A synthesizer is an instrument specifically designed to create and produce sounds. This, coupled with a computer loaded with music-designed software programs, makes it possible to store, edit and create electronically generated sounds. The most common device used to input audio music data into a computer is a piano styled instrument. With this combination it is even possible to present a visual representation of the waveform, allowing a person to manipulate its shape and, of course, its sound.

When digital audio data representing a type of sound (electronic created or acoustic) is stored, it is called sampling. Basically, sampling systems make it possible to manipulate waveforms. By rearranging, lengthening, shortening or looping them we may create already identified waveforms or unique, new ones. For instance, a clarinet's waveform can be manipulated to sound like a flute. A dog's bark can become a cymbal crash.

To re-translate the data into an audible sound you must utilize a tool called a sampler. The tool is usually the keyboard style of black and white keys. It may also be an electronic unit that is controlled by a computer keyboard or a sequencer. A sequencer stores information and transmits the information to other devices.

An example of black and white keys designating different percussion sounds.