Noise Generator Node

The Noise Generator Node simply outputs a continuous noise. It’s a basic building block for many synthesized percussion hits, wind ambiences and similar sounds, and is also a good source of randomization.


Inputs

MIDI-Sync Input

An optional melody input that restarts the noise when it receives a note. See the technical details section about how the noise is generated, and what reset means. You can toggle this input from the Node properties panel, or by connecting to it.


Settings

Noise Type

The type of noise to generate.

As the name of each option implies, White Noise generates full spectrum white noise of equal power at all frequencies, and Pink Noise and Brown Noise each generate noise where the power on the audio spectrum is inversely proportional to the frequency.

In simpler terms, White Noise is louder in higher frequencies, and Pink Noise and Brown Noise are more quiet towards higher frequencies (brown noise even more so than pink noise).

Channel Count

★ With AudioNodes HD

Sets the number of individual noise channels in the output.

Variation

★ With AudioNodes HD

Sets the seed for the internal random number generator. Different values generate different noise, although the end result will be essentially the same to the ear. See the technical details section.

Reset Mode

Sets whether (and how) the noise output should be reset:

  • Global Play: reset the output when playing the project
  • MIDI (input): reset the output when the MIDI-Sync Input receives a note

Note: see the technical details section to understand what reset means.


Outputs

Audio Output

The generated noise.


Technical Details

The Noise Generator Node pre-generates its noise when created, or when some of its settings change, and then loops over the result infinitely.

The generated noise is predictable and deterministic. This means the output, given the same settings, is always the same, even across Nodes. The Variation setting lets you influence this.


Similar Nodes

  • The Bitcrusher Node, when its Bit Depth setting is low enough, adds noise to the audio signal, similar to what the Noise Generator Node outputs.