create unique and evolving textures.