Adding pitch envelope or LFO modulation removes the robotic quality from synthesised grime hooks

Synthesised hooks in grime can sound mechanical because of perfectly quantised pitch and velocity. Two simple modulation techniques counteract this: (1) a subtle pitch envelope — a very short, slight pitch wobble at the start of each note that mimics the attack of a real instrument; (2) a slow LFO applied to pitch with a very small amount, introducing gentle vibrato. Velocity variation per note (tying velocity to filter cutoff) adds further expression. These are basic humanisation techniques that apply to synthesiser programming generally but are particularly noticeable on the simple, exposed synth hooks that grime uses.

Examples

Tip 20: ‘if your synth hooks sound lifeless, try adding a little modulation with a pitch envelope or LFO. Used delicately, these can take the robotic edge off a synth riff and make it sound more human. Similarly, try experimenting with each note’s velocity level for added expression. This can be especially effective when tied to the sound’s filter cutoff level.‘

Assessment

Program a simple four-note grime synth hook with no modulation. Add a pitch envelope (attack 0ms, decay 20ms, amount 5-10 cents) and compare. Then add velocity variation ±30% and tie velocity to filter cutoff. Describe which changes are most audible.