The Pluck Generator synthesises plucked string sounds entirely in the browser using the Web Audio API. No samples, no plugins — the entire Karplus-Strong algorithm runs inside a custom AudioWorklet: a noise burst fills a circular delay buffer, and an averaging filter in the feedback path naturally transforms noise into a pitched tone that decays like a real string. A three-band body resonance stage adds the character of an acoustic body, a transient click layer recreates the impact of the pick, and an allpass dispersion filter inside the feedback loop introduces the inharmonicity of real metal and nylon strings. All these layers are derived from the six user-facing parameters, so the interface stays simple while the physics stays deep. Waveshaper drive adds harmonic grit and a brightness control shapes the final tone. Tweak six parameters across two groups, preview instantly, and export a one-shot WAV.
String — Tone sets the pitch of the string across a musical range of 60–800 Hz using an exponential mapping that gives equal weight to each octave. Position controls where the string is plucked — at the bridge for a bright, sharp attack or at the middle for a warm, full body. Resonance — Decay controls how long the string rings by adjusting the feedback amount in the delay loop — from a short dead pluck to a long sustaining note. Feedback is automatically compensated for pitch so high notes sustain as long as low ones. Damping is the averaging filter inside the feedback loop — each pass through the buffer loses high-frequency energy, so lower values darken the tone faster over time while higher values let the harmonics ring out. Damping also adapts to frequency so high notes stay musical instead of collapsing into clicks. Character — Drive pushes the signal through a waveshaper for saturation, from clean acoustic to overdriven electric. Brightness is the output lowpass — roll it back for a mellow tone or open up for full string clarity.