The combination of Eurorack filters and amplifiers in a modular setup provides a vast range of sound design possibilities. In this article, we explore the potential of combining specific Eurorack modules to create unmatched soundscapes.
Erica Synths Filter Coupler is a satellite module that adds Bandpass and Band reject filter functionality to the Black High Pass VCF and the Black Low Pass VCF. The Coupler has manually adjustable center frequency and bandwidth and voltage control over these parameters, producing a unique tonal palette.
Bizarre Jezabel PKHi Mk2 filter is a dual/stereo filter with low-pass and high-pass options, featuring cutoff control for both filters and CV input for left and right cutoff. The module can also be used in dual-mono and mono-to-stereo configurations, offering flexibility in creating complex stereo soundscapes.
NonLinearCircuits Cellular Automata is a pattern generator and gate module that runs a process driven by a clock signal and requires a signal on one of the seed inputs to start a new process or alter the current one. The Cellular Automata module offers three CV outputs, two based on each half of the circuit and one reflecting the pattern created by the active cells. Each cell also has a gate output.
Zlob VnIcursal VCA Classic is an 8HP, 6-channel VCA Eurorack module that provides six OTA-based DC-coupled linear VCAs for audio or CV, which can also be used as a voltage-controlled mixer. Each VCA out is normalled to the SUM out, providing creators with a combination of gain and blend options.
Tubbutec 6m0d6 is a 606-based drum module that can produce a vast range of sounds with the turn of a knob. It includes all seven TR-606 instruments and allows users to blend between a 606 bass drum to a decayed 808 sub-bass, tune, and damp their cymbal, or cut it into pieces and process it further.
The combination of these modules allows creators to explore infinite sound design possibilities. The Erica Synths Filter Coupler and Bizarre Jezabel PKHi Mk2 filter's adjustable frequency and bandwidth parameters can be further enhanced by NonLinearCircuits Cellular Automata's pattern generation and gate capabilities and Zlob VnIcursal VCA Classic's blend and gain options. The Tubbutec 6m0d6 drum module adds a creative dimension, allowing creators to create unique percussion sounds.
It is important to note that each module can function on its own and offers unique characteristics that enhance the system's sound design potential when combined. Each module has manual and CV control over parameters, adding unprecedented nuances to the modular system. Therefore, the possibilities are limitless with the combination of these modules in a eurorack setup.
Example Usage
A simple way to start discovering unique sound design possibilities with combined Eurorack filters and amplifiers is to use the Erica Synths Black Filter Coupler in combination with the Bizarre Jezebel PKHI MK2. The Black Filter Coupler adds Bandpass and Band Reject filter functionality with adjustable center frequency and bandwidth, while the PKHI MK2 features a dual/stereo low-pass/high-pass filter with cutoff control and CV input for both channels. By routing the output of the PKHI MK2 through the input of the Black Filter Coupler and adjusting the various parameters, you can start to explore a wide range of tonal possibilities and subtle nuances to your sound design.
An intermediate-level usage example of combining Eurorack filters and amplifiers can involve using the Erica Synths Filter Coupler and the Bizarre Jezebel PKHI MK2 together. The Black HP VCF and Black LP VCF filters, which the Erica Synths Filter Coupler is designed to work with, can first be used to shape the sound of an audio signal. The Filter Coupler then adds Bandpass and Band Reject filter functionality, allowing for even more precise tonal control. From here, the signal can be sent to the Bizarre Jezebel PKHI MK2's dual/stereo filter LP/HP and its cutoff control, which further enables a range of tonal filtration and manipulation. The CV input for left and right cutoff also offers the ability to modulate the sound of each channel independently. Finally, the Zlob Vnicursal VCA can be used to amplify the resulting signal, allowing for even greater control over the final sound. Through combining these modules, it's possible to explore a nearly endless range of unique sound design possibilities.
Further Thoughts
By using the Erica Synths Black VCF Coupler in combination with the Bizarre Jezebel PKHi Mk2 filter, you can achieve unique sound design possibilities. The Black VCF Coupler adds bandpass and band reject filter functionality to both Black HP VCF and Black LP VCF, while the PKHi Mk2 filter provides dual/stereo LP/HP filter. By routing the outputs of both filters to the Zlob VnIcursal VCA and using the Nonlinear Circuits Cellular Automata as a gate and pattern gen, you can create intricate and evolving soundscapes that seamlessly blend between filtered tones and rhythmic patterns. The Tubbutec 6m0d6 drum module can then add dynamic triggers and MIDI control to add percussive elements to your composition.