Resistors are the quiet sculptors of electricity. They don’t switch, amplify, or oscillate — they simply resist. In synthesis, they shape voltage, define current, and set the boundaries within which sound can emerge.
What Is a Resistor?
A resistor limits the flow of electrical current. It’s defined by its resistance value, measured in ohms (Ω), and obeys Ohm’s Law: V = IR.
| Type | Description | Synth Use |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Film | Common, inexpensive, moderate tolerance | General signal shaping |
| Metal Film | High precision, low noise | Critical audio paths |
| Wirewound | High power handling | Power regulation, protection |
| Variable (Potentiometer) | Adjustable resistance | Knobs, sliders, control voltage shaping |
Resistors in Modular Synthesis
- Voltage Dividers