What does the scan knob do in Serum 2 spectral mode?
Q&A
Jan 22, 2026
The scan knob in Serum 2 spectral mode determines the speed and direction of playback through your sample: at 12:00 the sample is frozen in place, turning right speeds up forward playback, and turning left plays the sample backwards. I like setting scan to the middle position because it creates this really cool granular effect where the sample stays static on one point. If you combine a frozen scan position with movement from warping or an LFO on the spectral filter, you can turn something as simple as a snare drum into a metallic bass sound.
Post adapted from the video below:
I teach spectral synthesis techniques like this in my Serum courses at Futureproof Music School, where we focus on understanding why things work instead of just clicking buttons. That way you can actually get better on your own and create the sounds you hear in your head.
What does the scan knob do in Serum 2 spectral mode?
The scan knob controls the speed and direction of playback through your sample. When I set it to 12:00, the playback is stagnant and doesn't progress at all. Moving it to the right plays the sample forward (faster as you go further right), and moving it to the left plays it backwards. I've found that keeping scan at the middle position creates an almost granular effect, which I really like.
Can I modulate the scan knob with an LFO in spectral mode?
Yes, you can modulate the scan knob with an LFO to create movement, just like any other parameter in Serum. I stress at Futureproof Music School that movement is really good for sound design, and modulating scan is a perfect way to keep your sounds from feeling stagnant.
What happens when I set the scan knob to different positions while looping?
When you're in a loop mode and adjust scan, you control how the sample plays within that loop section. I like to set my loop points with the blue bars, and then the scan knob determines whether it plays forward, backward, or stays static within that looped region.
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.