Project Muse
Computer music journal
Victor Lazzarini, Joseph Timoney, and Thomas Lysaght
"The Generation of Natural-Synthetic Spectra by
Means of Adaptive Frequency Modulation"(22 pages)
Frequency- modulation (FM) synthesis is widely
known as a computationally efficient method for
synthesizing musically interesting timbres. How-
ever, it has suffered from neglect owing to the
diffi culty in creating natural- sounding spectra and
mapping gestural input to synthesis parameters.
Recently, a revival has occurred with the advent of
adaptive audio- processing methods, and this work
proposes a technique called adaptive FM synthesis.
This article derives two novel ways by which an
arbitrary input signal can be used to modulate a
carrier. We show how phase modulation (PM) can
be achieved fi rst by using delay lines and then by
heterodyning. By applying these techniques to
real- world signals, it is possible to generate transi-
tions between natural- sounding and synthesizer-
like sounds. Examples are provided of the spectral
consequences of adaptive FM synthesis using inputs
of various acoustic instruments and a voice. An
assessment of the timbral quality of synthesized
sounds demonstrates its effectiveness.
