How to Make an 808 Pattern: A Step-by-Step Guide
The 808 pattern, also known as the 808 kick drum pattern, is a fundamental element in electronic music, particularly in genres like hip-hop, trap, and drum and bass. This iconic pattern is characterized by its repetitive, punchy sound and has been a staple in music production for decades. If you’re interested in creating your own 808 pattern, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Choose the Right Synthesizer
To create an 808 pattern, you’ll need a synthesizer that can produce the iconic 808 sound. Many digital audio workstations (DAWs) come with built-in synthesizers that can emulate the 808 sound, such as Logic Pro’s ES2, Ableton Live’s Operator, or FL Studio’s Harmless. Alternatively, you can use a dedicated 808 drum synthesizer plugin, such as the Native Instruments Maschine or the Arturia DrumBrute.
Step 2: Set Up the 808 Patch
Once you have your synthesizer selected, it’s time to set up the 808 patch. This involves adjusting various parameters to achieve the classic 808 sound. Here are some key settings to focus on:
– Filter Cutoff: Lower the cutoff frequency to around 120 Hz to create the characteristic low-end punch.
– Filter Resonance: Increase the resonance to around 70-80% to enhance the filter’s effect.
– Attack and Release: Set the attack to a short duration, such as 1-2 milliseconds, and the release to a longer duration, such as 50-100 milliseconds, to create a sharp, punchy sound.
– Volume: Adjust the volume to ensure the 808 kick is audible but not overpowering the rest of the track.
Step 3: Create the 808 Pattern
Now that you have the 808 patch set up, it’s time to create the pattern. Here’s a simple 4-bar 808 pattern to get you started:
– Beat 1: Place a 1-bar hit on the first beat of the measure.
– Beat 2: Place a 1-bar hit on the second beat of the measure.
– Beat 3: Place a 1-bar hit on the third beat of the measure.
– Beat 4: Place a 1-bar hit on the fourth beat of the measure.
Feel free to experiment with different note values, such as 1/2 notes, 1/4 notes, or triplets, to create more complex patterns.
Step 4: Adjust the Volume and Panning
To make your 808 pattern stand out, adjust the volume and panning. Increasing the volume of the 808 kick on the first and third beats can create a more dynamic feel. Additionally, panning the 808 kick to the center can help it blend well with the rest of the track. If desired, you can also experiment with panning the 808 kick to one side for a wider stereo effect.
Step 5: Add Effects
To further enhance your 808 pattern, consider adding effects such as compression, EQ, and reverb. Compression can help even out the volume levels and make the 808 kick more punchy. EQ can be used to boost the low-end frequencies and cut any unwanted mid-range frequencies. Reverb can add a sense of space and depth to the 808 kick.
Conclusion
Creating an 808 pattern is a fundamental skill in electronic music production. By following these steps, you can easily create your own 808 kick drum pattern and add it to your tracks. Remember to experiment with different settings and patterns to find what works best for your music style. Happy producing!
