Synths shape the sound of almost every modern genre, from pads and leads to basses and arpeggios. This hub collects our synth tutorials: choosing the right sounds, synthesis basics like oscillators, filters, envelopes and LFOs, using synths in FL Studio, Logic Pro X and Ableton, sound design in Serum, modular synthesis, and mixing synths so they sit well in a track.
It’s for producers who want to stop scrolling presets and start shaping sounds that fit their music, as well as anyone deciding between a keyboard and a synthesizer. Start with How To Choose The Right Synth Sounds, then the guide for your DAW. When you’re comfortable, try building a future bass patch in Serum or your own Ableton instrument rack. Finish with the mixing guide so your synths sound full and defined.
Start here: the best Synths guides
- How To Choose The Right Synth Sounds
How genre, mood and arrangement should guide your synth sound choices. - Should I Get a Keyboard Or Synthesizer
Keyboard or synthesizer? A comparison of budget, sound and genre fit. - How to Make Synthesizer Sound Better
Signal flow, oscillators, filters, envelopes and modulation for better synth sounds. - How to Use Synths in Fl Studio
Using FL Studio’s synths, setting up a MIDI controller and designing basslines. - How to Use Synthesizer in Fl Studio
Loading and configuring synth plugins in FL Studio, plus synthesis basics. - How to Use Synths in Logic Pro X
Logic Pro X’s built-in synths, how to set them up and explore their parameters. - Creating Your Own Synth In Ableton Instrument Racks
Building a custom synth with Ableton Instrument Racks and macro controls. - How To Make A Future Bass Synth In Serum Beginners
A beginner’s walkthrough of a future bass synth in Serum: oscillators, modulation and effects. - How To Make Synth Pad Sound More Interesting
Effects, envelope and modulation tricks to make synth pads more interesting. - Which Synth Has the Best Arpeggiator
Synths with standout arpeggiators, compared by price, interface and sound. - Best Way to Get Started With Modular Synths
How modular synths work and how to choose your first modules. - Mixing Synths and Keyboards Techniques for Fullness and Definition
Layering, panning, EQ and dynamics for full, defined synths and keys.
Synth parts locked in? Order a Solar Heavy master to finish the track, or browse all tutorials.