Building a Synth Using Macros

7Building a Synth Using Macros

In this tutorial, we are going to build an analog-style Synth using some pre-build Factory Macros. The Synth will have two Oscillators, a mixer, two Envelope Shapers and a Filter. It is assumed that you have done the previous tutorials, as they touch on a number of techni­ ques in terms of inserting and connecting.

7.1What is a Macro

REAKTOR has a whole library of pre-built Macros. A Macro contains a group of Modules that are already connected and contained in their own Module with just the inputs and outputs it needs. A Macro is a little like an Instrument but smaller. And it’s a little like a Module, only customized to make more complex Oscillators, Filters, Envelope Shapers, De­ lays, etc. that you might find for example in modular Synths. It's a good idea when you become a more advanced builder to think of your building ideas as objects and abstract the Modules that have a specific relationship by encapsulating them in Macros.

Below in the finished Synth you can see the different Macros by where the lines and titles around groups of controls are.

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Building a Synth Using Macros

What is a Macro

Fig. 7.1 Finished Synth

The Oscillator 1 Macro contains 3 Oscillators in the Structure, and controls for Pitch, Fine, P-Width and a Wave Switch. These are all individual Modules, but they have been connected and put in a small ‘folder’ we call a Macro.

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