SOUNDBANK Meaning and
Definition
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A soundbank refers to a collection or repository of various digital audio files or sound samples that are associated with a specific software program or device. It is a term commonly used in the field of music production, sound design, and electronic music.
Soundbanks are typically created and utilized by software synthesizers, digital audio workstations (DAWs), or hardware synthesizers to provide a vast array of pre-recorded sounds or instrument patches for users. These soundbanks can contain samples of different musical instruments, such as pianos, guitars, drums, or orchestral instruments, as well as various electronic and atmospheric sounds.
The purpose of a soundbank is to offer musicians, composers, and producers a wide range of usable sounds and timbres that they can easily access and incorporate into their music projects. Soundbanks allow users to experiment with different textures, tones, and effects, offering a rich library of sounds that can be modified and blended together to create unique compositions.
Soundbanks may be commercially available, often sold separately or bundled with software packages or hardware synthesizers. They can also be created by individual users who compile their own collection of samples and patches to suit their production needs.
In summary, a soundbank is a comprehensive set of digital audio files or sound samples that serve as a library of sounds for musical production, offering a wide range of instruments and effects for composers, musicians, and sound designers.
Etymology of SOUNDBANK
The word "soundbank" is a combination of two words: "sound" and "bank".
The term "sound" originates from the Old English word "sund" or "gesund", which means healthy or in good condition. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the perception or sensation caused by vibrating air molecules, which we hear.
The word "bank" comes from the Old Italian word "banca" or the Old French word "banque", both of which refer to a bench or table used by moneychangers and moneylenders. This usage eventually expanded to mean any financial institution that collects, stores, and distributes money.
The combination of "sound" and "bank" in "soundbank" signifies the storage or collection of various sounds together.
