Resonance

On a synthesizer, resonance describes the accentuation of particular frequency components of a sound, usually in the context of a filter. It is a parameter that governs the peak of the filter’s frequency response and is located in the filter section of a synthesizer.

When the resonance is turned up, it emphasizes or creates a peak in the frequency response at the filter’s cutoff frequency, which can produce a distinctive “buzzy” or “ringing” sound. “Filter resonance” or “Filter emphasis” are terms used to describe this effect. This effect can be used to produce a wide variety of sounds, from soft to forceful, and it can be used to give a sound personality and definition.

According to the synth, the resonance can also be used to produce self-oscillation, which causes the filter to create a sine wave that gives the sound additional harmonic content. This can be used as a sound source to produce leads, basses, and other sounds in addition to interesting sound effects.