Knobulism Logo

Quantization

The process of constraining continuous values to fixed steps or intervals. In synthesis and music production, quantization is often used to snap notes, voltages, or other parameters to a defined grid or scale.

  • Pitch Quantization: Converts continuous control voltages into discrete notes, ensuring melodic sequences stay in key. For instance, a quantizer can map random CV to the nearest note in a C major scale.
  • Rhythm Quantization: Aligns note timings to a rhythmic grid, making performances tighter or correcting timing errors.
  • Bit Depth Quantization: Reduces the resolution of an audio signal, creating lo-fi or digital distortion effects.

Quantization adds structure and precision to otherwise free-flowing or random elements in your patches, ensuring they align with musical or technical requirements.

« Synth Glossary Index

Sign up to receive email notifications when new content is published.