Oscillatory timbres for musical synthesis through synchronous ring modulation

Abstract

Methods and systems for generating oscillatory timbres for musical synthesis through synchronous ring modulation are described. An example method performing hard synchronization comprising using first and second oscillators, the first oscillator being a fundamental oscillator which provides a fundamental frequency, the second oscillator being a modulation oscillator operable at a frequencies higher than the first oscillator; and in response to the fundamental oscillator completing its cycle, synchronizing the modulation oscillator to the original point of its waveform. Ring modulation may be performed on the synchronized output by multiplying it by a waveform of the fundamental oscillator, such that the ring modulation is synchronized to produce a variety of oscillatory timbres. The method can create a variety of unique sounds having musically pleasing characteristics. A real-time audio signal can be used instead of the first oscillator to produce dynamically varying timbres.