A sound synthesis system "Otkinshi" on Windows

In this paper the authors describe “Otkinshi,” a new sound synthesis system with functions for sound synthesis, modification, and performance in a visual environment under Windows. Prior sound synthesis systems for music using a visual control environment have been centered on object boxes for procedures such as a unit generator or pitch. However, the authors' system takes into consideration ease‐of‐use for synthesis and modification when moving among different levels such as arranging several completed sounds in space and time, represents the sound objects that are data as a visual unit such as icons, and allows for synthesis and modification using the above and icons representing operation objects. A sound object includes an operation history, and so actions created through trial and error can be used again through visual programming. On this foundation, sound modification based on a sinusoidal model represents the characteristic feature of the system, and includes morphing and vibrato control. Synthesis and morphing functions using a physical model are also built‐in. The authors have shown that the system successfully completed two real performances of computer music, and is effective as a general tool for creating music. At present, the authors have asked composers and students at musical colleges to use the system, and are starting to exchange opinions. The authors expect their system to become a valuable tool for the creation of multimedia content, as well as for computer music. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 87(11): 63–72, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjb.20129