synthesizer n
1. an intellectual who synthesizes or uses synthetic methods [syn: synthesist, synthesiser]
2. (music) an electronic instrument (usually played with a keyboard) that generates and modifies sounds electronically and can imitate a variety of other musical instruments [syn: synthesiser]

A synthesizer (or synthesiser, properly "sound" or "music" synthesizer, often abbreviated to "synth") is an electronic instrument capable of producing sounds by generating electrical signals of different frequencies. These electrical signals are played through a loudspeaker or set of headphones. Synthesizers can usually produce a wide range of sounds, which may either imitate other instruments ("imitative synthesis") or generate new timbres.

Synthesizers use a number of different technologies or programmed algorithms, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Among the most popular waveform synthesis techniques are subtractive synthesis, additive synthesis, wavetable synthesis, frequency modulation synthesis, phase distortion synthesis, physical modeling synthesis and sample-based synthesis. Other sound synthesis methods, like subharmonic synthesis or granular synthesis, are not found in music synthesizers.

• NASA to build a 'universal food synthesizer' to create 3D food printer made from insects and algae!
  The kitchen of the future will see refrigerators and ovens replaced by a 3D printer creating meals from cartridges full of carbohydrates, protein powders and oils, predicts the man behind a new NASA-financed project. Read more on this news related to 'Synthesizer'
• Synthesizer giant Bob Moog to be inducted into Inventors Hall of Fame today
  Lovers of classic synth, celebrate: pioneer Bob Moog will join the Inventors Hall of Fame today. The USPTO is bestowing that honor for patent number 3,475,623 granted in 1966 for the so-called Moog ladder filter that gave rise to its original synth and Minimoog Synthesizers, and is still used in synths like the Voyager and Sub Phatty today. To fete the occasion, t Read more on this news related to 'Synthesizer'
• Ming Mecca: An analog video game synthesizer
  What in the world is an analog video game synthesizer? That's a very good question, and one we are ill-equipped to properly answer, but here goes. Introducing Ming Mecca , a modular synthesizer that allows users to create and manipulate retro games ... solely by flipping toggle switches, turning knobs and plugging in wires. The system comes in two modules. The Read more on this news related to 'Synthesizer'