The ST Modular Influencer is a eurorack module that takes modulation to a whole new level. Offering multiple random CV generators and an extensive range of modulation sources, this module is a powerhouse for generating creative and dynamic CV signals in your Eurorack system.
Divided into five sections, the ST Modular Influencer provides a wide range of possibilities for crafting unique and evolving modulation sources. Let's take a closer look at each section and explore their functionality and features.
The top section of the Influencer is the VC internal clock and triangle LFO. This section allows you to control the rate of the clock and LFO using the RATE knob or CV. The clock signal is also normalized to the trigger input of the fall section, providing synchronization between the two sections. Additionally, the triangle wave can be routed to the wave/random switch of the fall section, allowing you to introduce waveform modulation or randomization to the fall length.
Moving on, the second section is the fall envelope generator. This versatile envelope generator can be triggered internally or externally, and its fall time can be controlled using the fall time knob or CV. It also includes an inverted version of the fall output, providing even more flexibility in shaping your modulation.
The third section is the sample & hold section, which offers two modes of operation. In sample & hold mode, it can sample and store a voltage from the fall CV input and output it at the SP OUT socket when the gate input is high. In sample & track mode, it passes through the incoming voltage when the gate input is high and samples and stores the last voltage applied when the gate input is low. The mode is selected using the mode switch. The sample & hold section also includes a stepped potentiometer for controlling the level of the incoming CV signal. This section can be driven by an external signal, the internal smooth random CV generator, or the internal noise source, giving you plenty of options for generating complex and evolving modulation signals.
Next up is the AND/OR comparator section. This section compares two mixable inputs and outputs the maximum and minimum CV values of both inputs. It also generates a gate signal if the input B is greater than input A. This section is particularly useful for creating complex modulation patterns and generating rhythmic variations.
Lastly, we have the dual smooth random CV generator section. This section provides two smoothly changing CV outputs, which slowly meander in approximately 60-second cycles. The behavior of these outputs can be influenced by the smooth CV input, resulting in unpredictable and organic variations. The internal smooth random CV generator is also normalized to various other sections of the module, allowing for further modulation possibilities.
In addition to these sections, the Influencer module includes a noise generator output, which provides access to the internal noise source. This can be used for adding texture and randomness to your modulation signals. Furthermore, the module can also be used as an oscillator, offering even more versatility and creative potential.
With its extensive range of modulation sources and its ability to introduce unpredictability, the ST Modular Influencer truly lives up to its name. Whether you're looking for subtle and evolving texture or wild and chaotic modulation, this module has you covered. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive range of features make it a valuable addition to any Eurorack system.
In conclusion, the ST Modular Influencer is a must-have module for any eurorack enthusiast looking to push the boundaries of modulation. Its multiple random CV generators, internal clock, fall envelope generator, sample & hold section, AND/OR comparator, and dual smooth random CV generator offer endless possibilities for shaping your sound and generating intricate modulation patterns. Whether you're exploring the depths of generative music or simply seeking new ways to add movement and dynamics to your patches, the ST Modular Influencer has the tools to inspire and captivate.
Example Usage
In this example, we will explore using the ST Modular Influencer Eurorack module to create evolving rhythms and textures within a modular synthesizer patch.
First, let's use the VC INTERNAL CLOCK and TRIANGLE LFO section of the Influencer to generate a clock signal for our patch. We can adjust the RATE knob to set the tempo or use an external CV signal to control the clock speed. Connect the clock output to a trigger input of another module, such as a drum module or a sequencer, to synchronize our patch.
Next, let's utilize the FALL ENVELOPE GENERATOR section to add dynamic modulation to our sound. Trigger the envelope generator using an external source or internally from the clock signal we generated earlier. Adjust the FALL TIME knob to control the speed at which the envelope falls, or modulate it with CV for added variation. You can use the inverted output of the envelope to create interesting sonic textures.
Now, let's take advantage of the SAMPLE & HOLD section to introduce randomness into our patch. Set the mode switch to "Sample & Track" and patch a CV source into the CV input. This will sample and hold the incoming CV signal when the gate is high. Experiment by connecting the SP OUT to various parameters in your patch, such as filter cutoff or oscillator pitch, to introduce unpredictable variations.
For further complexity, we can use the AND / OR COMPARATOR section to compare two CV inputs and generate maximum and minimum CV values. Connect different modulation sources to the inputs and use the outputs to control different aspects of your patch. Additionally, take note of the B-GATE output, which will generate a gate signal when the second input exceeds the first input. This gate signal can be used to trigger other modules in your patch.
Finally, let's explore the DUAL SMOOTH RANDOM CV GENERATOR section of the Influencer. Use the SMOOTH I and SMOOTH II outputs as slow-changing CV sources for parameters such as filter resonance or effect parameters. These smooth random CV signals will add an element of unpredictability and evolution to your sound.
Remember that you can also utilize the INFLUENCER module as a noise generator or as an oscillator, providing even more sonic possibilities.
By combining the different sections of the ST Modular Influencer module and experimenting with different modulation sources, you can create intricate and ever-changing rhythms and textures within your modular synthesizer patch.
In this intermediate-level example, we will explore using the ST Modular Influencer Eurorack module to generate evolving modulation for a dynamic filter sweep.
To set up the patch, start by connecting the FALL CV output to the CUTOFF CV input of a filter module, and the FALL output to the GATE input of an envelope module. Set the envelope module's attack and release times to your liking.
Next, adjust the FALL TIME knob on the Influencer module to control the duration of the filter sweep. You can also use an external control voltage (CV) to modulate the FALL TIME for more nuanced changes.
To introduce randomness into the modulation, patch the SMOOTH I or SMOOTH II output from the Influencer module to the RESONANCE CV input of the filter. This will create subtle and continuously changing variations in the filter's resonance.
For added complexity, try patching the TRIANGLE wave output from the VC INTERNAL CLOCK and TRIANGLE LFO section of the Influencer module to modulate the filter's cutoff frequency. This will create rhythmic variations in the filter sweep.
Experiment with different settings on the Influencer module, such as adjusting the rate of the internal clock and LFO, changing the fall time of the envelope generator, and exploring different sample and hold modes. These variations will generate unique and unpredictable modulation patterns, adding depth and interest to your sound.
By utilizing the extensive modulation sources of the Influencer module, you can achieve intricate and evolving filter sweeps that add movement and character to your eurorack patches.
Further Thoughts
In an expert-level usage example, the ST Modular Influencer module can be employed as a powerful modulation source to add dynamic and unpredictable elements to a eurorack patch.
One intriguing application of the Influencer module is to create a generative melody with ever-changing rhythms and tones. Start by using the VC INTERNAL CLOCK and TRIANGLE LFO section to set the tempo and waveform characteristics. Connect the clock signal to the trigger input of the FALL section to synchronize the modulation.
Next, patch the FALL CV output to the SAMPLE & HOLD section, enabling the Sample & Hold mode. This allows the module to capture and hold voltages from the FALL CV socket, which will act as the melodic intervals. Adjust the SMOOTH RANDOM CV input to influence the randomization of these intervals and add an element of unpredictability to the melody.
To introduce slight variations in the rhythm, utilize the FALL ENVELOPE GENERATOR section. Trigger it either internally or externally and adjust the fall time using the FALL TIME knob or CV. Feel free to experiment with the inverted fall output for inverted rhythms.
For an additional layer of modulation, connect the outputs of two sound sources to the A and B inputs of the AND / OR COMPARATOR section. This will generate the MAXIMUM and MINIMUM CV values of both inputs, allowing you to obtain dynamic control over parameters like filter cutoff, wave shaping, or any other modulatable parameters.
To add evolving and smooth variations to your patch, utilize the DUAL SMOOTH RANDOM CV GENERATOR section. Connect the SMOOTH I and SMOOTH II outputs to any parameters you want to introduce subtle changes to. This will create subtle, slowly meandering variations that gradually shift over long cycles, making your patch more organic, unpredictable, and engaging.
Don't hesitate to incorporate the NOISE OUT section to add texture, random voltage sources, or even turn the module into a unique oscillator source, expanding its utility beyond traditional modulation applications.
Remember, the beauty of the Influencer module lies in its ability to combine multiple modulation sources and create intricate and ever-changing patches. Experiment, explore, and allow this module to influence your creativity with its wide range of modulation sources and a dash of unpredictability.