Hologram Microcosm: How to Be Advanced

Here's 5 ways you can use the Microcosm as an engine for designing brand-new effects. Settings and timestamps below. Additional graphics and animation by John Marty and Greg Sadetsky.
Click here to listen to my album HARD FEELINGS on all platforms, it’s glitchy and hyper just like this video: distrokid.com/...
If you would like to take Zoom guitar lessons from me, click here to get started: forms.gle/nFMV...
*NOTE: All secondary parameters are set to their default positions unless otherwise noted
PRO-TIP #1: GLITCH CONTROL
Glitch: Blocks
2nd preset
Activity: 3:00 o'clock
Shape: minimum
Filter: maximum
Mix: maximum
Repeats: 2:30 o'clock
Space: 10:00 o'clock
Loop Level: minimum
Mod Freq: 11:00 o'clock
Mod Depth: 11:00 o'clock
PRO-TIP #2: WEIRDNESS FROM THE FUTURE
Granules: Tunnel
1st preset
Activity: maximum
Shape: minimum
Filter: maximum
Mix: 12:00 o'clock
Repeats: maximum
Space: minimum
Loop Level: minimum
Mod Freq: 1:00 o'clock
Mod Depth: 12:00 o'clock
PRO-TIP #3: INFINITY TOWN
Micro Loop: Seq
1st preset
Activity: maximum
Shape: maximum
Filter: maximum
Mix: maximum
Repeats: 4:00 o'clock
Space: minimum
Loop Level: minimum
*NOTE: for the particular song I recorded with these settings for this video, I used MIDI to set the BPM of the Microcosm to precisely match the track I was trying to put together. (It was 159 BPM.) I've never been good at dialing in tap tempos, especially when it needs to be dead-on the way it didfor this particular track. If you're good at tapping your foot though, you may not need to resort to MIDI.
PRO-TIP #4: INDESCRIBABLE
Granules: Strum
2nd preset
Activity: maximum
Shape: maximum
Filter: maximum
Mix: 2:00 o'clock
Repeats: minimum
Space: 10:30 o'clock
Loop Level: minimum
PRO-TIP #5: NOT-TRENDY LO-FI GUITAR
Granules: Haze
1st preset
Activity: maximum
Shape: maximum
Filter: 4:00 o'clock
Mix: maximum
Repeats: 2:00 o'clock
Space: minimum
Loop Level: minimum
Mod Freq: low
Mod Depth: moderately high
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Intro
0:30 Pro-Tip #1: Glitch Control
1:11 Sound Example #1
2:09 Pro-Tip #2: Weirdness from the Future
2:51 Sound Example #2
3:49 Pro-Tip #3: Infinity Town
4:25 Sound Example #3
5:09 Pro-Tip #4: Indescribable
5:25 Sound Example #4
6:15 Pro-Tip #5: Not-Trendy Lo-Fi Guitar
6:41 Sound Example #5

[@michaelkeller21]

You are a true artist, a genuine talent and I cheer for you to get the success you deserve. (Comment applies to your body of work not just Hologram vid.)

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thanks for this, I believe we’ll get there

[@rushcentrale]

I went out and bought a Microcosm because of this man and all these Pro Tip settings worked!!!! 🤯🤯🙌 🙌🙌

[@Interstellore]

this is one of the best things i have ever seen on youtube. the storytelling and creativity is off the charts

[@CyberattackWorld]

thank you skeleton

[@mike.mccarver9068]

I have watched hours of KZbin demos of this pedal, and this is definitely one of the best! Thank you for doing these.

[@INTOTHETERROR]

You're the first video that didn't play the same old ambient/blues which just make this pedal sound boring. Amazing.

[@Simto]

I like that this is your first How to Be Advanced video where you're not trying to break a pedal, but you're actually "just" playing it. It speaks volumes what this pedal is all about and what you can do with it. So many amazing sounds in this pedal. I REALLY want it, but I have no idea why they wouldn't put a preset footswitch on the pedal, or at least let you change one of the footswitches to swap between presets by changing global settings. Especially given it's physical size. It's a very crucial feature to me at least and not too keen on the having to get a separate box to flip between them without bending over and turning the knob. I still want it bad though.

[@tylerzanona2591]

You are the real real man. I'm obsessed with your videos and vibe.

[@jesselough]

Please give us 5 more 🙏 microcosm is so deep im sure you can find many more pro tips

[@hiddenagenda1779]

Yes, or write a booklet. I'd be happy tp purchase that!

[@fallprecauxionsmusic]

I'd buy that!!

[@edgardvera3132]

Fantastic examples! You brought this pedal to the next level, much more usable stuff than most reviewers.

[@JohnWWarrenGuitar]

Nice video. It makes me realize that I need to spend more time exploring the sounds of this pedal. I’ve gotten so I kind of live in Mosaic 3 mode, and a few others including Strum, sounds that have been working well for me, but there are so many more sounds in this instrument. It is an instrument. Here’s my pro tip: use the OBNE Expression Ramper to control the Mix of the Microcosm, so you can go from a subtle 15-20% mix to a more prominent 60% or even 100% mix. It’s been a game changer for me.

[@CyberattackWorld]

Love it

[@Blacktarprophecies]

I've been waiting for you to get your hands on this 🤠

[@CyberattackWorld]

PRO-TIP #6: if you're thinking about buying gear, and you want to support my channel while doing so, use this affiliate link to do your shopping: bit.ly/3IsCN4n I'll get a small commission on whatever you put in your cart after clicking on that link. Thanks in advance and have fun.

[@Zoso_1990]

That "indescribable" sound was gorgeous.

[@breitbanddesign]

i just found your channel on my search for knowledge about weird pedals. but what i found was awesome music here! it‘s totally amazing, what you create here in terms of beautiful sounds! chapeau deluxe!!! 👍👍👍👍

[@jorgesierra3203]

I've had the microcoosm for a while and you just unlocked some great sounds for me!

[@jesselough]

SO hyped to try all of these. Literally the first list of suggested settings I’ve ever given a shit about.

[@hiddenagenda1779]

I can only echo the remarks of others here in thanks for producing this most helpful vid! Especially helpful are the graphics you generously provided. The depth of sound this box is capable of is beyond any stompbox I have encountered. They are NOT readily apparent. And as such it has mysteries in the way they variously interact. Your presentation has helped unlock some of these mysteries for me. I will remember Tip 6 and fave this channel!😁

[@CyberattackWorld]

glad to hear it man, and i love that you made it to pro-tip #6

[@AudiomoMusic]

I've always been an extremely bare bones player with modulation and time based effects sans tube driven amp reverb and tremolo for the majority of my guitar playing life due to the acts i've been in, but watching stuff like this in the manner in which you present it really makes me want to add this to my arrangements and writing. I get really overwhelmed by how complex this stuff is at times, but you really do a good job of explaining it to idiots like me. Thanks for that and good work as always.

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thanks man. 2 things: from what I’ve seen you’re no idiot. And FWIW I often feel as though I barely understand what pedals like this are doing, but if I can find a sound I like, I just write down the settings and let that be enough. There are times when the hardest part is figuring out what to say about it in the talking part of the video-like in this video my explanation of #4 is basically a shrug.

[@J5L5M6]

I've been reading and watching stuff on this pedal for a few days now. As a guitarist who also loves playing synths, I think you've provided one of the most valuable reviews, man. Thank you! P.S. The animations are a baller touch. P.P.S. I'm sure you've explained the cover song on someone's comment already, but I couldn't help but enjoy how similar "Sound Example #4" sounds like "The Mercury Girl" by Cleaners From Venus.

[@CyberattackWorld]

thanks for the comment, and also i had never realized that about sound example #4. really cool. if you want the most hardcore information possible about what's going on with the cover songs in this video and every video i've made, click here: bit.ly/3vZ0yft

[@J5L5M6]

@@CyberattackWorld stelllar, thanks for the document!🖤

[@tinman2420]

Love it, I came back for the vibe of your tracks. Your doing everything so right!

[@CyberattackWorld]

that's awesome thank you

[@ShaighJosephson]

There's alot of hidden tricks under the hood of this pedal... Thanks for the tips... ☺️

[@joelanderson9823]

Again, sick video! Love the infinite slap backs one. Very cool. Also the use of nin's Capital G drums was a welcome left fielder for me! That was a beautiful contrast against the chill harmony.

[@CyberattackWorld]

oh man good ears that you caught that

[@paulrye4597]

Found myself mostly just nodding and smiling through this one. It's the baby, for sure. Excited to play with the strum setting more after seeing how you use it.

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thanks. Strum is super cool-it can also produce some weird cello like artifacts if you slow it down. Have fun

[@josephwright5921]

I have owned my pedal for two years now and am still discovering new things about it! You shared some great tips, write nice with it and your video footage is entertaining as well. I hope you get a happy return on investment!

[@alvaroapablaza5471]

i've had this pedal for two years and you explained it in a way i could never in less than 8 minutes. where have you been sir? great stuff

[@MrKadidle51]

Holy fuck your timing is amazing. I just ordered this and was hoping you would cover it

[@CyberattackWorld]

Having a good time feel is the most important thing for any musician regardless of genre!!!!!

[@MrKadidle51]

@@CyberattackWorld mine is coming in the December batch. I'm super stoked. The infinite repeats thing gives me a ton of ideas. Plus a bunch of other stuff. I've heard others say it's like an instrument unto itself so I'm anxious as hell about it

[@nikola.kovacevic]

Nice "As" reference in the first tip!

[@CyberattackWorld]

you win

[@rikkousa]

@@CyberattackWorld all 5 compositions were awesome. I will buy your EP/LP to hear more. My guess is that the cover is #3 or #4 ..they were my favourite.

[@CyberattackWorld]

@@rikkousa thanks, I’m glad those were your faves. The cover was #1!

[@hexwavemusic]

Awesome, I'll be saving all of these as user presets, thanks 🙏

[@LOLUXMUSIC]

always love your stuff. I have the microcosm and will def try these out!

[@jessetoews2446]

Nice tips! The music with the animation is epoch💯

[@CyberattackWorld]

Glad you dig it, thank you

[@HazeAnderson]

Bravo! I think you achieved some very usable effects out of this beast of a pedal that are not just for ambient tracks! I know what song you are going to cover: "I Will Always Love You" by Dolly Parton. :)

[@jamesburtle5297]

You're really fun, man. And your music is great! Thanks! (my Microcosm is on order. Looking forward to it)

[@NicolasMelis]

great! thanks for this 🙌

[@YukiTheSynthDragon]

Great video as always ! Very fun and glitchy. I have wanted one for a while and will pick up one when I get some extra cash more than likely. Can't wait to see what you do in the future, especially with the bitmap !

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thank you, Bitmap is coming soon!

[@anonymous_friend]

Nice examples!

[@soundbyjake]

Wow really amazing little tunes you created with those sounds. Thanks for the settings suggestions!

[@craigwood8862]

And infinity town is like my favourite of these - straight to the studio I go!

[@nottaller1993]

Great demo as always! I wanted to like the Microcosm, but it all sounded so same-y to me that I couldn’t justify keeping it so I ended up selling it this month. Really love that Slap Back sound you got though!

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thanks. I trust you got some decent resale value

[@maximhelincks]

Amazing, thanks

[@james9802]

Murdering people with insane pedal settings yet again. All is right with the world

[@Stanelyrichard11]

#4 Sounds like “Sometimes It Snows In April” but the cover version by Meshell Ndegeocello Sounds great.

[@CyberattackWorld]

that's not what I had in mind when I was doing it, but I totally hear it that way now, great call. and thank you

[@CaidicusProductions]

Great video, brotherman. Thank you for the excellent tips and the sweet visuals during your playing.

[@CyberattackWorld]

i'm glad you dig it caidicus

[@theknotsewsuite]

Excellent showcasing of this amazing pedal/fx unit!

[@coronelsakura2841]

Great and the accompanying videos are fantastic!

[@oliverhazard73]

once again, blown away by how great your videos are. Thank you

[@alfredex22]

Great video! Subscribed!

[@Arfenhaus]

Holy shit just discovered your channel way deep down a YT rabbit hole. What a find. Insta sub. Great video too - been looking for a decent deep dive into how to make this microcosm pop. Thanks. (Really love the aesthetic of your vids too dude)

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thanks man

[@rushcentrale]

Sound Example #2 is a beautiful piece of music. Unique chord changes that to me sound like late 70s music played by AI musicians from the future trying to sound like musicians from the late 70s.

[@Kkidzz]

4:25 That is an F'ing Single!!! I was adding a bass line with my Ric 4001 .......you NEED to flesh this one out! Could see Gaz Coombes(Supergrass) adding vox to it......... ;)

[@ericamoretti5148]

Amazing work, as usual.

[@christophermaxieii8727]

Immediately subscribed. Blessings brother 🙏 🎶

[@outerdarkness]

Very Nice....

[@craigwood8862]

This is great! I was about to give up on the pedal for guitar. Good luck with the songs

[@joshmiller2446]

Damn it dude! Gonna be working a bunch of overtime now to buy an op-1 and a bunch of other pedals you are doing pro tips on😆

[@AuzinsMarcis]

good job

[@TomMilleyMusic]

Seems almost like this pedal was made for you. Cool stuff man, digging the vibes you're getting with this

[@tokingreens]

Thank you and Happy New Year! Great preset ideas - I ordered mine yesterday.

[@banwavy]

That chord change on Pro Tip 2. 🤤

[@CyberattackWorld]

i'm glad you love that as much as i do, why is it so good

[@_greenkelly]

sound example #3 reminded me of Grudges by Paramore, nice!

[@phladjki]

Great video and sweet sounds! You mentioned that many “lo-fi” guitar sounds are getting kinda played out. Where are you hearing this stuff? Are there genre’s of musicians on spotify etc using tons of these sounds?

[@CyberattackWorld]

Hey thanks. I think if you search for lo-fi as a genre, you'll find a lot. And just to be clear, I think a lot of it sounds cool, there's just so much cool stuff going on that it's getting increasingly hard to find new angles on lo-fi sounds. However this is more of a gut feeling I have than a rigorous survey of the genre.

[@jasonmcgary]

Thank you this video has taught me the microcosm.i was thinking my pedal was broken

[@tablaninja]

Great video!! And your tracks showing how the effects can be used are killer

[@CyberattackWorld]

thank yo

[@agrpofpenguins]

Insta subscribed because of this video. Please do another one with the microcosm!

[@olivermartin5016]

this is the coolest channel ever

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thank you

[@fallprecauxionsmusic]

I'm guessing #4 is the cover. (this vid is kinda old now, by modern day internet & youtube standards, so... I'll scour the comment section to see if I'm right.) but... GREAT VID!! very helpful. thank you, cyberattack!!

[@CyberattackWorld]

the answer is in the comments somewhere, but if it's buried there's always this: //bit.ly/3vZ0yft thanks for the comment

[@itsjustglass01]

didnt know which one was the cover but each song played by you sound doped the whole video was dope fim going to try to run a the microcasm pedal witht he sp404 i think it will be dope. 💚✨

[@MrPinkfloydian]

This one was GREAT... and funny. Subscribing!

[@DJ-Lazy-Lodger]

considering this one too;-)

[@JORDANWTF]

sound example 2 is still nasty till this day

[@gazeunderthesunmusic]

Good work dude. I use a Loomer pedal by Keeley, I was wondering if you show me hardcore tips to use the Loomer pedal in a different way than the my Bloody Valentine sound

[@CyberattackWorld]

I don’t have a loomer, but if I ever get one this dream of yours will become reality, I promise

[@gazeunderthesunmusic]

@@CyberattackWorld in my opinion, it's favourite pedal, especially playing shoegaze.

[@hybridsoul2]

Nice tunes!

[@sonandar]

Great stuff dude!

[@profssrfink8073]

Are you a video game designer or do you plan on being one? Also, when was the last time you had to repair the threshold to a door? Man I bet those are tough.

[@laserglove9736]

Your music is really good.

[@CyberattackWorld]

thank u scuba mask, remember to be safe when scuba diving always

[@AkAMuzik]

Is there to your knowledge a vst equivalent of Microcosm ?

[@craigwood8862]

I have tried to recreate these settings for infinity town. I find that relative to the initial note the repeat noises get quieter quickly. Do you use a compressor after the Micrososm ? Any other tricks maybe? Is there an internal setting for that repeated noise level

[@CyberattackWorld]

Try turning up the Repeats even higher than what my setting was. Also I was running the Microcosm into a pretty overdriven amp, so that was providing some compression.

[@craigwood8862]

@@CyberattackWorld thanks, I’ll try that. Love the games riff and the graphics

[@danielreizinger548]

this is amazing thank you

[@videophotozama5666]

Awesome music! Where can we listen to your record?

[@CyberattackWorld]

man thanks for your interest: distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cyberattack/hard-feelings

[@NohFyuchur]

Wow wonderful..is this album out yet, cuz i love these songs

[@CyberattackWorld]

Thanks for the comment, it's not out yet but the last one can be heard here: distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cyberattack/hard-feelings

[@NohFyuchur]

@@CyberattackWorld thanks man. Your work is much appreciated

[@acousticshred]

Does. Not. Give. A. Hoot. Trashy, dumb keep-it-simple-stupid execution resulting in a flawless demo of a crazy cool device. I never comment on these things, and I don’t need to watch any more KZbin videos for the day now. Made my week. ✌️👽

[@CyberattackWorld]

this comment does not end up where I expected it to. glad you enjoyed the vid

[@BigCityRips]

I feel like I’ve seen overlays you can slap on this pedal to recall your favorite settings. Yeah, you could put them in your presets but I’m too lazy to go through all that. What I’m trying to say is, I think putting these settings on a cheat sheet or quick guide is a great idea😭

[@StephenMcLeod]

Real good

[@Painsoreal]

I really like visual hah

[@Herfinnur]

Dude, I had this nagging feeling that I'd heard Sound example #1 before! It's "As" (by Stevie Wonder?), right? Looking forward to that new album

[@CyberattackWorld]

Yes good ears

[@matthewdavis473]

I think the song during the indescribable section is the cover. It’s either Janes Addiction or Porno for Pyros I can’t quite remember

[@CyberattackWorld]

At least in my mind, I thought that one was something I made up (I like those bands though). If you want the answer I pinned a comment where somebody names the cover song. Thanks for checking out the video

[@sonalsystem]

3:11 🔥🔥🔥👍

[@haydenstulen3422]

4:29 kinda sounds like burn the witch by Radiohead!

[@guythatshoots27]

Yo the last song has the drums from Capial G by Nine Inch Nails

[@badstream1986]

❤️

[@lockeempty4333]

awesome video as ever... any hot tips for the POG2?

[@CyberattackWorld]

I have a POG1 and want to make a video about it at some point. One thing I love is running it into an overdrive with the POG dry level maxed and a touch of sub octave, it creates sort of an ultra distortion. When/if I make the video I will explain more. Thanks for supporting the channel.

[@dewberry3043]

Subscribed!

[@clydechildress4413]

Stevie Wonder " I'll be loving you always "

[@CyberattackWorld]

yup

[@Kkidzz]

If you’re not familiar with the artist/band Vini Reilly/Durutti Column, you should check him out. You’re playing style reminds me a lot of his. 😉

[@chambre466]

yeah

[@jonhudson7098]

Capital G by NIN?

[@bambumbambu]

can to do a tear down? or at least put some pictures from inside?

[@willswitchcraft]

awesome upload........BTW .....I have a few Microcosm videos on my channel, and judging by your flight case, you may also enjoy some of my VH tour videos......

[@alejandrorivara5963]

Suscribed

[@sleepmovies1956]

goood shit this helps friend

[@Avi_burn]

Was there a nine inch nails cover in there?

[@CyberattackWorld]

not exactly