Kurzweil K2600 - MUSICIANS GUIDE REV A PART NUMBER 910331 CHAP 11 User Manual

Glossary
11-1
Chapter 11
Glossary
Algorithm In the K2600, a preset conÞguration of programmable digital signal processing
functions. Each of a programÕs layers uses its own algorithm, which determines the
type of synthesis each layer uses to generate its sound. FX presets also use algorithms,
which determine what kind of DSP gets applied to the signal as it passes through a
studio.
Aliasing A type of distortion that occurs in digitally sampled sounds when higher pitches
(increased sample playback rates) introduce partials that were not present in the
original sound. These partials may or may not be musically useful.
Amplitude The intensity of a signal, perceived as loudness in the case of audio signals.
Analog A term used widely in electronics-related Þelds to describe a method of representing
information, in which the method of representation resembles the information itself.
Analog synthesizers, for example, use gradual variations in electrical voltage to create
and modify sounds. The oscillations in voltage are analogous to the waveforms of the
sounds they generate. Compare Digital.
Bandwidth In terms of sound generation, the range of frequencies within which a device
functions. The human ear has a ÒbandwidthÓ of almost 20 KHz (it can distinguish
sound at frequencies from 20 Hz to 20KHz). The K2600Õs 20KHz bandwidth enables it
to produce sounds that span the entire range of humanly audible sound.
Bank There are two types of banks in the K2600Õs memory: memory banks, which store and
organize the programs and other objects you create, and Quick Access banks, where
you can store programs and setups for one-button access while in Quick Access mode.
Cent 1/100th of a semitone. The standard increment for Þne adjustment of pitch.
Continuous control A device that converts motion into a range of 128 possible values that can modulate a
sound source. The Mod Wheel, a standard volume pedal, and controllers like Breath
and Aftertouch are continuous controls. Compare Switch controls.
Control Source Anything that can be used to modify some aspect of a programÕs sound. LFOs,
envelopes, Mod Wheel messages (MIDI 01), and FUNs are just a few examples of the
K2600Õs control sources.
DSP Digital signal processing (see).
DSP Functions The K2600Õs collection of digital signal processing functions are what give the Variable
Architecture Synthesis system its ßexibility. Within each layerÕs algorithm, you can
select from a long list of DSP functions like Þlters, EQ, oscillators, and a few that are
unique to the K2600. Each DSP function has a corresponding page that enables you to
assign numerous control sources to deÞne how the DSP functions affect the sound of
the program youÕre editing.
Default The starting condition of a system. The settings for the K2600Õs parameters are at their
defaults when you unpack it, and they stay there until you change them. A hard reset
will erase RAM and restore all parameters to their defaults.

Kurzweil K2600 - MUSICIANS GUIDE REV A PART NUMBER 910331 CHAP 11 Specifications

General

Category	Synthesizer
Model	K2600
Document Type	MUSICIANS GUIDE
Revision	REV A
Part Number	910331
Chapter	11

Summary

Glossary Terms

Algorithm

Preset configuration of programmable digital signal processing functions determining synthesis type for each layer.

Aliasing

Distortion in sampled sounds from higher pitches introducing unoriginal partials, which may or may not be musical.

Amplitude

The intensity of a signal, perceived as loudness for audio signals.

Analog

Method of representing information using gradual electrical voltage variations, resembling the information itself.

Glossary Terms (Continued)

Dialog

A page prompting for information needed to execute an operation, like Save or Delete.

Digital

Information representation using binary digits (bits), processed by computers for speed and precision.

Digital Signal Processing

Processes performed by digital circuitry on electric currents, similar to analog but with digital techniques.

Drum Program

Any program with more than three layers, historically needing a special channel for multi-timbral percussion.

Glossary Terms (Continued)

LFO

Low frequency oscillator producing regular cycles between minimum and maximum amplitude, used for periodic effects.

Layer

A keymap processed through an algorithm, stackable within programs, up to three layers per program.

Local

Control source affecting each note independently; an LFO cycle begins with each note start, not in phase globally.

MIDI

Musical Instrument Digital Interface: format for musical data enabling communication between electronic instruments.

Glossary Terms (Continued)

Parameter

A programming feature; its name describes its function, with an associated value indicating its status.

Pixel

Contraction of 'picture element'; small square dots on the K2600's display that form text and graphics.

Program

The K2600's basic performance-level sound object, consisting of up to 3 layers.

RAM

Random Access Memory; can be read from and written to, used for loading samples or saving created programs.

Glossary Terms (Continued)

Setup

A multi-timbral performance object comprising three zones, each with program, MIDI channel, and control assignments.

Soft Reset

Returns K2600 to Program mode without affecting RAM contents, usually resolving hang-ups.

Switch control

A device converting motion into discrete on/off signals, like a sustain pedal.

VAST

Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology; Kurzweil's term for K2600's multi-faceted capabilities.