Int, float, and list are all (normally hidden) message selectors that are assumed whenever Max encounters a message that consists of (respectively) a single int, a single float, or a multi-item message that starts with a number. Similarly, typing a single int, a single float, or any multi-item list that starts with a number directly into an object box assumes an object of type int (or i), float (or f), or list (or pack).
This example show 2 ways to increase and decrease a value on a number box. One uses a set of trigger, textbutton, int, and + objects, the other simply uses the incdec object.
Recursion, feedback loops, and unlimited untimed (as fast as possible) loops are not feasible in Max. In effect, you’d be asking Max to do an unlimited number of things all at the same time. Its scheduler (its internal “to-do” list) would get filled and it would be unable to do anything more. In computer lingo, its “stack” (its inbox of tasks to do) would overflow.
The sigmund~ object is a third-party object for pitch tracking designed by Miller Puckette and Ted Apel, available on their page of downloadable Max objects
This example demonstrates creating a RAM buffer to hold a 10-second stereo recording, recording live audio into it (with input volume adjustment), and then playing randomly chosen backward clips of that sound, with a trapezoidal window to taper the beginning and ending of each clip to avoid clicks.