Complex, High-Quality Hi Hat

Hi-hats are typically rich in complex, inharmonic frequencies that create a metallic, shimmering sound. Hi-hats rely heavily on noise components to create the “sizzle” effect. While analog circuits can generate white or colored noise using transistors or diodes, it’s difficult to get the noise characteristics exactly right for hi-hats. Designing a noise source that consistently produces the correct quality and amount of noise can require fine-tuning and careful component selection. Hi-hats need a very quick attack and controlled decay to emulate the sharpness of a real cymbal. In analog circuits, achieving precise control over these fast transients is challenging.

Hatz v3 it ́s an analog circuit including 2 types of noises “Metals” generates stable, high-frequency square wave oscillations, which are essential for the metallic, bright tone characteristic of hi-hats. “Texture” generates a unique, digital form of noise that has a slightly “stepped” quality, adding a texture that’s not as smooth as white noise but offers a desirable grit. Independent envelopes for precise transient shaping, and a bandpass filter for frequency control—contributes to a complex, high-quality hi-hat sound. This design approach provides flexibility, realism, and tonal richness that elevates the hi-hat beyond basic analog percussion.