The three functions of controlling sound in any instrument are Generation, Routing, and Modifying

Push Turn Move identifies three fundamental functions that every sound control element performs: Generation (producing or triggering sound — keys, pads, sequencer steps, oscillator pitch controls), Routing (directing audio or CV signals from one place to another — patch cables, signal selectors, matrix mixers), and Modifying (shaping or processing sound — filters, effects, envelopes, LFOs). Every knob, fader, button, pad, or touchstrip on an electronic instrument performs one or more of these three functions. Recognising which function a control serves helps designers group controls logically and helps users learn unfamiliar instruments faster.

Examples

On a modular system: VCO pitch knob = Generation; patch cable = Routing; VCF cutoff = Modifying. On a synthesizer: keys = Generation; output selector = Routing; reverb mix = Modifying.

Assessment

For any five controls on a synthesizer or drum machine you know, classify each as Generation, Routing, or Modifying. Identify one control that serves more than one function simultaneously.