Introduction

Subtractive synthesis is one of the oldest and most widely spread forms of synthesizing sounds. It is the method employed in such classics as the Moog synthesizers, the Sequential Prophet-5 and 10, Arp synthesizers, most Oberheim synthesizers, the Roland Jupiter models, the TB-303 etc; the list is practically endless. Even new digital instruments such as workstations and sample playback devices employ many of the basic principles of subtractive synthesis.

With the first Nord Lead, Clavia introduced a new concept: a modern digital instrument that combined a faithful reproduction of the behaviour of the old analog favourites with the convenience and stability of the newer designs. The Nord Lead 2X takes this concept even further, adding valuable new features and functionality.

The purpose of this chapter is to give you a quick introduction to this world of subtractive synthesis as used in he Nord Lead 2X and its analog predecessors. If you’d like to know more, there are number of text books on the subject.

The “Building Blocks”

Subtractive synthesis started its life in modular synthesizers, large cabinets housing separate electronic modules, connected via patch cords. With the advancement of technology, the functionality of many of these modules could be put onto one single circuit board. But functionality-wise, subtractive synthesizers are still built out of the same modules (or building blocks) as they were decades ago.

We will now take a closer look at these building blocks. Let’s first talk about the three that actually create and process sound:

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