csound
TLDR
Render orchestra and score to audio
SYNOPSIS
csound [options] files...
DESCRIPTION
csound is a sound synthesis program and audio programming language. It generates audio from text-based scores and orchestras, enabling precise control over sound generation and processing.
The system uses two main components: an orchestra defining instruments with synthesis algorithms, and a score specifying when and how to play them. Modern usage typically combines these in CSD (unified) files.
PARAMETERS
-o file
Output audio file (use dac for realtime).-i file
Input audio file (use adc for realtime).-r rate
Sample rate in Hz.-k rate
Control rate in Hz.-b size
Software buffer size.-B size
Hardware buffer size.-d
Suppress displays.-m level
Message level (0-231).-W
Create WAV format output.-A
Create AIFF format output.--midi-device= dev
MIDI input device.
CAVEATS
Steep learning curve for synthesis programming. Real-time performance depends on buffer settings. Orchestra errors can be cryptic. Requires audio system configuration.
HISTORY
Csound was developed by Barry Vercoe at MIT in 1986, based on earlier Music N languages dating to 1957. It descends from Max Mathews' MUSIC series at Bell Labs. Csound remains actively developed, used in academic research, electronic music, and multimedia installations.
SEE ALSO
sox(1), pd(1), supercollider(1), ffmpeg(1)
