The Modulator MIDI effect in Logic Pro generates automated MIDI control signals—LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators), envelopes, and step sequences—that can be routed to any MIDI-controllable parameter in your instrument or plugin chain.

It is one of the most powerful creative tools in Logic Pro, enabling evolving synth textures, rhythmic modulation, Filter sweeps, tremolo-like effects, and expressive motion without manual automation.

Because Modulator can simulate classic analog synth modulation (LFOs/envelopes) and more precise digital control (tempo-synced shapes, custom curves, step sequences), it’s essential for modern electronic music, cinematic scoring, and experimental sound design.

Key Features

• Dual Modulation Engines: Use either LFO mode or Envelope/Step Sequencer mode for continuous or rhythmic modulation.

• Tempo-Synced or Free-Running LFOs: Sync modulation to the project tempo (1/8, 1/16, dotted, triplet, etc.) or run it freely for evolving textures.

• Customizable Waveforms: Choose sine, square, random, saw, or create a custom shape via the curve editor.

• Multiple Routing Targets: Send modulation to any MIDI-controllable parameter:

• filter cutoff, resonance, pitch, pan, volume, LFO depth, attack time, effects parameters, and more.

• Built-In Smoothing & Scaling: Shape how much modulation is applied, smooth harsh curves, or scale ranges for subtle or extreme effects.

• Triggerable Envelopes: Design ADSR-style envelopes that respond to note-on events for expressive synth-like behavior.

• Step Sequencer Mode: Create rhythmic gating, pitch pulses, trance-style chops, or dynamic filter patterns.

Best Use Cases

• Animated Synth Textures: Slow LFOs create evolving pads, swells, and atmospheric movement.

• Rhythmic Modulation: Tempo-synced modulation creates EDM-style filter pumps, tremolo, and rhythmic gating.

• Expressive Control Without Automation: Use envelopes to make instruments respond to velocity, note triggers, or performance gestures.

• Creative Sound Design: Modulate pitch, pan, effect sends, distortion amounts, and more for unusual textures.

• Adding Life to Static Sounds: Subtle modulation makes pads, drones, basses, and keys feel more alive and organic.

Popular Song Examples

• M83 — “Midnight City” (4:03)

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• Use (1:10–1:45): Filter LFO movement on synth leads, similar to tempo-synced Modulator LFOs.

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• 2. Deadmau5 — “Strobe” (10:33)

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• Use (2:20–3:35): Slow, evolving filter and pan modulation—replicable with free-running LFO shapes.

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• 3. Daft Punk — “Veridis Quo” (5:45)

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• Use (0:20–1:10): Gentle LFO-driven vibrato and filter movement perfect for Modulator’s sine wave LFO.

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• 4. The Weeknd — “Blinding Lights” (3:22)

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• Use (0:18–0:40): Pulsing synth rhythms similar to Modulator’s step-sequenced modulation patterns.

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• 5. ODESZA — “A Moment Apart” (5:14)

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• Use (1:40–2:30): Wide stereo modulation and evolving filter sweeps achievable via Modulator’s dual routings.

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• 6. Stranger Things Theme — Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein (5:14)

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• Use (0:00–0:30): Classic LFO-driven filter sweeps reminiscent of analog synth modulation.