Session plan: Synth Bass


7/5/24

Setup:

As documented by Liveabout Dotcom (2019) the bass in 'Superstition' (1972) "Isn't a real bass guitar -- it's a synth bassline".

The synth was likely a Moog synth, supported by Rolling Stone (2018) "The cavernous Moog bass with undulating ARP synthesizers that became Stevie signature sound in hits like 'Superstition' " I will be using a Korg - Radias (a rack synth) as I can generate a Moog like sound, it also presents a unique recording method.

Recording and Processing:

To capture the sound midi must first been sent into Pro tools through a keyboard. following that, the signal is routed through a midi port station that connects to the synth.

From the synth The signal will be routed in stereo through DL441 compressors on a high ratio to "catch any transient peaks and create more consistent dynamics. Use a moderate ratio around 4:1" Mastering The Mix (2020)

After the compressors the tracks will return to Pro Tools through the desk onto a single track.


Routing order for the session.


Bibliography:

RollingStone, MP. DG., 2018. TONTO: The 50-Year Saga of the Synth Heard on Stevie Wonder Classics. New York, New York City: Rolling Stone, LLC. Available from: https://www.rollingstone.com/feature/history-of-giant-stevie-wonder-synth-tonto-752161/ [Accessed 7 May 2024]

Liveabout Dotcom, JS., 2019. Mixing Stevie Wonders "Superstition". New York, New York City: Dotdash Meredith. Available from: https://www.liveabout.com/mixing-stevie-wonders-superstition-1817747 [Accessed 7 May 2024]

Stevie Wonder, 1972. Superstition. [online] Available through: Spotify [Accessed 7 May 2024]

Mastering The Mix, 2020. How To Mix Bass Synth. Greater London, London: Mastering The Mix LTD. Available from: https://www.masteringthemix.com/blogs/learn/how-to-mix-bass-synth [Accessed 7 May 2024]

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