Studio Essentials: Doc Martin

L.A.-based DJ and producer Doc Martin has released on labels including Soul Clap Records and Selador, building a consistent catalogue over several decades.

In our latest studio feature, he highlights the key tools that support his workflow, including the Akai MPC X and Sequential Prophet-5. The setup combines hardware and software for sequencing, synthesis and sound processing.

Check out the full list below, along with insights from Doc Martin himself.

Cubase

“Let’s start with the computer program. I’ve always been a Cubase guy since 1990. I like the functionality of it. I realize that there are other programs that may be easier to use, but this is the program for me. As I get deeper into the sampler, and other functions, the more I love it. I don’t claim to be a super producer, just a DJ who loves to make records.”

Studio Electronics SE1

“I absolutely love this rack mount synth. The warmth of the analog bass is something that’s special. The way you can manipulate sounds, and make them your own. I also love to do live passes with this machine. The sounds are endless. The fact that not many people are using this machine, gives you a sound that doesn’t sound generic. Rumour has it that Dr. Dre had two of these when he made The Chronic LP. I used this the first time for a remix of DJ Pierre & Marshall Jeffersons ‘Clap Your Hands’. I fell in love with it instantly.“

Sequential Prophet 5

“I was lucky enough to get this keyboard, in the mid-nineties. I tend to play this live into Cubase. What I love about the original Prophets, is they all have their own sound, as many analog keyboards do. Even though there aren’t thousands of sounds, I love to manipulate what’s there. It’s a keyboard you have to have patience with to make it sing for you in the right way.“

Akai MPC X

“I think I’m probably about 20% into what this machine can actually do. There are tons of sounds that you can manipulate, while creating your own drum patterns. I find it’s compatibility with Cubase to be super functional. Also built in effects, that will make the sounds your own. I like the swing that you can put on your beats as well. I’m still torn between my MPC 2000, and this machine though.”

Arturia FX Collection

“I couldn’t just pinpoint it to one effect unit here. Everything from space echo, compressors, filters, and beyond. The Arturia FX collection has helped me to create and manipulate sounds in a big way. I tend to spend a lot of time on effects, and this has helped me to make sounds within sounds. Before this I was using my Fireworks effects on everything. I highly recommend this.“

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