How Synthesizers Work

Synthesizers work by generating electrical signals that are converted into sound waves. At the core are oscillators, which produce basic waveforms like sine, square, sawtooth, or triangle. These raw tones are then shaped by filters that cut or boost frequencies, creating brighter or duller sounds. Amplifiers control volume over time using envelopes, defining attack, decay, sustain, and release (ADSR).

Modulation adds movement; low-frequency oscillators (LFOs) can vibrate pitch or filter cutoff for effects like vibrato or wobble. Voltage control in analog synths or digital algorithms allow parameters to interact dynamically. Subtractive synthesis, the most common, starts with rich waveforms and subtracts harmonics via filters.

In digital synths, sampling or wavetable methods expand possibilities, blending recorded sounds or morphing waves. Effects like reverb and delay polish the output, making synths versatile sound sculptors.

Overall, synthesizers transform simple signals into complex audio through generation, shaping, and modulation, empowering endless creativity in music.