Expanding Your Sequencing Capabilities with Five12 Jack Expander Black: A Comprehensive Review

If you're looking to expand your sequencing capabilities, the Five12 Jack Expander Black eurorack module might be the solution you need. This I/O expansion is designed to work with the Five12 Vector Sequencer, and it adds a considerable amount of additional I/O.

One of the most significant features of the Jack Expander Black is its ability to add four sets of voice outputs, which include pitch, gate, and velocity signals. These pitch DACs use high-quality 16-bit converters with a voltage range of -3V to +7V. The velocity DACs are also high quality, 12-bit converters with adjustable output ranges: +/- 5V, +/- 2.5V, and 0-5V. With these additional voice outputs, you can create complex sequences that include multiple voices.

In addition to the voice outputs, the Jack Expander Black also provides eight trigger outputs. Six of these outputs can run as inputs, making them ideal for triggering drums or generating clock signals. In input mode, these triggers can be used to reset or manually step any of the Vector's eight sequence parts.

The Jack Expander Black also includes MIDI In and Out on 5-pin DIN jacks, as well as DIN Sync on 5-pin DIN jacks. With these connections, you can easily integrate the Vector Sequencer with other MIDI devices or external sync sources.

Overall, the Jack Expander Black is a powerful expansion module for the Five12 Vector Sequencer. With its high-quality DACs, multiple voice and trigger outputs, and MIDI and DIN Sync connections, it significantly expands sequencing capabilities and provides ample opportunities for experimentation and creativity. If you're looking to take your sequencing to the next level, the Five12 Jack Expander Black is definitely worth considering.

Example Usage

If you're new to eurorack sequencing and the Five12 Vector Sequencer, the Five12 Jack Expander Black might look a bit daunting. But don't fret! Once you have the Jack Expander connected to the Vector Sequencer with the two ribbon cables, you can move on to exploring the vast array of I/O that it adds.

If you're a drummer or percussionist, you'll love the eight trigger outputs. These can be used to trigger drum sounds or generate clock signals for your other sequencers. When you're ready for more advanced sequencing, six of the trigger outputs can also be used as inputs. During input mode, you can reset or manually step through the eight parts of the Vector Sequencer.

And if you're looking to connect your eurorack rig to MIDI instruments or other gear, the Jack Expander has you covered with MIDI In and Out on 5-pin DIN jacks, as well as DIN Sync on 5-pin DIN jacks. With all of these extra I/O options, you'll be able to take your sequencing to a whole new level with the Five12 Jack Expander Black.

An intermediate-level usage example for the Five12 Jack Expander Black would be to use it in conjunction with a drum machine module like the Tiptop Audio BD909 or Noise Engineering Basimilus Iteritas Alter. By using the trigger outputs on the Jack Expander, you can easily sync your drum machine with the Vector Sequencer and make complex rhythm patterns. Additionally, you can use the voice outputs to control pitch and velocity of your drum sounds, adding a level of dynamic expression to your beats. With the added I/O and synchronization capabilities of the Jack Expander Black, your sequencing possibilities are greatly expanded for live performance or studio recording.

Further Thoughts

Using the Five12 Jack Expander Black with the Vector Sequencer can greatly enhance your ability to control a complex modular setup. With four sets of voice outputs, each with pitch, gate, and velocity signals, you can control multiple sources with ease. The high-quality 16-bit converters on the Pitch DACs provide a voltage range of -3V to +7V, giving you a precise and versatile control over your sounds. Additionally, using the Eight trigger outputs, you can trigger drums or generate clock signals, while the inputs can be used to reset or manually step any of the Vector's eight sequence parts. Overall, the Five12 Jack Expander Black is an essential tool for any modular musician looking to expand their sequencing capabilities.

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