Synth
Learn synthesis by shaping a sound you can see
Learn sound design by starting with a preset and changing one control at a time. Follow how oscillators, filtering, envelopes and effects shape the result.
Key idea
An oscillator supplies a waveform, a filter changes its frequency balance, and an envelope shapes change over time. Separating these roles makes it easier to understand why a preset sounds the way it does.
Try this first
Load a preset, hold one note and gradually lower the filter cutoff. Watch the spectrum change as upper components become quieter. Return to the preset and adjust the amplitude envelope to hear the difference between a short pluck and a sustained sound.
How to get started
- Open the preset library in the header, choose a sound and play the on-screen keys, computer keyboard or MIDI.
- Change the oscillator waveforms and filter to hear how brightness changes; adjust envelopes to shape each note’s attack and release.
- Add modulation or effects and watch the waveform and spectrum. Turn Guide on for explanations and save your custom sound from the header.
Explore a little further
Try another experiment
Choose a sustained preset and change only one parameter: waveform, filter cutoff or release time. Describe whether the change affects brightness, duration or both. Restore the preset before comparing another control.
Good to know
Several controls can change loudness as well as timbre. Begin at a comfortable volume, change one control at a time and save useful custom settings in the preset library.
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