Introduction to Pure Data

Why Pure Data

Pure Data (Pd) lets you build audio instruments and interactive interfaces by connecting visual objects. It is ideal for rapid prototypes and live performance.

First sound: osc~ + dac~

1. Create an object [osc~ 440] — generates a 440 Hz sine wave
2. Create [*~ 0.2] — attenuates volume (gain 0.2)
3. Connect the oscillator output to the multiplier input
4. Create [dac~] and connect both L/R inputs

Volume control with a slider

Add an object [hslider 0 1 0 0] and connect its output to the second inlet of [*~].

[hslider] -> [*~] <- [osc~ 440] -> [dac~]

Minimal patch structure

Save and organize

Save the patch as hello-pd.pd. Use subfolders for reusable abstractions (/lib, /fx, /seq).

Bridge to hardware

In later tutorials we send values from Arduino to Pd via serial or OSC. The same patch can receive MIDI CC from a DIY controller.

Reference video

A video link appears at the top of this page — watch it to get familiar with the interface before building denser patches.