Software synthesizer
 | This articleneeds additional citations forverification.(September 2008) |
Asoftware synthesizerorsoftsynthis a computer program that generatesdigital audio,usually for music. Computer software that can create sounds or music is not new, but advances in processing speed now allow softsynths to accomplish the same tasks that previously required the dedicated hardware of a conventionalsynthesizer.Softsynths may be readily interfaced with other music software such asmusic sequencerstypically in the context of adigital audio workstation.Softsynths are usually less expensive and can be more portable than dedicated hardware.
Types
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Softsynths can cover a range of synthesis methods, includingsubtractive synthesis(includinganalog modeling,a subtype),FM synthesis(including the similarphase distortion synthesis),physical modelling synthesis,additive synthesis(including the relatedresynthesis), andsample-based synthesis.
Many popular hardware synthesizers are no longer manufactured but have been emulated in software. The emulation can even extend to having graphics that model the exact placements of the original hardware controls. Some simulators can even import the original sound patches with accuracy that is nearly indistinguishable from the original synthesizer. Popular synthesizers such as theMoog Minimoog,Yamaha DX7,Korg M1,Sequential Prophet-5,Oberheim OB-X,Roland Jupiter 8,ARP 2600and dozens of other classics have been recreated in software. Software Synth developers such asArturiaoffer virtual editions of analog synths like theMinimoog,theARP 2600,as well as the Yamaha CS-80. Gforce produces aMinimoogwith sounds designed byRick Wakemanand version of theARP Odyssey.
Some softsynths aresample-based, and frequently have more capability than hardware units, since computers have fewer restrictions on memory than dedicated hardware synthesizers. Sample libraries may be many gigabytes in size. Some are specifically designed to mimic real-world instruments such as pianos. Sample libraries' formats include.wav,.sfor.sf2.
Often a composer or virtual conductor will want a "draft mode" for initial score editing and then use the "production mode" to generate high-quality sound as one gets closer to the final version. The draft mode allows for quicker turn-around, perhaps in real time, but will not have the full quality of the production mode. The draft render is roughly analogous to a wire-frame or "big polygon" animation when creating 3D animation orCGI.Both are based on the trade-off between quality and turn-around time for reviewing drafts and changes.
Software instrument
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- HALion Sonic SE sample player
- Groove Agent ONE drum sample player
onCubase6(CC-BY-SA-3.0 image)
Asoftware instrumentcan be a synthesized version of a real instrument (like the sounds of aviolinordrums), or a unique instrument, generated by computer software. Software instruments have been made popular by the convergence of synthesizers and computers, as well assequencing softwarelikeGarageBand,Logic Pro,andAbleton Live.Also of note is software likeCsoundandNyquist,which can be used to program software instruments.
See also
[edit]- Category:Software synthesizers
- Category:Music software plugin architectures
- Digital audio editor
- Modular synthesizer
- Music sequencer
- Digital audio workstation
- Sound module
- Synthesizer
- SynthFont
- TiMidity++
- Video game music
- List of music software
References
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