How to Add Bass Synth to a Drum Machine Beat

Want to be a one-man band? In this article, learn how to put layers of Audio Tracks together! We'll start by adding Bass Synth to a Drum Machine beat. Using these basics of multi-track recording, you can be your own band.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drum Machine
• Keyboard Sequencer

Midi your way to multiple tracks

1. 
   Drum Machine

   Record a Drum Beat on your Drum machine via your midi keyboard sequencer or use an already saved preset track . Some Drum Machines also have Bass, if so, you don't need a separate keyboard. It is suggested to use a Midi Keyboard Sequencer and software though if you want to add other instruments besides Bass. Most Drum Machines don't have all the sounds you need. Since this article is about adding Bass, to an existing Track, we won't go into the specifics of creating the Drum Track.

2. 
   Keyboard Sequencer

   Save the Drum Track as a song or a project and give it a name. Once it is saved as a song, you can then start recording the Bass Track with it within the song. It's a good idea to work out the Bass Line and practice it before recording.

3. 
   keyboard Sequencer

   Select a Bass sound on your Keyboard Sequencer. There are usually many to choose from. Once you find the sound you want, start the Drum Machine and simply play along until you are comfortable with how it sounds.

4. 
   Drum Machine and Keyboard

   Start record on the Bass Track. Play along with the Drum Track to the end or if it's too difficult, you can play each section at a time. The beauty of multi-track recording is you can start and stop anywhere in the song and play the parts until they're just right.

5. 
   More electronics

   Clean up your Bass Track. If your timing isn't perfect, you can select the Bass Track and select quantize if your system has that option. That will align all of your notes exactly in time with the Drum Track. You may also want to adjust the volume to match the level of the Drums.

6. Save your work. Always save the song after each recording. You don't want to do all that work and then not be able to recall it in case of a power outage or computer crash where you might lose your information. Now sit back and enjoy the music you just created or you can add more instruments to your new master piece!

Tips & Warnings

• If you're not used to recording, be patient. Like anything else, the process takes practice!