Sound synthesis is the electronic creation of audio signals using oscillators to generate basic waveforms. It's the backbone of electronic music production, employing synthesizers, sequencers, and Digital Audio Workstations to craft unique sounds and compositions.
Various methods like additive, subtractive, and shape these sounds. Components such as filters, envelopes, and further refine the audio. This technology has revolutionized music production, expanding timbral possibilities and influencing genres across the board.
Sound Synthesis Fundamentals
Principles of sound synthesis
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Electronic music production employs synthesizers (hardware/software instruments), sequencers (program/playback musical patterns), and (record/edit/produce music)
Signal flow follows audio signal path (source > processing > output) and uses MIDI protocol for communication between electronic instruments
Methods of sound synthesis
combines multiple sine waves creating complex tones based on Fourier analysis principles
starts with harmonically rich waveforms and removes frequencies using filters to shape sound
Frequency Modulation (FM) synthesis modulates one 's frequency with another creating complex, evolving timbres
Other methods include (stored waveforms as oscillator sources), (manipulates tiny sound fragments), and (simulates acoustic instrument behavior)
Components of synthesized sounds
Filters alter frequency content of signals (low-pass attenuates high frequencies, high-pass attenuates low frequencies, band-pass allows specific range)
Envelopes shape sound amplitude over time using stages (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) controlling parameters like cutoff or pitch
Modulation techniques include Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) creating periodic changes, following using amplitude to control another signal, and key tracking mapping keyboard position to sound parameters
Impact of electronic instruments
Expanded timbral possibilities creating unique sounds and emulating/extending traditional instruments
Changed music production/composition increasing accessibility of creation tools and spawning electronic genres (, , )
Influenced popular music integrating synthesizers in various genres (, , ) and evolving sound design in film/TV scores
Advanced technology developing software synthesizers, virtual instruments, and increasing portability/affordability of music production tools