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https://github.com/jdsherbert/audio-soft-clip-distortion
Simple C++ implementation of a basic Soft Clip Distortion technique. Includes an example usage case with a simulated sinusoidal signal.
https://github.com/jdsherbert/audio-soft-clip-distortion
audio audio-effect audio-effects audio-processing cpp distortion distortion-effects sine sine-wave sinewave soft-clipping
Last synced: 8 days ago
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Simple C++ implementation of a basic Soft Clip Distortion technique. Includes an example usage case with a simulated sinusoidal signal.
- Host: GitHub
- URL: https://github.com/jdsherbert/audio-soft-clip-distortion
- Owner: JDSherbert
- License: mit
- Created: 2024-01-09T21:10:47.000Z (about 1 year ago)
- Default Branch: main
- Last Pushed: 2024-01-09T23:19:36.000Z (about 1 year ago)
- Last Synced: 2024-12-21T11:26:02.322Z (2 months ago)
- Topics: audio, audio-effect, audio-effects, audio-processing, cpp, distortion, distortion-effects, sine, sine-wave, sinewave, soft-clipping
- Language: C++
- Homepage:
- Size: 21.5 KB
- Stars: 1
- Watchers: 1
- Forks: 0
- Open Issues: 0
-
Metadata Files:
- Readme: README.md
- License: LICENSE
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README
# Audio: Soft Clip Distortion
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## Overview
Audio distortion is an intentional modification of an audio signal to alter its waveform, introducing non-linearities and harmonic content that was not present in the original signal. Distortion can be applied for various artistic, creative, or practical reasons in music production, sound design, and audio processing. It's a versatile and powerful tool in music production and sound design. Whether applied to individual instruments, vocals, or entire mixes, distortion can shape the character and emotion of a sound. Musicians and producers leverage distortion's creative potential to craft unique and memorable sonic experiences in a wide range of musical genres.
The distortion effect implemented in this code is a basic form of soft clipping. Soft clipping is a non-linear process that rounds off the peaks of a waveform smoothly, resulting in a more gradual distortion compared to hard clipping.
In the code, the `tanh` function is used to apply soft clipping to each audio sample in the buffer. The `tanh` function produces a smooth, sigmoidal curve, which introduces a gentle distortion when applied to the audio signal. This type of distortion is often used in audio effects to create warm, saturated tones or simulate the characteristics of analog equipment.
This is also the technique I have used in my own product, the [Sherbert Clipper VST Effect](https://jdsherbert.itch.io/sherbert-clipper)
## Clipping
#### Clipping Distortion
Clipping distortion occurs when the amplitude of a signal exceeds the maximum allowed value, causing the waveform to "clip" or get cut off at a certain level. Introduces harmonics, resulting in a more aggressive, gritty sound. It's normally used in guitar distortion pedals, rock music, and some electronic music genres.
#### Waveshaping Distortion
Waveshaping involves modifying the shape of the audio waveform using non-linear functions. Can produce a wide range of tonal variations, from subtle warmth to extreme fuzziness. Mostly used in various musical genres for creative sound shaping and experimentation.
#### Saturation Distortion
Saturation is a form of distortion that simulates the characteristics of analog saturation, where the signal is driven into the nonlinear region of a device. Adds harmonics, compression, and a warm, vintage feel to the sound. You'll normally see it applied to commonly applied to vocals, drums, and entire mixes in both music production and audio mastering.
#### Modulation Distortion:
Modulation distortion involves the use of modulation effects, such as ring modulation or frequency modulation, to alter the frequency content of the audio signal. It can produce metallic, robotic, or frequency-shifted sounds. It's also often used in experimental music, electronic genres, and sound design.
### Hard Clip vs Soft Clip
## Challenges and Considerations in Distortion
### Dynamic Range Compression
Distortion often reduces the dynamic range of a signal, making the quieter parts louder and the louder parts quieter. This compression effect can impact the overall balance and perceived loudness.
### Harmonic Content
Different distortion types introduce distinct harmonic spectra. Understanding and controlling the harmonic content is crucial for achieving the desired tonal characteristics.
### Artistic Expression
Distortion is not merely a technical process; it's a tool for artistic expression. Musicians and producers use distortion intentionally to convey emotion, energy, and creativity in their music.
### Context and Genre
The appropriateness of distortion depends on the musical context and genre. While heavy distortion may be suitable for rock or metal, subtle saturation might be more appropriate for jazz or acoustic music.
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