tags: music synthesis frequency modulation mus-305 mus-407

Frequency Modulation

In frequency modulation (FM), the [frequency] of a carrier [signal] is altered by a modulator signal.

Deviations of the carrier causes spectral "sidebands" (additional frequencies) at multiples of the modulator above and below the carrier frequency.

TODO: import 407 notes

The C:M Ratio

The carrier to modulator ratio (C:M) determines the harmonicity of the resulting [spectrum]

• for [harmonic] spectra, $M$ must have an integer relationship to $C$
• Non integer ratios produce [inharmonic] spectra

Composing with FM

In [spectral composition], FM is a powerful [algorithm] for generating spectral note sets!

• can generate inharmonic (dissonant) or [harmonic] (consonant) sets

Sources

• MUS 305 Lecture
• MUS 407 The Studio Age: Musique Concrète