Synth Adventures: Rangoon Rings, Crazy Chicken Dance, and More!
In this article, we explore the exciting world of Eurorack modular synthesis by combining the following modules: Rangoon Rings, Crazy Chicken Dance, AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer, Clank Thererec, and After Later Audio Bog. By combining these modules, synthesists can embark on a sonic journey filled with endless possibilities and creative exploration.
First up, we have the Rangoon Rings, a limited edition collaboration between Big T Music and Jonathan Barnbrook. This module is a reworking of Mutable Instruments' popular Rings module with a Blade Runner-inspired design. Rangoon Rings features anodized aluminum knobs and bipolar LEDs that indicate input CV voltage. With its beautiful black and gold FR4 panel with translucent windows for sub-panel illumination, Rangoon Rings adds both visual appeal and sonic versatility to any Eurorack setup.
Next, we have the Crazy Chicken Dance module. This module features an LFO with eight different waveforms to choose from, including ramp up, ramp down, square, triangle, sine, u-shape, sample and hold-style random levels, and random slopes. The Crazy Chicken Dance module also offers built-in amplitude control, allowing users to easily modulate the amplitude by external CV or the module's own attenuator. With its two outputs - unipolar (0..+5V) and bipolar (-5..+5V) - and frequency range from 0.05Hz to audio-rate, the Crazy Chicken Dance module is a versatile tool for modulation in any synth setup.
Moving on, we come to the AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer by AI Synthesis. This compact yet powerful module allows for routing audio or CV signals from multiple sources to different destinations. With sixteen potentiometers controlling the amount of a given stereo input pair sent to a given stereo output, the AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer is perfect for creating complex audio effects chains or routing CV signals in creative ways. Expand the depth of your effects or experiment with signal routing using this versatile module.
The Clank Thererec module takes Eurorack synthesis to a whole new level. It combines gestural expressiveness with tape recorder-like functionality, enabling users to capture and manipulate hand movements to create complex voltage patterns. With its dual-channel movement recorder and proximity sensors, Clank Thererec offers a unique and physical way to interact with your modular system. Play your system like a "keyboard," with each key being a static voltage or a sequence of voltages. Explore the physicality of music creation with this innovative module.
Last but not least, we have the After Later Audio Bog. This module is an 8HP redesign of the Erica Synths Swamp module, inspired by the famous Wiard Wogglebug module. Bog features a newly added S&H/Heart input and a smooth range switch on the front panel for easy access. With three random audio frequency outputs, a ring modulator, three random CV outputs, a clock input and output, and CV control over the internal clock, Bog offers a wide range of random and unpredictable sounds. Its skiff-friendly design and compact 8HP size make it a great addition to any Eurorack system.
In conclusion, combining the Rangoon Rings, Crazy Chicken Dance, AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer, Clank Thererec, and After Later Audio Bog modules opens up a world of sonic possibilities and creative exploration in Eurorack synthesis. Whether you're interested in unique sound design, modulation possibilities, signal routing, or interactive music creation, these modules offer a range of features and capabilities to enhance your Eurorack setup. Embark on a Synth Adventure and let your creativity soar with these exciting modules.
Example Usage
In this Eurorack build, we will combine the Big T Music Rangoon module, the Crazy Chicken Dance module, the AI Synthesis AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer, the Clank Thererec, and the After Later Audio Bog module.
To start our synth adventure, let's connect the output of the Big T Music Rangoon module to the AI Synthesis AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer's input A. Set the level on input A to control the amount of Rangoon's output that is sent to the effects chain.
Next, take the output of the AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer's output A and connect it to the input of the Crazy Chicken Dance module. Use the Crazy Chicken Dance's amplitude control to adjust the level of modulation applied to the Rangoon's output.
Now, take the output of the Crazy Chicken Dance module and connect it to one of the channels on the Clank Thererec module. Experiment with different movements and gestures to generate complex voltage patterns. Use the loop button to record and playback your movements.
Finally, take the output of the Clank Thererec module and connect it to one of the random CV outputs on the After Later Audio Bog module. This will introduce additional randomness and modulation to your sounds. Use the three random audio frequency outputs of the Bog module to further shape and manipulate your audio.
With this combination of modules, you can create unique and evolving sounds, driven by your movements and modulations. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the synth adventures with the Rangoon Rings, Crazy Chicken Dance, AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer, Clank Thererec, and After Later Audio Bog modules!
To create an otherworldly sound effect, we can combine the Big T Music Rangoon module with the Crazy Chicken Dance module.
First, patch the output of the Rangoon module to one of the inputs of the AI Synthesis AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer.
Next, patch one of the random CV outputs from the Crazy Chicken Dance module to another input of the AI018.
Set the amount of the Rangoon module's output in the AI018 to a moderate level.
Now, slowly turn up the amplitude control of the Crazy Chicken Dance module to introduce random modulation to the sound coming from the Rangoon module.
Experiment with different waveforms and frequency ranges on the Crazy Chicken Dance module to achieve the desired level of randomness and movement in the sound.
Finally, use the stereo outputs of the AI018 to send the processed signal to your audio interface or mixer for further processing or recording.
The combination of the Rangoon and Crazy Chicken Dance modules, along with the AI018 Stereo Matrix Mixer, allows for exciting and unpredictable sound sculpting possibilities.
Further Thoughts
One way to create a unique and adventurous synth patch using the "big-t-music-rangoon," "crazy-chicken-dance," "ai-synthesis-ai018-stereo-matrix-mixer-aluminum," "clank-thererec," and "after-later-audio-bog" modules is to create a complex and evolving rhythm pattern.
Start by using the "crazy-chicken-dance" module as the main clock source for the patch. Set the tempo using the tap-tempo button or an external clock signal. The module's LFO can be set to a tempo-synced waveform, such as a square wave or a ramp wave, to provide a rhythmic foundation.
Connect the "crazy-chicken-dance" module's bipolar output to the clock input of the "ai-synthesis-ai018-stereo-matrix-mixer-aluminum" module. This will allow the rhythm generated by the LFO to control the routing of audio or CV signals in the matrix mixer.
Use the "clank-thererec" module to record and manipulate hand movements. Connect the CV outputs of the "clank-thererec" module to various inputs of the "ai-synthesis-ai018-stereo-matrix-mixer-aluminum" module, such as modulation inputs or effects inputs. This will introduce dynamic movement into the patch, allowing for live manipulation of the audio or CV signals being routed.
Connect the audio outputs of the "big-t-music-rangoon" module to one or more inputs of the "ai-synthesis-ai018-stereo-matrix-mixer-aluminum" module. This will allow you to process the resonated sounds generated by the "big-t-music-rangoon" module using the effects or routing options provided by the matrix mixer.
Finally, use the "after-later-audio-bog" module to introduce additional randomness to the patch. Connect the random CV outputs of the "after-later-audio-bog" module to various modulation inputs of the other modules in the patch. This will add an element of unpredictability, creating a constantly evolving and surprising composition.
Experiment with different settings and configurations within each module to create a unique and engaging synth adventure. Adjust the routing and modulation parameters to shape the sound to your liking. The combination of the "big-t-music-rangoon," "crazy-chicken-dance," "ai-synthesis-ai018-stereo-matrix-mixer-aluminum," "clank-thererec," and "after-later-audio-bog" modules will provide a wide range of possibilities for creating intricate and captivating music. Enjoy your explorations in the world of Eurorack synthesis!