Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Hans Zimmer reveals he creates 90% of his scores using just one synth plugin, find out which one!

Despite having access to the best hardware, the legendary composer swears by a single software synth for his creative process.

Hans Zimmer

The legendary composer reveals why a single software synth powers 90% of his blockbuster film scores

Getty Images

Hans Zimmer is known for his grand, immersive film scores, but when it comes to his tools, he keeps things surprisingly simple. In a recent interview with musician and YouTuber Rick Beato, Zimmer revealed that nearly all his compositions are crafted using just one software synthesiser—the u-he ZebraHZ.

Zimmer’s conversation with Beato was part of the promotion for his latest project, Hans Zimmer & Friends: Diamond in the Desert, a concert film and documentary blending live performances with behind-the-scenes insights. While the discussion covered various aspects of his career, from working on Inception and Dune to overcoming stage fright (with a little help from Paul McCartney), one of the most fascinating takeaways was his approach to technology in music production.


Despite having access to some of the best hardware synthesisers in the world, Zimmer has relied heavily on the ZebraHZ for years. The plugin, a modified version of u-he’s Zebra 2, was designed specifically for him and features a custom set of pre-sets called The Dark Zebra, which he used in The Dark Knight.


- YouTubeyoutu.be


“I was one of the first to dive into computers for music, but constant updates and new operating systems became too much,” Zimmer shared. “So, I simplified things and focused on what truly mattered. Now, 90% of what I do is on this one software synth, and I still haven’t run out of ideas.”

Another key tool in his setup is Synapse Audio’s The Legend HZ, a customised version of the Minimoog-inspired virtual synthesiser. Zimmer praised its improvements, particularly the addition of a proper release function, making it more flexible while retaining the sound quality of classic analogue synths.


Hans ZimmerThe Dune and Dark Knight composer shares his go-to synth for crafting Hollywood’s most iconic musicGetty Images


Though he owns several high-end hardware synths, Zimmer doesn’t get caught up in the analogue vs. digital debate. “If it sounds good, it sounds good,” he said simply. “I can close my eyes, reach for my instruments, and feel at home.”

Zimmer’s philosophy is a reminder that mastery isn’t about having the latest or most expensive gear, but it’s about knowing your tools inside out. By stripping away distractions, he’s able to focus purely on creativity, proving that sometimes, less really is more.

More For You

Simone Ashley Calls Filming Brad Pitt’s F1 ‘Craziest Ever’

Simone Ashley calls filming Brad Pitt’s F1 movie at real Grand Prix races ‘One of the craziest things ever

Getty Images

Simone Ashley calls filming Brad Pitt’s 'F1' at real Grand Prix races ‘one of the craziest things ever'

The high-speed world of Formula 1 racing is getting the Hollywood treatment, and actress Simone Ashley is sharing what it was like to be part of the action. Starring alongside Brad Pitt in the upcoming racing drama F1, Ashley described the experience as one of the most intense and thrilling projects she has ever worked on.

Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for Top Gun: Maverick, F1 was filmed in collaboration with all ten Formula 1 teams, adding an authentic touch to the high-octane film. The cast, including Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, and Javier Bardem, had the unique challenge of shooting scenes while real Grand Prix races were underway.

Keep ReadingShow less
JK Rowling’s Subtle Dig at Harry Potter Stars: What Happened?

The ongoing rift between Rowling and the trio resurfaced in 2024

Getty Images

JK Rowling quietly criticises Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint on social media

Author JK Rowling has seemingly reignited tensions with former Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, appearing to take a veiled dig at the actors on social media. The 59-year-old author, who has been at the centre of controversy in recent years due to her views on transgender rights, made a comment that has widely been interpreted as aimed at the trio.

Rowling’s stance on transgender issues has led to public disagreements with the former child actors, with whom she once shared a close relationship. The three stars of the blockbuster Wizarding World franchise have distanced themselves from Rowling's opinions, publicly supporting the trans community in contrast to the author's remarks.

Keep ReadingShow less
Danish Taimoor

Danish Taimoor and Ayeza Khan are two of the most recognisable faces in the Pakistani television industry

Instagram/ danishtaimoor16

Danish Taimoor responds to polygamy backlash, emphasises his love for Ayeza Khan

Pakistani actor Danish Taimoor recently found himself at the centre of online controversy following remarks he made about polygamy. During an episode of the television show Mehfil-e-Ramzan, where his wife, Ayeza Khan, was a guest, the actor’s comment regarding his right to marry multiple times sparked criticism on social media. Despite the backlash, Danish has addressed the controversy, standing by his comments while offering further context.

The remarks that sparked controversy

The controversy started during an episode of Mehfil-e-Ramzan, a show dedicated to discussions on religion and family during the holy month of Ramadan. Danish Taimoor, who was hosting, had his wife Ayeza Khan as a guest. During their conversation, he made a remark that drew attention online: "Mujhe ijazat hai chaar shaadiyon ki, main kar nahi raha hoon, voh alag baat hai. Lekin yeh ijazat mujhe Allah ne di hai, jo koi mujhse cheen nahi sakta" (I have permission to have four marriages; the fact that I am not doing so is a different matter. But Allah has given me this permission, and no one can take it away from me).

Keep ReadingShow less
Charli XCX and A24 Collaborate on The Moment Mockumentary

Charli XCX on set for The Moment, her debut A24 film featuring Alexander Skarsgård and a star-studded cast

Getty Images

Charli XCX begins filming A24's 'The Moment', co-starring Alexander Skarsgård

Filming has begun in London for The Moment, a new A24 film starring and produced by British singer-songwriter Charli XCX. Known for her music, Charli is now venturing into filmmaking with this project, which is said to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a rising pop star.

Directed by Aidan Zamiri, a long-time collaborator who has directed several of Charli’s music videos, the film boasts a star-studded cast. Alexander Skarsgård, Rosanna Arquette, Trew Mullen, Isaac Cole Powell, Rish Shah, Kate Berlant, and Jamie Demetriou are all set to appear in the feature.

Keep ReadingShow less
Shekhar Kapur Calls Out Amazon for Censoring Bandit Queen

Shekhar Kapur criticizes Amazon Prime for altering Bandit Queen without consent

Getty Images

Shekhar Kapur praises 'Adolescence': “A game-changer in storytelling that redefines how we connect with characters”

Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has expressed his frustration over the changes made to his 1994 film Bandit Queen on Amazon Prime Video, claiming it has been edited beyond recognition without his consent. His remarks came after he praised the Netflix miniseries Adolescence for its innovative storytelling, pointing out the creative limitations faced by Indian filmmakers.

Kapur took to social media to commend Adolescence, calling it a game-changer in storytelling. He noted that the series defies traditional narrative structures and allows viewers to deeply connect with its characters. However, while applauding the British crime drama, he also raised concerns about the restrictions imposed on Indian creators by streaming platforms.

Keep ReadingShow less