In this final article in our mini series on the essentials of subtractive / analog synthesis, Peter Schwartz explores the principles of modulation.  
Figure 1: highlighted in red, the modulation matrix in Logic’s ES-2

Does Modulation Mean Constant Motion or Movement?

Modulation Sources and Destinations

Modulation Routings

Figure 2: A contemporary modular synth built from modules by a variety of manufacturers. Photo courtesy of Brandon Daniel.
Figure 3: a digital re-creation of the ARP 2600 by Arturia
igure 4: The Moog Music Voyager “Old School” model.

Modulation Inputs

Figure 5: the Doepfer oscillator module
Figure 6: ES2’s modulation matrix for establishing connections between modulation sources and destinations. Of particular interest, note how multiple modulation sources (bottom row) are all feeding the same destination, in this case, the cutoff frequency control of Filter #1.

Getting Things Under Control

In Figure 7 above, the green arrows floating above the graduations in each matrix “slot” are this synth’s amount controls.

Modulating the Modulation?

Control Voltage Signals

Peter Schwartz, composer, orchestrator, arranger, pianist, synthesist, and musical director, began piano studies at age 5 and went on to earn a degree in piano performance from Manhattan School of Music. It wasn't long afterward that he began working as a product specialist for New England Digital (Synclavier) and also as a sound progr... Read More

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