What is an analog synthesizer and what is it like?

Keyboards are among the top most popular musical instruments. And although the synthesizer has been known for decades, few people think about how it works. Many questions arise when it comes to the analog variety.

A musical device that reproduces sounds using an analog signal is called an analog synthesizer. The analog signal is changed electricity. Its application in music allows not only to reproduce the sound of other instruments, but also to create new sounds: noises, interference, the sound of pulsation. With an analog synthesizer, you can create a unique sound by changing its settings.

The following can be said about the device of this device.

• The main part of the instrument is the oscillator. It is a generator that creates a certain type of wave. Each wave has a different frequency and amplitude. The more oscillators, the more saturated and deep the sound will be.
• An important device is a filter with which you can change sound waves. The filter makes the sound either blurry or harsh and loud.
• In an analog synthesizer, there is an amplifier that is responsible for the length of the sound, its head, and also attenuation. A separate regulator is used for each of the parameters.
• Modifies the signal and low frequency generators. They produce waves that are not audible to the human ear, but affect other frequencies, adding different effects. Bass generators can be used to give a signal a quivering sound.
• The sound synthesis ends in the effect block, which can be part of the instrument or connected to it with wires.

In general, an analog synthesizer is a music-making machine. Knowledge to play the piano is not enough to play the synthesizer. After all, they do not just play on it, they reproduce sounds previously unknown on it, and change them to suit your taste.

In addition to the ability to play music, the synthesizer allows you to record it from samples and loops. Samples are recorded fragments of sound or music, for example, rain, city noise, whistling, etc. With the help of a synthesizer, you can record such a sound, change and embed it in the main melody.

There are a lot of styles for creating music in which analog synthesizers are used. The most popular are electronics, techno, disco, house, drum and bass and electro.

Also, such devices are often used to sound films and cartoons. Using an analog signal, lasers, spaceships, mechanical devices and even robots are voiced.

This view only plays one note at a time. A chord can be played with multiple oscillators. To do this, you need to configure the interval on the generators.

Most often, monophonic synthesizers are used to create bass lines, iridescent sounds, and chaotic noises.

On such a synthesizer, you can play several notes at once. But you won't be able to change them individually. Sounds played at the same time will pass through the amplifier and filter block.

The polyphonic device is closest to the piano, since the sounds are separate and independent from each other. This polyphonic instrument is perfect for playing complex chords and musical harmonies. At the same time, the change in sound is limited only by the imagination of the musician.

Virtual simulators can be distinguished as a separate type of analog synthesizer, which are installed on a computer in the form of programs. There are also many online applications for anyone who wants to "touch" keyboard music. Of course, in comparison with a real instrument, the program is inferior in many respects. The number of effects is also limited. In addition, many applications are difficult to use or are released only in a foreign language, which creates additional difficulties.

A modular synthesizer lacks a keyboard. It consists of analog audio devices interconnected by many wires. "Playing" on such a peculiar instrument bears little resemblance to playing a piano or grand piano. It is based on the principle of connecting modules, oscillators and filters in an arbitrary sequence. This is what makes the module so popular.

Moog is one of the first firms to produce analog synthesizers. The difference between the instruments of this brand is the increased sensitivity of the keys and knobs. An added benefit is powerful, infinitely variable sound.

The Moog Sub Phatty is equipped with three oscillators. There is also a noise regulator. This model is housed in an aluminum casing for enhanced sound depth.

The only drawback of the Moog synthesizer is the "unlit" ability to change the sound using the buttons. It will take a long time to figure out how this works.

The KORG manufacturer dates back to the 80s of the twentieth century. Their enhanced model is a hybrid of a modular and analog synthesizer. It includes 36 sound modules, which are supplied with wires, as well as generators. The sound is adjusted by switching the plugs according to the block diagram.

The disadvantage of this model can be called an outdated operating principle and complexity in use.But for true connoisseurs of electronic music, the KORG MS-20 Mini can be just a treasure.

Novation was the first to replace plugs and sockets with knobs and buttons. An analog synthesizer from this company has only two octaves. However, many knobs, filters and buttons greatly expand the possibilities for changing the music. Bass Station II reproduces the sound of different styles, it is only important to understand the variety of controls. The disadvantages include uncomfortable control, as well as the fact that when the power is turned off, the set settings are reset to zero. You will either have to memorize them, or write down all the indicators.