Synthesizers

Synthesizers play a key role in many genres of music, especially electronic music, rock, pop, film soundtracks and ambient music. Unlike traditional acoustic instruments, synthesizers create sound electronically, enabling them to create new sounds and be a creative tool for producers, composers and sound engineers.

How is sound created in a synthesizer?

The sound in the synthesizer is created over several steps. The basis is an oscillator that produces an electrical signal with different waveforms, e.g. a sine wave, triangle wave or square wave. This signal is subsequently modified in various ways. These methods include amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM) and phase modulation. After modulation comes filtering, which modifies the sound‘s frequency spectrum to create different tonal characteristics.

An important step is shaping the envelope by means of ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release), which adjusts the amplitude of the sound over time. Various effects such as reverb, delay or chorus can be applied to further enrich the sound. Finally, the electrical signal is converted to sound played through speakers or headphones.

Types of synthesizers:

• There are several main types of synthesizers. Analog synthesizers use analog electrical circuits to generate and process sound. They are characterized by their "warm" and "rich" sound.
• Digital synthesizers , on the other hand, employ digital signal processing (DSP) to generate and manipulate sound. They offer greater accuracy and repeatability.
• Hybrid synthesizers combine analog and digital technologies in an attempt to combine the best of both worlds.
• FM synthesizers use frequency modulation to create complex sounds, and are known for their "crisp" and "ringing" sounds.
• Wavetable synthesizers use pre-recorded sound wave samples as the basis for synthesis, allowing them to create realistic instrument sounds.
• Modular synthesizers consist of separate modules that can be interconnected at will. They offer maximum flexibility and possibilities for experimentation.
• Granular synthesizers break down sound samples into tiny "grains" and reconstruct them in new ways. They allow you to create unique textures and atmospheric sounds.
• Finally, software synthesizers, also known as VSTs, run as programs or plug-ins on your computer. They often emulate classic hardware synthesizers.