Lena Torres
The 'What So Not Sound Pack' is an essential toolkit for producers and music enthusiasts looking to infuse their creations with the distinctive, genre-blending style of Australian electronic artist What So Not. Curated by the artist himself, this sound pack offers a diverse array of samples, presets, and loops that reflect his signature fusion of bass-heavy beats, experimental soundscapes, and global influences. Whether you're crafting club-ready tracks or exploring innovative sonic textures, this collection provides the tools to elevate your productions, capturing the dynamic and boundary-pushing essence of What So Not's music. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned producers, it’s a gateway to unlocking new creative possibilities in the studio.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Creator | What So Not (Australian electronic music producer) |
| Type | Sample Pack |
| Content | Drums, Bass, Synths, FX, Vocals, Loops, One-Shots |
| Formats | WAV, MIDI |
| Total Files | 500+ (varies by version) |
| Size | ~1 GB (varies by version) |
| Price | $39.99 (one-time purchase) |
| Compatibility | All DAWs (Ableton, FL Studio, Logic Pro, etc.) |
| Royalty-Free | Yes |
| Latest Version | What So Not Sound Pack 2.0 (as of October 2023) |
| Included Genres | Future Bass, Trap, House, Experimental |
| Additional Features | Custom presets, project files, tutorial videos |
| Release Date | 2021 (initial release), 2023 (updated version) |
| Availability | Splice, What So Not’s official website |
| User Reviews | Highly rated for quality and versatility |
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What You'll Learn
- Bass Design Techniques: Crafting deep, punchy basslines for electronic tracks using unique synthesis methods
- Percussion Layering: Combining organic and synthetic drums to create dynamic, textured rhythms
- Vocal Chop Editing: Manipulating vocal samples for glitchy, melodic effects in productions
- Atmospheric Soundscapes: Building immersive environments with pads, textures, and ambient effects
- Mixing & Mastering Tips: Enhancing clarity and impact for professional-grade What So Not-style tracks
Bass Design Techniques: Crafting deep, punchy basslines for electronic tracks using unique synthesis methods
Basslines are the backbone of electronic music, driving rhythm and emotion through the track. To craft deep, punchy basslines that stand out, consider the synthesis method as your primary tool. Start with subtractive synthesis, a foundational technique where complex waveforms are filtered to reveal their harmonic essence. For instance, begin with a sawtooth wave, rich in harmonics, and apply a low-pass filter with a cutoff frequency around 200-300 Hz. Gradually automate the filter to open during the drop, adding movement and depth. Pair this with a subtle envelope modulation to shape the attack and decay, ensuring the bassline cuts through the mix without overwhelming it.
While subtractive synthesis is versatile, FM synthesis offers a unique edge for creating punchy, metallic bass tones. Experiment with modulating a sine wave carrier with a second sine wave at a ratio of 2:1 or 3:1 to introduce harmonic complexity. For example, using a modulator frequency of 100 Hz on a 200 Hz carrier can yield a sharp, aggressive sound ideal for drops. Balance the modulation index to avoid harshness—start with a value of 5-10 and adjust based on the desired intensity. Layer this with a sub-bass generated via a sine wave at 50-80 Hz to add weight without muddying the mix.
Another innovative approach is wavetable synthesis, which allows for dynamic, evolving basslines. Load a wavetable with progressively brighter harmonics and automate the position to create movement. For instance, sweep through a table during a build-up, transitioning from a dark, rounded tone to a bright, piercing sound as the drop hits. Combine this with a short attack (10-20 ms) and a medium decay (100-200 ms) to ensure the bassline remains tight and defined. Add a touch of distortion post-synthesis to enhance presence, but be cautious—too much can introduce unwanted noise.
Finally, granular synthesis can transform static basslines into textured, atmospheric elements. Load a short sample of a bass note into a granular synthesizer and adjust grain size (20-50 ms) and density (5-10 grains per second) to create a cloud-like effect. Automate the pitch to follow the root note of your track, ensuring coherence. This technique is particularly effective for breakdowns or transitions, adding depth without dominating the frequency spectrum. Pair it with a traditional sub-bass layer to maintain low-end impact.
Incorporating these techniques into your workflow requires experimentation and precision. Always reference your mix in mono to ensure the bassline translates across systems, and use a spectrum analyzer to identify frequency clashes. By blending subtractive, FM, wavetable, and granular synthesis, you can craft basslines that are not only deep and punchy but also uniquely tailored to your artistic vision.
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Percussion Layering: Combining organic and synthetic drums to create dynamic, textured rhythms
Percussion layering is the art of blending organic and synthetic drum sounds to craft rhythms that pulse with life and depth. In the context of a What So Not sound pack, this technique is essential for achieving the signature blend of raw energy and futuristic precision that defines the artist’s style. By combining the warmth of acoustic drums with the sharpness of digital beats, producers can create tracks that feel both grounded and innovative. This approach isn’t just about stacking sounds—it’s about finding harmony between the natural and the synthetic, ensuring each layer serves a purpose in the mix.
To begin layering effectively, start by selecting a foundational organic drum sample, such as a live-recorded kick or snare. These sounds provide a tactile, human feel that synthetic drums often lack. Next, introduce a synthetic counterpart—a crisp 808 kick or a processed snare—to add definition and punch. The key is to balance the two: ensure the organic element retains its character while the synthetic layer enhances, not overpowers, the mix. Experiment with tuning and EQ to make the layers complement each other, avoiding frequency clashes that can muddy the rhythm.
A practical tip for dynamic layering is to use velocity and automation to create movement. Assign softer hits to the organic layer and harder hits to the synthetic layer, or vice versa, depending on the desired effect. For instance, in a build-up, gradually increase the volume of the synthetic layer while pulling back the organic layer to create tension. During the drop, blend both layers equally to deliver maximum impact. This technique adds texture and keeps the rhythm engaging throughout the track.
One common pitfall in percussion layering is over-stacking, which can lead to a cluttered, chaotic mix. To avoid this, limit the number of layers to three or four per rhythm section and focus on quality over quantity. Use panning to create space—place organic elements slightly off-center and synthetic elements hard left or right to achieve a wide, immersive soundstage. Additionally, apply subtle reverb or delay to the organic layer to give it a sense of environment, while keeping the synthetic layer dry for maximum clarity.
In the What So Not sound pack, percussion layering is more than a technique—it’s a philosophy. It’s about embracing contrast, pushing boundaries, and crafting rhythms that resonate on both an emotional and technical level. By mastering this approach, producers can elevate their tracks from ordinary to extraordinary, creating beats that are as dynamic and textured as the artist’s own work. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned producer, this method offers endless possibilities for innovation and creativity.
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Vocal Chop Editing: Manipulating vocal samples for glitchy, melodic effects in productions
Vocal chop editing is a transformative technique that turns ordinary vocal samples into dynamic, glitchy elements that elevate electronic productions. By slicing, rearranging, and processing vocals, producers create rhythmic textures and melodic hooks that capture attention. This method is a cornerstone of What So Not’s signature sound, where vocals are not just sung but sculpted into intricate layers of energy. To begin, select a vocal sample with clear consonants and vowels—these provide the most versatility for chopping. Use a DAW’s slicing tool to divide the sample into 16th or 32nd notes, creating a grid of fragments ready for manipulation.
Once sliced, experimentation is key. Rearrange the chops to form new rhythms or melodies, often detaching them from their original context. Apply pitch shifting to create harmonic variations, ensuring each chop sits within a complementary key. For glitchy effects, introduce stutter edits by duplicating and tightening the spacing between chops. Pair this with heavy reverb or delay to blur the edges, adding depth and movement. What So Not’s productions often layer these processed chops over driving beats, creating a contrast between organic vocals and mechanical precision.
A critical step is fine-tuning the timing and dynamics. Quantize the chops to align with the project’s tempo, but retain slight imperfections for a human feel. Automate volume and panning to create motion, sweeping chops across the stereo field or fading them in and out. For added impact, sidechain the chops to the kick drum, making them pump in rhythm with the beat. This technique, when balanced correctly, ensures the vocals remain prominent without overwhelming the mix.
Caution must be taken to avoid over-processing. Too much distortion or layering can muddy the mix, losing the vocal’s clarity. Always A/B test your edits against the original sample to ensure the chops retain their character. Additionally, be mindful of key and scale—random pitch shifts can clash with the underlying harmony. What So Not’s approach often involves subtle adjustments, preserving the vocal’s emotional core while pushing its boundaries.
In conclusion, vocal chop editing is a powerful tool for crafting unique, memorable elements in electronic music. By balancing creativity with precision, producers can emulate What So Not’s style, turning vocals into glitchy, melodic features that define a track. Start with clean samples, experiment boldly, and refine meticulously—this process transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
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Atmospheric Soundscapes: Building immersive environments with pads, textures, and ambient effects
Creating atmospheric soundscapes is an art that transforms a track from a mere sequence of sounds into a fully immersive experience. By layering pads, textures, and ambient effects, producers can craft environments that evoke emotion and transport listeners to another world. What So Not’s sound pack exemplifies this approach, offering tools that blend seamlessly to build depth and dimension. Start by selecting a foundational pad—a sustained, harmonic sound—to establish the mood. Experiment with modulation and reverb to create movement and space, ensuring the pad evolves subtly over time. This technique, when applied judiciously, prevents monotony and keeps the listener engaged.
The key to immersive soundscapes lies in the interplay of textures and ambient effects. Textures—granular, field recordings, or synthetic noise—add complexity without overwhelming the mix. What So Not’s pack often pairs these with ambient effects like whispers, drones, or environmental sounds to create a sense of place. For instance, layering a crackling fire texture with a distant wind effect can evoke a campfire scene. When combining elements, pay attention to frequency overlap; use EQ to carve out space for each sound, ensuring clarity. A high-pass filter on textures and a low-pass filter on pads can prevent muddiness, allowing each layer to shine.
One of the most effective strategies for building immersive environments is to use automation to simulate movement and change. Automate panning, volume, and effects parameters to create a dynamic soundscape. For example, slowly widen a pad’s stereo field while introducing a rising texture to simulate approaching a vast landscape. What So Not’s sound pack often includes pre-designed loops with built-in automation, which can serve as a starting point. However, customizing these elements to fit your track’s narrative enhances uniqueness. Aim for gradual transitions—abrupt changes can disrupt the immersive effect.
A common pitfall in atmospheric sound design is overloading the mix. While it’s tempting to layer endlessly, restraint is crucial. Focus on a few key elements and let them breathe. For instance, a single, evolving pad paired with a subtle texture can be more impactful than a crowded mix. Use volume and effects sparingly; a touch of reverb or delay can go a long way in creating depth. What So Not’s pack often balances sparseness with richness, demonstrating that less can indeed be more. Trust the power of simplicity to evoke emotion and maintain listener engagement.
Finally, consider the emotional intent of your soundscape. Atmospheric environments should serve the narrative of your track, whether it’s tension, tranquility, or awe. What So Not’s sound pack excels in this area, offering sounds tailored to specific moods. For a tense scene, use dissonant pads and unsettling textures; for tranquility, opt for warm, harmonious tones and gentle ambient effects. Test your soundscape in different contexts—headphones, speakers, and live settings—to ensure it translates effectively. The goal is to create an environment that resonates emotionally, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
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Mixing & Mastering Tips: Enhancing clarity and impact for professional-grade What So Not-style tracks
Achieving the signature clarity and impact of What So Not-style tracks requires a meticulous approach to mixing and mastering. Start by analyzing the frequency spectrum of your mix. What So Not’s productions often feature a balanced low end, where the kick and bass coexist without muddiness. Use a high-pass filter on non-essential low-frequency elements (e.g., synths, pads) to clear space below 100 Hz, ensuring the kick and bass dominate this range. Additionally, apply surgical EQ cuts to remove mid-range boxiness (200–500 Hz) and enhance vocal or lead instrument presence around 2–4 kHz. This frequency management is critical for maintaining the track’s energy and definition.
Next, focus on dynamic control to amplify the track’s impact. What So Not’s tracks often employ sidechain compression to create a pumping effect, particularly in the bass and pads. Set a compressor on your master bus with a fast attack (5–10 ms) and medium release (50–100 ms), triggered by the kick drum. Adjust the threshold until the compression is noticeable but not overbearing, typically around -6 to -8 dB. For added precision, use multiband compression to control specific frequency ranges, such as taming low-end buildup or enhancing high-frequency shimmer. This technique ensures the mix breathes while maintaining a cohesive rhythm.
Spatial enhancement is another key element in What So Not’s sound. Creative use of reverb and delay can add depth without sacrificing clarity. Apply short, modulated delays (16th or 32nd notes) to leads and vocals to create movement, but keep the wet signal below -15 dB to avoid clutter. For reverb, choose a medium-sized room or plate preset with a pre-delay of 20–30 ms, and mix it subtly (around -20 dB) to glue elements together. Avoid over-reverberating the mix, as it can blur transients and reduce impact. Instead, use panning to widen the stereo image, placing complementary elements (e.g., synths, percussion) at 10–90% positions for a balanced, immersive soundstage.
Finally, mastering is where the track’s true impact is solidified. Reference What So Not’s tracks to understand their loudness and tonal balance—typically around -6 to -8 LUFS integrated loudness. Use a limiter with a ceiling of -0.5 dB to prevent clipping while maximizing loudness. Apply a final EQ boost at 8–10 kHz to add airiness, and a subtle cut at 3–5 kHz to smooth out harshness. A stereo widener can be used sparingly (below 20% width) on high frequencies to enhance openness without compromising mono compatibility. Always A/B your master against commercial tracks to ensure it competes professionally while retaining its unique character.
By combining these techniques—frequency management, dynamic control, spatial enhancement, and precise mastering—you can elevate your mix to match the clarity and impact of What So Not’s productions. Each step requires careful attention to detail, but the result is a polished, professional-grade track that resonates with listeners.
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Frequently asked questions
The 'What So Not Sound Pack' is a collection of audio samples, loops, and presets curated by the Australian electronic music producer What So Not (real name Christopher Emerson). It includes sounds and tools used in his productions, designed to help other producers create music in a similar style.
The 'What So Not Sound Pack' is typically available on platforms like Splice, Loopmasters, or What So Not’s official website. Check these sources for availability and pricing details.
The sound pack is ideal for producers working in genres like future bass, trap, electronic, and experimental music. It reflects What So Not’s signature style, blending heavy bass, intricate rhythms, and innovative sound design.
