Timbral Quad Morph

Haken Continuum, four short samples, Kyma

This system explores continuous timbral interpolation as a performable control structure. Spectral analyses of four distinct sound sources are mapped to the corners of a two-dimensional X/Y control space.

Performer input via the Haken Continuum navigates this space, producing smooth interpolation between timbral identities. The Z dimension controls amplitude, the X axis controls pitch, and the X/Y position determines the resulting spectral blend.

This mapping treats timbre as a navigable parameter rather than a fixed attribute, enabling hybrid sound states to emerge through physical gesture while maintaining independent control of pitch and dynamics.

While this example uses short sampled material, the system architecture is designed to support real-time spectral analysis of live instruments. Future iterations would incorporate live spectral input, allowing performers to supply timbral, melodic, and dynamic data simultaneously.