Knifonium Explained
If you're a lover of rare analog synths, you're probably already aware that Brainworx has released a stellar virtual recreation of the Knifonium by (hardware version by Knif Audio). In this Knifonium video course, analog synth expert Stephen O'Connell will walk you through all the features and parameters of this amazing instrument and show you how to coax the incredible, massive sounds for which the hardware version is so highly revered. Equally at home in a film score, a hip-hop track, or other synth-heavy genres, once you complete this course, you'll be ready to start gracing your tracks with its heavenly tones on your very next project. These Knifonium videos are designed for new Knifonium users.
Videos
• Introduction (04:00) - Welcome to the Knif Audio Knifonium, a massive, versatile, and incredible synthesizer plugin modeled off a rare, custom hardware synthesizer. In this video, we'll outline the course, understand what is covered, and make sure we are set up for success.
• Getting to Know the Interface (07:13) - To start with, let's find our way around. Here, we'll explore the interface, explore the hidden menus and options, and get to grips with the basic layout of Knifonium.
• Loading, Editing, Saving & Favoriting Your Presets (10:15) - Now that we've become acquainted with the interface, it's time to discover more sounds that are available in Knifonium. There are hundreds of presets to choose from, and you can create so many more of your own. So, in this video, you'll learn how to load presets, filter for what you want, save your own, manage your favorites, and more.
• Controlling the VCOs (12:44) - After seeing what Knifonium is capable of, it's time to check out what we can do ourselves with this synth. In this video, we're introduced to the oscillators and the mixer to begin creating our own textures and sounds.
• Controlling the Filters & Envelopes (10:37) - Subtractive synthesis gets its name from the sound-sculpting process of cutting away (subtracting) frequencies that we don't want. Here, we explore an integral part of this process, the filter, as well as the amp envelope to shape the note.
• Adding Modulation to Your Patch (09:09) - Static sounds are fine, but the movement and interest you can add to your sounds with modulation is second to none. In this video, we examine the modulators available to you in Knifonium and learn how to connect them to different areas of your synth.
• Using the Ring Mod & Sample & Hold (07:20) - Your classic modulators aren't the only modulators available to you in Knifonium. In this video, we check out the metallic sounds of the Ring Mod and the unique modulation of the Sample & Hold modulator.
• Experimenting with FX (05:49) - It isn?t all about oscillators, filters, and envelopes when creating the perfect sound; effects are another important part of the process. In this video, we'll learn about out the unique FX chain system available in a hidden menu at the top of Knifonium.
• Adding Pulse & Rhythm with the Arp (06:24) - Adding an arpeggiator into the mix can really hype up and drive forward your tracks. Whether creating thumping rhythms or arpeggiated chords, the arpeggiator adds even more flexibility to the Knifonium. In this video, we see how to use it and what cool features are available to help your arps sound more creative.
• Control Any Parameter with MIDI Learn (05:08) - With this video, you'll watch how easy it is to connect your MIDI keyboard controller to the Knifonium. Using simple click-to-learn controls, you'll be able to get the "hardware" experience in no time with flexible performance controls and automation options.
• Creating Your Own Preset from Scratch (14:38) - It's now time to put everything together. In this final video, we'll put all our knowledge to the test and create a patch from the ground up. If you want to check out the preset we create, you can download it yourself and play the "Super Massive Synth" sound.