Creating Cinematic Moods in Pigments: Sound Design Tutorial

Pigments Sound Bank

Creating Cinematic Moods in Pigments: Step-by-Step Video Tutorial

Want to create powerful cinematic atmospheres with just one finger? This in-depth tutorial shows you how to craft evolving "Instant Moods" using Pigments. You'll discover how to transform a single note into a cinematic mood.

Watch the Tutorial

Follow along with this complete guide to creating instant cinematic moods in Pigments

What You'll Learn in This Tutorial

  • Create complex cinematic textures from a single sample
  • Utilize scales/chords in your presets. 
    • Our example uses b6 mood technique for a mysterious atmospheres
  • Transform static sounds into evolving landscapes using granular synthesis
  • Build layered atmospheres using modulation instead of the Sequencer

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Setting Up Your Base Sample

Start with these foundational steps from the tutorial:

  • Load a C4 harp sample (you'll only need one sample to create the entire mood)
  • Create multiple sample lanes in Pigments
  • Copy your C4 sample across each lane
  • Prepare for harmonic tuning
Harp Sample Instant Mood

The sample used in this tutorial comes from our Soft Cinema Keys - Sound Bank

2. Creating the Harmonic Structure

Follow these specific tuning steps to build your mood:

  • Tune the first sample to unison
  • Set the second sample to a major third (G#1)
  • Adjust the third sample to the fifth (F2)
  • Place the final sample at E3 for the b6th
  • Now playing any C note will trigger a complete flat-six arpeggio

3. Engaging the Granular Engine

Transform your static sound into something dynamic:

  • Switch to the granular engine
  • Set sync to 1/8 and 1/4 timing
  • Adjust the attack for precise pulse control
  • Add randomization for organic movement
  • Apply reverb to create initial space and depth
Granular Engine

4. Building the Evolution

The tutorial demonstrates how to create natural evolution without using the sequencer:

  • Use Function modulators for gradual crescendos
  • Create time-synced variations
  • Layer complementary elements
  • Build bass presence using granular processing

5. Adding Movement and Depth

Watch how to add these crucial elements:

  • Implement subtle randomization
  • Create synchronized pulses
  • Design evolving textural changes
  • Build automatic layering systems
Pigments Instant Mood FX

More Cinema Mood Presets:

The tutorial showcases techniques used in our professional sound banks:




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