Waveshaper

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[edit] Uses

Waveshapers are used namely by electronic musicians to achieve an extra-abrasive sound. This effect is most used to enhance the sound of a music synthesizer by altering the waveform or vowel. Rock musicians may also use a waveshaper for heavy distortion of a guitar or bass. Some synthesizers or virtual software instruments have built-in waveshapers. The effect can make instruments sound noisy or overdriven.

[edit] How it works

A waveshaper is an audio effect that changes an audio signal by mapping the input audio level to the (output) level determined by a user-defined envelope. The device then sends the modified waveform's audio signal to a mixer or recording device. A set of points form a map that replaces the input level with a corresponding output level. Refer to the screenshot of the software waveshaper at right for a visual of this mapping process.

[edit] Problems associated with waveshapers

Waveshapers can cause excessive clipping, or loss of audio quality due to volume levels outside of the recording equipment's effective range. Waveshapers can easily produce unappealing sound if used improperly. Making an envelope that results in the desired effect can be difficult.