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synth from “let's go” by the cars | ToneDB

let's go

the cars

synth

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Tone Profile

This synth lead is bright, aggressive, and slightly metallic, cutting through the mix with a distinctive sawtooth-like edge. It's a classic example of early 80s synth-pop, combining energy with a touch of new wave cool.

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The Story

The synth lead on "Let's Go" was created using a Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, recorded direct into the console at Roundhouse Studios in London. The track was produced by Robert John 'Mutt' Lange and engineered by Geoff Workman, with the Prophet-5's sawtooth waves and filter settings providing the distinctive bright, cutting tone that became a hallmark of early 80s new wave.

Production Credits

Producer: Robert John 'Mutt' Lange

Engineer: Geoff Workman

Recorded at: Roundhouse Studios, London

Signal Chain

Instrument: Prophet-5Shop on Reverb

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a sawtooth wave on a Prophet-5 or similar poly synth.
  • Adjust the filter cutoff and resonance to achieve the desired brightness and bite. Experiment with pulse width modulation for added movement.
  • Use a touch of chorus or ensemble effect to thicken the sound.
  • Add a slight overdrive or distortion for extra aggression.
  • EQ the sound to ensure it sits well in the mix, paying attention to the high-mid frequencies.

Original Gear

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Substitutions & Recommendations

Sequential Prophet-5 DesktopShop on Reverb$2800-$3200

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Modern reissue of the exact same synth used on the original recording, with identical oscillators and Curtis filter chips

Behringer Pro-VSShop on Reverb$400-$500

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Budget analog polysynth that recreates the Prophet-5's sawtooth waves and filter character at a fraction of the cost

Arturia Prophet-VPlugin Boutique$200-$250

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Detailed software emulation of the Prophet-5 with authentic filter modeling and the ability to dial in classic Cars-style patches

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet Rev2Shop on Reverb$1400-$1800

Alternative to: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5

Modern Sequential polysynth that captures the Prophet family's signature filter sweep and sawtooth character with contemporary reliability

Sources

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