Link directory
Here are curated collections of links to aid further exploration for each chapter:
01 Production Analysis
120 Years Of Electronic Music
The history of electronic musical instruments from 1800 to 2019
The history of electronic musical instruments from 1800 to 2019
A Brief History of The Studio As An Instrument
In 2016, it's almost taken for granted that the "studio" (whether that's a professional recording studio, a garage full of instruments and audio toys, or simply a laptop loaded with one's software of choice) is as vital to the creation of a piece of music as any physical instrument or musical idea may be. This seemingly fundamental understanding of the studio's role in the creation of a musical recording is, however, still a relatively new concept when one considers the long history of human musical expression.
In 2016, it's almost taken for granted that the "studio" (whether that's a professional recording studio, a garage full of instruments and audio toys, or simply a laptop loaded with one's software of choice) is as vital to the creation of a piece of music as any physical instrument or musical idea may be. This seemingly fundamental understanding of the studio's role in the creation of a musical recording is, however, still a relatively new concept when one considers the long history of human musical expression.
Bleep: A Guide To Electronic Music
In 2012, Bleep.com released a 55-track compilation, charting the historical emergence of Electronic music by looking at landmark tracks, from the Theremin roots of the 1930s up to the innovators of Electronica in the New Millennium.
In 2012, Bleep.com released a 55-track compilation, charting the historical emergence of Electronic music by looking at landmark tracks, from the Theremin roots of the 1930s up to the innovators of Electronica in the New Millennium.
Does the new decade herald the death of genre?
Bronagh Leneghan explores the crumbling of the divisions between categories of music
Bronagh Leneghan explores the crumbling of the divisions between categories of music
Every Noise at Once
An algorithmically-generated, readability-adjusted scatter-plot of the musical genre-space (a ridiculous amount of musical genres, with examples!)
An algorithmically-generated, readability-adjusted scatter-plot of the musical genre-space (a ridiculous amount of musical genres, with examples!)
History of Electronic / Electroacoustic Music (1937-2001)
Playlist of important works spanning this period.
Playlist of important works spanning this period.
Ishkur’s Guide to Electronic Music
A newly updated attempt at a timeline (with examples) of all the variants of electronic music.
A newly updated attempt at a timeline (with examples) of all the variants of electronic music.
Music Theory Dictionary
This is a quick guide to common music terms. It should smooth out confusions caused by too much music jargon.
This is a quick guide to common music terms. It should smooth out confusions caused by too much music jargon.
Musicmap
The Genealogy and History of Popular Music Genres
The Genealogy and History of Popular Music Genres
Musicmap
The Genealogy and History of Popular Music Genres
The Genealogy and History of Popular Music Genres
The 14 pieces of software that shaped modern music
The following programs changed the way we think about the relationship between music and software, for better and for worse.
The following programs changed the way we think about the relationship between music and software, for better and for worse.
The best podcasts for music producers in 2023
Keep on the pulse with music technology with these informative and entertaining shows.
Keep on the pulse with music technology with these informative and entertaining shows.
Theft! A history of music
Theft! A History of Music is a graphic novel laying out a 2000-year long history of musical borrowing from Plato to rap. It is available as a handsome paperback, and for free download under a Creative Commons license.
Theft! A History of Music is a graphic novel laying out a 2000-year long history of musical borrowing from Plato to rap. It is available as a handsome paperback, and for free download under a Creative Commons license.
What is the Fletcher Munson Curve?
What are the Fletcher Munson curves, or equal-loudness contours, and how do they apply to audio mixing or mastering?
What are the Fletcher Munson curves, or equal-loudness contours, and how do they apply to audio mixing or mastering?
02 Workflow
ASIO4ALL – Universal Windows ASIO Driver
ASIO4ALL is a free and low-latency audio driver that allows users to achieve better audio performance and reduce audio latency when using their computer to record or playback audio.
ASIO4ALL is a free and low-latency audio driver that allows users to achieve better audio performance and reduce audio latency when using their computer to record or playback audio.
Endesss app
The online multiplayer loop station, with an innovative workflow perfect for generating ideas. Play solo or jam together online, like never before.
The online multiplayer loop station, with an innovative workflow perfect for generating ideas. Play solo or jam together online, like never before.
eTextile data gloves – touching the digital
Notes on the use of e-textiles
Notes on the use of e-textiles
Fadr
Creativity Enhancing Music Tech
Creativity Enhancing Music Tech
Flowfal
Motion Control for Ableton Live – Use movement from one or more smartphones or smartwatches to control audio and MIDI in Ableton Live
Motion Control for Ableton Live – Use movement from one or more smartphones or smartwatches to control audio and MIDI in Ableton Live
How Carl Cox produced an entire live album in 90 minutes
“As I was jamming I found myself making about 25 tracks”: How Carl Cox produced an entire live album in 90 minutes
“As I was jamming I found myself making about 25 tracks”: How Carl Cox produced an entire live album in 90 minutes
Imogen Heap – Me The Machine (Official Video)
Imogen unveiled the first version of 'Me The Machine' with her MiMU Gloves
Imogen unveiled the first version of 'Me The Machine' with her MiMU Gloves
Imogen Heap’s Mi.Mu gloves will “change the way we make music”
Musician Imogen Heap invited Dezeen to her home-studio to film this exclusive demonstration of her Mi.Mu gesture-control gloves, which allow her to control instruments and computers on stage by using hand gestures.
Musician Imogen Heap invited Dezeen to her home-studio to film this exclusive demonstration of her Mi.Mu gesture-control gloves, which allow her to control instruments and computers on stage by using hand gestures.
iOS Musician Apps
Database of audio apps for the Apple iOS platform.
Database of audio apps for the Apple iOS platform.
LINES
A gathering place for discussion about sound, process, art, and related technology; our areas of focus in the public spaces.
A gathering place for discussion about sound, process, art, and related technology; our areas of focus in the public spaces.
Made in Ableton Live: Zan Lyons on creating audiovisual pieces, cinematic sound design and more
Learn how Zan Lyons prepares immersive audiovisual experiences in Live, plus the processing that gives his sounds a sense of space, depth and movement.
Learn how Zan Lyons prepares immersive audiovisual experiences in Live, plus the processing that gives his sounds a sense of space, depth and movement.
Playing By The Rules (an addendum)
For the original piece, I interviewed five musicians who have used a set of guidelines or constraints as part of their work, and used quotes from those interviews. But each of the five had really interesting things to say, and kindly agreed to let me publish their interviews in full, unedited here.
For the original piece, I interviewed five musicians who have used a set of guidelines or constraints as part of their work, and used quotes from those interviews. But each of the five had really interesting things to say, and kindly agreed to let me publish their interviews in full, unedited here.
Playing By The Rules: Creativity Through Constraints
At his 2015 Loop talk, Matthew Herbert presented his manifesto for making music. As he explained, the set of rules – including the prohibition of synths, drum machines, presets, and sampling other music, for example – have guided his practice since 2005, serving to upend assumptions and help him avoid entrenched practices.
At his 2015 Loop talk, Matthew Herbert presented his manifesto for making music. As he explained, the set of rules – including the prohibition of synths, drum machines, presets, and sampling other music, for example – have guided his practice since 2005, serving to upend assumptions and help him avoid entrenched practices.
RhymeZone
Find rhymes, synonyms, adjectives, and more!
Find rhymes, synonyms, adjectives, and more!
03 MIDI Composition
Graphic notation: a brief history of visualising music
Design and music intersect in many areas; fashion, art, filmmaking and set design, yet one relatively obscure but staggeringly creative area, is in the design of graphic notation used by composers. Graphic notation is one side that is relatively unknown outside the sometimes rarefied world of orchestral and experimental music.
Design and music intersect in many areas; fashion, art, filmmaking and set design, yet one relatively obscure but staggeringly creative area, is in the design of graphic notation used by composers. Graphic notation is one side that is relatively unknown outside the sometimes rarefied world of orchestral and experimental music.
Making Microtonal Music is Easier Than You’d Think
PRO TIP: I'd recommend that while you read this article, you listen to this Microtonal Playlist on Spotify. It has almost 1500 microtonal songs by many artists in many microtonal tunings, and in many genres. It will make a lot of this make more sense. Because, you know, 'Writing about music is like dancing about architecture.'
PRO TIP: I'd recommend that while you read this article, you listen to this Microtonal Playlist on Spotify. It has almost 1500 microtonal songs by many artists in many microtonal tunings, and in many genres. It will make a lot of this make more sense. Because, you know, 'Writing about music is like dancing about architecture.'
Microtones: An Introduction
A look at the notes between the notes.
A look at the notes between the notes.
MIDI file archive
A sizeable archive of free MIDI files
A sizeable archive of free MIDI files
Music Theory: 432 Hz Tuning – Separating Fact From Fiction
In exploring the 432 Hz debate at Ask.Audio, we soon realised this topic wasn't going to be resolved in one article. Here Assaf Dar Sagol explores the fact and fiction behind tuning to 432 Hz.
In exploring the 432 Hz debate at Ask.Audio, we soon realised this topic wasn't going to be resolved in one article. Here Assaf Dar Sagol explores the fact and fiction behind tuning to 432 Hz.
Polymeter vs polyrhythm
I want to clear up some persistent confusion about polymeter and polyrhythm.
I want to clear up some persistent confusion about polymeter and polyrhythm.
The Best Generative Sequencers + Tips And Tricks
My favorite sequencers for electronic music are virtual session musicians, at their core. And the best generative sequencers provide this sort of freedom and inspiration.
My favorite sequencers for electronic music are virtual session musicians, at their core. And the best generative sequencers provide this sort of freedom and inspiration.
The Oramics Machine
The Oramics Machine enabled Oram to synthesise and sequence sound by painting lines and other marks on glass and film strip.
The Oramics Machine enabled Oram to synthesise and sequence sound by painting lines and other marks on glass and film strip.
The woman who could ‘draw’ music
One of electronica’s pioneers, Daphne Oram helped revolutionise music but remains surprisingly little known. A new play puts her offbeat life, and accomplishments, into the spotlight.
One of electronica’s pioneers, Daphne Oram helped revolutionise music but remains surprisingly little known. A new play puts her offbeat life, and accomplishments, into the spotlight.
TREATISE Cornelius Cardew. KYMATIC ensemble
Visual score for Treatise by Cornelius Cardew
Visual score for Treatise by Cornelius Cardew
Wotja® is an ‘AI-free’ system for Live Generative Music & MIDI
Use it to create & play on-device generated ambient soundscapes, textured drones, sleep music, melodies, experimental music etc. Use it for ideas, too! It's powerful, actively developed & our continued evolution of SSEYO Koan, Noatikl, Mixtikl etc.
Use it to create & play on-device generated ambient soundscapes, textured drones, sleep music, melodies, experimental music etc. Use it for ideas, too! It's powerful, actively developed & our continued evolution of SSEYO Koan, Noatikl, Mixtikl etc.
04 Synthesis
A Short History Of The Future: 50 Years Of Modular Synths
A Short History Of The Future: 50 Years Of Modular Synths
A Short History Of The Future: 50 Years Of Modular Synths
Composing Music for an Ambisonic Dome
In this video I share my experience composing a new piece of music for the 5th order ambisonic dome at Arizona State University. I'll take you behind the scenes as a prep for the composition, learn how the ambisonic dome works, and compose the piece.
In this video I share my experience composing a new piece of music for the 5th order ambisonic dome at Arizona State University. I'll take you behind the scenes as a prep for the composition, learn how the ambisonic dome works, and compose the piece.
Dan Russell’s Acoustics and Vibration Animations
The links below contain animations illustrating acoustics and vibration, waves and oscillation concepts. I
The links below contain animations illustrating acoustics and vibration, waves and oscillation concepts. I
DISTRHO: Cardinal (web version!)
Web-based port of VCV Rack for browser based modular synthesis
Web-based port of VCV Rack for browser based modular synthesis
Excite and Resonate: A History of Physical Modelling Synthesis – Attack Magazine
Once a niche form of synthesis, physical modelling is now growing in popularity, offering both highly realistic – and wildly novel – results.
Once a niche form of synthesis, physical modelling is now growing in popularity, offering both highly realistic – and wildly novel – results.
Learn Modular
Learn How to Patch, Compose For, Perform With, Record, and Mix Modular Synthesizers
Learn How to Patch, Compose For, Perform With, Record, and Mix Modular Synthesizers
ModularGrid
ModularGrid is a database and planner for modular synthesizers
ModularGrid is a database and planner for modular synthesizers
Orchestrating Synths: Layering, Stacking and Blending
Applying orchestration techniques to synth layering
Applying orchestration techniques to synth layering
PATCH & TWEAK – Exploring Modular Synthesis
PATCH & TWEAK is a comprehensive look at modular synthesizers. It explores how to build them, how to use them, and how to get the most out of them, with beautiful illustrations and step-by-step tutorials with easy-to-read patch diagrams.
PATCH & TWEAK is a comprehensive look at modular synthesizers. It explores how to build them, how to use them, and how to get the most out of them, with beautiful illustrations and step-by-step tutorials with easy-to-read patch diagrams.
patchstorage
We are a community of active audio & visual programming enthusiasts who share and discuss their patches and projects!
We are a community of active audio & visual programming enthusiasts who share and discuss their patches and projects!
Phase Demystified: Understanding Phase Cancellation
Phase interactions are well known for their ability to destructively interfere with recorded signals, but an understanding of the process can turn it into one of the most powerful creative tools available to you.
Phase interactions are well known for their ability to destructively interfere with recorded signals, but an understanding of the process can turn it into one of the most powerful creative tools available to you.
RAZOR at 10: Get to know ten essential tracks made with the additive classic
We trace a full decade of RAZOR's sonic signature – from the experimental underground to the top of the charts.
We trace a full decade of RAZOR's sonic signature – from the experimental underground to the top of the charts.
Synthesis Methods Explained: What is Physical Modeling?
Using Digital Models of Acoustic Instruments in Synthesizer Design
Using Digital Models of Acoustic Instruments in Synthesizer Design
The Ultimate Synth Glossary: 60 Essential Synthesizer Terms
This article is a complete glossary of synthesizer terms. From analog to wavetable, here’s every synth definition you’ll ever need.
This article is a complete glossary of synthesizer terms. From analog to wavetable, here’s every synth definition you’ll ever need.
VCV Rack
VCV Rack - The Eurorack Simulator for Windows/Mac/Linux
VCV Rack - The Eurorack Simulator for Windows/Mac/Linux
Which Audio Interfaces are DC-Coupled?
In order to integrate your interface with a CV compatible DAW, please continue below for a list of compatible DC-coupled interfaces.
In order to integrate your interface with a CV compatible DAW, please continue below for a list of compatible DC-coupled interfaces.
05 Digital Audio
Audio Theory – Console Signal Flow
In this video we are going to learn about signal flow. Signal flow is the path that the audio signal takes from the input to the output in an audio console.
In this video we are going to learn about signal flow. Signal flow is the path that the audio signal takes from the input to the output in an audio console.
Blackhole (audio router)
Virtual audio routing application (let's you sample from any app/browser/your system) - Mac only
Virtual audio routing application (let's you sample from any app/browser/your system) - Mac only
Gain Staging: Supercharge Your Mix With These Simple Tips
That’s why I’ve put together this list of 9 gain staging secrets. These’ll help you get the most out of each mix.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of 9 gain staging secrets. These’ll help you get the most out of each mix.
Gainstaging for the modern musician
Gain staging. It’s a popular phrase now. It was a popular phrase before, but it is now too. There was a short period in the late 80s, 90s and early 00’s where, as digital tookover, people forgot it was a thing.
Gain staging. It’s a popular phrase now. It was a popular phrase before, but it is now too. There was a short period in the late 80s, 90s and early 00’s where, as digital tookover, people forgot it was a thing.
Sample Rate and Bit Depth in the Digital Audio World
In the world of digital music production, there are many technical aspects that are often taken for granted, yet have a critical impact on the final product. Two of these often overlooked yet critical elements are sample rate and bit depth.
In the world of digital music production, there are many technical aspects that are often taken for granted, yet have a critical impact on the final product. Two of these often overlooked yet critical elements are sample rate and bit depth.
Synchronous Audio Router
Virtual audio routing application (let's you sample from any app/browser/your system) - PC only
Virtual audio routing application (let's you sample from any app/browser/your system) - PC only
What Does Analogue Gear Do To Sounds?
Bruce Aisher explores the effects of analogue recording methods, explaining why they might be beneficial to your production process.
Bruce Aisher explores the effects of analogue recording methods, explaining why they might be beneficial to your production process.
06 Creative Audio Effects
[circuit-bending] a bender’s guide
YOU can circuit-bend. The following discussion will start new benders on the right path. Also see the Anti-Theory Workshop section, the various instrument galleries and the PSF interview with Reed for additional insights into the process.
YOU can circuit-bend. The following discussion will start new benders on the right path. Also see the Anti-Theory Workshop section, the various instrument galleries and the PSF interview with Reed for additional insights into the process.
49 Glitch-Inducing Plugins & the Search for Error
What follows is a long but admittedly incomplete list of audio processing plugins that can be used to create glitchy goodness. Nearly any sort of plugin can be driven to glitch out with extreme settings, but some are more amenable to experimentation than others.
What follows is a long but admittedly incomplete list of audio processing plugins that can be used to create glitchy goodness. Nearly any sort of plugin can be driven to glitch out with extreme settings, but some are more amenable to experimentation than others.
Ambisonics Explained: A Guide for Sound Engineers
Need to mix audio for 360 videos or VR projects and not sure where to start? Get a jumpstart with this basic guide to Ambisonics B-format and a comparison with Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio.
Need to mix audio for 360 videos or VR projects and not sure where to start? Get a jumpstart with this basic guide to Ambisonics B-format and a comparison with Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio.
Convolution: The Secret Weapon Of Sound Design
In this video, we're going bravely forward into the wild and whacky world of convolution: one of my favorite sound design tools that's as easy as it is powerful!
In this video, we're going bravely forward into the wild and whacky world of convolution: one of my favorite sound design tools that's as easy as it is powerful!
Creative Convolution: New Sounds From Impulse Responses
When is a reverb not a reverb? When it's a filter, of course! There's more to convolution than meets the ear, and creative processing of impulse responses can yield extraordinary results.
When is a reverb not a reverb? When it's a filter, of course! There's more to convolution than meets the ear, and creative processing of impulse responses can yield extraordinary results.
Destroy FX: Free VST plugins, Free Audio Units
Super Destroy FX is a collection of Audio Units and VST plugins by Sophia and Tom 7.
Super Destroy FX is a collection of Audio Units and VST plugins by Sophia and Tom 7.
History Of Guitar Distortion
In this episode we are exploring distortion through the decades. We can all agree rock wouldn't be the same with out it.
In this episode we are exploring distortion through the decades. We can all agree rock wouldn't be the same with out it.
How Distortion Works in Music
In the digital world, distortion is commonly created using a technique called wave shaping, which is a cool concept that I thought deserved a blog post. You can use wave shaping to create a simple clipping distortion, but it can do a few more things as well.
In the digital world, distortion is commonly created using a technique called wave shaping, which is a cool concept that I thought deserved a blog post. You can use wave shaping to create a simple clipping distortion, but it can do a few more things as well.
In pictures: 68 pro guitarists’ pedalboards
Up close and personal with the pedalboards of the stars
Up close and personal with the pedalboards of the stars
Interview with Sylvia Massy
Sylvia Massy is the only engineer/producer to ever do a Q&A twice on the GS forums - beyond having an amazing resumé featuring the likes of Johnny Cash, Tool, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Tom Petty, Beastie Boys and way way more, she has collaborated extensively with Rick Rubin, stored her gear at Sound City where it was used by other A-list bands to make very important records, become an accomplished graphic artist and successfully conquered the worlds of both book writing (with "Recording Unhinged") and education (as a visiting professor at Berklee).
Sylvia Massy is the only engineer/producer to ever do a Q&A twice on the GS forums - beyond having an amazing resumé featuring the likes of Johnny Cash, Tool, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Tom Petty, Beastie Boys and way way more, she has collaborated extensively with Rick Rubin, stored her gear at Sound City where it was used by other A-list bands to make very important records, become an accomplished graphic artist and successfully conquered the worlds of both book writing (with "Recording Unhinged") and education (as a visiting professor at Berklee).
Learning Synthesis: Waveshapers
A Guide to Destructive Sound Processing and Waveform Design
A Guide to Destructive Sound Processing and Waveform Design
Match the Mix
Game where you adjust your mix until it sounds identical to the reference track.
Game where you adjust your mix until it sounds identical to the reference track.
Patchbays In The Modern Studio
Patchbays In The Modern Studio How To Choose The Right One For You
Patchbays In The Modern Studio How To Choose The Right One For You
Reamp boxes explained
After growing frustrated with the low quality internet "knowledge" floating around on Youtube and Reddit, I thought I'd try to settle the issue once and for all. What are reamp boxes? What do they do? How do they work? Why does Glenn Fricker say I need one? We'll try to answer all these questions.
After growing frustrated with the low quality internet "knowledge" floating around on Youtube and Reddit, I thought I'd try to settle the issue once and for all. What are reamp boxes? What do they do? How do they work? Why does Glenn Fricker say I need one? We'll try to answer all these questions.
The Basics of Convolution in Audio Production
Often overlooked, convolution is a powerful process for both standard processing and sound design. In this article, we cover how it works and when to use it.
Often overlooked, convolution is a powerful process for both standard processing and sound design. In this article, we cover how it works and when to use it.
The Difference Between Buses, Auxes, Sends, and Returns
Learn how to use your DAW's built-in signal routing features to streamline the process of mixing music.
Learn how to use your DAW's built-in signal routing features to streamline the process of mixing music.
What Distortion is Actually Doing to Your Mix
se a sine wav and a frequency analyzer to see firsthand, how distortion generates harmonics, as well as affect existing ones. Follow along to see how such a test can be performed, and then use this test on your go-to distortion plugin.
se a sine wav and a frequency analyzer to see firsthand, how distortion generates harmonics, as well as affect existing ones. Follow along to see how such a test can be performed, and then use this test on your go-to distortion plugin.
What is waveshaping? How to add color to the simplest of sounds
Understanding what waveshaping is becomes a lot easier when you realize that it does exactly what its name implies.
Understanding what waveshaping is becomes a lot easier when you realize that it does exactly what its name implies.
07 Noise and Texture
ALVA NOTO’s SOUND DESIGN PHILOSOPHY you need to know
What can music producers learn from Alva Noto? Today I will break down four lessons from his music production philosophy that you can apply to your own tracks. From granular synthesis to converting images into sounds. Alva Noto is known for his mastery of fundamental sound sources and turning them into complex, multi-layered compositions, full of granular synthesis and digital artifacts.
What can music producers learn from Alva Noto? Today I will break down four lessons from his music production philosophy that you can apply to your own tracks. From granular synthesis to converting images into sounds. Alva Noto is known for his mastery of fundamental sound sources and turning them into complex, multi-layered compositions, full of granular synthesis and digital artifacts.
BBC Sound Effects Archive
A collection of 16,000 BBC sound effects
A collection of 16,000 BBC sound effects
Cities and Memory
Cities and Memory is one of the world’s biggest sound projects, covering 130 countries and territories with more than 7,000 sounds and more than 2,000 contributing artists. With the aim of remixing the world, one sound at a time, thousands of field recordings are reimagined by our global community of sound artists and musicians to create an entirely new form of listening.
Cities and Memory is one of the world’s biggest sound projects, covering 130 countries and territories with more than 7,000 sounds and more than 2,000 contributing artists. With the aim of remixing the world, one sound at a time, thousands of field recordings are reimagined by our global community of sound artists and musicians to create an entirely new form of listening.
Freesound
Find any sound you like in a collaborative collection of nearly one million free sounds.
Find any sound you like in a collaborative collection of nearly one million free sounds.
How This Woman Creates God of War’s Sound Effects | Obsessed | WIRED
Meet Joanna Fang, foley artist for PlayStation Studios and master at creating sounds for movies and video games like God of War: Ragnarok. We step inside Sony's foley studio to see Joanna at work, turning plungers into running horses and manicotti into broken bones.
Meet Joanna Fang, foley artist for PlayStation Studios and master at creating sounds for movies and video games like God of War: Ragnarok. We step inside Sony's foley studio to see Joanna at work, turning plungers into running horses and manicotti into broken bones.
New Sounds Presents: Maria Chavez
Abstract turntablist Maria Chavez makes sound art that evokes the unconscious: quicksilver changes in timbre, random beeps and burbles, words out of nowhere.
Abstract turntablist Maria Chavez makes sound art that evokes the unconscious: quicksilver changes in timbre, random beeps and burbles, words out of nowhere.
No Input Mixer Tutorial | Sarah Belle Reid
This video is an introduction to no input mixing and a basic patch tutorial. No input mixing is a technique pioneered by Toshimaru Nakamura, which involves creating chaotic sound on a mixer by self-patching to create feedback loops.
This video is an introduction to no input mixing and a basic patch tutorial. No input mixing is a technique pioneered by Toshimaru Nakamura, which involves creating chaotic sound on a mixer by self-patching to create feedback loops.
NoInputMixer iOS app
No-Input Mixing is an experimental technique for creating a wide range of amazing, otherworldly electronic sounds by feeding the mixer output back to the input, thereby making a feedback loop. This application models an analog mixing console and effects rack in detail, providing the ability to make a huge number of feedback configurations with additional effects.
No-Input Mixing is an experimental technique for creating a wide range of amazing, otherworldly electronic sounds by feeding the mixer output back to the input, thereby making a feedback loop. This application models an analog mixing console and effects rack in detail, providing the ability to make a huge number of feedback configurations with additional effects.
Revisiting GRM, Which Was Ground Zero for Musique Concrète
GRM began life as Groupe de Recherche de Musique Concrète, a sonic laboratory founded in 1951 by Pierre Schaeffer.
GRM began life as Groupe de Recherche de Musique Concrète, a sonic laboratory founded in 1951 by Pierre Schaeffer.
Sound Tourism: A Travel Guide to Sonic Wonders
This a travel guide to our Sound World – listing places where what you hear is an important part of the experience. Find places either via the soundmap, a search or click on the Tag Cloud.
This a travel guide to our Sound World – listing places where what you hear is an important part of the experience. Find places either via the soundmap, a search or click on the Tag Cloud.
Soundwalk
Soundwalk combines roving field recordings with an original musical score. Each episode introduces you to a sound-rich environment, and embarks on an immersive listening journey. It's a mindful, wordless, renewing retreat.
Soundwalk combines roving field recordings with an original musical score. Each episode introduces you to a sound-rich environment, and embarks on an immersive listening journey. It's a mindful, wordless, renewing retreat.
Soundwalks
Some examples of soundwalks
Some examples of soundwalks
The ‘Groupe de Recherches Musicales’ Pierre Schaeffer, Pierre Henry & Jacques Poullin, France 1951
The GRM was an electro-acoustic music studio founded in 1951 by the musique concrète pioneer Pierre Schaeffer, composer Pierre Henry and the engineer Jacques Poullin and based at the RTF (Radiodiffusion-Télévision Française) buildings in Paris.
The GRM was an electro-acoustic music studio founded in 1951 by the musique concrète pioneer Pierre Schaeffer, composer Pierre Henry and the engineer Jacques Poullin and based at the RTF (Radiodiffusion-Télévision Française) buildings in Paris.
The $8 microphone that every musician should own
The video explores the potential of contact microphones, showcasing their ability to capture unique sounds from everyday objects. The creator then uses a contact mic to record a series of experiments, including capturing the sounds of ice melting and transforming a violin into a musical instrument.
The video explores the potential of contact microphones, showcasing their ability to capture unique sounds from everyday objects. The creator then uses a contact mic to record a series of experiments, including capturing the sounds of ice melting and transforming a violin into a musical instrument.
The Secret To The Gruesome Sounds In Mortal Kombat Is Exploding Vegetables
Really, the unsung artists' heroes of Mortal Kombat might just be the sound designers who sit in a room for hours, trying to smash household objects, fruits, and vegetables together in a way that sounds like a convincing disembowelment. VICE News went to Nether Realms HQ in Chicago to see what it’s like to make the sounds that make gamers squirm in their chairs.
Really, the unsung artists' heroes of Mortal Kombat might just be the sound designers who sit in a room for hours, trying to smash household objects, fruits, and vegetables together in a way that sounds like a convincing disembowelment. VICE News went to Nether Realms HQ in Chicago to see what it’s like to make the sounds that make gamers squirm in their chairs.
Turn On To Glitch With 10 Underrated Clicks & Cuts Classics
These musicians used bits of distortion, random noises, popping clicks and other sonic errors as a way to create electronic dance music, minus the dance.
These musicians used bits of distortion, random noises, popping clicks and other sonic errors as a way to create electronic dance music, minus the dance.
Wall-E Animation Foley and Sound Design
This segment featuring sound designer Ben Burtt was Included as a special feature on the 2008 DVD release of Wall-E.
This segment featuring sound designer Ben Burtt was Included as a special feature on the 2008 DVD release of Wall-E.
08 Creative Dynamics
Audio compression visualiser
Shows the effect of the key parameters involved in audio compression.
Shows the effect of the key parameters involved in audio compression.
Convolution: a form of cross-synthesis
Cross-synthesis is a technique whereby one signal confers one or more of its characteristics onto another. Convolution is a method of cross-synthesis, combining two audio sources in such a manner that, in the frequency domain, those frequencies they have in common will be emphasized proportionately, and those they do not share will be minimized.
Cross-synthesis is a technique whereby one signal confers one or more of its characteristics onto another. Convolution is a method of cross-synthesis, combining two audio sources in such a manner that, in the frequency domain, those frequencies they have in common will be emphasized proportionately, and those they do not share will be minimized.
Dynamic Range Processing and Its Influence on Perceived Timing in Electronic Dance Music
In this article, we explore the extent to which dynamic range processing (such as compression and sidechain compression) influences our perception of a sound signal’s temporal placement in music.
In this article, we explore the extent to which dynamic range processing (such as compression and sidechain compression) influences our perception of a sound signal’s temporal placement in music.
FL STUDIO | Envelope Controller
In this tutorial, we’ll explore Fruity Envelope Controller. You can use note input to trigger envelopes that automate plugin parameters. This is similar to Keyboard Controller but with far more flexibility.
In this tutorial, we’ll explore Fruity Envelope Controller. You can use note input to trigger envelopes that automate plugin parameters. This is similar to Keyboard Controller but with far more flexibility.
I Won The Loudness War
I did it. I won. Good luck getting any louder than this. You can all stop this sillyness now. Loudness doesn't matter, just make it sound good.
I did it. I won. Good luck getting any louder than this. You can all stop this sillyness now. Loudness doesn't matter, just make it sound good.
Multiband Compressors vs. Dynamic EQs: Differences and Uses
Multiband compressors and dynamic EQs are some of the most useful tools available to audio engineers. In this article, we cover their differences and best uses.
Multiband compressors and dynamic EQs are some of the most useful tools available to audio engineers. In this article, we cover their differences and best uses.
music composer’s COMPLETE guide to sample libraries
There are hundreds of companies vying for your attention – many sample instruments and plugins are good, but only a handful are great among the sea of saturation.
There are hundreds of companies vying for your attention – many sample instruments and plugins are good, but only a handful are great among the sea of saturation.
OTT Plugin: Why Does It Sound SO Good?
In this guide, we’re going to cover everything your need to know. Ready? Let’s dive in! 👇 I’ll also talk about a hidden feature of OTT
In this guide, we’re going to cover everything your need to know. Ready? Let’s dive in! 👇 I’ll also talk about a hidden feature of OTT
Sidechain Compression: Part 1 – Concepts and History
From pop to hip-hop to sound design to heavy techno, sidechaining is an essential tool for modern production. Even if you don’t think you know it, you’ve heard it: it’s that pumping sound when the kick drum hits and everything else makes way.
From pop to hip-hop to sound design to heavy techno, sidechaining is an essential tool for modern production. Even if you don’t think you know it, you’ve heard it: it’s that pumping sound when the kick drum hits and everything else makes way.
Surviving The Loudness Wars: Ambivalent On Mastering
rom the most fundamental questions of what mastering really involves, all the way through to the specific techniques used on his most recent release, it’s a revealing insight into a fascinatingly nuanced subject.
rom the most fundamental questions of what mastering really involves, all the way through to the specific techniques used on his most recent release, it’s a revealing insight into a fascinatingly nuanced subject.
The Advanced Guide to Tension and Energy in Electronic Music
The lack of information surrounding tension and energy is one of the reasons I decided to write this post – to provide a holistic understanding of both concepts, including, but not limited to: what they are, how they interact with each other, and how to think about them in relation to music production.
The lack of information surrounding tension and energy is one of the reasons I decided to write this post – to provide a holistic understanding of both concepts, including, but not limited to: what they are, how they interact with each other, and how to think about them in relation to music production.
The Art Of Production: Floating Points
Mark Smith visits Sam Shepherd's London studio to unearth the intricate methods behind his latest album, Crush.
Mark Smith visits Sam Shepherd's London studio to unearth the intricate methods behind his latest album, Crush.
The Clip-To-Zero Production Strategy
n this video (suitable for all DAWs--not just Bitwig) I explain and demo my "Clip-to-Zero" production strategy for achieving ANY desired loudness target, quickly, predictably, and with no nasty surprises during the mastering stage.
n this video (suitable for all DAWs--not just Bitwig) I explain and demo my "Clip-to-Zero" production strategy for achieving ANY desired loudness target, quickly, predictably, and with no nasty surprises during the mastering stage.
The trance gate technique
This is a tutorial on how to apply the "Trance Gate" technique. In Ableton Live, you can use the "gate" effect to cut sounds rhythmically from long, sustained source sound. This allows you to get really groovy, really quickly, and is a classic staple in many dance genres, including popular artists like Bicep, Ross from Friends, Max Cooper and Moderat.
This is a tutorial on how to apply the "Trance Gate" technique. In Ableton Live, you can use the "gate" effect to cut sounds rhythmically from long, sustained source sound. This allows you to get really groovy, really quickly, and is a classic staple in many dance genres, including popular artists like Bicep, Ross from Friends, Max Cooper and Moderat.
What is OTT compression – and how do you use it?
This influential Ableton Live preset made its way into thousands of tracks, spawned a copycat plugin, and inspired a new - and unapologetically excessive - style of compression. But why does it sound so good?
This influential Ableton Live preset made its way into thousands of tracks, spawned a copycat plugin, and inspired a new - and unapologetically excessive - style of compression. But why does it sound so good?
09 Vocal Techniques
ASA 1.9 (Max for Live device for voice control of Live)
ASA is designed to enhance your experience in Ableton Live 11. ASA allows you to control with you voice more than 140 commands, making your workflow easier and more efficient.
ASA is designed to enhance your experience in Ableton Live 11. ASA allows you to control with you voice more than 140 commands, making your workflow easier and more efficient.
Behind the Artwork: Ben Bloomberg Creates Live Performance Systems for Virtuoso Multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier
CAST Visiting Artist Jacob Collier is well known for his YouTube videos, which the 22-year-old musical phenom performs and produces in his bedroom in North London. Collier’s work has garnered praise from such jazz icons as Herbie Hancock and Quincy Jones (who is now his manager).
CAST Visiting Artist Jacob Collier is well known for his YouTube videos, which the 22-year-old musical phenom performs and produces in his bedroom in North London. Collier’s work has garnered praise from such jazz icons as Herbie Hancock and Quincy Jones (who is now his manager).
Best pitch correction plugins and apps 2025
Software to improve or enhance your vocal recordings: Get your vocals in tune or nail that incredibly popular Auto-Tune® sound with 13 free and paid-for plugins from Antares, iZotope, Waves, and more.
Software to improve or enhance your vocal recordings: Get your vocals in tune or nail that incredibly popular Auto-Tune® sound with 13 free and paid-for plugins from Antares, iZotope, Waves, and more.
Controlling Synths With Your Voice
How can we make use of that potential, in electronic‑leaning, synth‑based productions, even if (and I speak from personal experience here) we’re not necessarily a good singer ourselves? That’s what this article is all about. We’ll look at some of the interesting gear out there, and a range of approaches that can open up creativity‑loosening possibilities in this area.
How can we make use of that potential, in electronic‑leaning, synth‑based productions, even if (and I speak from personal experience here) we’re not necessarily a good singer ourselves? That’s what this article is all about. We’ll look at some of the interesting gear out there, and a range of approaches that can open up creativity‑loosening possibilities in this area.
Holly Herndon: PROTO
Brit Seaton talks to Holly Herndon about community, collective singing and AI music.
Brit Seaton talks to Holly Herndon about community, collective singing and AI music.
Holly+
I'm excited to finally share something I have been working on for the last year🪄 Holly+ I am releasing Holly+ in collaboration with Never Before Heard Sounds, the first tool of many to allow for others to make artwork with my voice, and will distribute ownership of my digital likeness through the creation of the Holly+ DAO
I'm excited to finally share something I have been working on for the last year🪄 Holly+ I am releasing Holly+ in collaboration with Never Before Heard Sounds, the first tool of many to allow for others to make artwork with my voice, and will distribute ownership of my digital likeness through the creation of the Holly+ DAO
How Auto-Tune Revolutionized the Sound of Popular Music
An in-depth history of the most important pop innovation of the last 20 years, from Cher’s “Believe” to Kanye West to Migos
An in-depth history of the most important pop innovation of the last 20 years, from Cher’s “Believe” to Kanye West to Migos
Jacob Collier gives a live demonstration of his harmonizer
Taken from Jacob Collier's livestream on Instagram on 07/24/2022 in Barcelona.
Taken from Jacob Collier's livestream on Instagram on 07/24/2022 in Barcelona.
Peter Howell gives the DOCTOR WHO THEME an 80s REMIX
Peter Howell of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop demonstrates how he reimagined Ron Grainer's classic Doctor Who theme - which was first realised so startlingly by Delia Derbyshire and Dick Mills in the 1960s - to make it 'brighter and more modern sounding' for the 1980s. He uses modern polyphonic analogue synthesisers like the Yamaha CS-80, an ARP Odyssey Mk3 and a Roland Jupiter-4, a vocoder and an old, malfunctioning phase shifter unit he found in the back of the Workshop.
Peter Howell of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop demonstrates how he reimagined Ron Grainer's classic Doctor Who theme - which was first realised so startlingly by Delia Derbyshire and Dick Mills in the 1960s - to make it 'brighter and more modern sounding' for the 1980s. He uses modern polyphonic analogue synthesisers like the Yamaha CS-80, an ARP Odyssey Mk3 and a Roland Jupiter-4, a vocoder and an old, malfunctioning phase shifter unit he found in the back of the Workshop.
Pink Trombone
Bare-handed speech synthesis
Bare-handed speech synthesis
SAM Software Automatic Mouth
Sam is a very small Text-To-Speech (TTS) program written in Javascript, that runs on most popular platforms. It is an adaption to Javascript of the speech software SAM (Software Automatic Mouth) for the Commodore C64 published in the year 1982 by Don't Ask Software (now SoftVoice, Inc.). It includes a Text-To-Phoneme converter called reciter and a Phoneme-To-Speech routine for the final output.
Sam is a very small Text-To-Speech (TTS) program written in Javascript, that runs on most popular platforms. It is an adaption to Javascript of the speech software SAM (Software Automatic Mouth) for the Commodore C64 published in the year 1982 by Don't Ask Software (now SoftVoice, Inc.). It includes a Text-To-Phoneme converter called reciter and a Phoneme-To-Speech routine for the final output.
SIGSALY – Digital voice encryption with OTP
Crypto Index Glossary Enigma Hagelin Fialka Rotor Pin-wheel TROL Voice Data Hand OTP EMU HSM Mixers Phones Bulk FILL Codebooks Algorithms Chips Cryptanalysis Toys World War II Countries Manufacturers Spy radio Burst encoders Intercept Covert Radio PC Telex Telephones People Agencies Manufacturers DONATE Publications Standards For sale Kits Shop News Events Wanted Contact About us Links Click for homepage ← USA Phone Voice NSA SIGSALY Ciphony 1 Digital voice encryption with OTP - not in collection SIGSALY was a digital speech encryption system, developed by Bell Telephone Laboratories (BTL) 1 in the US in 1941/1942, and built by Western Electric in New York (US) in 1943.
Crypto Index Glossary Enigma Hagelin Fialka Rotor Pin-wheel TROL Voice Data Hand OTP EMU HSM Mixers Phones Bulk FILL Codebooks Algorithms Chips Cryptanalysis Toys World War II Countries Manufacturers Spy radio Burst encoders Intercept Covert Radio PC Telex Telephones People Agencies Manufacturers DONATE Publications Standards For sale Kits Shop News Events Wanted Contact About us Links Click for homepage ← USA Phone Voice NSA SIGSALY Ciphony 1 Digital voice encryption with OTP - not in collection SIGSALY was a digital speech encryption system, developed by Bell Telephone Laboratories (BTL) 1 in the US in 1941/1942, and built by Western Electric in New York (US) in 1943.
Speech Synthesis and the Channel Vocoder
Chapter Four from Introduction to Computer Music
Chapter Four from Introduction to Computer Music
Talkboxes, Vocoders, and Auto Tune: A History of Voice Alteration
From Peter Frampton to Daft Punk, artists have been finding ways to alter vocals since the birth of pop music. But where did it all start and how did we get to where we are today? The human voice is the world's oldest instrument and in terms of tone and distinction, it's unparalleled. But devices like the talkbox, vocoder and auto-tune have changed the way musicians think about the voice.
From Peter Frampton to Daft Punk, artists have been finding ways to alter vocals since the birth of pop music. But where did it all start and how did we get to where we are today? The human voice is the world's oldest instrument and in terms of tone and distinction, it's unparalleled. But devices like the talkbox, vocoder and auto-tune have changed the way musicians think about the voice.
Talking Synths: Using Vocoders and Talkboxes in your DAW
Vocoders and Talkboxes are often confused in that both sound like synthetic voices and are often created using synths; they also require pretty much zero singing ability to use, which is great if you want to add lyrics to your track without being able to hold a tune. However, that’s where the similarity ends. I’m going to explain the difference between the two and demonstrate how you can get both of them working in Ableton and Logic.
Vocoders and Talkboxes are often confused in that both sound like synthetic voices and are often created using synths; they also require pretty much zero singing ability to use, which is great if you want to add lyrics to your track without being able to hold a tune. However, that’s where the similarity ends. I’m going to explain the difference between the two and demonstrate how you can get both of them working in Ableton and Logic.
The Entire History of Autotune
Video chronicling the rise of Autotune
Video chronicling the rise of Autotune
Using Formant Filters for Seriously Precise Vocals
Formant filters are all about shaping sound with resonance and precision. They can make your vocals better, transform synth patches into vocal-like instruments, and add super unique textures to your tracks. Plus, they’re perfect for creative effects, dynamic vowel shifts, and even mimicking the human voice (which is a great skill to know).
Formant filters are all about shaping sound with resonance and precision. They can make your vocals better, transform synth patches into vocal-like instruments, and add super unique textures to your tracks. Plus, they’re perfect for creative effects, dynamic vowel shifts, and even mimicking the human voice (which is a great skill to know).
Vocal Production: Guide to Professional Sounding Vocals
Mastering vocal production is key to creating music that engages listeners. It’s a pivotal component in the broader journey of music production where the unique texture and tone of a voice can be either preserved or creatively transformed to achieve a specific sound. This guide will navigate you through the essentials of vocal production, offering step-by-step guidance on preparing the vocalist for a performance, selecting and setting up gear, editing, and mixing to ensure the vocals truly stand out in the mix.
Mastering vocal production is key to creating music that engages listeners. It’s a pivotal component in the broader journey of music production where the unique texture and tone of a voice can be either preserved or creatively transformed to achieve a specific sound. This guide will navigate you through the essentials of vocal production, offering step-by-step guidance on preparing the vocalist for a performance, selecting and setting up gear, editing, and mixing to ensure the vocals truly stand out in the mix.
Vocoder VS Auto-tune VS Talkbox – Sound Design Theory
The Vocoder and the Auto-tune are two effects that are easily mistaken for one another, so I wanted talk a little about how each of these effects work so you can choose which one suits the best your music. Then let's add the talk box affect as well as it is also a popular effect to put on vocals to make a robotic voice. This would make a great opportunity to talk about formants and we can use them on synths, guitars and more.
The Vocoder and the Auto-tune are two effects that are easily mistaken for one another, so I wanted talk a little about how each of these effects work so you can choose which one suits the best your music. Then let's add the talk box affect as well as it is also a popular effect to put on vocals to make a robotic voice. This would make a great opportunity to talk about formants and we can use them on synths, guitars and more.
10 Temporal Processing
11 sample calculators
Here is 11 very cool javascript music samples, bpm and tempo calculators to help us to deal with samples, music, bpm, time-stretch, pitch-shifting, tempo, delays, sampling, rates, sample lengths, notes, sampling, frequencies, hertz, beats, measures, drum loops, transposing...
Here is 11 very cool javascript music samples, bpm and tempo calculators to help us to deal with samples, music, bpm, time-stretch, pitch-shifting, tempo, delays, sampling, rates, sample lengths, notes, sampling, frequencies, hertz, beats, measures, drum loops, transposing...
A guide to Pierre Schaeffer, the godfather of sampling
Nearly 50 years before DJ Shadow’s Endtroducing was hailed as the first album made entirely of samples, a French broadcaster envisioned a music made solely from pre-recorded loops.
Nearly 50 years before DJ Shadow’s Endtroducing was hailed as the first album made entirely of samples, a French broadcaster envisioned a music made solely from pre-recorded loops.
Can I get an Amen? The Winstons’ Classic Break Examined
A detailed examination of the most sampled drum loop in history by the excellent Ali Jamieson.
A detailed examination of the most sampled drum loop in history by the excellent Ali Jamieson.
CLONED: Dred Bass by Dead Dred
How to recreate the 1994 jungle classic "Dred Bass" by Asend & Ultravibe as Dead Dred on Moving Shadow.
How to recreate the 1994 jungle classic "Dred Bass" by Asend & Ultravibe as Dead Dred on Moving Shadow.
DJ Qbert (Thud Rumble)
YouTube channel from pioneering turntablist.
YouTube channel from pioneering turntablist.
Exchange the Experience: Kate Bush and the Fairlight CMI
As a showpiece for her signature storytelling, The Dreaming's oblique sample-based palette pulled lyrical inspiration from a wide variety of suspenseful subjects—among them Viet Cong soldiers, Harry Houdini, and the struggle of Aboriginal Australians as depicted on the title track.
As a showpiece for her signature storytelling, The Dreaming's oblique sample-based palette pulled lyrical inspiration from a wide variety of suspenseful subjects—among them Viet Cong soldiers, Harry Houdini, and the struggle of Aboriginal Australians as depicted on the title track.
From John Cage to Kool Herc: A Brief History of Turntablism
We explore the history of turntablism, from its primitive beginnings with travelling showmen right up to contemporary sound installations and the DMC.
We explore the history of turntablism, from its primitive beginnings with travelling showmen right up to contemporary sound installations and the DMC.
Learn to Create Custom Sample Libraries
The ultimate guide to creating your own Kontakt sample library from scratch including recording, editing and scripting it for Kontakt!
The ultimate guide to creating your own Kontakt sample library from scratch including recording, editing and scripting it for Kontakt!
Pitch Shifters, pre-digital
When I was doing research on pitch shifting for my analysis of the Eno/Lanois “shimmer” effect, I had presumed that I would start with the first commercially available digital pitch shifter, the Eventide H910 Harmonizer. However, it is worth exploring the analog pitch changing devices that predated the H910 by several decades.
When I was doing research on pitch shifting for my analysis of the Eno/Lanois “shimmer” effect, I had presumed that I would start with the first commercially available digital pitch shifter, the Eventide H910 Harmonizer. However, it is worth exploring the analog pitch changing devices that predated the H910 by several decades.
Pitch-Synchoronous Overlap-Add (PSOLA)
Many speech applications require the ability to modify the fundamental frequency. For a classic but marginal application, think of the auto-tune function often used in post-processing of singing voices. With such tools it is possible to change the fundamental frequency of a speaker’s or singer’s voice without changing the phoneme or timbre of the sound. One of the more popular tools developed for this purpose is pitch-synchronous overlap-add (PSOLA).
Many speech applications require the ability to modify the fundamental frequency. For a classic but marginal application, think of the auto-tune function often used in post-processing of singing voices. With such tools it is possible to change the fundamental frequency of a speaker’s or singer’s voice without changing the phoneme or timbre of the sound. One of the more popular tools developed for this purpose is pitch-synchronous overlap-add (PSOLA).
Playlist: 80s Sampler-driven Art Pop
As the 1970’s drew to a close, the by-then familiar sound of analogue synthesizers was starting to become accompanied by something new and a little strange. Join me, Matt Wild, as I explore some of the finest examples of 80s sampler-driven pop in my collection.
As the 1970’s drew to a close, the by-then familiar sound of analogue synthesizers was starting to become accompanied by something new and a little strange. Join me, Matt Wild, as I explore some of the finest examples of 80s sampler-driven pop in my collection.
Sound Deconstruction: Music Concrète From Pierre Schaeffer To Amon Tobin
We trace how musique concrète mutated from turnable experiments in the 1940s to turntable experiments in the 21st century via audio tape and sampling.
We trace how musique concrète mutated from turnable experiments in the 1940s to turntable experiments in the 21st century via audio tape and sampling.
Sound in a nutshell: Granular Synthesis
An overview of granular synthesis and the techniques involved.
An overview of granular synthesis and the techniques involved.
The Fairlight CMI: The secret composer of the music you love
An example of the Fairlight CMI, a groundbreaking synthesizer, is part of our Sound Technologies collection. Discover its history and influence on pop music through this video playlist.
An example of the Fairlight CMI, a groundbreaking synthesizer, is part of our Sound Technologies collection. Discover its history and influence on pop music through this video playlist.
Tracklib
THE ONLY 360° PLATFORM FOR SAMPLES Sample classic records, exclusive packs, and royalty-free sounds—all in one place.
THE ONLY 360° PLATFORM FOR SAMPLES Sample classic records, exclusive packs, and royalty-free sounds—all in one place.
Understanding Granular Synthesis – Introduction & History
So you've heard of Granular Synthesis and you may well have used Granular Synthesis in your tracks, but do you know what's actually going on when you hear that distinctive sci-fi or ambient sound it can produce? Well look no further, as synth royalty King Unique is back to take an in-depth look at where it all started; what's happening to the audio and the terminology used, so you can master this epic form of synthesis to get sounds unavailable elsewhere to use in your tracks.
So you've heard of Granular Synthesis and you may well have used Granular Synthesis in your tracks, but do you know what's actually going on when you hear that distinctive sci-fi or ambient sound it can produce? Well look no further, as synth royalty King Unique is back to take an in-depth look at where it all started; what's happening to the audio and the terminology used, so you can master this epic form of synthesis to get sounds unavailable elsewhere to use in your tracks.
WhoSampled (Exploring the DNA of music).
Discover Music through Samples, Cover Songs and Remixes.
Discover Music through Samples, Cover Songs and Remixes.
11 Spectral Processing
A History of Spectral Audio Signal Processing
This appendix surveys some of the highlights of developments in spectral audio signal processing, beginning with Daniel Bernoulli's original understanding of acoustic vibration as a superposition of sinusoidally vibrating modes and progressing through more recent history in spectral modeling of audio signals.
This appendix surveys some of the highlights of developments in spectral audio signal processing, beginning with Daniel Bernoulli's original understanding of acoustic vibration as a superposition of sinusoidally vibrating modes and progressing through more recent history in spectral modeling of audio signals.
A Phase Vocoder in Matlab
The phase vocoder is a variation on the short-time Fourier transform.that uses phase information to improve the frequency estimates.
The phase vocoder is a variation on the short-time Fourier transform.that uses phase information to improve the frequency estimates.
Best Audio Spectrum Analysis Apps for iOS and Android
The following contains thirteen Android and Apple audio apps for audio spectrum analysis. These apps cover a range of audio measurements, some measure RTA and others FFT, they also range in data presentation – some display 2-D graphs, both logarithmic and linear, and others display 3-D content with waterfall graphs. Regardless of the differences, similarities or unique qualities of each of these apps, they are designed with the A/V professional in mind.
The following contains thirteen Android and Apple audio apps for audio spectrum analysis. These apps cover a range of audio measurements, some measure RTA and others FFT, they also range in data presentation – some display 2-D graphs, both logarithmic and linear, and others display 3-D content with waterfall graphs. Regardless of the differences, similarities or unique qualities of each of these apps, they are designed with the A/V professional in mind.
Cecilia 5: ear-bending sonics for OSX, Windows & Linux
Cecilia is an audio signal processing environment aimed at sound designers. Cecilia mangles sound in ways unheard of. Cecilia lets you create your own GUI using a simple syntax. Cecilia comes with many original built-in modules and presets for sound effects and synthesis.
Cecilia is an audio signal processing environment aimed at sound designers. Cecilia mangles sound in ways unheard of. Cecilia lets you create your own GUI using a simple syntax. Cecilia comes with many original built-in modules and presets for sound effects and synthesis.
Deezer’s Spleeter: Deconstructing music with AI
Deezer, an online music streaming service recently released Spleeter, an ML tool used to deconstruct music into its constituent instrumental tracks.
Deezer, an online music streaming service recently released Spleeter, an ML tool used to deconstruct music into its constituent instrumental tracks.
FFT Processing in JUCE
A common question that comes up is how to do FFT processing on real-time audio. It’s not as daunting as it may seem but there are some pitfalls to avoid.
A common question that comes up is how to do FFT processing on real-time audio. It’s not as daunting as it may seem but there are some pitfalls to avoid.
I tested 9 of the best stem separation tools — here’s how they compare
The technology for creating stems from single audio files improves every year. Here, we put 9 of the best tools to the test.
The technology for creating stems from single audio files improves every year. Here, we put 9 of the best tools to the test.
Justin Bieber 800% Slower
Justin Bieber - U Smile 800% Slower! Made with PaulStretch
Justin Bieber - U Smile 800% Slower! Made with PaulStretch
Max for Live: Extreme Time Stretching with Spectral Stretch
In this post, I'm giving insights into the creation of the Spectral Stretch Max for Live Device.
In this post, I'm giving insights into the creation of the Spectral Stretch Max for Live Device.
Sonic Visualiser: Visualisation, analysis, and annotation of music audio recordings
Sonic Visualiser is a free, open-source application for Windows, Linux, and Mac, designed to be the first program you reach for when want to study a music recording closely. It's designed for musicologists, archivists, signal-processing researchers, and anyone else looking for a friendly way to look at what lies inside the audio file.
Sonic Visualiser is a free, open-source application for Windows, Linux, and Mac, designed to be the first program you reach for when want to study a music recording closely. It's designed for musicologists, archivists, signal-processing researchers, and anyone else looking for a friendly way to look at what lies inside the audio file.
Soundmagic Spectral
SoundMagic Spectral is a freeware suite of 23 Audio Unit plug-ins that implement real-time spectral processing of sound. This set of effects give you unprecedented control and creativity in the processing of audio, whether from static audio files or live audio streams.
SoundMagic Spectral is a freeware suite of 23 Audio Unit plug-ins that implement real-time spectral processing of sound. This set of effects give you unprecedented control and creativity in the processing of audio, whether from static audio files or live audio streams.
SPEAR: Sinusoidal Partial Editing Analysis and Resynthesis
SPEAR is an application for audio analysis, editing and synthesis. The analysis procedure (which is based on the traditional McAulay-Quatieri technique) attempts to represent a sound with many individual sinusoidal tracks (partials), each corresponding to a single sinusoidal wave with time varying frequency and amplitude.
SPEAR is an application for audio analysis, editing and synthesis. The analysis procedure (which is based on the traditional McAulay-Quatieri technique) attempts to represent a sound with many individual sinusoidal tracks (partials), each corresponding to a single sinusoidal wave with time varying frequency and amplitude.
Spectral Modeling Synthesis
This section reviews elementary spectral models for sound synthesis. Spectral models are well matched to audio perception because the ear is a kind of spectrum analyzer.
This section reviews elementary spectral models for sound synthesis. Spectral models are well matched to audio perception because the ear is a kind of spectrum analyzer.
Spectrum Synthesizer Bundle
Free Audio Unit devices, including some spectral processing.
Free Audio Unit devices, including some spectral processing.
THE FOURIER TRANSFORM REPRESENTING SIGNALS AS SUMS OF SINES
We may choose to represent signals using time-based coordinates or frequency-based coordinates. The Fourier Transform is our tool for switching between these two representations.
We may choose to represent signals using time-based coordinates or frequency-based coordinates. The Fourier Transform is our tool for switching between these two representations.
Windowing & the FFT – A Guide for the Perplexed
Windowing & the FFT - A Guide for the Perplexed
Windowing & the FFT - A Guide for the Perplexed
12 Dub Mixing Techniques
A Brief History of The Dubplate
Dubplates are a cornerstone of sound system culture, especially in Reggae, Dancehall, Jungle, and Hip-Hop. If you’ve ever wondered what makes these mystical items of soundclash supremacy so significant, then read on to be enlightened.
Dubplates are a cornerstone of sound system culture, especially in Reggae, Dancehall, Jungle, and Hip-Hop. If you’ve ever wondered what makes these mystical items of soundclash supremacy so significant, then read on to be enlightened.
A look into the history and evolution of dub music with Hopeton ‘Scientist’ Brown
Last year, I had the pleasure to interview one of the pioneers of dub reggae music: Hopeton Overton Brown, the Jamaican recording engineer and producer who rose to fame in the 1980s mixing dub music as The Scientist.
Last year, I had the pleasure to interview one of the pioneers of dub reggae music: Hopeton Overton Brown, the Jamaican recording engineer and producer who rose to fame in the 1980s mixing dub music as The Scientist.
ccMixter
Create with musicians around the world, through a community of sharing and open music. Explore remixes, samples and pells.
Create with musicians around the world, through a community of sharing and open music. Explore remixes, samples and pells.
Croydon, community, soundsystem culture: Tracing the history of dubstep
Discover more about the genre's beginnings, growth and evolution through Red Bull's vast archive of lectures and conversations -- and use the hyperlinked quotes within to jump right to that moment in each lecture.
Discover more about the genre's beginnings, growth and evolution through Red Bull's vast archive of lectures and conversations -- and use the hyperlinked quotes within to jump right to that moment in each lecture.
Dub Architect – Live Dub Mixing Overview
Brief overview of Dub Architect's live dub setup.
Brief overview of Dub Architect's live dub setup.
Dub Effects Masterclass with Tippy I (ft Soundtoys)
Dub music musician and producer Tippy I stops by the SonicScoop channel to show his approach to using plugin effects as part of his live dubbing setup. Using MIDI controllers to manipulate his Soundtoys plugins in real time, Tippy is able to bring compelling human performance to DAW-based music creation and manipulation.
Dub music musician and producer Tippy I stops by the SonicScoop channel to show his approach to using plugin effects as part of his live dubbing setup. Using MIDI controllers to manipulate his Soundtoys plugins in real time, Tippy is able to bring compelling human performance to DAW-based music creation and manipulation.
Dub Mixing in Electronic Music: the Hardware and Software way
After my latest performance video (link below), I thought to give you a rundown of my Dub Mixing setup, adding few more effects to check together how they sound.
After my latest performance video (link below), I thought to give you a rundown of my Dub Mixing setup, adding few more effects to check together how they sound.
Dub Mixing: What Dub Mixing Is & How To Do It
There are lots of reasons to teach yourself the art of dub mixing. It's fun, it's creative, it puts your engineering skills centre stage - and it might even make you some money.
There are lots of reasons to teach yourself the art of dub mixing. It's fun, it's creative, it puts your engineering skills centre stage - and it might even make you some money.
GIRL TALK – ALL DAY SAMPLES LIST
A comprehensive list of samples used in All Day by Girl Talk (2010)
A comprehensive list of samples used in All Day by Girl Talk (2010)
How to DUB recording your live performance in your DAW [Routing Tracks] LOGIC PRO X
This tutorial will teach you how to record your live dubbing performance into your daw, session. Using a USB Controller, Novation “Launch Control XL” and mapping techniques to dub straight back into the same session. How to route tracks and aux sends.
This tutorial will teach you how to record your live dubbing performance into your daw, session. Using a USB Controller, Novation “Launch Control XL” and mapping techniques to dub straight back into the same session. How to route tracks and aux sends.
Masterclass w/ Prince Fatty: Creativity, Mixing & Dub FX Tips
Masterclass from modern dub producer Prince Fatty.
Masterclass from modern dub producer Prince Fatty.
Mungo’s Hi Fi – Dub Tutorial
We're showing you some of our Dub mixing secrets! check the FX and techniques we use for mixing dubs in our studio.
We're showing you some of our Dub mixing secrets! check the FX and techniques we use for mixing dubs in our studio.
Muscle Memory in Music
Mastering an instrument is not just about hitting the right notes; it’s about knowing precisely when and where to place your fingers. In this article, we will discuss the basics of how memory works and how to develop muscle memory. Understanding and leveraging muscle memory can enhance your musical abilities and help you perform and learn faster.
Mastering an instrument is not just about hitting the right notes; it’s about knowing precisely when and where to place your fingers. In this article, we will discuss the basics of how memory works and how to develop muscle memory. Understanding and leveraging muscle memory can enhance your musical abilities and help you perform and learn faster.
Pheek’s Guide To Making Dub Techno
This post won’t necessarily explain how to do the typical dub techno. While I’ll cover some of the most asked questions about it, I want to expand on the philosophy and aesthetic itself so you can take the best part of it and merge it into how you work.
This post won’t necessarily explain how to do the typical dub techno. While I’ll cover some of the most asked questions about it, I want to expand on the philosophy and aesthetic itself so you can take the best part of it and merge it into how you work.
Scientist On Dub
Dub-reggae pioneer, Hopeton Brown, also known as The Scientist visits the Red Bull Music Academy studios in London in November of 2010. Here, he explains the concept of making a dub.
Dub-reggae pioneer, Hopeton Brown, also known as The Scientist visits the Red Bull Music Academy studios in London in November of 2010. Here, he explains the concept of making a dub.
Sonic spaces, spiritual bodies: The affective experience of the roots reggae soundsystem
By exploring the affective experience of the roots reggae soundsystem, this paper shows how sonic spaces can enable processes of spiritual engagement.
By exploring the affective experience of the roots reggae soundsystem, this paper shows how sonic spaces can enable processes of spiritual engagement.
The 5 Techniques That Made George Martin the OG Super Producer
From manual tape splicing to backwards voices, here are five production and arrangement techniques that became signature to George Martin.
From manual tape splicing to backwards voices, here are five production and arrangement techniques that became signature to George Martin.
The Dub Scrolls
A collection of dub production techniques
A collection of dub production techniques
The Top 10 Secret Weapons of Dub (1970s–Today)
Classic Studio Gear That Defined the Sound of Reggae and Dub.
Classic Studio Gear That Defined the Sound of Reggae and Dub.