In my experiments with synthesizers, I’ve discovered some tricks to make acoustic sounds more realistic. Physical modeling is one approach, but it requires a lot of software engineering to get good results. Instead, I believe that chains of ordinary oscillators and effects can produce cool sounds. Randomizing and modulating parameters can add complexity and depth. Key tracking is essential for mimicking the physics of different registers. Decay times should vary for a more natural percussive sound. Adding subtle stereo detuning and noise bursts can enhance synthesized drums. “Box tone” filters can compensate for the cleanliness of digital signals. Different reverbs should be used for each instrument. Inharmonic modal synthesis can be enhanced with ring modulation. Humanize velocity and timing to add realism. Detuning each key slightly can emulate imperfections. Use random detuning and portamento for higher notes. Consider alternative waveforms if saw and pulse waves sound too synthetic. A chain of subtle effects can create an “imperfection cascade” for added realism. Unisons of different instruments can mask imperfections. Slow parameter fluctuations can be applied to the entire ensemble for a more realistic sound.
https://nathan.ho.name/posts/acoustic-sounds/