Kurzweil K2661, Musician’S Reference Manual

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Glossary
11-1
Chapter 11
Glossary
Algorithm In the K2661, a preset con fi guration of programmable digital signal processing
functions. Each of a program’s layers uses its own algorithm, which determines the
type of synthesis each layer uses to generate its sound. FX presets also use algorithms,
which determine what kind of DSP gets applied to the signal as it passes through a
studio.
Aliasing A type of distortion that occurs in digitally sampled sounds when higher pitches
(increased sample playback rates) introduce partials that were not present in the
original sound. These partials may or may not be musically useful.
Amplitude The intensity of a signal, perceived as loudness in the case of audio signals.
Analog A term used widely in electronics-related fi elds to describe a method of representing
information, in which the method of representation resembles the information itself.
Analog synthesizers, for example, use gradual variations in electrical voltage to create
and modify sounds. The oscillations in voltage are analogous to the waveforms of the
sounds they generate. Compare Digital.
Bandwidth In terms of sound generation, the range of frequencies within which a device
functions. The human ear has a “bandwidth” of almost 20 KHz (it can distinguish
sound at frequencies from 20 Hz to 20KHz). The K2661’s 20KHz bandwidth enables it
to produce sounds that span the entire range of humanly audible sound.
Bank There are two types of banks in the K2661’s memory: memory banks, which store and
organize the programs and other objects you create, and Quick Access banks, where
you can store programs and setups for one-button access while in Quick Access mode.
Cent 1/100th of a semitone. The standard increment for fi ne adjustment of pitch.
Continuous control A device that converts motion into a range of 128 possible values that can modulate a
sound source. The Mod Wheel, a standard volume pedal, and controllers like Breath
and Aftertouch are continuous controls. Compare Switch controls.
Control Source Anything that can be used to modify some aspect of a program’s sound. LFOs,
envelopes, Mod Wheel messages (MIDI 01), and FUNs are just a few examples of the
K2661’s control sources.
DSP Digital signal processing (see).
DSP Functions The K2661’s collection of digital signal processing functions are what give the Variable
Architecture Synthesis system its
fl exibility. Within each layer’s algorithm, you can
select from a long list of DSP functions like fi lters, EQ, oscillators, and a few that are
unique to the K2661. Each DSP function has a corresponding page that enables you to
assign numerous control sources to de
fi ne how the DSP functions affect the sound of
the program you’re editing.
Default The starting condition of a system. The settings for the K2661’s parameters are at their
defaults when you unpack it, and they stay there until you change them. A hard reset
will erase RAM and restore all parameters to their defaults.