The sonic edge of digital transmission: Software-defined radio in sound synthesis and music composition
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School of Arts, Design and Architecture |
Master's thesis
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Authors
Date
2024
Department
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
Taiteen ja median maisteriohjelma
Language
en
Pages
59 + 31
Series
Abstract
This thesis explores the creative potential of Software Defined Radio (SDR) for musicians and sound-based creators. Tracing the historical use of analog radio signals used as compositional elements, several works from the last 100 years will be discussed to give context to the following discussion of SDR. A brief history of the emergence of Software Defined Radio is given and SDR is defined in the context of its analogue predecessor. The advantages and disadvantages of SDR compared with traditional radio circuits are discussed, considering the qualities of the transmission signal and the artifacts often considered noise. A discussion of how the previously analyzed works might incorporate SDR technology follows. Several examples of the author’s use of Software Defined Radio in musical and sound-based artwork are reviewed, referring to historical compositions where appropriate. The thesis concludes with a look into the future, imagining SDR synthesizers, compositions, and a workshop for musicians to incorporate this technology into their work. The focus of this section revolves around how to lower the barrier to entry of a complex technology and introduce it to creators with a musical background by focusing on similarities between radio transmission and sound production.Description
Supervisor
Ikonen, AnttiThesis advisor
Mäkiniemi, PetteriKeywords
software-defined radio, music composition, sound design, sound art, electroacoustic music, radio
Other note
Media files notes:
Audio Recordings from the author's 3 pieces described in the thesis.
Description:
The three recordings correspond to the three pieces described in chapter 5 of the thesis: Static Chatter by Bespoke Realities Collective, The Lesser Gods of Wi-Fi by Shane Wirkes, and Decay Transmission by Moe Mustafa and Shane Wirkes.
Media rights: CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0