The Development and Impact of the Synthesizer
The synthesizer has transformed music production, sound design, and audio for visual media like film, TV scores, and commercials. From its early analogue days to today’s cutting-edge digital and AI-powered systems, synthesizers offer endless possibilities for crafting bespoke music, making them a valuable tool for any music library or bespoke music provider.
In this 'Musing', we'll look at the development of the synthesizer, highlight key models, and examine how they've been used in some iconic productions.
The Evolution of Synthesizers: From Analogue to Digital
The synthesizer’s journey began in the 1960s with early analogue machines like the Moog Modular and the ARP 2600, revolutionizing sound creation by enabling musicians and composers to produce unique tones and textures. Over time, synthesizers became more compact, accessible, and versatile, with instruments such as the Yamaha DX7 and the Roland Juno-106 shaping the sound of 1980s pop and film soundtracks.
By the 21st century, synthesizers had firmly integrated into mainstream music and visual media, becoming key tools in film scores, TV soundtracks, and advertisements. This has made them indispensable assets in music libraries and for bespoke music providers seeking to offer diverse, cutting-edge music solutions.
Synthesizers in Film Scores: Crafting Iconic Soundscapes
Synthesizers are now a cornerstone of many film soundtracks, providing composers with an expansive palette to create ambient, emotional, and otherworldly music. The ability to manipulate and customize sounds makes synthesizers especially useful for creating bespoke music for movies and series.
Iconic Film Scores Featuring Synthesizers
1. Hans Zimmer – "Inception" (2010): Grammy Award Nominated
Zimmer’s use of the Moog Modular and Prophet-8 (now replaced by the Prophet Rev2) synthesizers contributed to the epic, layered sound of Inception. The synths helped create a sense of tension and grandeur, blending seamlessly with orchestral elements to create one of the most memorable soundtracks in modern cinema.
2. Vangelis – "Blade Runner" (1982):
The Yamaha CS-80 played a central role in the melancholic, futuristic score of Blade Runner. Vangelis used the thick, warm analogue tones of this synth to create a dystopian atmosphere that has become iconic in film scoring. Here’s a link to a very enthusiastic demo of the CS80’s functions and sounds
3. John Carpenter – "Halloween" (1978):
Carpenter used the Prophet-5 synthesizer to produce the eerie, repetitive melody that defined the score of Halloween. Its minimalist electronic sound has since become one of the most recognizable horror themes in film history. Sequential has re-developed the unit as the new Prophet-5.
Synthesizers in TV Scores: Defining Modern Television Sound
TV composers have embraced synthesizers for their flexibility, creating memorable themes and soundscapes that set the tone for various genres.
Notable Synth-Driven TV Soundtracks
1. "Stranger Things" – Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein:
The 1980s nostalgia in Stranger Things is enhanced by the Roland Juno-106 and Korg Mono/Poly synthesizers, whose lush analogue sounds evoke both suspense and nostalgia, becoming a hallmark of the series.
2. "Westworld" – Ramin Djawadi:
Djawadi’s score for Westworld combines traditional orchestral music with synths like the Prophet-6 and Moog Mother-32 to reflect the futuristic, tech-driven themes of the series.
3. "Black Mirror" – Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow:
Using the Elektron Analog Four and Sequential Circuits Prophet-6, the composers crafted a brooding, electronic score that complements the dystopian themes of this anthology series.
Synthesizers in Commercials: Reinventing Sound for Brands
Synthesizers are often used in advertising to create distinctive, memorable soundtracks that resonate with audiences. Commercials for technology, automotive, and fashion brands frequently incorporate electronic music to evoke innovation, style, and energy.
Successful Commercial Campaigns Featuring Synthesizers
1. Apple "AirPods Pro" (2022):
Apple’s minimalistic, forward-thinking branding is often paired with clean, electronic soundtracks. In this campaign, producers used the Ableton Live software along with the Arturia MiniBrute synthesizer to craft a sleek, modern audio experience that reflected the cutting-edge product design.
2. Audi e-tron GT "Performance Meets Power" (2023):
This commercial paired orchestral elements with electronic music, featuring the Korg MS-20 synthesizer. The combination of synthesized and acoustic textures emphasized the luxury and advanced technology of Audi’s electric vehicle.
3. Nike "Play New" Campaign (2021):
Nike’s energetic campaign used Elektron Analog Rytm and Roland TR-8S drum machines to create an upbeat, punchy soundtrack, perfectly aligning with the brand’s message of athleticism and innovation.
Review of Key Synthesizer Brands and Models: The Instruments Behind Iconic Sounds
Synthesizer brands have developed unique instruments that cater to various styles, from analogue classics to modern digital innovations. Below is an overview of some key synthesizer brands and their flagship models, along with their use by notable artists and producers.
The Moog brand is legendary for its analogue synthesizers, particularly the Minimoog Model D and the Moog Sub 37. These synths deliver rich, warm tones perfect for deep bass and evolving soundscapes. Hans Zimmer and Trent Reznor frequently use Moog synths in their cinematic scores.
Strengths: Warm, analogue sound; rich bass and evolving pads; widely used in film scoring and electronic music.
Roland’s synthesizers, particularly the Juno-106 and Jupiter-8, have shaped genres from synth-pop to ambient music. The Juno-106 is known for its lush, warm pads and punchy bass, making it a go-to for artists like Daft Punk and Tame Impala.
Strengths: Retro analogue charm; excellent for pads, bass lines, and leads; ideal for synthwave and TV soundtracks.
Korg’s MS-20 and Minilogue are beloved for their gritty analogue sound and versatility. The MS-20 in particular has been used by artists like The XX for its aggressive leads and distinct filter sweeps.
Strengths: Versatile sound palette; excellent for lead sounds and experimental textures; a staple in electronic and film music.
The Yamaha DX7 revolutionized digital synthesis with its FM synthesis technology, creating sharp, glassy tones. Used in countless 1980s hits, the DX7 is still revered today by musicians like Brian Eno and Chick Corea.
Strengths: Complex FM synthesis; sharp, crystalline sounds; widely used in retro and futuristic music production.
The Prophet-5 and Prophet-6 from Sequential Circuits are among the most iconic polyphonic synthesizers, used extensively in both electronic music and film scores. Artists like Peter Gabriel and Nine Inch Nails have incorporated Sequential synths in their work.
Strengths: Versatile polyphony; excellent for pads, leads, and cinematic soundscapes.
Future Trends: AI-Driven Synthesis and Modular Synths
Looking ahead, AI-driven synthesizers and modular synthesis are set to push the boundaries of sound design. AI synthesizers allow composers to create entirely new sounds with minimal effort, while modular synths provide endless customisation options. These technologies will likely play a key role in the future of bespoke music for film, TV, and advertising.
Conclusion: The Synthesizer’s Role in the Modern Music Landscape
The synthesizer has redefined how music is produced, particularly in film scores, TV series, and advertising. From the early analogue days of Moog to the AI-driven future, synthesizers continue to be a key tool in modern music production.
For music libraries and bespoke music providers, understanding and incorporating the latest synthesizer trends into their catalogue will be essential for staying competitive in the evolving media landscape.
With our unprecedented access to highly talented synth composers, 560 Music will create incredible music according to your creative brief.