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pads from “everything in its right place” by radiohead | ToneDB

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radiohead

pads

AI generatedv1.0

Tone Profile

This is a swirling, atmospheric pad sound with a slightly detuned and modulated character. It's a key element in creating the song's hypnotic and unsettling mood.

Gear

Sequential Circuits Prophet-5instrument
ReverbSweetwater
Eventide H3000processing
ReverbSweetwater
Lexicon PCM81processing
ReverbSweetwater

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The Story

The atmospheric pad sound was created using a Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 synthesizer, which was a key instrument during Radiohead's Kid A sessions. The swirling, detuned character was achieved through processing with an Eventide H3000 harmonizer for micro-pitch shifting effects and a Lexicon PCM81 for reverb and modulation. The track was produced by Nigel Godrich during this experimental period when the band moved away from traditional guitar-based arrangements.

Production Credits

Producer: Nigel Godrich

Engineer: Unknown

Recorded at: Unknown

Signal Chain

Instrument: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Processing: Eventide H3000, Lexicon PCM81

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Prophet-5 VST or similar analog-style synth.
  • Create a basic pad sound with slow attack and release times.
  • Add subtle detuning and chorus using the synth's built-in effects or a plugin like the Eventide H3000 or a similar harmonizer.
  • Apply a generous amount of reverb using a plugin like the Lexicon PCM81 or another high-quality reverb.
  • Experiment with modulation effects like flanger or phaser to add movement and interest to the sound.
  • Automate synth parameters and effect settings to create evolving textures.

Original Gear

  • Sequential Circuits Prophet-5(synth)
  • Eventide H3000(pedal)
  • Lexicon PCM81(pedal)

Substitutions & Recommendations

Sequential Prophet-5 Rev4$3500-$4000

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Modern reissue of the exact synth used on the original recording, providing authentic analog warmth and filter characteristics

ReverbSweetwater
Arturia Prophet V$200-$250

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Detailed software emulation of the Prophet-5 with added features, perfect for recreating vintage analog pad sounds

ReverbSweetwater
Eventide H3000 Factory$180-$200

Alternative to: Eventide H3000

Official plugin version of the original H3000 with the exact micro-pitch shifting and harmonizer algorithms used on the track

ReverbSweetwater
Lexicon PCM Native Reverb Bundle$150-$200

Alternative to: Lexicon PCM81

Contains the PCM81 algorithms needed for the lush, modulated reverb that creates the spacious pad atmosphere

ReverbSweetwater
Behringer Pro-1$300-$350

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Budget analog synth with similar oscillator and filter design that can achieve comparable vintage pad textures

ReverbSweetwater

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

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