The Oblique scale~: Mixing & Vector Synthesis

Did you know you can use the [scale~] object to mix two sound sources at audio rate? Take a look at this video.

Not bad, eh? The “trick” is you use two different audio sources as the minimum and maximum output range, then when the input signal approaches the minimum input limit you hear the first audio source, when it reaches the maximum input limit you hear the second audio sources.

Of course you can mix two signals using the [matrix~] object, but you can’t do it at audio rate, so you can’t modulate between the two sources using an LFO as shown in the video.

Using more than one [scale~] object you can even get interesting textures with a sort of vector synthesis: check the following video.

Of course you can use different LFOs (square, triangle, random etc.) with different rates, and you can create a patch with more [scale~] objects to easily obtain rhythmic/melodic patterns: try it!

That’s all for now: if you really want to learn Max you can check our book series Electronic Music and Sound Design, you will learn a lot of synthesis and audio processing techniques and have fun with Max!

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