Using the more gnarly distortions

Elektron Gear Analog Heat
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I don’t currently own a Heat but I am (or may be) interested in reacquiring one.

Problem is I only really used the left hand side circuits, and even then mostly only clean boost or saturation.

I didn’t get a chance to deep dive on the AH but I was thinking what impact using the more heavy duty distortions on the right hand side have but using them with the wet level and or the dry/wet knobs. I forget how these work exactly.

Can this add a touch of character on an otherwise too-nice sounding synth.

Is it better to stick with the tame circuits at full wet or a more hardcore circuit with a small amount of mix?

Any thoughts or tips?

I am trying to add character to a Korg Modwave.

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don’t forget the filter dirt.

3 Likes
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Yes the more hardcore circuits at lower drive and/or mix levels are absolutely viable for adding colour to a otherwise tame sounds - I’ve found doing this unlocks a lot of potential in the Heat that I’d otherwise miss. Play the drive control until it sounds good, mix it in and dial in the wet level.

5 Likes
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yup, i also mainly stick to 2bus processing with the first 2 circuits, but the sound design possibilities for a single voice are huge. can’t imagine living without it

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Indeed. I consider the tamer circuits more suitable for “standard” mix procesing tasks, and the more intense circuits more suitable for “creative” use. I’ve sound some incredible, face-melting superanalogue sounds by getting into sweet spot with a heavier circuit, and finding just the right settings (its a holistic thing, wet/dry level included).

Also, dont forget the baxandall EQs can further sculpt the overtones

1 Like