Stick to one synth patch

Modern ‘power synths’ such as Xfer Records Serum and Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2 give you a flabbergasting amount of synthesis options. A good way to make use of all this potential is to try and create an entire drum groove – or even an entire track! – within the same synth patch. For example, use Serum’s four LFOs as separate step sequencers to design an entire beat loop – use a tight ¼-note LFO spike to trigger both volume and pitch modulation over Osc A’s sine wave to create a kick; trigger the Noise oscillator with a rhythmic LFO 2 pattern for an intricate hi-hat groove; drop in a clap/snare on the 2 and 4 via Osc B and LFO 3; and use LFO 4 to create a simple bass via the sub oscillator.