UCSB MAT 240D: Sound Synthesis Techniques

MAT 240D: Digital Audio Programming:

Sound Synthesis Techniques (Fall, 2009)

Overview

The MAT 240 course sequence is a six-part (two-year) practical programming course; it consists of hands-on software development devoted to digital audio and multimedia applications. Students read a selection of papers from the literature, with the emphasis on learning to use and extend the current state-of-the-art programming methods, tools, and programming interfaces. Class assignments involve C/C++/Java programming on Linux, Macintosh, MS-Windows, various plug-in APIs, and other platforms.

In MAT 240D, we will implement a variety of software sound synthesis techniques, ranging from traditional additive, subtractive, to non-linear synthesis. Our focus, however, will be on more contemporary techniques such as physical models and granular synthesis. We will explore the internals of several existing synthesis packages and write our own versions of selected techniques in the CSL (http://fastlabinc.com/CSL) framework.

Prerequisites

Students are expected to know the basics of digital audio signal representation and processing, and to be proficient in C, C++, or Java (scripting languages, Smalltalk, SuperCollider or LISP are a plus). Grading will be on the basis of in-class participation and solo/group programming projects. Note: The previous courses in the MAT 240 series are not prerequisites for MAT 240D.