In freeze mode, the playback position of a sample becomes a continuous sound parameter instead of advancing automatically

Normally a sampler plays a file from start to end (or loops). In freeze mode, the audio engine holds the playhead at a fixed position and the user controls the position value as a continuous parameter — via MIDI CC, velocity, aftertouch, or a UI slider. Moving the position scrubs through the waveform without triggering a re-start. At a held position the output is a static spectral snapshot (essentially like pressing pause on a tape): the sound does not progress. The creative use is transforming a sample into a timbral texture whose character is controlled in real time, analogous to freezing a convolution reverb tail or a granular cloud at one position. SOURCE also exposes freezePlayheadSpeed as a parameter, so the playhead can move at a fraction of normal speed — an extreme slow-motion playback effect.

Examples

With a 4-second piano note loaded in SOURCE, entering freeze mode and assigning the playhead position to the mod wheel lets the performer ‘scrub’ into the attack, sustain, or decay independently of clock. At a fixed position mid-decay the sound becomes a drone.

Assessment

How does freeze mode differ from looping? What physical or MIDI control would you assign the playhead position to for the most expressive real-time control? At what playhead position would you expect the brightest timbre from a piano note?