Vector synthesis is a type of audio synthesis that was first introduced by Sequential Circuits in the Prophet VS synthesizer during 1986. The concept was later used by other manufacturers like Yamaha and Korg in their respective instruments. In vector synthesis, four sound waves are mixed together by defining a point on a vector plane using a joystick.
Vector synthesis offers a unique way to create sounds by blending different waveforms together. By controlling the mix of the four sound waves, users can create complex and evolving sounds that are not possible with other synthesis methods. The joystick interface provides an intuitive way to manipulate the sound in real-time, making it a popular choice among musicians and sound designers. With the advancements in digital technology, vector synthesis is now available in software synthesizers, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Understanding Vector Synthesis
Vector Synthesis is a type of audio synthesis that was introduced by Sequential Circuits in the Prophet VS synthesizer during 1986. This concept was subsequently used by Yamaha in the SY22 / TG33 and similar instruments and by Korg in the Wavestation.
At its core, Vector Synthesis is all about controlling the mix of four sound waves by defining a point on a vector plane using a joystick. The joystick is used to move a point around a square plane, and the position of the point determines the mix of the four sound waves.
The position of the point is represented by values for A, B, C, and D, with each value corresponding to a different sound wave. As the point moves around the vector plane, the mix of the four sound waves changes, resulting in a wide range of possible sounds.
Vector Synthesis allows for incredibly complex and evolving sounds that are difficult or impossible to achieve using other synthesis methods. It also allows for a high degree of expressiveness, as the position of the joystick can be used to control the mix of the sound waves in real-time.
While Vector Synthesis can be a bit more complex than other synthesis methods, it is well worth taking the time to learn. With its ability to create unique and expressive sounds, Vector Synthesis is a valuable tool for any musician or sound designer looking to push the boundaries of what is possible with synthesis.
Components of Vector Synthesis
Vector synthesis is a type of audio synthesis that was introduced by Sequential Circuits in the Prophet VS synthesizer during 1986. The concept was subsequently used by Yamaha in the SY22/TG33 and similar instruments and by Korg in the Wavestation. Vector synthesis is a unique synthesis technique that allows the user to create complex sounds by mixing four basic waveforms (sine, triangle, sawtooth, and square) in real-time using a joystick or other controllers.
Waveform Generators
The first component of vector synthesis is waveform generators. These are essentially the building blocks of any sound and are responsible for generating the basic waveforms that make up the sound. Vector synthesis typically uses four waveform generators, each capable of producing one of the four basic waveforms (sine, triangle, sawtooth, and square). These waveforms are then mixed together in real-time using the vector controller to create complex sounds.
Vector Controller
The vector controller is the heart of vector synthesis and is responsible for mixing the four waveforms together to create complex sounds. It is typically controlled using a joystick or other controllers and allows the user to move between the four waveforms in real-time. This creates a unique sound that is difficult to achieve with other synthesis techniques.
Envelope Generators
The final component of vector synthesis is envelope generators. These are responsible for shaping the sound over time and are used to create the attack, decay, sustain, and release (ADSR) of the sound. Envelope generators are typically used to create dynamic sounds that change over time and are an essential component of vector synthesis.
vector synthesis is a unique synthesis technique that allows users to create complex sounds by mixing four basic waveforms in real-time using a joystick or other controllers. The three main components of vector synthesis are waveform generators, vector controllers, and envelope generators. By understanding these components, users can create unique and dynamic sounds that are difficult to achieve with other synthesis techniques.
Applications of Vector Synthesis
Vector Synthesis has several applications in sound design and music production. This section explores some of the primary applications of this technique.
Sound Design
Vector Synthesis is an excellent tool for sound design. It allows sound designers to create complex and evolving sounds that can be used in a variety of applications, including film, television, and video games. With Vector Synthesis, sound designers can create sounds that are unique, complex, and dynamic.
One of the primary benefits of Vector Synthesis in sound design is the ability to morph between different sounds. This allows sound designers to create evolving sounds that change over time. Additionally, Vector Synthesis allows sound designers to create sounds that are not possible with other synthesis techniques.
Music Production
Vector Synthesis is also used extensively in music production. It allows musicians and producers to create complex and evolving sounds that can be used in a variety of musical genres. With Vector Synthesis, musicians can create sounds that are unique, complex, and dynamic.
One of the primary benefits of Vector Synthesis in music production is the ability to create sounds that evolve over time. This allows musicians to create complex and evolving soundscapes that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. Additionally, Vector Synthesis allows musicians to create sounds that are not possible with other synthesis techniques.
Vector Synthesis is an essential tool for sound design and music production. It allows sound designers and musicians to create complex and evolving sounds that can be used in a variety of applications. Whether you are a sound designer or a musician, Vector Synthesis is a technique that you should consider adding to your toolkit.
History of Vector Synthesis
Vector Synthesis is a type of audio synthesis that was first introduced by Sequential Circuits in the Prophet VS synthesizer in 1986. The concept was subsequently used by Yamaha in the SY22/TG33 and similar instruments and by Korg in the Wavestation.
Before the advent of Vector Synthesis, the most common type of synthesis was subtractive synthesis, which involved starting with a rich waveform and then filtering out unwanted frequencies. However, Vector Synthesis offered a new way of blending and morphing different waveforms together in real-time.
The Prophet VS was the first commercial synthesizer to use Vector Synthesis, and it quickly became popular due to its unique sound capabilities. The VS allowed four different sound sources to be mixed together with a joystick on a two-dimensional plane. This allowed for complex and evolving sounds that were impossible to create with traditional subtractive synthesis.
Unfortunately, the Prophet VS was only in production for a few months before Sequential Circuits ceased operations in 1987. However, the concept of Vector Synthesis lived on and was used in other synthesizers over the years. Today, Vector Synthesis is still used by some musicians and producers who want to create unique and evolving sounds that are not possible with other synthesis techniques.
Vector Synthesis Vs. Other Synthesis Methods
Vector Synthesis is a type of audio synthesis that was introduced by Sequential Circuits in the Prophet VS synthesizer in 1986. It is a unique form of synthesis that allows for the smooth morphing between four sound waves by defining a point on a vector plane using a joystick.
Compared to other synthesis methods, Vector Synthesis offers a unique and dynamic sound that is hard to replicate with other methods. Here are some of the key differences between Vector Synthesis and other popular synthesis methods:
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Subtractive Synthesis: Subtractive Synthesis is perhaps the most common form of synthesis. It involves starting with a harmonically rich sound and then subtracting harmonics from it with a filter and volume with an envelope. Subtractive Synthesis is great for creating classic analog sounds, but it lacks the dynamic and evolving sound that Vector Synthesis can offer.
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Sample-based Synthesis: Sample-based Synthesis, which is sometimes known as Pulse Code Modulation (PCM), is differentiated from subtractive synthesis mainly by the use of samples in place of oscillator waveforms. The samples—digital recordings of existing sounds—are mapped across the keyboard. While Sample-based Synthesis can offer a wide range of sounds, it lacks the real-time control and dynamic morphing that Vector Synthesis can offer.
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Frequency Modulation Synthesis (FM): FM Synthesis involves modulating the frequency of one oscillator with another oscillator. FM Synthesis is great for creating complex, evolving sounds, but it can be difficult to control and can lead to harsh, metallic sounds. Vector Synthesis, on the other hand, offers a more organic and natural sound that is easier to control.
Vector Synthesis is a unique and powerful form of synthesis that offers a dynamic and evolving sound that is hard to replicate with other methods. While it may not be suitable for all types of music, it is a great tool for creating complex and evolving sounds that can add depth and texture to your music.
Future of Vector Synthesis
Vector Synthesis has come a long way since its introduction in the 1980s. It has been used in various synthesizers and has become an essential tool for sound designers and musicians. With the advancements in technology, Vector Synthesis is expected to continue to evolve and improve.
One of the areas where Vector Synthesis is expected to grow is in the development of more intuitive and user-friendly interfaces. As synthesizers become more complex, it is essential to have an interface that is easy to use and understand. This will allow musicians to focus on creating music rather than getting bogged down in the technical details of the synthesizer.
Another area where Vector Synthesis is expected to grow is in the development of more advanced algorithms. These algorithms will allow for more complex and nuanced sound design, providing musicians with a greater range of creative possibilities.
Vector Synthesis is also expected to become more accessible to a wider range of musicians. As technology continues to advance, it is becoming easier and more affordable to create high-quality synthesizers. This means that more musicians will have access to Vector Synthesis, allowing for a greater range of musical expression.
Vector Synthesis has a bright future ahead. With advancements in technology and the development of more intuitive interfaces and advanced algorithms, Vector Synthesis is expected to continue to evolve and improve. As it becomes more accessible to a wider range of musicians, we can expect to see a greater range of creative possibilities and musical expression.
