| There are three main synthesizer types. They are: | | | | exact user interface of controls. Popular synthesizers, |
| Analog synthesizers | | | | for example, the Minimoog and Yamaha DX 7 have |
| Digital synthesizers | | | | emulators. |
| Software synthesizers | | | | Some software synthesizers are more of sample |
| Each synthesizer is classified according to the method | | | | based. Computers, generally, have fewer restrictions |
| of sound creation. Synthesizers that use a mixture of | | | | on its memory or RAM than dedicated hardware |
| all these three are also available in modern market. | | | | synthesizers. Some of these sample based |
| These types are called hybrid synthesizers. Modern | | | | synthesizers come with sample libraries, which can |
| synthesizers vary significantly in their working method, | | | | weight up to GBs or giga bytes. Some of these are |
| potential, dimension and outlook. In the majority of the | | | | exclusively drafted to imitate real world instruments |
| synthesizers the output is required to be passed | | | | such as pianos. Many sample libraries are available in a |
| through the speaker, or an external amplifier and | | | | Windows, IBM common format like WAV or |
| loudspeakers to convert it into sound. | | | | Waveform audio format files, and can be worked with |
| Format and Types of Synthesizers Designs. | | | | almost any sampler based softsynth. |
| Analog Soft Synths: | | | | The newer and recent versions of softsynths are |
| When a harmonically rich waveform (Saw, Rectangle, | | | | designed to be compatible with technology such as |
| Square, and Triangle) is generated by an oscillator, then | | | | Virtual Studio Technology (VST), which allow other |
| the filters or cuts away part of the sound is outputted | | | | music programs to interface with the softsynth. Plug in |
| in a thorough fashion with filters and envelopes. This is | | | | technologies include DXi, VST, Motu Audio System |
| the mechanism of Soft Synths. | | | | (MAS), Real Time AudioSuite (RTAS), Audio Units |
| FM Synths: | | | | (AU). |
| Frequency Modulation works in a way where instead | | | | Common Types of Synthesizers Designs |
| of subtracting from a large waveform, the synthesis is | | | | Most of the professional software synthesizers come |
| started by using several Sine Waves (operators and | | | | with a high price tag, but given the works they can put |
| carriers) at user selectable frequencies and then | | | | up in real time or 1.5x real time with good hardware. |
| patched them in various ways to come up with tones. | | | | These prices can be termed justified. Reality(TM) |
| Apart from these there are others like: | | | | Professional Music Synthesis Software, VirSyn |
| Wavetable and Linear Algorithmic Synths | | | | Software Synthesizer, Reaktor, Generator are to |
| Sample Playback Soft Synths | | | | name a few mid range Software Synthesizers. |
| Hybrid Physical Modeling Soft Synths | | | | However some free to try and freeware are out |
| Hybrid and Abstract Synths | | | | there also. Adder, Crusher X Live 3.42, Drums, Digitonix |
| Emulator is one common type. There used to be quite | | | | Element, Ethereal, FlexiMusic Composer, FlexiMusic |
| a variety but manufacturers have stopped making | | | | Generator, SequBeat, Space Station Pro are also |
| them in a lot. Purchasing old and second hand stuff is a | | | | there. There are a number of Demos or |
| viable option as the unused first hand products can be | | | | Demonstration programs available in the market. The |
| expensive and unpredictable. The emulation or the | | | | manufacturers give the users chance to get |
| copy exact types offer having graphics that model the | | | | acquainted with the programs before they try. |