Master Galimatias' Vocode in FL Studio
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Recording the Beatbox
- Setting up the Carrier
- Routing the Channels
- Inserting Fruity Vocoder
- Adjusting the Parameters
- Adding Effects
- Mastering the Vocoder
- Final Result
- Conclusion
Introduction
In this tutorial, I will teach You how to vocode like Gala Meshes using FL Studio. This tutorial is mainly for FL Studio users, as I am not familiar with other DAWs that you might use. We will be utilizing a native plugin in FL Studio called Vocoder for this tutorial. The inspiration for this tutorial comes from Gala Meshes' track, which showcases his unique vocoding technique. So, let's get started!
Recording the Beatbox
To begin, you'll need to Record your beatbox or drums. You can choose to beatbox or use pre-recorded drum samples. Once you've recorded your beatbox, you need to unroute it from the master Channel. By default, the beatbox will be routed to the master channel. To unroute it, simply click on the routing button and deselect the master channel.
Setting up the Carrier
Next, we'll set up the carrier for the vocoder. I recommend using a saw Wave as it provides a resonant sound. In a plugin like Serum, Create a saw wave with eight voices of unison and detune them slightly. Adjust the release of the saw wave to your preference. Similar to the beatbox, make sure to unroute the carrier from the master channel.
Routing the Channels
To utilize the Vocodex plugin, we need to route the beatbox and carrier to a separate channel. In FL Studio, this is done by creating a new channel. For example, you can route them to Channel 3. To do this, right-click on the beatbox and select 'Route to this track' for Channel 3. Repeat the same process for the carrier. The beatbox and carrier should now be routed to Channel 3.
Inserting Fruity Vocoder
Now it's time to insert the Fruity Vocoder plugin into the mixer track. Open the mixer and locate the slot for Channel 3. Insert the Fruity Vocoder plugin in this slot. In the Fruity Vocoder plugin, you will see the 'Mod' and 'Carrier' sections. Right-click on 'Mod' and select the beatbox from Channel 1. Similarly, right-click on 'Carrier' and select the carrier (saw wave) from Channel 2.
Adjusting the Parameters
To achieve the desired vocoding effect, we need to adjust the parameters in the Fruity Vocoder plugin. Start by lowering the volume of the mod and carrier signals. You can adjust the wetness level to your preference. It's generally recommended to leave it as is. In the Contour tab, unclick all the options. This will help preserve the original dynamic range of the mod and carrier signals. Additionally, disable the draft option if your computer can handle it, as it improves processing power.
Adding Effects
To enhance the vocoder sound, you can add effects like reverb and phaser. For a subtle room reverb effect, adjust the release parameter in the Fruity Vocoder plugin. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired sound. You can also add a fruity phaser effect to create a swelling effect. This will add more depth and movement to the vocoder sound.
Mastering the Vocoder
To ensure the mod and carrier signals are properly mixed, make sure they are in the same playlist. You can play the vocoder sound directly from the master channel or the playlist. Additionally, use a limiter to control the overall volume and a noise gate to reduce any background noise from the beatbox recording. You can also use a parametric EQ to enhance certain frequencies if needed.
Final Result
After applying all the adjustments and effects, you should have achieved a vocoder sound similar to Gala Meshes' style. Play around with the parameters to make it your own. Here's an example of how the final result might sound: [insert audio link].
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have learned how to vocode like Gala Meshes using FL Studio and the Fruity Vocoder plugin. Remember, experimenting with different settings and techniques will help you create unique vocoder sounds. I hope this tutorial has been helpful to you. If you enjoyed it, make sure to subscribe and click the notification Bell for more tutorials. See you in the next one!
Highlights
- Learn how to vocode like Gala Meshes in FL Studio
- Utilize the native plugin, Fruity Vocoder, for vocoding
- Record beatbox or use drums as the mod signal
- Choose a resonant sound like a saw wave for the carrier signal
- Adjust parameters and Apply effects for desired vocoding effect
- Master the vocoder sound by mixing and enhancing the signals
- Experiment with different settings to create unique vocoder sounds
FAQ
Q: Can I use other DAWs besides FL Studio for vocoding?
A: This tutorial focuses on FL Studio and the Fruity Vocoder plugin. While other DAWs may have similar features, the steps and plugins used in this tutorial may not be applicable. However, you can still follow the general concept of the tutorial to achieve similar results in your preferred DAW.
Q: Can I use pre-recorded drum samples instead of beatboxing?
A: Absolutely! The tutorial mentions beatboxing as an example, but you can use any drum samples or percussive sounds as the mod signal for vocoding.
Q: Can I experiment with different waveforms for the carrier signal?
A: Yes! While the tutorial suggests using a saw wave for its resonant sound, feel free to experiment with different waveforms to create unique vocoder effects. Ultimately, the choice of waveform depends on your desired sound and artistic vision.
Q: What other effects can I add to enhance the vocoder sound?
A: Apart from reverb and phaser, you can also try adding delay, chorus, or distortion effects to further enhance the vocoder sound. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to achieve your desired sound.
Q: How can I achieve a more natural or robotic vocoder sound?
A: To achieve a more natural sound, focus on blending the mod and carrier signals effectively. Experiment with the wetness level, release time, and contour settings to find the right balance. For a robotic sound, you can introduce more aggressive modulation, higher resonance, and additional effects like bitcrushing or filtering.
Q: Is there a specific order in which I should apply effects?
A: There is no strict order for applying effects. However, it's recommended to start with the vocoder plugin and adjust its parameters first. Then, gradually add other effects like reverb, phaser, or any additional processing. Feel free to experiment with different orders to achieve desired results.