The evolution of technology has significantly transformed the tools and techniques of music production. However, there’s a certain nostalgia associated with the old ways that seems to be fading away. Today, I want to reintroduce you to one of those old methods that can take your music to an entirely new level.

Create a Lo-Fi Sound with 45RPM Sampling

First off, music producers from yesteryears had to make do with equipment that had incredibly lower specifications compared to what we have today. Among those limitations was the maximum sampling time, which was a mere 10 seconds. To overcome this, they came up with the idea of sampling records at a higher speed (45RPM). Then, within the sampler, they would lower the pitch to return it to its original speed.

The result? A unique and distinctive sound. When you sample at a higher speed and then lower the pitch, the high frequencies dissipate, resulting in a lo-fi, or lower quality, sound. However, this “lower quality” actually thickens the sound and produces a robust beat. This peculiar technique turned out to be the perfect ingredient for hip-hop track production.

Learning from the Producers of the Past

Modern music production equipment, with its virtually unlimited recording time, has diminished the need for pitch manipulation for sampling. Moreover, the ability to easily access a vast amount of samples from the internet has made it less necessary to conduct our own sampling.

However, there’s a downside to this convenience. Using readily available samples without modification often leads to a thin sound, lacking in depth and richness. Although it might seem effortless and handy at first glance, this method may result in a loss of musical thickness and depth.

That’s why you, the reader of this article, are indeed lucky. By learning and adopting the old-school producers’ techniques, you can overcome this issue and get ahead of many other producers. Try implementing the vintage technique of 45RPM sampling, and you’ll surely add a new dimension to your music production. Your music is bound to become richer and more engaging.