Attack

Attack is the opening gesture of a sound and one of the most perceptually important parameters you can adjust. A very short attack makes the sound appear instantly, which is essential for plucks, drums, and any percussive material where the transient defines the character. A longer attack fades the sound in gradually, producing the swelling entrance of pads, strings, and cinematic textures. On an amplitude envelope, attack controls the volume rise; on a filter envelope, it controls how quickly brightness opens up. Because the ear locks onto the beginning of a sound to identify it, getting the attack right often matters more than any other single envelope setting.