What is an LFO?

An LFO stands for Low-Frequency Oscillator. It is a tool used mainly in music and sound production. An LFO creates slow, repeating changes in sound at low frequencies, which are below what we can hear.

How does an LFO work?

An LFO works by sending signals that change over time. These signals control different parts of a sound. For example, an LFO can make the volume of a sound go up and down slowly, creating a pulsing effect.

LFOs can also change other aspects of sound, such as pitch or the filter. When an LFO affects the pitch, the sound can go higher and lower. When it affects the filter, it can make the sound brighter or darker

Uses of LFOs in music

LFOs are used in many ways in music:

• Vibrato: This is a slight change in pitch. An LFO can create vibrato by moving the pitch up and down.
• Tremolo: This is a volume change. An LFO can repeatedly make the sound louder and softer.
• Filter Sweeps: An LFO can change the filter on a sound, making it sound brighter or more muffled over time.
• Effects: LFOs add movement to sounds in many effects, such as chorus, flanger, and phaser.

Types of LFO waves

LFOs use different wave shapes to create different effects. The most common wave shapes are:

• Sine Wave: Creates smooth, continuous changes.
• Square Wave: Creates sudden changes, switching between two levels.
• Triangle Wave: Creates a pattern of rising and falling linearly.
• Sawtooth Wave: Creates a sharp rise and a slow fall, or vice versa.

Where to find LFOs

LFOs are found in many musical instruments and software. Synthesizers, both hardware and software, usually have built-in LFOs. Music production programs (DAWs) also offer LFO tools to help musicians shape their sounds.