Final answer:
Control voltage is a variable voltage signal used to control the operation of another circuit, such as in a synthesizer. It allowed for the development of more compact and portable synthesizers by replacing bulky mechanical systems with voltage-controlled components. Control voltage was used to control parameters like pitch, amplitude, and timbre, improving the flexibility and control over the sound.
Step-by-step explanation:
The control voltage is a variable voltage signal used in electronic systems to control the operation of another circuit. In the context of a synthesizer, the control voltage is used to manipulate parameters such as pitch, amplitude, and timbre. By using control voltage, synthesizer designers were able to create more compact and portable instruments.
For example, the concept of control voltage allowed the development of voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) in synthesizers. VCOs generate audio signals and their pitch can be controlled by varying the control voltage input. This eliminated the need for bulky and complex mechanical systems, allowing the synthesizer to be miniaturized.
Additionally, control voltage was also used to control filters, amplifiers, and other components of synthesizers, enabling greater flexibility and control over the sound produced.