This blog is authored by A. Michael Noll, and posted with the author’s permission.
Two applications of digital are in creation and in recording. Digital can be used for audio and for video.
Digital computers were used decades ago to synthesize musical sounds. A violin could be synthesized – or any other instrument. But the sounds produced were too perfect, devoid of the imperfections of a human analog performance. It sounded mechanical – too perfect and not musical – and still does so today, although much better.
When used to record sound, digital recording offers pure perfection. However, the original sound from an orchestral performance has the imperfections of the human performers, and the digital recording captures it all perfectly.
Analogue phonograph recordings have many imperfections, which might be the reason they are still enjoyed by some listeners. Each individual phonograph record was unique, with its unique imperfections of clicks, pops, and distortions. CDs are perfect though, each sounding precisely like any other CD of the same performance.
Digital is used to create video imagery for movies. Digital is also used to record video, along with the imperfections of video source. Dust, dirt, skin imperfections, a slight breeze are all captured. This is akin to the world of audio.
Digital computers can also be used to create special effects, to create animation, and even to mimic humans. Some of the computer animation in Disney’s Fantasia 2000 is fantastic, and would not be possible with conventional animation. Digital special effects are incredible. However, digital humanoids lack the imperfections of humanity – they are too perfect. The wrinkles, spots, trembling, and dirt of humanity are all missing. Elements of randomness need to be programmed into the imagery.
When used for video, film has its imperfections and the unique ways it responds to light. But these responsive effects can be programmed into digital recordings of video.
If digital creativity is going to make it everywhere in sound and video, imperfections might need to be introduced – imperfection filters. Yes, digital can be too perfect.
A. Michael Noll
May 1, 2025
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