Definition
A choke group is a set of pads configured so that triggering one immediately silences the others. Only one sound in the group can ring at a time.
Example
The classic case is an open and a closed hi-hat. Assign both to the same choke group and hitting the closed hat instantly cuts off the ringing open hat, exactly as a real hi-hat pedal would. The two sounds become mutually exclusive.
Why it matters
Without a choke group, an open hi-hat sample rings on top of the closed one, producing a muddy wash no real drummer could create. Choke groups model the physical reality that one instrument cannot be open and closed at once, which keeps hi-hat and cymbal parts clean and convincing.
How to play or configure
In your sampler or drum rack, give every hi-hat pad (open, closed, and pedal) the same choke or mute group number. Anything sharing that number will cut the others off. Many devices number groups 1 to 16; reserve one for the hats and another for cymbal swells. Then play open-to-closed transitions and listen for the clean, immediate cut.
Related terms
Further reading
Pad Layouts covers grouping hi-hats on a 16-pad grid.