Synthesizer Terminology Explained®
Chapter 1 : Synth Basics
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2:03 Oscillators
Learn the definition of what an oscillator on a synthesizer is and the basics of how it functions.
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1:44 Filters
This video covers the definition of the filter section on a synthesizer, as well as how it is used to sculpt the synth's sound.
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1:34 Resonance
In this video, Thomas gives the definition of the resonance controls on a synthesizer.
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1:45 Mixer & Amplifier
Learn what the mixer and amplifier sections of a synthesizer are, and how they're used to control the audio levels of a synth.
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1:23 LFO
This video gives the definition of what a low-frequency oscillator is, as well as its function on a synthesizer.
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2:35 ADSR
Learn what ADSR envelopes are, and how they're used to sculpt and control various parts on a synthesizer.
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1:24 Modulation Routing
This video covers the definition of modulation routing on a synthesizer and shows how it is used to alter basic synth patches.
Chapter 2 : Synthesizer Controls
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1:05 Pan
See how the pan controls on a synth are used to adjust where a sound is placed in the stereo field.
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1:46 Octave & Tune
Learn what the octave and tune controls on a synth do and how they are used to adjust the overall pitch of a sound.
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1:01 Arpeggiator
Learn what an arpeggiator is and how it's used to automatically generate melodic patterns and sequences.
Chapter 3 : Types Of Synthesis
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1:08 Subtractive Synthesis
Learn the definition of a basics subtractive synthesizer and how it creates sound.
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1:22 Wavetable Synthesis
Learn the definition of a wavetable synthesizer, how it creates sound, and why it is different from other methods of synthesis.
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1:21 FM Synthesis
Learn the definition of frequency modulation synthesis and how it uses waveform modulation to produce a wide variety of tones.
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1:34 Additive Synthesis
Learn the definition of additive synthesis and how it uses sine waveforms as the building blocks for more advanced sounds.
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1:42 Modular Synthesis
Learn the definition of a basic modular synthesizer and how it produces sound.
Chapter 4 : Advanced Synth Features
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1:05 Mono Synths & Mono Legato
Learn the definition of a monophonic synthesizer and how its associated mono legato modes are used.
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0:55 Polyphonic Synths & Polyphony
Learn the definition of a polyphonic synthesizer and when to use it.
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0:39 White Noise
Learn the definition of what white noise in synthesis is and how it sounds.
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0:38 Pink Noise
Learn the definition of what pink noise in synthesis is and how it is used to make patches.
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1:34 Ring Modulation
Learn the definition of ring modulation, how it is used, and the types of sounds it is good for.
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1:21 Pulse Width & Pulse Width Modulation
Learn the definition of pulse width and how it's used to create a chorus style effect.
Product Overview
Synthesizer Terminology Explained™ is your definition based resource for quickly finding the meaning of common synth terms, features and functions! This growing collection of terminology definitions are short and sweet, and are designed for the beginner, to make sure you understand the basics and foundations of synthesizer technology.
Thomas Cochran takes you through all the basic terms you need to recognize and understand so you have the foundation to then operate and program any synthesizer, from old school analog hardware, to today's amazingly complex virtual synth plug-ins.
See the individual tutorial descriptions for more info. If you’re new to synthesizers and programming them, you need to know what these basic controls and functions do, so checkout and reference “Synthesizer Terminology Explained®” today.
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Reviews
Submitted 2 months ago
Synthesizer Basics.
If you are after a very basic explanation of Synthesizers, this is the one to get.
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 2 months ago
Not just good for synth, but for all sound theory.
Not just good for synth, but for all sound theory.
I am a: Hobbyist
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 2 months ago
The was a Rossetta Stone for me.
The section on modulation routing was the key to helping me understand how the parts communicate with each other, never had a clue how that was achieved til now.
I am a: Hobbyist, Musician, Cakewalk Sonar, Studio One
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 3 months ago
Very helpful.
Informative and simply explained introduction to synth definitions. Great for a newcomer to electronic music. Tool tips on the video interface buttons would be helpful, but are easily discovered with trial and error.
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 3 months ago
VVG
Excellent basic training, I found it very helpful
I am a: Hobbyist, FL Studio
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 3 months ago
Great basic knowledge with nice illustration.
Good for anyone begin to learn synth
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 3 months ago
Great For Beginners
Quick and easy way to get a 30,000 foot view of synthesis. Excellent explanations without getting overwhelmed and confused by the moderator's expertise.
I am a: Student, Hobbyist, Musician, Sound Designer, Reason
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 3 months ago
Good stuff
Definitely geared toward the beginner. Contained useful info.
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 4 months ago
Clear and Helpful
This course really simplifies, demonstrates and explains the terminology clearly. Making it easier to understand how controls and elements of any synthesiser can be used in practice. Some great tips on specific uses such as ring modulation, pulse width modulation, pink and white noise.
I am a: Professional, Musician, Producer, Audio Engineer, Sound Designer, Pro Tools
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 4 months ago
Good for beginners
A basic introduction to synthesis. Could do with better visuals and better sound examples. The compression of the audio in the videos creates unpleasant artefacts . When talking about modular (hardware) synthesis, it would be great to actually show at least one example. Overall it looks like a beta version of a Groove3 course.
I am a: Hobbyist, Musician, Logic Pro, Pro Tools
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Reviews
Submitted 2 months ago
Synthesizer Basics.
If you are after a very basic explanation of Synthesizers, this is the one to get.
Submitted 2 months ago
Not just good for synth, but for all sound theory.
Not just good for synth, but for all sound theory.
I am a: Hobbyist
Submitted 2 months ago
The was a Rossetta Stone for me.
The section on modulation routing was the key to helping me understand how the parts communicate with each other, never had a clue how that was achieved til now.
I am a: Hobbyist, Musician, Cakewalk Sonar, Studio One
Submitted 3 months ago
Very helpful.
Informative and simply explained introduction to synth definitions. Great for a newcomer to electronic music. Tool tips on the video interface buttons would be helpful, but are easily discovered with trial and error.
Submitted 3 months ago
VVG
Excellent basic training, I found it very helpful
I am a: Hobbyist, FL Studio
Submitted 3 months ago
Great basic knowledge with nice illustration.
Good for anyone begin to learn synth
Submitted 3 months ago
Great For Beginners
Quick and easy way to get a 30,000 foot view of synthesis. Excellent explanations without getting overwhelmed and confused by the moderator's expertise.
I am a: Student, Hobbyist, Musician, Sound Designer, Reason
Submitted 3 months ago
Good stuff
Definitely geared toward the beginner. Contained useful info.
Submitted 4 months ago
Clear and Helpful
This course really simplifies, demonstrates and explains the terminology clearly. Making it easier to understand how controls and elements of any synthesiser can be used in practice. Some great tips on specific uses such as ring modulation, pulse width modulation, pink and white noise.
I am a: Professional, Musician, Producer, Audio Engineer, Sound Designer, Pro Tools
Submitted 4 months ago
Good for beginners
A basic introduction to synthesis. Could do with better visuals and better sound examples. The compression of the audio in the videos creates unpleasant artefacts . When talking about modular (hardware) synthesis, it would be great to actually show at least one example. Overall it looks like a beta version of a Groove3 course.
I am a: Hobbyist, Musician, Logic Pro, Pro Tools
Thomas Cochran electronic musician and multi instrumentalist from Austin Texas, who now lives in Los Angeles. He focuses on creating electronic music that features both ambient and classical influences.
1. When did you start dabbling in music?
I started playing music at a young age, starting with classical guitar. This started my love for music and eventually expanded into learning other instruments as well. To date, I have had over ten years of classical experience and training as well as additional instrumental experience.
2. What training have you had?
I grew up studying classical guitar and composition and eventually started applying my classical knowledge to learning other instruments as well, ranging from violin, cello, keys, and drums.
3. When did you get intro recording?
I got into recording out of necessity when me and some friends started a band back in high school and couldn't afford studio time. Through this, I learned about music production and recording and haven't looked back since.
4. Why are you so good at training people?
I love learning about the technical aspects of music production, this helps me understand the how music production works under the hood. I have also worked for several years creating music production tutorials online.
Products by Thomas
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tutorial videoDAW Terminology Explained
DAW Terminology Explained™ is your definition based resource for quickly finding the meaning of common digital audio workstation and pro audio terms, features and functions! This growing collection of terminology definitions are short and sweet, and are designed for the beginner, to make sure you understand the basics and foundations of modern recording technology.
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tutorial videoKONTAKT 6 Explained
Studio guru Thomas Cochran presents a comprehensive video tutorial series all about Native Instrument’s KONTAKT 6 software sampler! Learn all of its features and functions inside and out, as well as helpful tips and tricks when using this industry-standard sampling software instrument.
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tutorial videoMASCHINE MK3: Advanced Note Sequencing
Thomas Cochran delivers in-depth video tutorials on advanced note sequencing with MASCHINE MK3. See the basics and more advanced ways to handle MIDI notes in MASCHINE, and get helpful tips for creating your own musical parts and ideas.
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tutorial videoReason Europa Explained
Reason pro Thomas Cochran brings you in-depth video tutorials about Propellerhead's Europa virtual wavetable synth. Learn all about its features and functions, as well how to create cool sounds via dedicated sound design technique videos!
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tutorial videoReason Grain Explained
Thomas Cochran presents an in-depth look at Propellerhead’s Grain virtual granular synth. Learn all of its features and functions as well as interesting sound design techniques allowing you to fully command this powerful synth.
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