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SuperCollider

SuperCollider is an open source platform for audio synthesis and algorithmic composition. It features a programming language for real time audio synthesis and processing, and an interpreter for writing applications that connect and control synth processes.

What is SuperCollider?

SuperCollider is an open source audio synthesis and algorithmic composition application originally released in 1996 by James McCartney. It features two main components - a unique programming language designed for real time audio synthesis and processing, and an interpreter for writing applications to control audio processes.

The SuperCollider language (often abbreviated to SC or sclang) allows users to manipulate sound in real time by sending messages like play, pause, setFrequency, etc to synthesis processes called Synths. Synths can generate and process audio using algorithms like oscillators, filters, delays, granular synthesis and more. The language includes advanced features like closures, mixins, functional programming concepts and OOP support.

The SuperCollider interpreter (scsynth) runs Synth processes according to a scheme specified by the user. It features real time scheduling of Synths, buses to facilitate inter-process audio routing and sample-accurate control, allowing precise synchronization of events. The interpreter and language connect via Open Sound Control (OSC), providing great flexibility.

Together, sclang and scsynth allow users to create anything from simple oscillators to huge swirling masses of sound pulses. SuperCollider enables exploration of new sonic territories through live coding (writing code that generates/modifies sound in real time). It has become popular in computer music and algorave scenes by providing endless possibilities for experimentation.

The Best SuperCollider Alternatives

Top Apps like SuperCollider

Max/MSP, VCV Rack, Overtone, Sonic Pi, Synthesine, Klangmeister, NimSynth, Axiom synthesizer, Pure Data, Nyquist, Hexen Modular Synthesizer, SunVox, Cabbage Studio, negasonic, Wavepot, PraxisLIVE, miRack, Evaluator, ChucK, AudioMasher, Slang audio programming language, DCubix Twist, Faust, Csound, SOUL programming language, Gibber, Zupiter, Extempore are some alternatives to SuperCollider.

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