This transforms the original random value into another related but different random value. Luckily, there are a few tricks you can use to add character to your sounds. This is because each note sounds the exact same and lacks the subtle, real-world variations that give real instruments their character. Seriously, our brains actually register and enjoy these tiny imperfections! (This is why analog gear can be so sought after.)ĭigital synths, however, stay perfectly in tune and play exactly the notes you’ve told them to.Īs a result of this perfection, digital synths like Vital and Serum can sound sterile and boring.Īnd boring is bad when you’re in the entertainment industry. (Again, this is good!)Īnd when these slight variations in tuning and rhythm add up, they result in a unique sound that’s pleasing to our ears. The second reason is that people have to actually play those instruments.Īnd this causes tiny variations in timing, rhythm, and pressure across different notes. Things like temperature, humidity, and wear cause slight variations in tuning that our ears interpret as being more interesting.
(This is actually a good thing, we explain why in a second.)
The first reason is that real instruments don’t stay perfectly in tune all the time.
Why do “real” instruments like guitars and pianos sound so good compared to their digital counterparts?