waveform modulation and phase shifting

I am a new reaktor user and am just learning the basics of sound in general. I am interested to know how to actually add the values of different waveforms in reaktor. It seems that when the add module is used it just plays both waves at the same time like two voices. Can two waves' values actually be added together to get a new waveform? I am trying to experiment with various forms of modulation such as AM and FM and it seems that I would need to do this to accomplish these modulations. Also, how can I realize a basic phase shift with reaktor?

 

the best thing to do with oscillators, IMO, is to use one of the scope macros. its either in the building blocks-display or classic modular- display folders (macros).

also, look into the all-pass filter, which does a frequency-specific 90degree phase-shift. well, thats what the manual says, damned if i really understand an allpass filter!

 

Ring Mod/Amplitude Modulation is when you Multiply 2 wave forms together.

a (very simple) example would be take 2 sine wave oscillators, and put them through a multiplier. and connect the output to the audio out.

FM Frequency modulation is when you modulate the Frequency of one oscillator with the audio output of another oscillator.

to do this you need to use an Oscillator with an F input. take the audio output from a sine wave oscillator and connect it via a multiplier to the F input of a Sine FM Oscillator. connect a knob to the other input of the multiplier. make sure the knob has values between 0 and 5000!!

I hope this helps?

btw, which version of Reaktor are you using?

sowari

 

sowari-this is just the info i was looking for. Thank you so much. I built a really fun little FM modulator. It's amazing what interesting sounds one can get out of such a simple synth. Are there any good books out there where I can find more info like this? I'm looking to build from the most basic level--no pre-built macros or anything.

 

I think I understand your question, and you got it right the first time. When you add two waveforms, you get a third waveform. IF you DON'T syncronize these waveforms, ie, they don't start at exactly the same time (on every note you play) or are not exactly the same frequency, they will sound like two "voices" as you say.

What you are talking about is basically additive synthesis, just like on a Hammond organ. I second the idea of using a "scope" to allow you to see the result of your additions. The wave shape should appear "solid", ie, not slowly morphing/evolving, and should be the same for each note you play (osc sync and phase).

On the old Hammond they kept things in sync and all starting at the same "phase" by using tone wheels on a common "rod". Just like old film sync using film reels welded onto a common "rod". In Reaktor you must sync in a similar fashion, using it's clock to keep things "in sync".

This is a very basic answer, but I wanted to let you know you were on the right track. Maybe someone smarter than I can chime in an explain exactly which modules to use to accomplish this.

 

Btw, sowari, I am using v.5

Thanks for the info on the scope, guys. It really helps

 

check Sound on Sound mag's "synth sectets" on their website.

 

http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/may99/articles/synthsec.htm

sowari

 

yeah - that one. =)