Synthesizer Terminology Explained^®

Chapter 1 : Synth Basics

• 2:03

  Oscillators

  Learn the definition of what an oscillator on a synthesizer is and the basics of how it functions.

• 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.

• 1:34

  Resonance

  In this video, Thomas gives the definition of the resonance controls on a synthesizer.

• 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.

• 1:23

  LFO

  This video gives the definition of what a low-frequency oscillator is, as well as its function on a synthesizer.

• 2:35

  ADSR

  Learn what ADSR envelopes are, and how they're used to sculpt and control various parts on a synthesizer.

• 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

• 1:05

  Pan

  See how the pan controls on a synth are used to adjust where a sound is placed in the stereo field.

• 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.

• 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

• 1:08

  Subtractive Synthesis

  Learn the definition of a basics subtractive synthesizer and how it creates sound.

• 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.

• 1:21

  FM Synthesis

  Learn the definition of frequency modulation synthesis and how it uses waveform modulation to produce a wide variety of tones.

• 1:34

  Additive Synthesis

  Learn the definition of additive synthesis and how it uses sine waveforms as the building blocks for more advanced sounds.

• 1:42

  Modular Synthesis

  Learn the definition of a basic modular synthesizer and how it produces sound.

Chapter 4 : Advanced Synth Features

• 1:05

  Mono Synths & Mono Legato

  Learn the definition of a monophonic synthesizer and how its associated mono legato modes are used.

• 0:55

  Polyphonic Synths & Polyphony

  Learn the definition of a polyphonic synthesizer and when to use it.

• 0:39

  White Noise

  Learn the definition of what white noise in synthesis is and how it sounds.

• 0:38

  Pink Noise

  Learn the definition of what pink noise in synthesis is and how it is used to make patches.

• 1:34

  Ring Modulation

  Learn the definition of ring modulation, how it is used, and the types of sounds it is good for.

• 1:21

  Pulse Width & Pulse Width Modulation

  Learn the definition of pulse width and how it's used to create a chorus style effect.