AA table that maps MIDI note numbers to frequencies
BA stored collection of single-cycle waveform frames through which the oscillator scans
CA lookup table for compressor threshold values
DA preset bank for a synthesizer
A wavetable contains multiple single-cycle waveform frames representing different timbres. By scanning through these frames, the synthesizer creates animated, morphing timbres impossible with static waveforms.
Question 2 True / False
True or false: Granular synthesis can stretch audio to a longer duration without changing its pitch.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: True
By looping grains from nearly the same position in the source audio, granular synthesis extends duration while maintaining the same pitch. This time-stretching capability is one of granular synthesis's most distinctive and practical features.
Question 3 Short Answer
What does grain density control in a granular synthesizer?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: Grain density controls how many grains are played per second. High density produces smooth, continuous sound; low density produces a stuttering, discrete, rhythmically interrupted texture.
Density (combined with grain size and overlap) determines the continuity of the granular output. Very low density creates a rhythmic granular effect; very high density produces a smooth but spectrally diffuse texture.
Question 4 Multiple Choice
Why do wavetable synthesizers need band-limited wavetables?
ABand limiting makes the wavetable take up less storage space
BHigher-pitched notes would require the wavetable to scan faster, potentially generating harmonics above Nyquist that alias into audible artifacts
CBand limiting prevents wavetable morphing from producing clicks
DIt is required for MIDI compatibility
When playing a wavetable at high pitches, the playback rate increases. If the wavetable contains harmonics, those harmonics may exceed the Nyquist frequency and alias. Band-limited wavetables remove harmonics above Nyquist for each octave range.