Tone Profile

A bright, brassy, and slightly detuned analog synth lead with a distinctive attack and prominent chorus effect.

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• Joe Zawinul often layered multiple synthesizers to create complex textures.
• Extensive use of effects, particularly chorus and phaser, was integral to his sound.
• Synths were typically recorded direct into the mixing console.
• Expressive use of pitch bend and modulation wheels.
• The ARP 2600 was frequently used for lead sounds during this period.

Recreation Tips

• Start with two sawtooth oscillators on an analog or virtual analog synth.
• Slightly detune the oscillators against each other.
• Use a filter envelope with a fast attack, medium decay, and moderate sustain, controlling a low-pass filter.
• Set the filter cutoff relatively high for brightness.
• Apply a rich stereo chorus effect.
• Add subtle phasing if desired.
• Use a touch of reverb or delay for space.
• Practice expressive pitch bending.

Recommended Gear

• ARP 2600 (or emulation like Cherry Audio CA2600, Arturia ARP 2600 V)(synth)
• Oberheim SEM (or emulation like Arturia SEM V, GForce OB-E)(synth)
• Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble (or emulation like UAD Boss CE-1, Arturia Chorus JUN-6)(pedal)
• MXR Phase 100 (or emulation)(pedal)