What is Nyquist?
Nyquist is an open-source computer music programming language developed at the Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA) at Stanford University. It is designed for sound synthesis, audio processing, and music composition.
Some key features of Nyquist include:
- Syntax based on the Lisp programming language, making it highly expressive and flexible for music applications
- Support for a wide range of synthesis techniques like additive, subtractive, amplitude and frequency modulation, and granular synthesis
- Tools for analyzing, processing, and transforming audio signals
- Ability to generate and playback audio signals in real-time
- Interfaces with other music software and formats like MIDI, Csound, and SAL
- Cross-platform compatibility across macOS, Windows, and Linux
Nyquist utilizes a code-based approach to music composition and sound generation. This allows composers to use algorithmic and generative techniques for creating music. Complex synthesis models and signal processing effects can be developed by writing Nyquist code. The output can then be exported to standard audio formats.
While the syntax may have a steep learning curve, Nyquist provides tremendous flexibility for computer music applications. Its capabilities in additive synthesis surpass commercial alternatives. Nyquist remains popular in the computer music research community thanks to its extensibility, transparency of signal processing, and availability across platforms.
Max/MSP, Sonic Pi, Synthesine, Klangmeister, Pure Data, SuperCollider, negasonic, Wavepot, PraxisLIVE, Evaluator, ChucK, AudioMasher, Slang audio programming language, Faust, Csound, SOUL programming language, Gibber, Extempore are some alternatives to Nyquist.