Archive of the former Yahoo!Groups mailing list: MOTM

Okay,

I'd agree that the number of sounds available on a modular are
infinite, and that one can learn a lot by experimenting, but anyone
can just run patchcords and twiddle knobs.

I'd also agree that you can imagine a sound, then visualize how to
synthesize it and use that as a starting point. I can do that.

I'm not inexperienced nor am I uneducated. I have a BSEE
specializing in audio. My senior project involved analyzing sounds
using the FFT and replicating them using additive synthesis. I
attended the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. I have
played synthesizers since around 1969.

Synthesis is extrememly broad. So broad in fact that one person
cannot possibly know all possible techniques. There is also the
time factor. I have a family and own three businesses. I do not
have that much time to noodle around. So I am looking for a
shortcut. I am looking to learn from others. I do not wish to
waste time reinventing the wheel.

I have great respect and admiration for many on this list. I think
what Ken Elhardt does is amazing, and I'd like to learn not just how
he synthesizes, but I'd also like to learn how he decides how to
synthesize. I do not have the time to do what he does. The point
is that since I don't have the time I am more than willing to trade
dollars for knowledge.

I'm sure there are many on this list that have the time to
experiment thoroughly. I used to have the time 30 years ago. But
there are many others on this list who are the older farts from the
good old days like me (I'm 51.) Most of us are busy with our jobs
and families and are also willing to trade dollars for knowledge.

So that's where this idea comes from. It's not laziness, or lack of
ability. It's about asking for help. I've tried very hard to help
out many on this list, I've contributed whenever I could. Maybe I'm
being overly sensitive, maybe not.