Introduction
Zyphr is an audio sketchpad for prototyping music.
It is primarily made for the creation and generation of loops as a starting point for music production. This documentation serves rather as reminder notes for the development of the program than a user guide. Meanwhile there are early web prototypes of modules like synth and synthetic noise shaker to play around with.
Interface
Zyphr’s interface combines minimalist aesthetics with intentional functionality. Its monochromatic high contrast design draws inspiration from both old-school analog synthesizers like the Moog and sci-fi interfaces. The interface is set in a custom typeface designed with Zyphr in mind. Let’s look at the interface below and summarise the interaction and responsibilities of each component.
Docks
The upper dock consists of MIDI device selector to manage the connection of MIDI devices. CPU and memory tracking helps with monitoring performance of Zyphr. The lower dock provides comprehensive controls for adjusting tempo, triggering play, pause, stop, record, metronome, and managing files like audio exports.
Modules
Zyphr consists of a set of module devices such as tracks, synth, drums, and sampler designed to manipulate, program, and shape sound. Modules typically have knob controls, allowing us to adjust various settings. Some knobs accept connectors to channel signals, e.g, applying modulation by channelling LFO to a sine waveform; or applying reverb effect to only a snare drum and nothing else.