What Is Colour Bass? A Deep Dive Into the Emotional Dubstep Subgenre
Colour Bass is a melodic, emotional subgenre of dubstep that emerged in the early 2010s. Unlike traditional brostep, it emphasizes lush harmonies, intricate sound design, and cinematic textures. Pioneered by artists like Au5 and Chime, Colour Bass quickly became a staple in the electronic music scene, particularly on labels like Monstercat and NoCopyrightSounds. Tracks such as Au5’s Crossroad (2013) and Chime’s Sunset (2014) defined the genre’s signature sound—deep sub-bass wobbles blended with euphoric supersaw leads and atmospheric pads.
If you’re looking to produce Colour Bass, having the right tools is essential. Check out the Virtual Riot Color Bass Episode Files (WAV, Synth Presets) for professional-grade sounds and presets to kickstart your project.
The Origins & Evolution of Colour Bass
Colour Bass didn’t appear overnight—it evolved from a fusion of progressive trance, glitch hop, and early dubstep. In the late 2000s, dubstep was dominated by heavy, aggressive drops. However, producers like Au5 began experimenting with slower tempos, richer melodies, and more emotional compositions. By 2012–2014, the genre solidified its identity, with releases on Monstercat and NoCopyrightSounds helping it reach a global audience.
Key milestones include:
- 2013: Au5 releases Crossroad, a track that became a Colour Bass anthem.
- 2014: Chime drops Sunset, further defining the genre’s melodic direction.
- 2015: Rameses B releases Breathe, blending Colour Bass with uplifting trance elements.
- 2016: Au5 drops The Brave, an album that pushed Colour Bass into new sonic territories.
Today, the genre continues to evolve, with modern artists like Crystal Skies and Said The Sky incorporating Colour Bass elements into their productions.
Sound Characteristics of Colour Bass
Colour Bass stands out due to its emotional depth and technical precision. Here’s what defines its sound:
Tempo & Rhythm
- BPM Range: 140–150 BPM (half-time feel, often perceived as 70–75 BPM).
- Drum Patterns: Half-time kick-snare grooves with 16th-note hi-hats, similar to progressive house but with a heavier dubstep influence.
Key Instruments & Textures
- Supersaw Leads: Bright, detuned saw waves that create a euphoric, trance-like melody.
- Plucks & Arpeggios: Short, staccato notes that add movement and energy.
- Deep Sub-Bass Wobbles: Slow, modulated basslines that provide a powerful low-end foundation.
- Vocal Chops: Processed vocal samples (often chopped and pitched) to add emotional layers.
- Atmospheric Pads: Lush, reverb-drenched synths that create a cinematic atmosphere.
Emotional & Cinematic Qualities
Colour Bass isn’t just about heavy bass—it’s about feeling. The genre often incorporates:
- Film-like soundscapes (e.g., rising risers, reverse cymbals).
- Harmonic richness (jazz-inspired chord progressions, extended harmonies).
- Dynamic contrast (soft verses, explosive drops).
If you want to study Colour Bass compositions up close, grab the Chime KERO Natural Colour Official Sample Pack (WAV)—it includes authentic sounds from one of the genre’s pioneers.
Production Techniques for Colour Bass
Producing Colour Bass requires a balance of technical skill and artistic expression. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a professional-sounding track:
1. Start with the Drum Groove
Colour Bass drums should feel punchy but groovy. Use a half-time pattern:
- Kick: On beats 1 and 3 (or slightly off-grid for a looser feel).
- Snare: On beats 2 and 4, with slight variations for groove.
- Hi-Hats: 16th-note rolls with subtle swing (try a 16th-note triplet groove for extra bounce).
- Percussion: Add claps, shakers, or rimshots to enhance rhythm.
For ready-to-use drum loops, check out SHARP Color Bass (WAV)—it includes high-quality drum samples tailored for the genre.
2. Design the Bassline
The bass is the heart of Colour Bass. Follow these tips:
- Sub-Bass Wobble: Use a sine wave with slow LFO modulation (rate: 0.5–2 Hz, depth: 50–80%).
- Layering: Combine a sub-bass (40–60 Hz) with a mid-bass (150–250 Hz) for fullness.
- Sidechain: Duck the bass when the kick hits to maintain clarity (use a compressor with a fast attack and medium release).
Pro Tip: For wobble bass, try automating the filter cutoff and resonance for dynamic movement.
3. Craft the Melody
Colour Bass melodies should be catchy and emotional. Here’s how:
- Supersaw Leads: Use a detuned saw wave (try 5–7 oscillators) with slight pitch modulation (e.g., Serum’s wavetable “Saw 5”).
- Plucks & Arpeggios: Program fast 16th-note sequences with short decay times for a bouncy feel.
- Chord Progressions: Use minor 7th, maj7, or suspended chords for a dreamy vibe.
For professional supersaw presets, the XLNT Sound Drops Only Color Bass Vol.1 (Synth Presets) is a goldmine.
4. Add Atmosphere with Pads & Textures
Colour Bass thrives on immersion. Layer these elements:
- Pads: Use Omnisphere or Serum with long attack/release times. Try string pads, choir pads, or ambient synths.
- Risers & Risers: Reverse cymbals, white noise sweeps, or filtered noise buildups.
- Vocal Chops: Chop and pitch a vocal sample (e.g., “ah,” “oh”) and layer it under the melody.
For atmospheric sounds, the Ghosthack Chromatic Chaos Color Bass (WAV, MIDI, Synth Presets) includes deep, cinematic textures.
5. Mixing & Mastering
A polished Colour Bass track requires clean low-end and wide stereo imaging. Key mixing tips:
- Low-End Management: Sidechain the bass to the kick using a multiband compressor (e.g., FabFilter Pro-MB).
- Reverb & Delay: Use Valhalla VintageVerb for lush reverb tails and Echo Boy for rhythmic delays. Keep reverb on vocals and pads but cut lows to avoid muddiness.
- Stereo Widening: Use mid/side EQ to widen highs while keeping low-end mono.
- Mastering: Apply gentle multiband compression and limiting (aim for -8 to -6 LUFS).
Best Colour Bass Sample Packs & Plugins (2026 Edition)
If you’re serious about producing Colour Bass, the right sample packs and synth presets can save you hours of sound design. Here are the best resources in 2026:
🎛️ Synth Presets & Sound Design Kits
- XLNT Sound Drops Only Color Bass Vol.1 (Synth Presets) – Professional supersaw and plucks presets for Serum.
- Rocket Powered Sound Riot For Serum (Synth Presets) – Aggressive wobble and bass presets for a modern Colour Bass sound.
- Black Octopus Sound Color Bass Essentials (WAV, MIDI, Synth Presets) – A comprehensive bundle with basses, leads, and MIDI files.
🎧 One-Shot & Loop Packs
- Audentity Records Color Bass Moshpit (WAV) – High-energy drum loops and bass one-shots.
- Loopmasters Color Bass Dubstep (WAV, MIDI) – Professional loops and MIDI for Colour Bass production.
- Chime Twinkles and Colour Vol.2 Sample Pack (WAV) – Authentic sounds from Chime, including plucks and atmospheric textures.
🎚️ Essential Plugins for Colour Bass
- Synths: Serum (for wavetables and supersaws), Omnisphere (for pads and textures).
- Effects: Valhalla VintageVerb (reverb), Echo Boy (delay), FabFilter Pro-MB (multiband compression).
- Mixing: iZotope Neutron (EQ and dynamics), Waves SSL Channel (for warmth).
Colour Bass in 2026: Where Is the Genre Headed?
Colour Bass continues to evolve, with producers blending it into future bass, melodic dubstep, and even future house. Modern artists are experimenting with:
- Hybrid Genres: Combining Colour Bass with trance, orchestral, or even trap elements.
- AI-Assisted Production: Tools like Splice and LANDR are helping producers generate custom sounds faster.
- Live Performances: More DJs and producers are incorporating Colour Bass into live sets, thanks to its emotional pull.
If you want to stay ahead of the curve, study the Virtual Riot Color Bass Episode Files (WAV, Synth Presets)—it includes cutting-edge sounds used by top producers.
Final Thoughts: How to Start Producing Colour Bass
Colour Bass is all about emotion, melody, and technical precision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned producer, the key is to:
- Study the pioneers (Au5, Chime, Rameses B).
- Experiment with sound design (supersaws, wobble bass, atmospheric pads).
- Use high-quality sample packs to speed up your workflow.
- Focus on mixing (sidechain, reverb, stereo imaging).
Ready to dive in? Grab a Colour Bass sample pack and start creating your first track today!
🔥 Bonus: Free Colour Bass Resources
- Free Serum Presets: Check out Cymatics and Splice for free Colour Bass templates.
- Royalty-Free Loops: Looperman and Freesound offer free Colour Bass-compatible loops.
- Tutorials: YouTube channels like Virtual Riot’s and Slynk provide Colour Bass production guides.
FAQs About Colour Bass
What BPM is Colour Bass?
Colour Bass typically ranges between 140–150 BPM, though it’s often perceived as half-time (70–75 BPM).
What DAW is best for Colour Bass?
Any DAW works, but Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro are popular choices due to their strong MIDI and audio manipulation tools.
Do I need Serum for Colour Bass?
While Serum is ideal for supersaws and wavetables, you can achieve Colour Bass sounds in Massive, Vital, or even stock synths with the right settings.
How do I make my Colour Bass sound emotional?
Focus on harmonic richness (extended chords), dynamic contrast (soft verses, loud drops), and atmospheric textures (pads, risers, vocal chops).
Where can I find Colour Bass sample packs?
Check out Black Octopus Sound Color Bass Essentials and XLNT Sound Drops Only Color Bass Vol.1 for premium packs.
Conclusion: Master Colour Bass in 2026
Colour Bass is more than just a subgenre—it’s a movement that blends technical skill with emotional storytelling. By understanding its origins, sound characteristics, and production techniques, you can craft tracks that resonate with listeners.
Whether you’re a producer looking for sample packs, a DJ hunting for new drops, or a music lover exploring electronic sounds, Colour Bass offers endless creative possibilities. Start with the right tools, experiment, and let your music shine.
🚀 Ready to produce Colour Bass? Grab a sample pack and begin your journey today!