What is modulation?
Before we get into Kontakt’s advanced features, it helps to understand what modulation actually is. In simple terms, modulation is when you dynamically change properties of a sound over time. Those properties could be something like pitch, volume, tone, or effects.
Instead of leaving sounds static, modulation adds expression or transformations as the sound goes on. It creates movement, variation, and makes sounds feel organic and engaging. In the context of a sampler like Kontakt, modulation could make instruments feel more realistic, like vibrato on a violin. It could also take things into a totally weird and creative realm that isn’t realistic at all.
You can hear extensive use of modulation in “End of Summer” by Tame Impala. Listen out for moments when sounds are filtered quickly with resonant filters, and span across the stereo image, like at 0:42:
