Filter Animation and Analog Drums: A Eurorack Adventure
Introduction: In this article, we explore the adventurous combination of the XAOC Devices Zagrzeb stereo filter, the PH Modular Mixer Stereo module, the Visible Signals Video Mult buffered multiple, the Weston Precision Audio AD110 analog drums, and the Music Thing Modular Mini Drive distortion module. We delve into the features and sonic capabilities of each module, highlighting how they can be effectively integrated into a eurorack system to create filter animation and analog drums. Whether you're a fan of vintage Japanese synths or looking to add character and warmth to your sound, this eurorack adventure is sure to inspire your creative exploration.
Filter Animation with XAOC Devices Zagrzeb: The XAOC Devices Zagrzeb is a stereo multimode 4-pole voltage-controlled filter (SV VCF) that offers five distinct frequency responses, three of which are available simultaneously. This versatile filter provides 24dB/oct low pass and high pass filtering, as well as three band pass filter slope configurations. One of the standout features of the Zagrzeb is its voltage-controlled Spread control, which allows for the animation of the stereo image by moving the left and right filter cutoff frequencies in opposite directions. This creates a dynamic and immersive stereo effect. The Zagrzeb is perfect for filtering stereo signals such as samples or stereo oscillators, but it can also handle mono signals and even create a faux stereo pair using a special phase shifting network at the input.
Analog Drums with Weston Precision Audio AD110: If you're in search of authentic analog drum sounds, the Weston Precision Audio AD110 is a must-have module. Inspired by vintage Japanese drum machines, this module faithfully recreates all six DR110 voices in Eurorack signal format. The AD110 offers individual outputs for each voice, as well as a mix out with an accent input. What sets the AD110 apart are the additional tone adjustments beyond the standard DR110 settings, including kick pitch and resonance, snare pitch and decay, cymbal decay, and clap spread and reverb. With its compact 16HP design and all through-hole parts, the AD110 is a powerful and versatile tool for crafting classic drum sounds in your eurorack system.
Creative Signal Routing with Visible Signals Video Mult: When it comes to routing signals in a eurorack system, the Visible Signals Video Mult is an essential module. This dual-channel video-rate buffered multiple module provides three outputs per channel, ensuring that each output socket tracks the input correctly, regardless of how many modules it's connected to or the load on it. The Video Mult solves the problem of signal degradation when using splitter cables or passive multiple modules, which can load down the source signal and cause glitches. With its unity gain buffering, the Video Mult allows you to distribute signals without compromising their quality. Additionally, the bottom channel of the Video Mult is normalled to the upper channel, making it a versatile six-output multiple module.
Adding Character and Warmth with Music Thing Modular Mini Drive: To add character and warmth to your eurorack system, look no further than the Music Thing Modular Mini Drive. Inspired by the classic Minimoog input gain, this 4HP Drive/Distortion module offers two inputs with different gain levels that mix together when both inputs are used. The Drive knob controls the level of gain, transforming your sound source from subtle saturation to dirty distortion. The Mini Drive is designed to work with modular level signals and is particularly effective with line inputs, making it a perfect companion for drum machines. You can also experiment with feedback loops and patching techniques to create unique and distorted tones. While the Mini Drive lacks CV input, you can use a VCA or filter before it to modify the amount of distortion or get more experimental with LFO or sequence modulation.
Conclusion: The combination of the XAOC Devices Zagrzeb, PH Modular Mixer Stereo, Visible Signals Video Mult, Weston Precision Audio AD110, and Music Thing Modular Mini Drive opens up a world of creative possibilities in your eurorack system. Whether you're interested in filter animation, analog drums, or adding character and warmth to your sound, these modules provide the tools to express your musical ideas. Embrace the eurorack adventure and let your creativity soar. Happy patching!
Example Usage
Novice-Level Usage Example:
Let's dive into an exciting combination of modules that will bring analog drums to life with filter animation. By combining the Xaoc Devices Zagrzeb, PH Modular Mixer Stereo, Visible Signals Video Mult, Weston Precision Audio AD110 Analog Drums, and Music Thing Modular Mini Drive, you can create dynamic and textured drum sounds.
First, connect the individual drum outputs from the Weston Precision Audio AD110 Analog Drums module to the inputs of the PH Modular Mixer Stereo module. Use the attenuators on the mixer module to adjust the volume levels of each drum sound.
Next, take the stereo output of the mixer module and connect it to one of the input channels on the Xaoc Devices Zagrzeb module. The Zagrzeb filter will add character and shape to the drum sounds. Experiment with the five available frequency responses and use the voltage-controlled Spread control to animate the stereo image of the drums.
To further enhance the sonic possibilities, use the Visible Signals Video Mult module to duplicate the filtered drum sounds. Connect one of the outputs of the Zagrzeb module to an input on the Video Mult, and then use the buffered multiple outputs to send the duplicated signal to other modules in your Eurorack setup. This will allow you to process the filtered drums in different ways and create complex drum patterns.
Finally, if you want to add some grit and distortion to your drum sounds, patch the output of the Video Mult module to one of the inputs on the Music Thing Modular Mini Drive. Use the Drive knob to control the level of distortion and experiment with different settings to find the right amount of warmth and grit for your drums.
With this combination of modules, you can create dynamic and animated analog drums that have depth, character, and an extra touch of distortion. Get ready to take your Eurorack adventure to the next level with filter animation and analog drums!
To create a unique and dynamic drum sound, we can combine the Xaoc Devices Zagrzeb and Weston Precision Audio AD110 modules.
First, let's use the Zagrzeb module to animate the stereo image of the drums. We'll send the individual drum voices from the AD110 to separate inputs on the Zagrzeb. By adjusting the Spread control on the Zagrzeb, we can move the left and right filter cutoff frequencies in opposite directions, creating a swirling stereo effect for each drum hit. This animation adds depth and movement to the drum sound, making it more interesting and immersive.
Next, we'll use the Zagrzeb's four-pole state variable filter to shape the drum sounds further. We can experiment with different filter configurations and frequency responses offered by the Zagrzeb to find the perfect tonal balance for each drum voice.
To complete the setup, we'll connect the filtered drum voices from the Zagrzeb to the individual outputs on the AD110 module. This allows us to individually process and mix each drum voice with other Eurorack modules, such as effects or additional filters, to add even more sonic character to the drums.
By combining the filter animation capabilities of the Xaoc Devices Zagrzeb and the analog drum voices of the Weston Precision Audio AD110, we can achieve a truly unique and dynamic drum sound in our Eurorack setup. Experimenting with different filter settings and modulation sources will open up a world of possibilities for creating engaging and expressive drum patterns.
Further Thoughts
To create a unique and expressive drum sound in your Eurorack setup, try combining the Xaoc Devices Zagrzeb filter, the PH Modular Stereo Mixer, the Visible Signals Video Mult, the Weston Precision Audio AD110 Analog Drums, and the Music Thing Modular Mini Drive.
First, route your drum sounds from the AD110 module into the Zagrzeb filter. The Zagrzeb filter is a stereo multimode filter with five frequency responses and a voltage-controlled Spread control for animating the stereo image. Experiment with different filter settings to shape the tonality and dynamics of your drum sounds.
Next, route the filtered drum sounds into the PH Modular Stereo Mixer. This mixer offers four stereo inputs, each with its own attenuator and mute control. Use the attenuators to adjust the level of each drum sound and the mute controls to create dynamic variations in your drum patterns.
To further enhance the stereo field of your drum sounds, connect the outputs of the PH Modular Stereo Mixer to the Visible Signals Video Mult. The Video Mult is a dual-channel buffered multiple module that ensures unity gain buffering for each output socket. This prevents signal degradation when splitting the drum sounds to multiple modules or destinations.
Finally, add some drive and distortion to your drum sounds using the Music Thing Modular Mini Drive. This 4HP module is inspired by the classic Minimoog input gain and offers both higher and lower gain inputs. Experiment with the Drive knob to add grit and warmth to your drum sounds. You can also explore feedback loops by patching the Mini Drive output back into the Zagrzeb filter or other modules in your setup.
By combining these Eurorack modules, you can create filter animation, shape the stereo image of your drum sounds, and add drive and grit to give your drums a unique character and texture. Get creative, experiment with different settings, and enjoy your Eurorack adventure!