Complex FM synthesis for Gen~ / A guide to Modern FM synthesis


Starts on: 07/03/2025 18:00 London time

Membership plan: Going Deeper | Topics: Sound Design

Course overview

Friday 7th March 6pm UK

FM synthesis is an efficient method for generating rich dynamic timbre. However, creating algorithms more complicated than the simple carrier-modulator pair can be challenging. In this course you will learn how to expand on this simple algorithm, you will use phase modulation, feedback networks, filters and nonlinearities and use Gen~’s single sample delay to achieve this. You will learn how to use FM synthesis for sound design and create your own novel patches and algorithms.

This week, we will go beyond the implementations of the 1980s, taking inspiration from more recent synthesizers. You will learn how to create a matrix and construct any FM algorithm in real time, smoothly interpolating between them. You will also learn how to create band-limited sawtooth and square waveforms using FM, and how to incorporate additive wavetable oscillator and nonlinear elements into an FM configuration. Drawing on contemporary literature, you will learn how to prevent discontinuities in FM algorithms, create asymmetric spectrums, and manage harmonic ratio transitions. By the end of this week, you will have enough knowledge to not only recreate classic FM algorithms but also experiment with your own unique designs. In this final week, you will be able to share your creations and receive feedback and guidance.

What you'll learn

  • How to create a matrix and construct any FM algorithm in real time
  • How to create band-limited sawtooth and square waveforms using FM
  • How to incorporate additive wavetable oscillator and nonlinear elements into an FM configuration
  • How to prevent discontinuities in FM algorithms, create asymmetric spectrums, and manage harmonic ratio transitions

Who is this course for?

  • This course is ideal for sound designers, electronic musicians, and synthesizer enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of FM synthesis and explore cutting-edge techniques.

Course content

  • Zoom link

Requirements

  • A Zoom Account
  • An Internet Connection

Course schedule

Meet your instructor

Benjamin Whateley is a developer, computer musician, and lecturer at Goldsmiths. He has used Python in lectures to illustrate digital signal processing concepts and to test and develop artificial reverberation algorithms for use in a machine-learning context. He is experienced with C++ the JUCE framework, and Max. His musical practice is routed in a deep understanding of tools and technology, and he enjoys creating new experimental sound synthesis algorithms for new compositions and performances.

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