(1) The simplest, individual sound- producing circuitry (generator module) an instrument possesses; an element of synthesizer circuitry capable of producing a note, which typically consists of the combination of oscillator/filter/amplifier with associated envelopes for the filter and amplifier. The polyphonic capability of a synthesizer is defined by now many voices it has. . See voice channel.
(2) In Yamaha synthesizers, a patch.
(3) The instrument for human speech or singing.