What is Legato in Synths?

Legato in synths is a playing and programming style in which notes are connected smoothly without re-triggering certain parameters, such as the envelope. It is known for creating fluid, continuous musical phrases.

The technique typically involves overlapping notes so that when a new key is pressed before the previous one is released, the synthesizer treats them as a connected phrase rather than separate events.

Legato emphasizes smooth transitions, often disabling the re-triggering of the attack stage of an envelope, which results in a more seamless and natural flow between notes.

It is commonly used in monophonic synth patches, especially for leads and basses, and is often paired with portamento to create sliding pitch transitions.

Today, Legato is widely used in synthesis and performance, valued for its ability to produce expressive, connected, and musically fluid lines.