#43 Enter the Modulation Matrix

In this article we’ll look at the often overlooked modulation matrix. This can be found in most comprehensive synthesisers, both analogue and digital, and allows you to control and automate specific parameters within the synth’s arsenal.

I, like many other producers, disregarded the modulation matrix for a very long time as it looked very unintuitive and, quite frankly, scary. In reality, however, this is not the case. Once the architecture of the modulation matrix is completely understood, it can bring so many diverse possibilities and completely change the character, rhythm and direction of any sound over time.

In today’s digital synth market, a modulation matrix is very common. Synths like the Dave Smith Pro2 have a very extensive and malleable modulation matrix, which takes the synth to a whole new level in terms. In the plugin world, you’ll find that all the leading polyphonic synth plugins offer an extensive modulation routing matrix. Synths like Spectrasonics Omnisphere and Xfer Records Serum each have an excellent matrix. However, you will also find them on some stock synth plugins like Logic’s ES2 and EXS24, both of which we will look at in this instalment of Studio Strategies. So follow the workshop below to enter the Matrix.