The Hermod+ is an exceptional piece of technology that pushes the boundaries of modular composition and live performance. This sequencer and interface module is lauded for the ways in which it interfaces seamlessly with both CV/Gate and MIDI, making it an indispensable central hub for your modular setup. Crafted with a sleek design, the Hermod+ doesn't merely shine in looks but also with its advanced feature set.
One of the notable aspects of the Hermod+ is how it draws inspiration from the flagship sequencer, Hapax. Incorporating a wide screen and grid-based, step-by-step sequencer, it offers a threshold for expanding creative possibilities. Combined with dedicated track buttons, Hermod+ facilitates an intuitive, streamlined workflow, which can transform both studio work and live performances.
At the heart of the Hermod+ lies its robust sequencing capabilities. Boasting 16 tracks featuring 8 CV/Gate + 8 MIDI, along with 16 patterns per track, the possibilities are only limited by the composer's imagination. The recording resolution of 96ppqn and track lengths ranging from 1/16 note to 16 bars provide flexibility in note distribution and pattern formation. Automation patterns include modulation, pitch bend, aftertouch, and sustain, offering extensive sonic sculpting.
As for project handling, Hermod+ takes an expansive approach. The number of projects is unlimited, allowing for extensive exploration of musical ideas. The tempo ranges from 1 to 280 BPM, providing ample room to navigate various genres and moods. The presence of a global transpose track and double project architecture further enhances this module's adaptability. With a song chain length of 64 sequences, there is more than enough room for complex arrangements.
The piano roll function takes sequence editing to a higher level. With a maximum zoom of x8 and note/gate width range of 1/256 note to 16 bars, meticulous detail to your work is attainable. A maximum polyphony per step of 24 coupled with a pitch range of C0 to C10 creates vast textural possibilities. A note velocity range of 0 to 127 allows precise dynamics control.
Hermod+'s connectivity capabilities are another noteworthy attribute. With inputs for MIDI and CV and outputs also accommodating both formats, interfacing with various gear becomes a cinch. The dedicated clock port and reset port for transport are reliable for synchronization.
On the hardware front, Hermod+ is compact yet solid. With a width of 26HP and a depth of 20mm, it integrates subtly within your modular setup without hogging space. Despite these compact specifications, it includes a considerable OLED 58x16mm display for clear, visible readouts.
At the core, Hermod+ is a testament to advancements in eurorack module technology. Its design is built to endure, from its weight to its power consumption. It not only prioritizes functionality but also sustainability. Engagement with Hermod+ is a leap into a world of precision, creativity, and musical exploration. Whether as a novice looking for a reliable workhorse module or a seasoned professional requiring a versatile hub, the Hermod+ caters to an array of needs, establishing itself as an essential eurorack sequencer and interface for your modular synth setup.
Example Usage
Novice-Level Usage Example:
Let's say you're new to eurorack and you have just acquired the Hermod+ sequencer and interface for your modular setup. The first thing you can do is start by using it as a step-by-step sequencer for your CV/Gate tracks.
To start, power up your modular system and connect the Hermod+ module via CV and Gate cables to your desired modules. Choose a track on the Hermod+ by pressing the corresponding track button, and use the dedicated buttons to navigate through the steps of the sequence.
To input a note, press down on the corresponding step button. You can adjust the pitch of the note by turning the encoder knob, and change the duration by pressing and holding the step button and turning the encoder knob simultaneously to adjust the gate length.
Once you have created a sequence, you can play it by pressing the play button on the Hermod+. If you want to experiment with different patterns, you can create up to 16 patterns per track, offering plenty of creative possibilities.
If you want to add some variation to the sequence, Hermod+ allows you to automate modulation, pitch bend, aftertouch, and sustain for each pattern. This gives you the ability to add expressive elements and dynamic changes to your music.
Furthermore, Hermod+ offers MIDI connectivity, so if you have MIDI-compatible modules in your setup, you can connect them via USB or MIDI TRS cables to further expand your sonic possibilities.
Remember, the Hermod+ serves as the central hub of your modular setup, so you can use it to not only sequence your modules but also synchronize them with other devices. With its advanced capabilities and intuitive interface, you'll be able to unleash your creativity and create intricate musical compositions!
As a novice, take your time to explore the features and experiment with different settings. Once you feel comfortable with the basics, you can dive deeper into the more advanced functionalities of the Hermod+ to take your modular music production to the next level.
To create an evolving and dynamic sequence using the Hermod+ sequencer, you can take advantage of its advanced automation capabilities. Here's an intermediate-level usage example:
- Connect the Hermod+ to your modular setup via the CV and Gate outputs, ensuring that the CV outputs are connected to modules that respond to control voltage signals.
- Create a new project on the Hermod+ and set the tempo to your desired value, let's say 120 BPM.
- Select one of the tracks on the Hermod+ and set its length to 8 bars. This will give you a longer sequence to work with.
- Enter a basic melodic pattern using the step-by-step sequencer. Start by placing some notes on different steps within the sequence.
- Now, let's add some automation to make the sequence more dynamic. Select the automation mode on the Hermod+, and choose modulation as the automation type.
- Navigate to the desired step in the sequence and adjust the modulation parameter to a specific value. This can be done by turning the encoder knob or using an external controller connected to the USB host port.
- Repeat step 6 for other steps in the sequence, experimenting with different modulation values. You can create gradual or sudden changes to the modulation parameter to add movement and interest to your sequence.
- While staying in the automation mode, switch the automation type to pitch bend. This will allow you to introduce subtle pitch variations to the sequence.
- Select another track and repeat steps 4 to 8 to create different melodic and automation patterns.
- Play back the sequence and listen to the evolving and dynamic nature of the patterns. You can further refine and tweak the automation values to achieve the desired musical effect.
By utilizing the Hermod+'s automation capabilities, you can add expressive and nuanced elements to your sequences, making them more engaging and evolving over time. It's a powerful feature that allows you to bring your compositions to life and explore new sonic territories within your modular setup.
Further Thoughts
One expert-level usage example for the Squarp Instruments Hermod+ Eurorack sequencer and interface is to create a complex polyrhythmic pattern by utilizing the dedicated tracks and the piano roll feature.
To begin, let's assume we have four different modules connected to the Hermod+ via CV/Gate and MIDI. We want to create a pattern where each module plays a different rhythm, but all still stay in sync.
First, navigate to the piano roll section on the OLED display. Zoom in to get a detailed view of the steps. Select one of the tracks dedicated to CV/Gate output for the first module. On this track, we will create a four-step pattern using 1/8 note values.
Next, go to another CV/Gate track dedicated to the second module. This time, we'll create a pattern with five steps using 1/16 note values. Feel free to experiment with different step lengths for each track to achieve unique rhythmic variations.
Now, move on to the MIDI tracks. Select the first MIDI track and create a sequence with eight steps using 1/4 note values. Assign this track to control the third module via MIDI.
Finally, select the second MIDI track and create a sequence with three steps using 1/8 note values. Assign this track to control the fourth module via MIDI.
By creating these different sequences with varying step lengths, you can create a mesmerizing polyrhythmic pattern. As you trigger the sequences, each module will play its assigned rhythm, resulting in a complex and rich musical composition.
Thanks to the intuitive interface and dedicated tracks buttons, programming these intricate patterns becomes a breeze. The Hermod+ allows for precise control, making it an ideal sequencer and interface for both composition and live performances in any modular setup.