Exploring the Power of Modbap Modular Trinity: A Digital Drum Synth Array in Eurorack
Modular synthesis is a constantly evolving landscape with new and exciting modules debuting every year. Modbap Modular is a company that has made waves with their unique take on drum synthesis in a Eurorack package. Today we're going to dive into their flagship drum module, the Trinity.
Trinity is a 3 channel digital drum synth array that uses various types of synthesis to create unique drum designs beyond the traditional kick, snare, and hat. The name Trinity refers to the 3 drum channels - Kick, Snare, and Hat- and tips its hat to the core elements of any modern beat-driven composition. Trinity takes this simple idea and flips it on its head with 3 channels and an array of drum synth algorithms that use various types of synthesis (Subtractive, Additive, FM & Noise). This allows for a wide range of drum design capability that achieves and reaches far beyond the conventional kick, snare, and hat.
Trinity’s array of digital drum synth algorithms are highly malleable by way of the 7 knobs and 4 mini-pots, each of which control a specific parameter and characteristic (Pitch, Sweep, Time, Shape, Grit, Decay, EQ, Clipper, Hold, Volume, and Character) for each drum type. Each drum channel has its trigger and v/oct input, in addition to extensive CV input options per channel. This allows for a high level of control and modulation over each drum voice.
Trinity’s output routing matrix is both unique and highly performable, allowing for the routing of each drum channel’s output to the mix output, individual drum channel output, or both. This makes for easy performability, mutable output, parallel processing, or side chain sources.
Trinity also features MIDI over USB connectivity, making integration a cinch by connecting one USB cable from Trinity to a groove-box or computer. This allows for more precise control over drum voices for those who prefer to use MIDI.
Overall, Trinity is a powerful drum module with a range of features suitable for creating unique and dynamic drum beats. Its stack, cycle, and random modes allow for even more sonic possibilities, and its clipping limiter ensures signals remain clean. With 20 hp and 3 channels, Trinity packs a hefty punch and is well-equipped for those seeking a digital drum synth array in Eurorack.
Example Usage
If you're new to using drum synthesizers in Eurorack, the Modbap Modular Trinity is a great place to start. With its 4 different drum algorithms based on 4 different types of synthesis, you can experiment and create a variety of drum sounds. The 3 drum channels each have their own trigger and pitch control, and there are 24 CV inputs that allow for extensive modulation possibilities. The switchable output routing matrix with individual and mix output is also great for easy performability and mutable output. Plus, with its midi over USB connection, you can easily integrate it with your computer or other groove-box.
An intermediate-level usage example for Modbap Modular Trinity would be to utilize the CV inputs to create complex and dynamic drum beats. Each of the three drum channels can be modulated with a variety of CV inputs, including pitch, time, grit, and volume. By routing different modulation sources to each channel, such as LFOs or envelopes, you can create evolving and intricate drum patterns. Additionally, the switchable output routing matrix makes it easy to apply different effects to each drum channel or to route them separately to a mixer for further processing. With Trinity's powerful synthesis capabilities and extensive CV control, the possibilities for creating unique and expressive drum sounds are endless.
Further Thoughts
One of the standout features of the Modbap Modular Trinity is its extensive CV control options. With 24 CV inputs and CV control over all major parameters, this module offers a wealth of opportunities for dynamic drum synthesis. Utilizing CV input, users can create constantly evolving drum patterns that adapt and change over time. By using a sequencer or other CV source, you can create complex, multilayered rhythms that never repeat in exactly the same way. Additionally, the Trinity's 3 voice drum polyphony allows for even more complex beats by layering multiple sounds on top of each other. Overall, the Modbap Modular Trinity is a perfect tool for those looking to explore the full creative potential of eurorack drum synthesis.