How to Make a Noise

How to Make a Noise: iPad Synthesizers Edition looks at how to create and control sounds using iPad synthesizers. The book introduces sound creation from first principles focusing on each element in turn: sound sources, filters, envelopes, low frequency oscillators and other modulation sources, FX, frequency modulation synthesis, and brings the pieces together as you begin to create and control your own sounds. It illustrates each aspect with examples using five synthesizers available for the iPad: BassLine, ReBirth, iELECTRIBE, iMS-20, and NLogSynth Pro.

How to Make a Noise: Analog Synthesis looks at creating sounds using analog synthesis techniques. Analog synthesis works by taking a sound source and shaping it with a filter. This is a simple but powerful technique which allows you to create the warm, rich, energetic, and commanding sounds, and with some care you will find tones with detail, complexity, and delicacy. You will have heard these techniques used on many recordings and will immediately recognize the sounds they produce. After reading the book you will be able to create and control these classic sounds when you apply the techniques to hardware or software synthesizers.

Frequency modulation synthesis is capable of creating a broad, detailed, highly nuanced range of tones which can be controlled with a fine level of detail. The technique starts with a simple wave-usually a sine wave-which is then modulated by another wave. The interaction between the two (or more) waves creates and shapes the sound over time. FM synthesis offers an infinite range of possibilities and permutations: it is this range of choices which gives the broad array of tonal nuances that are available with FM. How to Make a Noise: Frequency Modulation Synthesis shows you how to create a broad, detailed, highly nuanced range of controllable tones. These principles can then be applied to any synthesizer with frequency modulation capabilities.

Sample-based synthesizers can be used to create the sound of a full orchestra or individual instruments. They can replicate the sound of a full drum kit, delicate vintage gear, and specialist instruments. Samplers allow one musician to play the bagpipes, a shamisen, a lute, and a whole orchestra, all at the push of a button. As well as offering the facility to recreate the sound of real instruments with a high degree of sonic fidelity, sample-based synthesis also allows real sounds to be used as the basis for new sounds. These sounds can then be manipulated and mangled to create unimagined sounds with genuine complexity and depth. How to Make a Noise: Sample-Based Synthesis looks at how to create and control sounds--both realistic recreations of real instrument and creative warped tones--and the tools and techniques that are available to help shape your sounds.