What is a mallet synthesizer?
” Basically, a “mallet synth” is a MIDI device, sending signals to a synthesizer (either internal on the mallet synth, or external) or sampler, which in turn produces the sound. MIDI is an acronym for “Musical Instrument Digital Interface,” which in plain English means it translates the player’s actions into information which a synthesizer can understand. These devices allow mallet percussionists access to the same synthesizer technology which for years has been available to keyboardists. What follows are a number of questions and complaints regarding the use of mallet synthesizers, with your author’s humble responses to each. Obviously, not all players will choose to use electronics; while that is a valid artistic choice, it should not be based on a lack of information.
