Phaser
Stereo phaser effect with cascaded all-pass filters, multiple waveforms, and variable stage count
Parameters
| Parameter | Range | Default |
|---|---|---|
| Rate | 0.05 – 8 Hz | 0.5 Hz |
| Depth | 0 – 100 % | 50 % |
| Stages | 4, 6, 8, 12 | 4 |
| Center Freq | 300 – 3000 Hz | 948.683 Hz |
| Feedback | 0 – 100 % | 50 % |
| Waveform | Sine, Triangle, Square, Saw Up, Saw Down | Sine |
| Stereo Phase | 0 – 180 deg | 90 deg |
| Mix | 0 – 100 % | 50 % |
Overview
Phaser creates moving notches in the frequency response by combining the dry signal with a bank of modulated all pass filters. The result ranges from a gentle swirl behind clean chords to a deep, resonant sweep for funk rhythm, psychedelic leads, and animated synth textures.
Rate sets sweep speed, Depth sets sweep width, and Center Freq chooses the region around which the motion occurs. Stages controls the number of filter sections. More stages produce more notches and a more complex sound. Feedback emphasizes the notches, Waveform changes the motion, and Mix balances dry and phased signals. Stereo Phase offsets the right channel sweep for width.
Tips
- For a classic gentle sweep, start with 4 stages, Rate near 0.4 Hz, Depth at 50%, Feedback around 30%, and Mix near 50%.
- Add stages and Feedback for a deeper, more synthetic sound. Reduce Mix if the result overwhelms the original note.
- Lower Center Freq for a darker sweep that favors bass and rhythm parts. Raise it for more presence on guitar leads.
- Sine is the smoothest waveform. Square and saw shapes create abrupt or one direction movement that works well for special effects.
- Use a nonzero Stereo Phase for width. Return it to 0 degrees when you need a stable mono compatible image.