mindcontrol wrote:what do these terms mean
LFO
mod wheel
gate
envelope
CV signals
EQ
LFO = a Low Frequency Oscillator, which is just like a normal wave generator, although it oscilates at such a low "pitch" (frequency) that is not audible, but well suited as a modulation source.
Mod wheel = the wheel next to your pitchbend on your keyboard. Also used as a modulation source.
Gate = I think this is the signal that says a note is on or off but I'm sure someone can correct me on this one.
Envelope = on your synth you have different envelopes. Most of the time they are so called ADSR's. Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release. Attack is how long it takes to get up to the decay point. Decay is how long it takes to get to the sustained point (which will stay at sustained while you hold the note). Release is how long it takes to go back to normal after you release your note. The most simple envelope which is also standard on every synth is the amplitude envelope, which controls the output gain of your synth. Other envelopes are _again_ used a modulation source.
CV = Control voltage. You can use CV data to modulate things. For example, assign your lfo to your CV out. Than connect your CV out to let's say, a distortion unit. Now your lfo from the synth acts as a modulation source for the destination (the specific knob on the distortion unit). Just like gating, I'm sure someone can correct me on this one.
EQ = Equalizer. It's an "effect" unit that you can use to cut or boost certain frequencies. Let's say you hear too much bass in your song, you can "EQ" it to have less bass, by using a low shelf and turning the gain down.
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I hope this helped. I'm not an expert by any means, but I'm bored and I thought I should help you out :>
EDIT: Just re-read my post and it's full of typos, it's 2:29am and I'm tired so fuck you all and I'm not bothering to correct it lol.