Synthesizers create sound through a combination of electronic components and processes. Here’s a breakdown of how they work:

1. Sound Generation

Oscillators: The primary sound source in a synthesizer. Oscillators generate waveforms (sine, square, triangle, sawtooth) at specific frequencies. Each waveform has a unique harmonic structure, contributing to the timbre of the sound.

2. Sound Shaping

Filters: Filters modify the sound by cutting off certain frequencies. Common types include low-pass (lets low frequencies through), high-pass (lets high frequencies through), and band-pass (allows a specific range of frequencies).

3. Modulation

Envelopes: Envelopes control how a sound evolves over time, typically affecting parameters like volume and filter cutoff. The most common envelope is the ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release).

LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators): LFOs modulate other parameters (like pitch or filter frequency) to create effects such as vibrato or tremolo.

4. Signal Processing

Effects: Synthesizers often include built-in effects like reverb, delay, and distortion to further shape the sound.

5. Control

MIDI and CV: Synthesizers can be controlled via MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) or CV (Control Voltage), allowing them to interact with other musical equipment and software.

6. Output

The final sound is converted into an audio signal, which can be amplified and sent to speakers or recording devices.

By manipulating these elements, musicians can create a vast array of sounds, from imitating traditional instruments to crafting entirely new timbres.