Three synthesis tips to spice up a standard Reese

Rule of thirds

We’ve already established that a Reese is created by detuning two identical waveforms in opposing directions. If your synth allows, try mixing in a third, higher-pitched waveform for an extra dimension. Here, we’ve set Serum’s keytracked Noise oscillator to the FP_Inharms » Inharmx 9 waveform, which adds a high-pitched ‘whistle’ into the mix.

Bump it up

A Reese usually has fairly slow attack, and lacks initial punch. If you want to create a more defined start for each note, you can always try adding a small pitch ‘bump’ at the start of a note for a kick-like thump. Set up a spare envelope with fastest attack, short decay and minimum sustain; then use this envelope to modulate both oscillators’ pitch.

Widen your horizon

For a touch of stereo width, try panning your two main oscillators in opposing directions. Be careful, though – panning them hard-left and hard-right will ruin the centred, detuned timbre that gives a Reese its signature mono solidity, so only pan them out to around 10L and 10R for some subtle stereo flavour.