How do I make a reese bass from scratch?
Q&A
Jan 26, 2026
Making a reese bass from scratch requires two saw wave oscillators slightly detuned from each other, which creates phase cancellation that produces the characteristic beating sound that accelerates as you play higher notes. I show you two methods: either stack two saw oscillators and detune one using the fine tune knob, or use a single oscillator with unison voices set to two and adjust the unison detune until you get the beating you want. The key is getting that phase beating right, because when the detuned oscillators cross over in phase at 180 degrees, they cancel each other out and create that signature wub wub wub sound.
Post adapted from the video below:
I break down the complete reese bass workflow, from basic phase beating to advanced processing techniques, in my full drum and bass course at Futureproof Music School. Start your free trial to access over 30 hours of production content and learn how to use reese basses across every drum and bass subgenre.
Dubstep pioneer and touring artist with millions of streams. Known for his heavy bass drops and intricate sound design, Max has released on major labels and performed at festivals worldwide.