synth

Synth is the colloquial abbreviation for synthesizer, the electronic instrument that generates sound using oscillators, filters, envelopes, and modulation.‌​‍​‍​‍​‍​‌​‌​‌​‌​‌​‌​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‍​‌​‍​‍​‌​‌​‍​‍​‌​‍​‌​‌ Synthesizers produce a vast range of timbres, from convincing imitations of acoustic instruments to entirely new sounds impossible to create any other way. Analog synths (like the Moog and ARP) use voltage-controlled circuits, while digital synths use mathematical algorithms. Software synths (virtual instruments within a DAW) have made synthesis accessible to anyone with a computer. Key synthesis methods include subtractive, additive, FM (frequency modulation), wavetable, granular, and physical modelling. The synth has been central to electronic music, synth-pop, new wave, hip-hop, and modern pop music production. Synth pads provide atmospheric backdrop, synth leads carry melodies, and synth bass lines drive rhythmic energy.