What is Sample & Hold?

Sample & Hold (S&H or S+H) is a function that takes a continuous input signal (often noise or random voltages), and grabs — or “samples” — the current value whenever it receives a trigger or clock pulse. It then “holds” that value until the next pulse.

The result is a stepped, choppy modulation signal that feels random but is locked to a rhythm — kinda like glitchy pixel art for voltage.

Common Inputs

• Noise: The classic input — produces stepped random voltages from endless randomness at high rates that noise generates.
• LFOs: Sampling an LFO creates rhythmic, stair-step versions of smooth movement.
• CV or Audio: You can get weird by sampling anything — even melodies or waveforms.

Uses in a Patch

• Random Pitch: Send S&H to a quantizer or oscillator for stepped melodic randomness.
• Glitchy Modulation: Modulate filters, wavefolders, or VCAs for chaotic but controlled motion.
• Pattern Generation: Clocked randomness makes cool generative patches with groove.

S&H is where things get fun and a little unpredictable. It’s the tool that makes modular feel alive, even if it’s just a noise source and a square wave. Embrace the chaos, one sample at a time.