polysynthesizers

Polysynthesizers are a type of musical instrument, specifically electronic synthesizers, capable of producing multiple independent or layered sounds simultaneously. This contrasts with monosynths, which can only play one note at a time. The ability to generate multiple voices allows for the creation of complex harmonic textures, pads, chords, and arpeggiated sequences that would be impossible on a single-voice instrument.

The polyphony of a synthesizer is determined by the number of voices it can produce. An 8-voice polysynthesizer, for example, can play up to eight notes concurrently. If more than eight notes are played, some notes will be cut off or will "steal" voices from previously played notes, depending on the instrument's voice allocation or "stealing" algorithm. Early polysynthesizers were often limited in voice count due to the high cost and complexity of the required circuitry.

Modern polysynthesizers, both hardware and software-based, typically offer a significantly higher voice count, often ranging from 16 to over 128 voices. This increased polyphony provides greater creative freedom for musicians, allowing for richer and more expansive sonic palettes. The development of polysynthesis was a crucial step in the evolution of electronic music, enabling synthesizers to function as standalone instruments for composing and performing full musical arrangements.