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.
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“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.
The 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.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.