Music to (Re)learn Algebra By?

jabney · Post by **jabney** » Fri Feb 20, 2004 12:21 am

Guess the title says it all (but, heck, I'll elaborate anyhow

)

With the forthcoming 'opening' of the Creamware DP and SDK (I hope) it looks as if it's time to learn about DSP. I've read that you need to know calc and linear algebra (and trig too?) in order to understand programming DSP. But a prerequisite to all of that is a good understanding of algebra.

It's been a long time since I've studied algebra, so I picked up "Algebra for Dummies" after skimming the intro. The book seems as if it may be almost friendly (at least to someone who has always leaned more toward the verbal side).

So what is a good strategy for studying something that takes concentration? Silence is one option, but maybe music can help focus the mind. Or is that just wishful thinking?

So, how do <i>you</i> study?

john

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: jabney on 2004-02-20 00:24 ]</font>

Counterparts · Post by **Counterparts** » Fri Feb 20, 2004 4:10 am

A friend of mine used to listen to different types/pieces of music when studying/revising.

You remember through association, connections, patterns so he found that he could remember things much better ... just thinking of the music would help a lot with recalling the information.

That's only one side of learning, though - the memory side. On the understanding side...you either need to choose suitable literature (i.e. a book that 'works for you') or find somebody who can explain it in suitable terms for you if you find a concept difficult to grasp.

...I'm sure that there's a few people at Z who know a bit about algebra...

Royston

kensuguro · Post by **kensuguro** » Fri Feb 20, 2004 5:09 am

I don't do DP, but I do Max/MSP... and heck I SUCK at algebra. LOL. I learned alot about DSP processing by experimentation. Algebra you can learn with your brain. With DSP programming, you can learn through your senses. (cuz it gives you feedback.. bug, or no bug. hehe)

astroman · Post by **astroman** » Fri Feb 20, 2004 11:01 am

Jabney, for 'programming' with DP you don't even need an idea what algebra is about

It's just like Ken wrote - a well trained trial and error process with feedback and some patience will do.

But this way one cannot do a straight approach to a sophisticated processing.
Since the fundamental processes are discussed (and spread) in form of math terms, one needs to have a precise imagination what that they represent.
In that way you can replace the terms in a processing rule with appropriate modules (if present) or build up equivalents yourself.

For synths and creative sound design the trial and error approach will certainly bring some interesting results, many probably caused by 'accidents'

But it will not work at all on such stuff as emulation of high end audio gear (as often requested) or acoustic room simulations.

cheers, Tom