Wave Pulse Phase Modulation: Hybridising Phase Modulation and Phase Distortion
This paper introduces Wave Pulse Phase Modulation (WPPM), a
novel synthesis technique based on phase shaping. It combines
two classic digital synthesis techniques: Phase Modulation (PM)
and Phase Distortion (PD), aiming to overcome their respective
limitations while enabling the creation of new, interesting timbres.
It works by segmenting a phase signal into two regions, each independently driving the phase of a modulator waveform. This results
in two distinct pulses per period that together form the signal used
as the phase input to a carrier waveform, similar to PM, hence the
name Wave Pulse Phase Modulation. This method provides a minimal set of parameters that enable the creation of complex, evolving waveforms, and rich dynamic textures. By modulating these
parameters, WPPM can produce a wide range of interesting spectra, including those with formant-like resonant peaks. The paper
examines PM and PD in detail, exploring the modifications needed
to integrate them with WPPM, before presenting the full WPPM
algorithm alongside its parameters and creative possibilities. Finally, it discusses scope for further research and developments into
new similar phase shaping algorithms.