Topmusicanswers
In this type of synthesis, additional oscillators are used to enrich and modulate the main oscillator to create a more complex tone with techniques like FM, wavefolding or additive synthesis.
- Why do synths have multiple oscillators?
- How many oscillators should a synth have?
- Why is it important to sync the waveforms of multiple oscillators together?
- What do oscillators do in synths?
Why do synths have multiple oscillators?
Most synths with two or more oscillators also come with options to make the oscillators interact with each other which creates unique timbres: detune, sync, cross modulation etc all produce sounds that are more complex (and sometimes evolving) than just adding an additional static waveform.
How many oscillators should a synth have?
Most synths will give you at least two oscillators which you can (and should) stack together to create unique sounds. Tune each one by octave, semitone, and cent, which is a 100th of a semitone.
Why is it important to sync the waveforms of multiple oscillators together?
This technique ensures that the oscillators are technically playing at the same frequency, but the irregular cycle of the slave oscillator often causes complex timbres and the impression of harmony.
What do oscillators do in synths?
The synthesizer oscillators are used to generate one or more waveforms. You set the basic tonal color with the chosen waveform or waveforms, adjust the pitch of the basic sound, and set the level relationships between oscillators.
