Sound Advice (3-DVD set)

For a limited time, all Sound Advice orders include a 130 page .pdf file download of the script.

Sound Advice is an indispensable DVD for anyone looking for the inside track on sound design - from being able to tweak the presets with some confidence, to being able to create custom sound from scratch or apply a tailored and appropriate digital effect.

Running almost 9 hours the program explores every voice programming and effects parameter on the world-beating Yamaha Motif ES, offering unique insights into this rarely seen world at the hands of senior sound designer Dave Polich.

Although based around the Motif ES, Sound Advice translates seamlessly to any model in the Motif range (the ‘Classic', Racks, MO series, or the new Motif XS) and indeed can be applied to any hardware or software synth platform made in the past ten years that employs waveforms and ‘analog-style' filters, envelope generators, LFOs etc, along with the now customary basket of digital effects.

Sound Advice is a 3-disc set.

• Disc 1 explores the many ways you can edit or tweak voices and also teaches you how to create a series of ‘simple' voices from scratch. This disc offers a unique insight into the life of a professional sound designer, not only providing hard technical advice but also revealing some of the fascinating philosophies and approaches used by the pros.
• Disc 2 provides an extensive parameter-by-parameter trawl through a classic analog-style sound engine. From the waveforms and pitch parameters, to multi-mode filters, EGs, LFOs - Nothing is overlooked. The DVD menu is particularly helpful here since you can view by Section, or simply dive straight into a parameter you need to learn about using a separate glossary-style system.
• Disc 3 doesn't just lift the lid on FX, it displays all of the ingredients and provides you with endless recipes for creating, plus tips on applying, digital effects.

This major work on voice and effects programming is obviously a must-have for Motif owners, but it will also prove invaluable to students of sound design working on other platforms.

Whether you're looking for a complete guide to the subject, or for an exhaustive set of reference materials, this stylishly packaged and presented 3-DVD set represents an outstanding investment for those working with synthesizers and digital effects.

Released May 2007.