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K-synth – A web-based array language playground for synth design

K-synth – A web-based array language playground for synth design

by octetta·Mar 13, 2026·2 points·1 comment

AI Analysis

●●SolidRabbit HoleNiche GemCozy

K-inspired array language for audio synthesis running entirely in your browser.

Strengths
  • Minimalist syntax with single-letter primitives makes waveform sketching intuitive.
  • Web-based playground requires no compiler, instant audio feedback on run.
  • Performance grid pads let you play samples at different intervals melodically.
Weaknesses
  • Extremely niche — only appeals to audio programmers who like array languages.
  • No persistence or export options mentioned, feels more like an experiment.
Target Audience

Audio programmers and synth enthusiasts

Similar To

SuperCollider · TidalCycles · K

Post Description

I built k-synth as an experiment to see if a minimalist, K-inspired array language could make sketching waveforms faster and more intuitive than traditional code. I’ve put together a web-based toolkit so you can try the syntax directly in the browser without having to touch a compiler:

Live Toolkit: https://octetta.github.io/k-synth/

If you visit the page, here is a quick path to an audio payoff:

- Click "patches" and choose dm-bell.ks.

- Click "run"—the notebook area will update. Click the waveform to hear the result.

- Click the "->0" button below the waveform to copy it into slot 0 at the top (slots are also clickable).

- Click "pads" in the entry area to show a performance grid.

- Click "melodic" to play slot 0's sample at different intervals across the grid.

The 'Weird' Stack:

- The Language: A simplified, right-associative array language (e.g., s for sine, p for pi).

- The Web Toolkit: Built using WASM and Web Audio for live-coding samples.

- AI Pair-Programming: I used AI agents to bootstrap the parser and web boilerplate, which let me vet the language design in weeks rather than months.

The Goal: This isn't meant to replace a DAW. It’s a compact way to generate samples for larger projects. It’s currently in a "will-it-blend" state. I’m looking for feedback from the array language and DSP communities—specifically on the operator choices and the right-to-left evaluation logic.

Source (MIT): https://github.com/octetta/k-synth

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