Podcast
Game Audio & Synth Building w/ Niels Johannes de Wit (Indie Audio Programmer) | Ep 24
From demo scene to game development, an audio programmer shares insights on synthesizer design, spatial audio, and the art of DSP in interactive entertainment.
In this episode, indie audio programmer Niels Johannes de Wit takes us on a journey from his early days in the demo scene to his current work in game audio development and synthesizer design. Niels shares the story behind Bison, his open-source FM synthesis engine built entirely in standard C++, explaining how his journey began with simply rendering a sine wave to a file and evolved into a sophisticated instrument capable of complex sound design. He discusses the unique challenges of game audio programming, particularly in spatial audio and real-time DSP, while offering candid insights about the common mistakes developers make when starting out in audio programming.
The conversation explores the fascinating intersection between game audio and synthesizer development, revealing how skills from one domain enhance the other. Niels emphasizes the importance of curiosity and deep technical understanding in audio programming, contrasting the complexity of modern game audio stacks with the more focused challenges of synthesizer design. He discusses the philosophical differences between building purpose-built software versus general-purpose frameworks, using examples from his experience with both indie projects and AAA game development. The discussion touches on practical topics like testing strategies, code style preferences, and the evolving role of AI in audio programming, while also delving into the unique characteristics that make audio programming particularly rewarding and challenging.
Throughout the episode, Niels provides valuable perspective on what makes a successful audio programmer, stressing that it is not about knowing everything but rather about maintaining humility, curiosity, and a willingness to collaborate across disciplines. His insights on working with sound designers, the importance of testing, and the value of understanding DSP fundamentals offer practical guidance for aspiring audio programmers. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of music creation, spatial audio in games, and how emerging technologies like AI might enhance rather than replace the creative work of audio developers.
Originally recorded on November 4th, 2023.
