Sound Synthesis 101

Understanding sound synthesis is critical for crafting authentic synthwave music. It allows composers to create the unique timbres and textures that are the foundation of this retro-futuristic genre. This chapter dives into the fundamental concepts of sound synthesis, the various synthesis methods, and practical tips for applying these techniques in your compositions.

What is Sound Synthesis?

Sound synthesis is the process of generating audio signals using various techniques and methods. This can involve creating sounds from scratch or modifying existing sounds. In synthwave, synthesis plays an essential role in generating the lush pads, punchy basses, and soaring leads that characterize the genre.

Basic Components of Sound Synthesis

Before delving into specific synthesis methods, it’s important to understand the basic components that define synthesized sound:

  1. Oscillators

    • Produce sound waves with different shapes (sine, square, sawtooth, triangle, etc.). The waveform chosen greatly affects the sound's character.
    • Example: A sawtooth wave creates a bright and harmonically rich sound, while a sine wave produces a smooth and pure tone.

  2. Filters

    • Modify the harmonic content of the sound by allowing certain frequencies to pass while attenuating others. Common filter types include low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and notch filters.
    • Tip: Use a low-pass filter to soften harsher sounds and give warmth to a pad, or high-pass filters to remove unwanted low-end from a lead.

  3. Envelope Generators

    • Control how the sound changes over time, typically represented in four stages: Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release (ADSR). This modulation shapes the initial sound and its evolution.
    • Example: A slow attack time on a pad can create a swelling effect, while a fast attack is great for leads and percussion.

  4. LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators)

    • Used to modulate parameters such as pitch, volume, or filter cutoff. They add movement and interest to sound by creating fluctuations.
    • Application: An LFO modulating the filter cutoff can create a “wobbly” sound, often used in synthwave bass lines.

  5. Effects

    • Add depth and character to the sound. Common effects include reverb, delay, chorus, and distortion. Each effect can dramatically alter the perception of the sound.
    • Tip: A chorus effect can make leads sound fuller and more lush, while reverb can create a sense of space and ambiance in your tracks.

Types of Sound Synthesis

There are several synthesis methods commonly used in music production, each with its unique strengths:

1. Subtractive Synthesis

  • The most common type of synthesis used in synthwave. It begins with a harmonically rich waveform and uses filters to subtract frequencies.
  • Application: Start with a sawtooth waveform, apply a low-pass filter, and shape the sound using an ADSR envelope for a classic synth sound.

2. Additive Synthesis

  • Constructs sounds by combining multiple sine waves at various frequencies. This method allows for creating very complex and harmonically rich sounds.
  • Application: Useful for generating unique pads or bells by layering simple waveforms to build up a sound.

3. FM (Frequency Modulation) Synthesis

  • Involves using one oscillator (the modulator) to control the frequency of another oscillator (the carrier). This method produces rich, metallic tones.
  • Application: Excellent for creating bell-like sounds or complex, evolving textures that can add depth to your compositions.

4. Wavetable Synthesis

  • Utilizes a table of waveforms that can be scanned through or manipulated. This allows for the creation of evolving sounds over time.
  • Application: Provides a unique way to create evolving synthetic textures or a variety of sound over a single note.

5. Granular Synthesis

  • Breaks audio samples into small grains and allows manipulation of these grains. This method creates unique textures and soundscapes.
  • Application: Used to create ambient pads or soundscapes with evolving textures that fit well within synthwave tracks.

Practical Tips for Sound Design

  • Start Simple: Begin with basic waveforms and gradually introduce complexity by layering sounds or using modulation.
  • Use Presets as a Launchpad: Explore presets in your synths to understand how different parameters affect the sound, and then tweak them to create something unique.
  • Curate Your Sound Palette: Build a collection of sounds and patches that resonate with the synthwave aesthetic. This will streamline your workflow in future projects.
  • Embrace Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to try unconventional sound design methods. This creative exploration can often lead to the most unique and memorable sounds.

Conclusion

Understanding sound synthesis is vital for any composer looking to create authentic synthwave music. By mastering the fundamental components of sound synthesis and harnessing various synthesis techniques, you can craft rich sonic palettes tailored for trailer music and beyond. In the next chapters, we will explore how to apply these synthesized sounds effectively within your compositions to enhance the emotional and cinematic experience.