LFO – Synthesizer Online

Control Voltages (CV)

Control voltages (CV) in modular synthesizers are electrical signals used to control various parameters of the modules, such as pitch, frequency, and amplitude. They are used to control the sound in a similar way to how notes on a keyboard or knob movements on a traditional synthesizer control sound.

CV signals are typically low-frequency signals, usually in the range of 0-5V, and are typically generated by a control voltage source, such as an LFO or an envelope generator. These signals are then sent to various modules via patch cables, where they are used to control different parameters, such as the frequency of an oscillator or the cutoff of a filter.

CV is a standard feature in modular synthesizers and it allows for greater flexibility and expression than traditional synthesizers. CV signals can be used to control multiple parameters at once, and the signal can be modulated by other modules, allowing for complex and dynamic sound creation.

In summary, Control voltages (CV) in modular synthesizers are electrical signals used to control various parameters of the modules, such as pitch, frequency, and amplitude. They are low-frequency signals usually in the range of 0-5V, generated by a control voltage source and sent to various modules via patch cables, allowing for greater flexibility and expression than traditional synthesizers.

LFOs

A synthesizer LFOs is a modulation source that can give a sound motion and variation. When applied to a sound, an LFO modulates one or more sound parameters, such as pitch, amplitude, or filter cutoff. The LFO produces a repeating waveform at a low frequency, typically below 20 Hz, such as a sine wave, triangle wave, or square wave. Since this low frequency is below the threshold of human hearing, the LFO’s modulation effect is not directly audible; instead, it produces subtle sonic variations.

A vibrato effect, for instance, is produced when an LFO is applied to the pitch of a sound. This is a result of the LFO’s low-frequency, up-and-down pitch modulation. Similarly, a tremolo effect is produced when an LFO is applied to the sound’s amplitude. This is a result of the LFO’s low-frequency, up-and-down volume modulation.

Additionally, LFOs can be used to modulate other parameters, such as the filter’s cutoff, to produce phasing effects or even to modulate additional LFOs to build intricate modulation chains. LFOs are a potent tool for sculpting and sculpting sound in a synthesizer, and the possibilities are endless.

LFOs typically have several adjustable parameters, including frequency, waveform, depth, and delay. These controls can alter how the LFO affects the sound and produce a wide variety of textures and timbres.