How to Create a Bass Patch in Xpand!2 – Step-by-Step Tutorial

If you want to design a powerful bass sound inside Xpand!2, this tutorial will guide you through the entire process — from selecting a preset to shaping and layering your sound for a professional result.

Step 1: Load Xpand!2 in Your DAW

1. Open your DAW.

2. Create a new Instrument/MIDI track.

3. Insert Xpand!2 as the plugin.

4. Make sure Part 1 is active.

Xpand!2 allows up to four parts per patch, which is useful for layering later.

Step 2: Choose a Starting Bass Sound

1. Click the preset browser in Part 1.

2. Navigate to the Bass category.

3. Select a simple preset such as:

   • Synth Bass

   • Analog Bass

   • Sub Bass

Starting with a clean, simple bass makes it easier to shape your sound.

Step 3: Adjust the Envelope (Shape the Punch)

Use the Smart Knobs to control the amp envelope:

• Attack: Set low (fast response for punch).

• Decay: Medium-low for tight control.

• Sustain: Adjust depending on style.

• Release: Keep short for rhythmic basslines.

For plucky bass → Lower sustain and shorter decay.
For sustained bass → Higher sustain and slightly longer release.

Step 4: Shape the Tone with the Filter

To refine the bass tone:

• Lower the Cutoff to remove harsh high frequencies.

• Add slight Resonance for character.

• Use a Low-Pass Filter for warmth and depth.

This step helps create a focused low-end without unnecessary brightness.

Step 5: Layer a Sub Bass (Optional but Recommended)

Xpand!2 supports up to four layers per patch.

1. Activate Part 2.

2. Load a pure Sub Bass preset.

3. Lower its volume slightly.

4. Avoid adding effects to this layer.

Now you have:

• Part 1: Main bass character

• Part 2: Sub bass foundation

Layering improves depth and impact.

Step 6: Add Subtle Effects

Use effects carefully on bass sounds:

• Light distortion or saturation for presence.

• Very subtle chorus (avoid on sub layer).

• Avoid heavy reverb to keep the low-end clean.

Less is more when working with bass.

Step 7: Add Movement (Optional)

To create motion:

• Enable the Arpeggiator for rhythmic basslines.

• Automate filter cutoff inside your DAW.

• Experiment with modulation for evolving textures.

Mixing Tips for Better Bass

• Keep sub frequencies in mono.

• Sidechain bass to kick for electronic music.

• Use EQ to remove muddiness around 200–400 Hz.

• Avoid overlapping low frequencies with other instruments.

Final Thoughts

Creating a bass patch in Xpand!2 is simple once you understand layering, envelopes, and filtering. Start with a clean preset, shape the envelope for punch, refine the tone with filtering, and optionally layer a sub bass for depth.

With practice, you can design bass sounds suitable for EDM, hip-hop, pop, cinematic music, and more.