Fourier Transforms

The normal waveform seen in DAWs (like the waveform displayed by Soundcloud) shows time along the x-axis and amplitude along the y-axis. When viewed at magnification, these are waveforms.

A fourier transform allows this wave to be split into its component sine-waves, each of which exists at a different frequency. These can be displayed on a graph with an x-axis of frequency and a y-axis of amplitude. This is like a cross-section of the time/amplitude graph, with each spike representing a different frequency within it.

Sine Waves

A sine-wave is a tone at a single-frequency. It doesn't contain any harmonics above the fundamental frequency. However by combining sine-waves, complex harmonics can be created.

FM Synthesis

Carrier Signal + Modulator Signal that alters the carrier. Popularised by MX7.

The modulator is flavoured using a combination of harmonic and inharmonic overtones, then applied to the carrier.