PATCH & TWEAK Basic Concept 10: Random

Just like “noise” provides an unpitched alternative sound source compared to a normal oscillator, a “random source” provides an unpredictable “modulation” source to control other modules inside your synthesizer. In this video, the most common random sources – “stepped” and “smooth” – including their effect on pitch as well as the tone or “timbre” of a sound is explained. Chris also demonstrates a couple of “random gate” generators, which help start new notes or sound events on random times.

Random sources are introduced at the bottom of page 21 of Patch & Tweak; examples of random modules from simple to complex are covered on pages 252-7. Get PATCH & TWEAK here.