Absynth is a commercial, proprietary software synthesizer originally written by Brian Clevenger, and developed by Native Instruments GmbH. It combines a range of traditional synthesis techniques (subtractive) and modern (granular, sample-based) to create complex sounds and timbres. It may be used either as a stand-alone program or as a plugin within digital audio workstation (DAW).
Absynth features three main synthesis modules which can be customized to a particular synthesis type, such as Subtractive, Frequency Modulation, Amplitude Modulation, or Granular, as well as direct sampling of raw audio data. It has a single filter (12/24 dB LP, HP, BP, Notch, and Comb), as well as a distortion algorithm, and effects including three resonant filters, "pipe" reverb, and multi-tap Delay. A modulation matrix allows the user three LFOs.
Graphically-edited assignable envelopes may be assigned up to 68 breakpoints each. In newer versions, breakpoint times and amplitudes may be manipulated further via MIDI controllers, as well as by curvature of the envelope line between breakpoints.
Absynth relies on user-based waveforms; either drawn directly, by manipulation of a sound spectrum, or else extracted from a WAV or AIFF file. Each can be used as an LFO, or an oscillator.
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