What synthesizer did Pink Floyd use on Learning to Fly?

Pink Floyd used a Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 synthesizer for the main synth pad sound on "Learning to Fly." This was a signature instrument for the band during the late 1980s and was known for its warm, organic analog sound that perfectly suited the song's atmospheric quality.

How to get Pink Floyd Learning to Fly synth sound?

Start with sawtooth waves on a Prophet-5 or similar analog synth, add subtle oscillator detuning for width, and use a low-pass filter with moderate resonance. Apply slow filter envelope sweeps for movement and use long attack/release times on the amplitude envelope for smooth sustain.

What studio was Learning to Fly recorded at?

"Learning to Fly" was recorded at Astoria Studio in the UK, which was David Gilmour's floating studio housed on a houseboat on the River Thames. The album was produced by Bob Ezrin and David Gilmour with engineer Andrew Jackson.

What effects were used on Learning to Fly synth pad?

The synth pad likely used chorus or ensemble effects to enhance stereo width and create the characteristic lush sound. The Prophet-5's built-in filter modulation and envelope generators were probably used to create the evolving, atmospheric texture throughout the song.

Can you recreate Learning to Fly synth with modern gear?

Yes, you can recreate it using modern Prophet-5 reissues, the Sequential Prophet-6, or software emulations like Arturia Prophet-V or U-he Repro-5. The key is using similar analog-style oscillators with detuning, low-pass filtering, and chorus effects to achieve that ethereal pad sound.

synth from "learning to fly" by pink floyd

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Tone Profile

The synth pad is a bright, evolving texture with a slightly glassy and ethereal quality, providing a lush harmonic foundation for the song. It's characterized by its smooth attack and long release, creating a sense of sustained presence and atmospheric depth.

The Story

The ethereal synth pad on "Learning to Fly" was recorded using a Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, which was a signature synthesizer for Pink Floyd during this era. The track was produced by Bob Ezrin and David Gilmour and recorded at Astoria Studio, David Gilmour's floating studio, with the sound likely incorporating the Prophet-5's characteristic warm analog oscillators with subtle detuning for width and movement.

Production Credits

Producer: Bob Ezrin, David Gilmour

Engineer: Andrew Jackson

Recorded at: Astoria Studio (UK)

Signal Chain

Instrument: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Recreation Tips

Start with a Prophet-5 or a software emulation of the Prophet-5.
Use a sawtooth wave or a combination of sawtooth and pulse waves as the oscillators. Experiment with slightly detuning the oscillators for a chorus-like effect.
Apply a low-pass filter with a moderate resonance to shape the tone. Use an envelope generator to slowly open and close the filter over time, creating movement and interest.
Add a touch of chorus or ensemble effect to further enhance the stereo width and lushness of the sound.
Use a long attack and release time on the amplifier envelope to create a smooth and sustained pad sound. Experiment with adjusting the sustain level to control the overall dynamics.