9 Best Tips: How To Make Detroit Techno! (Producer Guide)

9 Best Tips: How To Make Detroit Techno! (Producer Guide)

Making Detroit techno is about capturing the raw, mechanical energy of early electronic music, fused with soul and groove. Detroit techno emerged in the 1980s, characterized by its use of synthesizers, drum machines (especially the Roland TR-808 and TR-909), and futuristic, minimalist vibes.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating Detroit techno:

1. Understand the Roots and Style

Detroit techno was pioneered by artists like Juan Atkins, Derrick May, Kevin Saunderson, and Jeff Mills, often referred to as the "Belleville Three." Key elements of the genre:

  • Mechanical and hypnotic rhythms: Steady, driving beats with repetitive patterns.
  • Futuristic and robotic sounds: Synthetic, cold tones often with a lot of space.
  • Soulful undertones: Although minimalist and often machine-like, there is an emotional depth to the melodies and grooves.

2. Choose Your Tools

To create Detroit techno, you’ll want to use both vintage and modern production tools. Here’s a rundown:

  • DAW: Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, or any DAW that supports MIDI and audio sequencing.
  • Synthesizers: Hardware or software synths that can emulate the classic Detroit sound.
    • Roland TR-808 and TR-909 (or their digital emulations)
    • Roland TB-303 (for acid basslines)
    • Korg MS-20, Moog Sub 37 (for fat bass and leads)
  • Drum Machines: Essential for that signature rhythm and percussion.
  • Effects: Reverb, delay, EQ, and distortion to add texture and movement.

3. Start with the Drum Machine

The drum machine is a fundamental piece of Detroit techno. Classic techno uses the Roland TR-808 or TR-909, which are both iconic for their distinctive kicks, snares, and hi-hats. If you don’t have access to these specific machines, use emulations or software like Arturia DrumBrute or Sonic Charge Microtonic.

Drum Pattern Tips:

  • Kick Drum: A deep, punchy kick on every beat (4/4). Detroit techno kicks are typically deep and bass-heavy. Don't be afraid to make them sound massive.

  • Hi-Hats: Use closed and open hi-hats in combination. Open hi-hats typically come on the offbeat or every second or third beat for a rolling effect.

  • Claps/Snares: A snare or clap on the second and fourth beats is standard, but the sound should be snappy with a bit of reverb for space. Many Detroit techno tracks use electronic snare sounds, often with a dry, sharp quality.

  • Percussion: Add extra percussion elements (like toms, cymbals, or tambourines) but keep it minimal. It’s about the groove, not over-cluttered complexity.

Example:

  • Kick: 4x4 (every beat)
  • Snare/Clap: 2 and 4
  • Hi-Hat: Closed hi-hats on 1 and 3, open hi-hats on the offbeat (2 and 4)

4. Create the Bassline

The bassline is often one of the most important aspects of Detroit techno. Classic Detroit basslines are deep, funky, and sometimes distorted, but also repetitive and hypnotic.

  • Synth Bass: Use a fat analog-style bass synthesizer like Roland SH-101, Moog Minitaur, or software emulations like Arturia MiniV or Serum. Focus on a deep sub-bass tone.
  • Acid Bassline: For an acid techno touch, use the Roland TB-303 or a similar acid bass emulator. The squelching, resonant basslines are iconic in Detroit and can be looped with slight variations.
  • Rhythm and Movement: Make the bassline groove with the kick drum but leave enough space for it to “breathe.” You can sync it to the beat or add some syncopation for a groovier effect.

Tips:

  • Use short, staccato notes to give the bassline a rhythmic pulse.
  • Layer the bass with a low-end kick that doesn’t overpower the mix.
  • Apply subtle distortion or overdrive for added warmth.

5. Add the Synth Leads and Pads

Detroit techno often features smooth, melodic synth leads that provide an emotional or atmospheric quality. These can range from simple stabs to more complex, evolving pads.

  • Synth Stabs: Use short, punchy chords on a synth like the Roland Juno-106 or a saw wave. These stabs can add emotional texture without overwhelming the track.
  • Melodic Lines: Simple arpeggios or syncopated melodies (using synths or strings) can provide movement.
  • Pads: To create depth, add wide, evolving pads to fill out the sound and give the track a sense of space. These should not be too intrusive but add atmosphere.

Sound Selection:

  • Look for detuned, fat, analog-style sounds (often with slight chorus or delay for width).
  • Filter sweeps can add motion and excitement to the track. Detroit techno uses a lot of filter automation to create buildup and release.

6. Create the Arrangement

Detroit techno tracks are often minimal, focusing more on groove and vibe than complex song structures. The arrangement typically follows a repetitive form that evolves gradually. Think of it more like a journey or hypnotic loop than a typical song.

  • Intro: Start with a basic beat and bassline, gradually adding elements like hats, percussion, and synth stabs.
  • Build: As the track progresses, introduce new sounds, like evolving synths or a new bassline pattern. Slowly build tension with filters and effects.
  • Breakdowns: Take out the beat or reduce elements to create a space for the listener to feel the groove before bringing everything back.
  • Outro: Slowly strip away elements for the outro, allowing the track to taper off.

7. Use Effects and Automation

Detroit techno relies heavily on filtering, reverb, delay, and distortion to give the track movement and energy.

  • Filter sweeps: Automating a low-pass filter on the synths and bass can build tension and anticipation. Slowly opening the filter can add excitement.
  • Reverb: Use reverb on snares, claps, and some synths to create space in the mix. Don't overdo it, as you still want the track to sound tight and focused.
  • Delay: Subtle delay effects on synths and percussion elements can create a sense of rhythm and depth.

8. Mixing and Mastering

Detroit techno is all about space and groove, so focus on making the mix clean and focused.

  • EQ: Carve out space for each element. High-pass filters on non-bass elements can help clear up space for the kick and bass.
  • Compression: Use sidechain compression between the kick and bass to create that classic "pumping" effect.
  • Stereo Width: Keep the kick and bass centered, but spread out the rest of the elements (synths, percussion) to create a wide, expansive sound.

9. Incorporate the Soulful, Futuristic Vibe

Detroit techno isn’t just mechanical—it’s about balancing the cold, robotic elements with soulful and emotional qualities. This can come through in the way you:

  • Program your basslines: Make them groovy and funky, even within a minimal structure.
  • Use melodic synths: Add melodies that feel emotional but also restrained. Don’t overdo it—subtlety is key.
  • Add vocal samples: Detroit techno often includes samples of spoken words or chants, manipulated to create a sense of detachment or futurism.

Artists and Tracks for Inspiration:

  • Juan Atkins (Cybotron, Model 500) – Look for the balance of futurism and soul in his work.
  • Derrick May (Rhythim is Rhythim) – Tracks like “Strings of Life” are a good reference for building energy and groove.
  • Kevin Saunderson (Inner City) – More melodic but still rooted in techno.
  • Jeff Mills – His work on Axis Records captures the raw, mechanical edge of Detroit techno.

By combining deep, mechanical rhythms with soulful melodies and futuristic textures, you’ll be able to craft a Detroit techno track that captures both the spirit of the genre and the vibe of the city it came from. Keep experimenting with sounds, loops, and effects until you find your own unique twist on Detroit’s iconic sound.

By the Stealify Team! 

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