Grimiss Ambient SRS reel artwork representing sleep relaxation study soundscapes

FRS Process
& Gear

The sound of each FRS piece is shaped through a hybrid workflow that blends digital precision with analog character.

Software tools allow for flexibility, layering, and careful control, while tape machines and physical hardware introduce subtle imperfections, warmth, and movement that are difficult to replicate digitally.

The result is a balance between clarity and texture. It is modern in structure, but rooted in analog feel.

Each FRS sound is created differently, but this outlines a typical process:

Analog synth plugin setup with keyboards and ambient sound design equipment used to create evolving tape soundscapes

Each track begins in Reaper, where evolving ambient textures are shaped using software synths such as Juno-106, Prophet-5, Diva, Mellotron, and OB-X.

These sounds are gently processed with tape-style delays, plate reverbs, filtering, and subtle modulation. Tools like Filterjam, Space Echo-style delays, Little Plate, and Supermassive add depth and movement.

The focus is on slow evolution, so that sounds shift gradually and sit comfortably in the background.

Step 1 – Creating the Core Sound

Reel to reel tape machine used for analog tape processing adding warmth and saturation to ambient music

The sound is then sent to reel-to-reel tape, or processed with tape-style plugins, to introduce analog warmth, compression, wow and flutter.

Hardware such as JVC cassette decks, Panasonic recorders, and reel-to-reel machines like the Beocord 1600 and Akai 4000DS are used alongside tools like UAD Verve and AudioThing Reels.

This stage adds character and softens the digital edges of the sound.

Step 2 – Tape Processing

Hardware synthesizers and effects pedals used for live ambient performance layers and evolving textures

Additional textures are recorded live using a MicroKorg, often played through stereo delay and reverb pedals.

Effects such as the Joyo D-Seed II and Electro-Harmonix Cathedral help create spacious, evolving layers.

These performances are recorded either directly into Reaper or to tape first, adding subtle variation and a more organic feel.

Step 3 – Live Performance Layers

Digital audio workstation with MIDI keyboard used for mixing ambient tracks and preparing cassette recording

The track is then mixed in Reaper, balancing levels and refining the overall tone using gentle compression, EQ, and tape emulation.

Plugins like UAD Oxide are used on the master to add cohesion.

The final mix is recorded to cassette, giving each piece an additional layer of saturation and character.

Step 4 – Mixing and Cassette Recording

Cassette tape deck and camera setup used for recording and filming analog ambient music visuals

The cassette recording is played back into Reaper and extended if needed to create longer soundscapes.

The tape is filmed using a Panasonic recorder and a Canon DSLR, capturing the visual identity of the piece.

The final video is edited, exported, and prepared for release across YouTube and the website.

Step 5 – Finalising and Video Creation

The end result is an a soundscape that evolves gently over time, shaped to feel natural, immersive, and unobtrusive.

Designed to sit in the background, each piece supports moments of rest, focus, and quiet without drawing attention to itself.

You can explore more of my analog ambient sleep soundscapes in the FRS series.