Polyend Synth - Glossary of Terms

Architecture
2
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Polyend Synth Manual
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Polyend Synth Manual
2.1 Glossary of Terms
While you may think this should be hidden at the back of this book, understanding the terminology
associated with these topics, especially Synth, will help unlock its power and performance. It makes
sense to become familiar early with the essential terms to help embed them into your workow.
Architecture
2
ADSR: A type of envelope that allows control over
the Attack, Decay and Release times plus controls
the Sustain level of the envelope shape.
Arp. Shortened from Arpeggiator. A sequence
generator which operates by breaking a chord into
discrete notes and generating a looping pattern
Beta: A term normally used for pre-release
software versions used for testing purposes.
Polyend often release beta versions of Synth.
CC Messages: CC or Continuous Controller
Change messages are a MIDI communication
protocol used to change parameter values issued
from one device to another.
Chord: A collection of two or more notes played
together. A chord will include a root note. Chords
are played to develop a melody or musical
progression.
Delay: An effect function which creates echo’s and
repeats of the audio signal.
Effects: Refers to the master effects used across
the overall output audio. Also called FX.
Envelope: An envelope is used to modulate and
shape parameters and audio over time. Synth has
an Envelope control function for Amp and Filter.
Engine. This is the function which generates the
synth audio and contains all of the elements and
parameters that contribute to the synth engine’s
style and character.
Filter: A function which affects the frequency
content across the audio range. The lter cutoff is
the point from which frequencies are removed. In
subtractive synthesis, a lter carves out
frequencies to shape the overall tone and sound.
Firmware: The software that operates the Synth.
Firmware updates introduce new features as well
as system improvements.
Grid. The conguration of the 5 x 12 pads. The
arrangement can be changed to reorganise the
grid layout in the main menu.
LFO. Low Frequency Oscillator. An oscillator that
operates at a slower speed in order to modulate
other parameters based on its shape and speed.
Macro. A combination of parameters clustered
together to control multiple values and settings
simultaneously by a single knob.
MIDI: MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital
Interface and is a standard protocol used for
communicating between equipment. MIDI is
normally applied using 5 Pin MIDI DIN connections
which in some cases (i.e. with Synth) are
interfaced via a MIDI 5 Pin to 3.5mm MIDI Dongle.
Modulation: The process of changing and varying
a parameter value. Typically one function for
example an LFO is used to control the value of
another function, e.g. Filter Cutoff.
Mixer. A function which balances the levels from
multiple sources, in this case the levels of each
synth are managed collectively as well as stereo
panning.
Note: A musical note assigned to a samples pitch
and assigned to track steps to create a melody or
percussive beat.
OS: Operating System is the core software that
makes Synth work. It handles how it operates and
periodic updates from Polyend bring new features
into use.
Oscillator: The source device that generates audio
within a synthesizer. The pitch is controlled by
speed and audio character by the wave shape.
Parameter: The individual value of a specic
function or control element. A parameter can be
adjusted to affect a sound or change a functions
operation.
PC Messages: PC or Program Change messages
are a MIDI communication protocol used to change
presets, patches or banks issued from one device
to another.
Pitchbend. A common synth feature which is used
typically for playing live. This changes, while
adjusting the knob, the pitch of the sound.
Preset. A collection of synth parameters and
settings that create its distinct sound. These can be
saved and recalled.
Power Bank. A portable rechargeable battery
devices used to power or recharge portable
equipment.
Polyphony: The ability of an instrument to play
multiple notes simultaneously. This is managed
through the allocation of an audio voice per note.
Reverb: An effect function which emulates the
Behavior of audio in a room or space. The echos
and reections form the sound character.
Root: The main note that establishes a key or
scales tonality. Usually the rst note which
operates as the foundation in a chord.
Sample: The basic audio element that are used by
some synth engines such as wave or grain.
Scene. The highest order element in the overall
structure of Synth. Contains all of the elements
when creating a musical production or sound
design project. Synth can store up to 1000 scenes.
Screen Buttons: 3 dynamic buttons which will
operate functions based on the mode. The function
that is controlled is displayed on the screen.
Typically the 3 screen buttons select a synth to
edit.
SD Card: A storage device that is used in Synth for
holding data, samples, project etc. Synth is
supplied with a 16GB Micro SD Card and USB
adapter.
Sequencer: A function that records and replays a
note pattern. Various parameters are congurable
in a Synth sequence.
Swing: The natural feel of a pattern often brings
some note timing forwards or backwards.
Synth: An electronic instrument for creating
sounds. Polyend Synth has 3 onboard
congurable synths that can be used as a sound
source. Various synth engines are available.
Tempo. The beats per minute setting that dictates
the speed of Synth. This sets the internal clock
speed for time based elements such as delay or
sequencer and to synchronise internally or
externally over MIDI.
Update: The process of installing the newest
rmware. This brings new features and xes bugs
associated with previous versions.
Voice: A voice is an audio ‘channel’ uniquely
allocated to one note in a polyphonic synth. A
voice would include its associated audio
parameters. To create a triad chord, 3 voices
would be required, one for each note.
USB: A digital connection type used for
communicating between devices, rmware
updates and sometimes as a power source. Synth
has a USB-C connection used for MIDI and Data
communication.