Unison

Unison is a feature that allows multiple voices (or oscillators) to play the same note simultaneously, which can create a thicker and more complex sound. This can be used to create a variety of sounds, from subtle thickening to aggressive and complex sounds, by layering multiple voices, each with the same pitch and characteristics.

Depending on the synthesizer, the number of voices in unison can vary, and some synths might let the user adjust the number of voices, the degree of detuning, and the stereo spread. The amount of detuning determines how far each voice is from its original pitch, which can result in a more organic and natural sound. A more expansive and immersive sound can be produced by adjusting the stereo spread, which determines how widely the sound is dispersed across the stereo field.

A classic synth sound, reminiscent of the fat analog synth sounds from the 1980s, can be produced using the Unison feature, frequently found on virtual analog or digital synthesizers. Additionally, it can build intricate and changing soundscapes or give a straightforward melody depth and movement. Some synths let you play multiple notes at once, and each note will start a new voice, increasing the synth’s polyphony.

In conclusion, the Unison feature layers different voices to give the sound more depth and complexity. The number of voices, degree of detuning, and stereo spread can all be changed. It is an effective tool for producing a variety of sounds, from traditional synth sounds to intricate soundscapes.