Changes

When an instrument plays a note, it is attempting to generate a specific fundamental frequency. For example, if we play the low open A string, we expect a fundamental frequency at 110 HZ. ''Overtones'' are pitches that are present in an instrument ''by nature of the instrument itself'' above the fundamental frequency, following the harmonic series. [[Distortion]] will add a lot more. Overtones are ''not'' the notes in a chord played above the bass frequency - that is simply several fundamentals played at the same time. Each of those fundamentals will have their own overtones.

Synths often have ''resonance'' and ''cutoff'' controls - these simply control a [[EQ_or_Filters#Common EQ's|low-pass filter]]. The cutoff control changes the cutoff frequency, reducing overtones beyond that point. Resonance affects the resonance at the cutoff frequency, possibly boosting overtones near the cutoff frequency relative to the fundamental. These controls are often automated or manipulated gradually over a repeated riff or progression to make it more interesting and/or to build energy into the next section.

[[Category: Sound]]

[[Category: Overtones]]

[[Category: Distortion]]