TONEDB

lead synth from “blinding lights” by the weeknd | ToneDB

blinding lights

the weeknd

lead synth

90% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A bright, punchy, and instantly recognizable 80s-style synth lead with a distinct sawtooth character, subtle detuning, and spacious reverb.

Signal Chain

Instrument: MIDI Keyboard

Amp: Roland Juno-60 (or emulation)

Processing: Internal Juno Chorus (I or II), Plate Reverb, EQ (High-pass filter, slight high-shelf boost), Light Compression

Other: Likely programmed via DAW. Patch settings: Sawtooth wave, fast attack, medium decay/release envelope, filter envelope modulating cutoff frequency.

Recording Notes

  • The synth sound is heavily influenced by the Roland Juno-60, a staple of 80s synth-pop.
  • Recorded directly into the DAW via audio interface.
  • The built-in Juno chorus effect is a key component of the sound's width and movement.
  • Significant reverb adds space and contributes to the retro atmosphere.
  • Likely layered or doubled to enhance richness.

Recreation Tips

  • Use a synthesizer (hardware or software) capable of emulating the Juno-60 sound (e.g., TAL-U-NO-LX, Arturia Juno-6 V).
  • Start with a single sawtooth oscillator.
  • Set the amplifier envelope with a fast attack, medium decay, zero sustain, and medium release.
  • Apply a low-pass filter with moderate resonance. Use an envelope with a fast attack and medium decay to modulate the filter cutoff frequency.
  • Engage a Juno-style chorus effect (Chorus I or II setting).
  • Add a spacious plate or hall reverb with a decay time of around 2-3 seconds.
  • Use EQ to cut unnecessary low frequencies (below 150-200Hz) and potentially boost highs slightly for brightness.
  • Ensure the synth patch is monophonic or has limited polyphony for the lead line character.

Sources