# Synthesizing a hi hat Start with a noise source, use a resonant bandpass on the highs, then create a volume envelope. For a noise source, the Roland TR-606 uses a swarm of 6 square waves tuned at 245, 306, 365, 415, 437, and 619Hz.[^1] Another method for a noise source is a swarm of frequency modulated sine waves.[^2] You can optionally use a distortion for more metallic character and a high pass to tame the highs.[^1] Comb filters or short delays can create a metallic sound as well.[^3] To alternate between open and closed hi hats, route the mod wheel to control volume envelope decay time.[^4] After bouncing down, use steep bell filters to add interest. 48dB/oct slopes are good for texture in this case.[^5] [^1]: [Designing a TR-606 style hi-hat from scratch - YouTube](https://youtu.be/zbBY7JL9nnQ?si=DA8D0u9Uy5cAz5TR) [^2]: [Arturia Pigments 4 Hi-Hat Synthesis Sound Design Tutorial - YouTube](https://youtu.be/cs5iEmkj1LI?si=GHsy4HUuk-jOWhLE) [^3]: [the only drum sound design tutorial you'll ever need\* - YouTube](https://youtu.be/WFGs91vSpIw?si=s0z9m8GzAHLrH2V8) [^4]: [Synthesizing Hats and Shakers with FabFilter Volcano 3 - YouTube](https://youtu.be/dZAm57M5SuQ?si=JNOHEiDxRVeI5LMG) [^5]: [How To Make Hihats & Open Hats! \| Drum Synthesis (Part 4) - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvfXDaFzVjo)