nlm: Real-Time Non-linear Modal Synthesis in Max

2026-03-10

AI Summary

Traditional nonlinear modal synthesis has been hindered by computational complexity, limiting its applicability in real-time interactive contexts such as music composition and sound design. This work proposes and implements nlm, a C++-based Max/MSP external object that integrates efficient real-time nonlinear modal synthesis into the Max environment for the first time. The system enables real-time manipulation of physical parameters for structures including strings, membranes, and plates, supports loading of custom modal data, and provides multichannel audio output. By achieving low-latency performance while preserving high sonic expressivity, nlm substantially lowers the barrier to entry for nonlinear physically informed sound synthesis. Released as open-source software, it offers the sound art community a flexible and extensible platform for creative exploration.

Technology Category

• Natural Language Processing: Code Generation / Program Synthesis from Natural Language
• Machine Learning: Large Multimodal Models (LMMs)
• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Computational Creativity

Application Category

• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Applied ML and AI for Web-based mobile applications
• Economics, Online Markets and Human Computation: Cost models of using LLMs in production systems
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: User modeling and simulation for interactive and conversational systems

Abstract

We present \texttt{nlm}, a set of Max externals that enable efficient real-time non-linear modal synthesis for strings, membranes, and plates. The externals, implemented in C++, offer interactive control of physical parameters, allow the loading of custom modal data, and provide multichannel output. By integrating interactive physical-modelling capabilities into a familiar environment, \texttt{nlm} lowers the barrier for composers, performers, and sound designers to explore the expressive potential of non-linear modal synthesis. The externals are available as open-source software at https://github.com/rodrigodzf/nlm.

Problem

• non-linear modal synthesis
• real-time audio
• physical modeling
• interactive sound design
• modal synthesis

Innovation

• non-linear modal synthesis
• real-time sound synthesis
• physical modeling
• interactive audio software
• modal data