Cubase 11 Tutorial: Creating Custom Patches in Retrologue 2 and Padshop 2

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating custom patches in Retrologue 2 and Padshop 2, two powerful instruments in Cubase 11. By following these steps, you'll learn how to design unique sounds tailored to your music production needs.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Instruments

1. Open Cubase 11 and create a new project or open an existing one.
2. Add a new MIDI track by going to Project > Add Track > MIDI.
3. Select Retrologue 2 or Padshop 2 from the VST instrument list to load the desired sound engine.
4. Ensure your MIDI track is enabled for recording and output.

Practical Tips

• Familiarize yourself with the interface of each instrument to locate key features quickly.
• Save your project frequently to avoid losing progress.

Step 2: Creating Custom Sounds in Retrologue 2

1. Select a Preset: Start with an existing preset that closely resembles the sound you want to create.
2. Modify Oscillator Settings:
   • Adjust the waveform (sine, saw, square) to define the base tone.
   • Tweak the pitch and detune settings for unique textures.
3. Shape the Sound:
   • Use the filter section to emphasize or cut frequencies. Experiment with different filter types (low-pass, high-pass).
   • Adjust the attack, decay, sustain, and release (ADSR) settings to shape the dynamics of the sound.

Common Pitfalls

• Over-filtering can make sounds too thin; find a balance that suits your track.
• Don’t hesitate to experiment—sometimes unexpected settings yield the best results.

Step 3: Designing Patches in Padshop 2

1. Choose a Sample: Start with a sample from Padshop's library that you want to manipulate.
2. Manipulate Grain Parameters:
   • Adjust grain size and density to control how the sound evolves.
   • Change the pitch and position settings to explore different textures.
3. Add Effects:
   • Use the built-in effects (reverb, delay, modulation) to enhance the sound.
   • Experiment with the global parameters to finalize your patch.

Real-World Applications

• Use unique patches created in Padshop for atmospheric backgrounds in your tracks.
• Layer Retrologue sounds with Padshop textures for rich soundscapes.

Step 4: Saving Your Custom Patches

1. Once you are satisfied with your sound, save your custom patch.
2. In Retrologue 2 or Padshop 2, navigate to the “Save” option in the preset menu.
3. Name your patch descriptively for easy identification later.

Practical Tips

• Keep a dedicated folder for your custom patches to stay organized.
• Regularly revisit and refine your patches as your sound design skills develop.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can create distinctive sounds in Retrologue 2 and Padshop 2 that enhance your music productions. Remember to save your work and keep experimenting with different settings to discover new sonic possibilities. Happy sound designing!