Phase random produces analog-feel variability per note; phase retrig produces a phase-locked, punchy attack

When multiple oscillator voices play, where in their cycle each voice starts (its ‘phase’) affects the combined waveform’s initial shape. With Phase Random at 100, each voice starts at a random phase offset every note-on — producing a slightly different transient each time, which sounds analog and lively. Setting Phase Random to 0 (retrig) locks every voice to start at the same phase: the transient is identical and maximally consistent each time the note triggers. For stacked saws with Phase Memory (per-voice phase control), starting all voices at the same point creates a powerful synchronised attack spike, useful for punchy basses. A fully randomized phase is generally preferred for pads; retrig for basses and percussive sounds.

Examples

Saw: phase random 100 → lively, slightly different attack each note (analog feel). Phase random 0, retrig → same attack every note (punchy, consistent). Phase Memory with all voices at 0 → maximum synchronised punch.

Assessment

Play a single-note patch with phase random at 100 and record the attack shape in your DAW. Set to 0 and retrig. Describe the visible and audible difference in the attack.