modulation systems and parameter shaping
envelopes are piecewise functions that shape parameter trajectories over time. they define how a control value evolves during an event.
types
segments
decoration apply sinusoidal modulation to envelope segments for added texture, e.g.:
amp
(amplitude)amod
(amplitude-modulation depth)frq
(frequency)fmod
(frequency-modulation depth)sequences are ordered collections of values or control points used for parameter curves, event scheduling, or data processing.
define a control path by a list of tuples (x, y, c)
, where:
x
= time or indexy
= valuec
= curvature or tension for interpolationin digital additive synthesis, instruments can be categorized along several orthogonal dimensions to guide design, selection, and composition.
continuous: sounds that can sustain indefinitely once triggered
non-continuous: sounds composed of discrete events
pitched: percussive or struck instruments with definite pitch (e.g. piano, marimba)
unpitched: percussive noise hits without clear pitch (e.g. drums, clicks, snaps)
natural: emulations or samples of real-world phenomena
effects: designed sound events for texture or transition
cracking, impacts, metallic reflections, ambience sweeps