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.
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.
Why Users Choose Us
There are many things our users love about Groove3, but a couple always stand out at the top when asked why people choose us as their learning resource.
Quality Content
We meticulously craft professional quality tutorials that are thoughtful, informative and done with attention to detail. We stand behind our products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and are trusted by 1000s of users every day.
Save Time & Money
Our library brings over 1700 hours of quality instruction to you fingertips and we release new content every week. Don't waste your valuable time scouring the web for information you may never find or is cumbersome to use and potentially can't be trusted.
Reviews
Submitted 2 months ago
Absolutely fantastic: takes the fear out of synth language
This is such a good - and thankfully brief! - introduction to the intimidating terminology of synthesizers. If you have a DAW and feel confused when using synth plug-ins because of terms like LFO, Oscillator, ARSD, and Envelope, then this is the course for you. The tutor is fantastic. His use of simple illustrations really helps you understand much quicker. Just be aware that you will need to re-watch many of these videos because it's very hard to get the full meaning in just one viewing. This is not a reflection on the tutor, however: he could not speak more clearly. I think some of the videos must have been recorded when he had a cold, because I thought it was a different guy speaking in some!
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 3 months ago
Effective intro to synthesis
Simple and Effective Explanation of how the different components of a synthesizer works! this is agreat course for anyone starting to use any virtual or real synth
I am a: Semi-Pro, Musician, Producer, Audio Engineer, Mastering Facility, Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic Pro
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 4 months ago
Very helpful
Very good overview about different parts in a synthesizer
I am a: Professional, Musician, Audio Engineer, Ableton Live, Cubase
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 6 months ago
Simple and Effective Explanation
Simple and Effective Explanation of how synthesizer works
Submitted 10 months ago
Clarifying
This was simple and very clarifying, good job!
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 10 months ago
Nice intro for synth noobs like me
Simple and to the point, great quick intro
I am a: Hobbyist, Reaper
Submitted 1 year ago
Learned a lot.
Learned a lot.
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 1 year ago
Helpful as a Refresher
Does explain core concepts concisely, but does skip a lot of important information. It is VERY brief and thus more served as a refresher rather than a beginner's guide.
I am a: Hobbyist, Musician, Producer, Beat Maker, Sound Designer, Game Designer, FL Studio
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 1 year ago
Succinct, logical
Really succinctly and logically explained. Good work dude!
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Submitted 1 year ago
Fine walkthrough of concepts.
Should have been talking more slowly. More examples (there are a lot already) would also have been appreciated.
Ease of Use Quality of Videos Value of Training Access to Videos
Reviews
Submitted 2 months ago
Absolutely fantastic: takes the fear out of synth language
This is such a good - and thankfully brief! - introduction to the intimidating terminology of synthesizers. If you have a DAW and feel confused when using synth plug-ins because of terms like LFO, Oscillator, ARSD, and Envelope, then this is the course for you. The tutor is fantastic. His use of simple illustrations really helps you understand much quicker. Just be aware that you will need to re-watch many of these videos because it's very hard to get the full meaning in just one viewing. This is not a reflection on the tutor, however: he could not speak more clearly. I think some of the videos must have been recorded when he had a cold, because I thought it was a different guy speaking in some!
Submitted 3 months ago
Effective intro to synthesis
Simple and Effective Explanation of how the different components of a synthesizer works! this is agreat course for anyone starting to use any virtual or real synth
I am a: Semi-Pro, Musician, Producer, Audio Engineer, Mastering Facility, Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic Pro
Submitted 4 months ago
Very helpful
Very good overview about different parts in a synthesizer
I am a: Professional, Musician, Audio Engineer, Ableton Live, Cubase
Submitted 6 months ago
Simple and Effective Explanation
Simple and Effective Explanation of how synthesizer works
Submitted 10 months ago
Clarifying
This was simple and very clarifying, good job!
Submitted 10 months ago
Nice intro for synth noobs like me
Simple and to the point, great quick intro
I am a: Hobbyist, Reaper
Submitted 1 year ago
Learned a lot.
Learned a lot.
Submitted 1 year ago
Helpful as a Refresher
Does explain core concepts concisely, but does skip a lot of important information. It is VERY brief and thus more served as a refresher rather than a beginner's guide.
I am a: Hobbyist, Musician, Producer, Beat Maker, Sound Designer, Game Designer, FL Studio
Submitted 1 year ago
Succinct, logical
Really succinctly and logically explained. Good work dude!
Submitted 1 year ago
Fine walkthrough of concepts.
Should have been talking more slowly. More examples (there are a lot already) would also have been appreciated.
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
-
tutorial videoAbleton Live: Beginner's Guide to Beat Making
Thomas Cochran shows you how to make your very first beat with Ableton Live! See how to produce your first beat from scratch, using nothing but Ableton Live, including software installation and understanding Live's layout, all the way to exporting your finished beat and more. This series is designed for the absolute newcomer to Ableton Live.
-
tutorial videoAbleton Live: Producing Alternative R&B
Studio pro Thomas Cochran delivers in-depth Ableton Live production video tutorials! See how to make a complete Alternative R&B song in the style of Frank Ocean and The Weekend from scratch, step-by-step using only Ableton Live. This course is for those who are already familiar with Ableton Live, but want to learn Alternative R&B sound design and production techniques. You also get the samples and presets used in the videos so you can follow along on your studio system.
-
tutorial videoAbleton Live: Things You Need to Know
Thomas Cochran presents essential Ableton Live video tutorials! Discover the things you need to know when using Ableton Live, such as cool tip & tricks, workflows, helpful and creative ways to Sequence MIDI, use effects, mix and more! These videos are for those who already have experience with Ableton Live, but want to learn more and improve their skillset.
-
tutorial videoANA 2: Sound Design Vol. 1
Synth guru Thomas Cochran presents an in-depth ANA 2 video tutorial series! Follow along with Thomas and see how to create awesome, powerful sounds and presets for the ANA 2 virtual synth. These videos are great for those who know their way around ANA 2 and some basic synth terminology.
-
tutorial videoBeat Making with MASCHINE
Thomas Cochran brings you beat making videos using Native Instruments MASCHINE! Learn to make a cool beat from scratch using nothing but MASCHINE. These MASCHINE tutorials are for those just starting out with MASCHINE as well as intermediate MASCHINE beat makers. You also get the MASCHINE project file so you can follow along and experiment.
You might be also interested in
The All-Access Pass gives you just that, instant online access to every single video tutorial currently on the site and any ones that get added during your membership.
Synthesizer pro Thomas Cochran delivers in-depth synth sound design video tutorials! See how to make and develop a wide variety of popular synth sounds, including techniques that you can use to enhance and improve any type of sound. These videos are for those who already have an understanding of how synths work and the terminology used for identifying their features and functions. Finished presets are also included!
Studio production pro Thomas Cochran teleports you back to the '80s with in-depth Synthwave production video tutorials that show how to create the sounds and produce the tracks that make this popular genre so powerful. These videos are perfect for beginner Synthwave producers or anyone looking for more insight on how this genre is made.
Synth guru Tyler Coffin brings you an in-depth series on the amazing Arturia Synclavier V virtual synth. See and hear how this synth is a painstaking recreation of the original, big dollar synth from the 80s, and how to use it effectively in your productions!
Keyboard wiz Sami Rabia brings you a cool video series on layering synths to make better, bigger and more interesting synth sounds for your songs and production. The info can be applied to any hardware or software synth!
Synth wiz Tyler Coffin presents comprehensive Arturia ARP2600 V tutorials! See and hear how Arturia has recreated a true classic synth of the '70s, the ARP 2600 synthesizer. Explore and learn all of the ARP2600 V's features and functions, as well as how to make awesome sounds with this powerful virtual recreation. In addition, you also get the presets made in the video series to experiment with and use for your tracks. These videos are designed for new Arturia ARP2600 V users.
Logic guru Larry Holcombe brings you Logic Pro video tutorials covering everything you need to know to fully understand drum synthesis and program your own impactful drum sounds from scratch, using nothing but Logic Pro! To make learning this topic easier, you also get all the patches that are created in the video tutorials, as well as the Logic Pro session and samples, so you can follow along on your system. These videos are for those who already know how to use Logic Pro, but want to get a deeper understanding of the art of sound designing electronic drum sounds in Logic Pro.
Synth wiz Michael Morrise brings you in-depth sound design u-he Repro video tutorials! See and hear how to program great sounding patches from scratch using the amazing u-he Repro virtual synthesizer, which faithfully recreates the sounds of the legendary Sequential Circuits Pro 1 and Prophet 5 analog synthesizers. These videos are designed for those who already know how to use u-he Repro, but want to see interesting ways to program patches from scratch. As a bonus, you also get the finished Repro patches and the Logic Pro session used in the videos to further experiment with.
Synth pro Tyler Coffin delivers in-depth Arturia Juno-6 V tutorials! See and hear how Arturia has recreated one of the most legendary '80s synths, the Roland Juno-6 synthesizer. Learn all of the Juno-6 V's features and functions as well as how to make classic sounds with this amazing virtual recreation. In addition, you also get the presets made in the video series. These videos are designed for new Arturia Jun-6 V users.
Synth guru Tyler Coffin brings you detailed Arturia Modular V tutorials! See and hear how Arturia has brought back the synth that started it all, the legendary Moog Modular synthesizer. Learn all of the Modular V's features and functions as well as how to make awesome sounds with this powerful virtual recreation. Plus, you also get a patch template and custom presets made in the video series. These videos are designed for new Arturia Modular V users.
Understanding Audio explores the fundamentals of audio and acoustics that impact every stage of the music recording process. Whether you are a musician setting up your first Pro Tools project studio, or you are a seasoned recording engineer or producer eager to find a reference that fills in the gaps in your understanding of audio, this book is for you.
What's better than a free virtual synthesizer? Free video tutorials for it! Eli Krantzberg and Groove3 are proud to present FREE Pendulate video tutorials. Learn all about this new free chaotic monosynth from Eventide and Newfangled Audio, that uses a brand new double-pendulum-oscillator to create previously unheard sounds. These free videos are designed for new Pendulate users.
Eli Krantzberg presents in-depth Generate video tutorials! Learn all about the exciting new polysynth from Eventide and Newfangled Audio, which combines several revolutionary chaotic oscillators. See how to create complex pads, warm moving keys, jittery sequenced basses, out-of-control leads, and mind-bending textures. These videos are designed for new Generate users.