synthesis Flashcards
What is subtractive synthesis?
Removing frequencies from a rich waveform using filters to shape the sound.
What is additive synthesis?
Combining simple waveforms (like sine waves) to create complex sounds.
What is FM synthesis?
Frequency Modulation synthesis, where one waveform modulates the frequency of another.
What is AM synthesis?
Amplitude Modulation synthesis, where one waveform modulates the amplitude of another.
What is granular synthesis?
A technique that splits sound into small “grains” and reassembles them to create new textures.
What is wavetable synthesis?
A synthesis method using a table of waveforms that can be scanned or morphed.
What is sample-based synthesis?
Using recorded audio samples as the basis for synthesis, often manipulated like a synth.
What is physical modelling synthesis?
Simulating the physical properties of an instrument to create sound.
What is an oscillator (VCO)?
A component that generates waveforms (sine, saw, square, etc.) in a synthesizer.
Name four basic waveforms.
Sine, Square, Triangle, Sawtooth.
What does an LFO do?
A low-frequency oscillator used to modulate other parameters like pitch or filter cutoff.
What is a filter (VCF)?
A component that removes certain frequencies from a signal, shaping the tone.
What does a low-pass filter do?
Allows low frequencies to pass while cutting high ones.
What does a high-pass filter do?
Allows high frequencies to pass while cutting low ones.
What is resonance in a filter?
A boost in amplitude at the cutoff frequency, emphasizing certain frequencies.
What is an envelope generator?
A tool to shape the amplitude or filter over time, typically with ADSR controls.
What does ADSR stand for?
Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release.
What is a VCA?
Voltage-Controlled Amplifier – controls the amplitude of the signal.
What is modulation in synthesis?
Using one signal to change or affect another parameter in the synth.
What is a modulation matrix?
A routing system to assign mod sources to destinations in a synth.
What is a mod wheel used for?
A controller that modulates a parameter in real time, often vibrato or filter.
What is key tracking?
Filter or modulation amount changes depending on the pitch of the note played.
What is aftertouch?
A pressure-sensitive modulation based on how hard a key is pressed after the initial attack.
What is velocity sensitivity?
A synth’s response to how hard or soft a note is played.
