In this tutorial, we dive into the world of open hi hats in FL Studio 20. This guide is perfect for beginners and those looking to refine their sound. We’ll cover how to effectively incorporate open hi hats into your beats, ensuring they sound smooth and professional.
Key Takeaways
- Use a cohesive drum kit for consistency.
- Set open hi hats in box mode for better control.
- Keep patterns fluid and avoid clutter.
- Experiment with different octaves for variety.
Getting Started With Open Hi Hats
To kick things off, you’ll need a drum kit that includes open hi hats. It’s important to choose a kit that feels cohesive. This means using the same kit throughout your project to maintain a consistent sound.
- Select Your Drum Kit: Make sure it has both hi hats and open hi hats.
- Visualize Your Sequence: Before you start placing sounds, think about how you want the rhythm to flow.
Setting Up Your Open Hi Hats
Once you have your drum kit ready, it’s time to set up your open hi hats. Here’s how:
- Box Mode: Turn on the box mode for your open hi hats. This allows for better control over the sound.
- Adjust Hold Settings: Set the hold all the way up. This means the sound will stop as soon as you release the key, giving you a clean cut.
Creating Your Pattern
When laying down your open hi hats, aim for a longer pattern. This helps create a more fluid sound. Here’s a quick way to extend your pattern:
- Highlight the Area: Select the section you want to extend.
- Use Control + B: This will duplicate your selection, making it easy to create a longer sequence.
Recording Your Open Hi Hats
Now, let’s get into recording. You can play your open hi hats manually using your keyboard. Here’s a simple approach:
- Think About the Rhythm: As you play, keep the overall beat in mind.
- Experiment with Octaves: Don’t hesitate to go lower in the octave range for a different feel.
Fine-Tuning Your Sound
After recording, it’s time to refine your open hi hats:
- Adjust Levels: Shift the volume up or down to find the right balance.
- Keep It Smooth: Avoid placing open hi hats randomly. They should be consistent and steady throughout the track.
Adding Other Elements
To complete your beat, consider adding a kick and snare. This will give you a fuller sound and help you see how the open hi hats fit into the overall mix. Here’s a quick tip:
- Place Open Hi Hats with Hi Hats: Try to add your open hi hats in sync with your hi hat pattern. This creates a more cohesive sound.
Examples of Open Hi Hats in Beats
Open hi hats work great in various genres, especially R&B and lo-fi. Here are a couple of examples:
- R&B Beats: Open hi hats can add a smooth touch, making the rhythm feel more laid back.
- Trap and Rap: They can also enhance the energy, especially when placed strategically between kicks and snares.
Conclusion
In summary, mastering open hi hats in FL Studio 20 is all about practice and experimentation. Remember to keep your drum kit consistent, visualize your patterns, and adjust as needed. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating beats that sound professional and polished. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to leave a comment!
