The Xaoc Devices Ostrawa is a distinctive player within the field of Eurorack mixers, uniquely offering a complete stereo voltage-controlled mixing console within a stylish, skiff-friendly 20hp module. Seminal in design, resolutely modern, yet respectful of enduring, traditional functional principles of mixer interface design, the Ostrawa is a prized asset in any Eurorack setup, perfect for blending multi-channel audio sources with precision, elegance, and an absolute mastery of control.
In exploring the versatility of output and the natural volume control behavior of this Eurorack module, one cannot ignore the influence of the Ostrawa's sister module, Praga. The two devices share similar response characteristics, creating an enriched and seamless user experience trademarked by their mutual manufacturer, Xaoc Devices. However, the Ostrawa contains some functional distinctions - owing mainly to stereo inputs and limited panel space - setting this unit apart in its own realm of superior quality and function.
One of the main features which impresses with the Ostrawa is the full stereo architecture. It provides four channels - each with a stereo mixing bus, channel level indicators, clickless muting, and an auxiliary send switchable between pre and post VCA. These features, enhanced by the time and effort poured into the crafting and perfecting of this unit, shape the Ostrawa into a compact, yet supremely expansive, sonic universe.
The auxiliary send and stereo returns are also remarkable additions to the Ostrawa. They enable performers to add external effects, widening the creative bandwidth and providing expanded sonic results. Coupled with clickless channel muting, users gain instantaneous control over the audio output without any bothersome noise, thus enabling smooth transitions within the live sound domain.
Ideal within a daisy-chaining setup, expanded through interconnections with Praga units, additional Ostrawa units and the Bohumin expander module, the Ostrawa is an astounding asset within the Xaoc Devices collaboration ecosystem. The ability to forge a custom, configurable mixing system not only yields greater ergonomic efficiency but also enables a wider sphere of possibility within sound design and synthesis capabilities.
Bottom line, the Xaoc Devices Ostrawa represents a tremendous leap forward in the field of Eurorack mixers. This full stereo voltage controlled mixing console, with natural volume control behavior and numerous auxiliary features, offers a high dynamic range of controllability and operational efficiency. The 20hp skiff-friendly module makes the Ostrawa a valuable, compact, and affordable addition to any Eurorack environment, embracing the best of what modern sound technology has to offer.
As a testament to the design safety measures in built, the Ostrawa includes reverse power protection, safeguarding not just the module itself, but the entire device wherein it is integrated. With a current draw of +180mA/-150mA, this impressive unit delivers a performance that transcends its modest power consumption. The Xaoc Devices Ostrawa is proof that big things truly come in small packages, further affirming its status as a formidable mixer within the Eurorack domain.
Example Usage
Novice Usage Example:
The Xaoc Devices Ostrawa is a versatile module that allows you to easily mix and control the levels of your Eurorack signals. Let's see how you can use it to create an interesting sonic landscape.
First, let's connect your audio sources to the Ostrawa's four channels. You can use different Eurorack modules like oscillators, sequencers, or even external audio sources. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect blend of sounds.
Next, adjust the channel levels using the potentiometers. Start by turning them all to the middle position, and then gradually increase or decrease each channel's level to create a balanced mix. Don't forget to keep an eye on the channel level indicators to ensure none of your signals are clipping.
Now, let's add some stereo effects to the mix. Use the stereo auxiliary send and return to connect external effects modules. You can choose whether the effects are applied before or after the Ostrawa's voltage controlled amplifier (VCA). This allows you to create interesting spatial effects or apply modulation to the effects themselves.
To add some movement to your mix, you can use the Ostrawa's voltage control response. This feature combines the internal voltages generated by the potentiometers with external control voltage (CV) signals. By connecting modulation sources, such as LFOs or envelopes, to the CV inputs, you can dynamically control the volume and stereo balance of each channel. This opens up a world of possibilities for evolving and dynamic mixes.
Remember to explore the clickless muting functionality. This allows you to mute individual channels without any audible clicks or pops. You can use this feature to introduce sudden breaks or to create rhythmic patterns with your mix.
If you want to expand your mixing capabilities, you can chain multiple Ostrawa units together or combine them with the Xaoc Devices Praga module. This gives you the flexibility to create a custom configurable mixing system tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, consider adding the optional Bohumin expander module for even more control and routing options.
The Xaoc Devices Ostrawa opens up a new world of possibilities for shaping your sonic landscape. With its full stereo architecture, natural volume control behavior, and expandability, you can create complex and immersive mixes that will captivate your listeners. Experiment with different sources, effects, and modulation to truly unlock the potential of this module.
Intermediate-level usage example: One creative way to use the Xaoc Devices Ostrawa in your Eurorack setup is to create dynamic stereo effects. By connecting different audio sources to each channel and utilizing the stereo auxiliary send and return, you can achieve immersive and captivating sonic landscapes. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this:
- Start by patching different audio signals into each of the four channels of the Ostrawa module. You can use various sound sources such as oscillators, drum modules, or even external audio.
- Adjust the individual channel levels using the panel potentiometers. The level indicators will provide visual feedback, helping you achieve the desired balance between the audio sources.
- Now, explore the stereo auxiliary send by patching it to an effects module, such as a reverb or delay. This will allow you to create spatial effects and add depth to your mix.
- Adjust the stereo auxiliary send level for each channel to control the amount of signal that is being sent to the effects module. You can also switch between pre or post-VCA mode to determine whether the send signal is affected by the channel's volume control.
- Once the affected signal returns from the effects module through the stereo returns, use the Ostrawa's stereo balance control to position the processed audio within the stereo field. This control is especially valuable when exploring panning or placing elements in a specific spatial location.
- For added creativity, take advantage of the clickless muting feature to introduce occasional breaks or transitions in your mix. Experiment with muting individual channels or combine them to create interesting rhythmic patterns.
- Finally, don't forget to experiment with external CV control over volume and stereo balance. This feature allows you to modulate the parameters dynamically, opening up endless possibilities for evolving and expressive stereo effects.
By employing these techniques, you can transform your Eurorack setup into a powerful stereo mixing system. The Xaoc Devices Ostrawa with its full stereo architecture, natural volume control behavior, and precise control circuitry offers an ideal solution for crafting captivating soundscapes that excite and inspire.
Further Thoughts
In a vast modular setup, the Xaoc Devices Ostrawa can be employed as a powerful and flexible stereo mixer to create captivating sonic landscapes. Let's explore an expert-level use case of this module.
Imagine a setup where you have multiple oscillators, sequencers, and sound processing modules generating a wide range of audio signals. To bring all these elements together and explore their spatial characteristics, you can utilize the Xaoc Devices Ostrawa as the central mixing hub.
Start by patching your oscillators and other sound sources into the Ostrawa's four channels. Each channel provides individual level control and panorama adjustment, allowing you to precisely position the audio in the stereo field. The included level indicators help you monitor the signal strength of each channel, ensuring optimal gain staging.
To add depth and complexity to your sound, take advantage of the stereo auxiliary send and returns. By patching an effects module, such as a reverb or delay, into the Ostrawa's stereo auxiliary send, you can send portions of each channel's signal to the effects processor. Adjust the send level for each channel to achieve the desired amount of effect processing. The processed signal is then returned to the Ostrawa via the stereo returns, ready to be mixed back into the final output.
Suppose you wish to create dynamic transitions and emphasize certain elements within your sonic exploration. In that case, the Ostrawa's clickless muting feature becomes invaluable. By applying triggers or CV signals to the mute inputs on the module, you can seamlessly silence or activate specific channels at precise moments. This real-time control allows for expressive performances and precise sculpting of your sonic landscape on-the-fly.
In more extensive modular setups, one Ostrawa might not be sufficient to accommodate all your sound sources and processing needs. Fear not, as the Ostrawa harmoniously pairs with its sister module, the Xaoc Devices Praga. Both modules share similar response characteristics and control layouts, enabling you to chain multiple units together. This flexibility allows for the creation of a custom-configurable mixing system tailored to your specific requirements.
To expand the capabilities of your Ostrawa and Praga setup even further, the optional Bohumin expander module is available. The Bohumin provides additional auxiliary sends and returns, bringing even more versatility to your sonic palette. With this expanded configuration, you can delve deeper into your sonic explorations and unleash an even more profound sense of spatiality in your music.
By incorporating the Xaoc Devices Ostrawa into your eurorack setup, you gain a full stereo voltage-controlled mixing console that not only provides pristine audio fidelity but also offers an extensive suite of features to enhance your creative possibilities. Whether you're crafting intricate soundscapes or performing live, the Ostrawa empowers you to traverse the sonic landscape with precision and control, elevating your musical journey to new heights.