1. Do you typically just experiment until something "clicks" and you feel inspired? Or do you typically have a aural version of a vision that you're trying to bring to life?
2. If you use synths, do you typically start with a preset and then modify it? Do you start from scratch (e.g., with basic oscillators) and build from there? I assume there isn't a "one way" you do things, but what are some of the common roads you follow?
3. Building on the last question: If you work with synths, do you typically stay within that local synth environment? Or does your final sound emerge as a result of chaining a source through multiple plugins/effects? (If the later, do you "futureproof" it by saving those sounds separately and banking them? Or is that typically not necessary?)
4. I assume there are some things in your arsenal that are "must haves." For example, I've read about the way many of you revere certain reverb plugins, like Valhalla. What are some of your essentials--hardware or software?\
5. Sometimes people say things that imply that the quality of your gear is less important that what you can do with it. The implication is that, with the right mindset, knowledge, and talent, it is possible to produce some amazing soundscapes. But, I must confess, some of the more pricey tools out there would seem to give users a huge advantage. Is that perception the result of being new to this? Or is it, in fact, worthwhile to drop a few dollars on some strong "bang for your buck" style synths/modules?
I'm one of the least experienced here but I'll give it a crack. I started out knowing a lot less than you do about making music.
1. I try to go in with an idea for a soundscape but usually, I end up with something completely different by the time I finish recording. Just about everything I do is experimentation and refining those experiments into compositions.
2. I start with presets and then tweak them quite a bit. Sometimes, I stay fairly similar to the original preset while other times, it's unrecognizable from where I started. Usually, it's the latter.
3. I process everything I play to some extent or another, not just synths. I always try to do more than just use soft synths. That's why I use guitars, zithers, kalimba, and anything else I can record.
4. For software reverbs, I use ValhallaRoom, Eventide Blackhole and MangledVerb, and Toraverb. I also use hardware processors and pedals like my TC M300, Alesis Nanoverb, Dwarfcraft ARF, MF Boost, Mr. Black Supermoon, IE Nimbus, and several fuzz pedals.
5. Do not fall for the beginner's trap of buying new gear thinking that it will make or break your sound. I've fallen into this trap to some extent myself. Get one new thing at a time and try to tap into its full potential before you buy something new. Get a few soft synths (or one good hardware synth would be even better), a good reverb plugin, a delay plugin, an EQ, and a DAW and you can make ambient music. A good reverb will take you a long way though.
Also, definitely go for gear that give you more bang for your buck whenever possible.
