The Basimilus Iteritas Alia (BIA), presented by Noise Engineering, is much more than your standard drum synthesizer, extending its capabilities into the realm of a full-blown oscillator. Occupying a compact 10HP, this module doesn't merely provide rhythm; it is a portal to a world brimming with sonic exploration and experimentation.
At the heart of the BIA lies a six-oscillator additive and FM synthesizer. The addition of a waveform, harmonic spread, and a suite of envelope controls, ensure that the synthesizer provides broad versatility in crafting sounds. The adjustable noise oscillator and hefty wavefolder accentuate its synthesis abilities, adding an extra depth of flavor to your sound creation journey. Understandably, synthesis might seem daunting to some. However, the structure of the BIA ensures that sound design remains an engaging and manageable experience, allowing you to shape thunderous kicks, snappy snares, hi-hats, and distinctive drum hits with nominal adjustments.
Yet, to label the BIA purely as a percussion module would undermine its potential. The module effortlessly transitions into creating leads and basslines, transforming from a percussive powerhouse into a melodic sculptor. With the addition of some external Control Voltage (CV), a whole drum kit can be constructed solely from this module. Moreover, the envelope output can be utilized for contouring and modulating other segments of your patch, thereby maximizing the BIA's integration into your setup and expanding upon its functionality.
However, the towering functionality of the BIA is not confined to its hardware. With the inclusive USB cable, you can connect to the Noise Engineering Customer Portal. Here, you're given access to an array of Alia firmware, free of charge, granting an expanded palette of sonic capabilities. Hot-swappable overlays are set to make their appearance soon, allowing you to panel your module to match your firmware seamlessly, negating the need for any assembly.
The BIA is the successor to the Basimilus Iteritas Alter and was developed to retain a comparable sonic characteristic while inheriting additional features and a software-swapping prowess. By incorporating analog roots in a digital framework and yielding a broad range of synthesis techniques, the Basimilus Iteritas Alia is not merely a drum synthesizer but a comprehensive sound crafting module. Additive synthesis, FM synthesis, detailed envelope controls, and explorative harmonic spread functionalities all fold into a compact, performable package that is as much at home crafting bone-shaking drum hits as it is sculpting melodic leads and basslines.
In summary, the Basimilus Iteritas Alia firmly situates itself as a testament to the potency and versatility trapped within a compact 10HP space. It takes the fundamental framework of a universal drum synthesizer and eagerly extends its reach into the realm of an all-encompassing audio shaping device. Through hands-on hardware and evolving firmware capabilities, the BIA presents an exciting module, rich in sonic potential and ready to be explored in any Eurorack setup.
Example Usage
Novice-level usage example:
To get started with the Basimilus Iteritas Alia, first, connect it to your Eurorack power supply. Then, take a patch cable and connect the audio output of the module to your mixer or audio interface.
Next, let's create a basic drum sound. Turn the "Pitch" knob to adjust the pitch of the oscillator. Try turning it clockwise for higher pitches or counterclockwise for lower pitches until you find a tone you like.
Now, let's shape the sound. Use the "Harmonic Spread" knob to control the number of harmonics present in the sound. Turning it clockwise will add more harmonics, while turning it counterclockwise will reduce them. Experiment with different settings to see how it affects the character of the drum sound.
To add some additional texture, try adjusting the "Waveform" knob. This control allows you to morph between different waveforms, giving you a range of sonic possibilities. Play around with it to find the perfect waveform for your drum sound.
Lastly, use the "Envelope" control to shape the decay of the drum sound. Turn it clockwise for a longer decay or counterclockwise for a shorter decay. This will determine how long the drum sound will sustain after it's triggered.
Once you've achieved a drum sound you're happy with, you can use the Basimilus Iteritas Alia for other purposes as well. Experiment with using it as a lead or bass synthesizer by adjusting the pitch and waveform controls to fit your desired sound.
Remember, don't be afraid to explore and experiment with the Basimilus Iteritas Alia. It's a versatile module that can create a wide range of sounds. Have fun and let your creativity take flight!
Intermediate-level Usage Example:
To showcase the versatility of the Basimilus Iteritas Alia, let's explore how it can be used to create a unique bassline. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Start by patching the Basimilus Iteritas Alia into your Eurorack system and connect its audio output to a mixer or audio interface.
- Initialize the module by setting all the parameters to their default values.
- Set the waveform control to square to give our bassline a solid and punchy character.
- Increase the harmonic spread to add some complexity and richness to the sound.
- Lower the envelope control to achieve a shorter and snappier decay time.
- Use the FM knob to modulate the frequency of the oscillators subtly. This adds movement and interest to the bassline.
- Experiment with the noise oscillator and wavefolder controls to further shape the sound. Adjusting the wavefolder can introduce harmonic distortion and create interesting timbral variations.
- Now, let's add some modulation. Use an LFO or an envelope generator to modulate the frequency or the harmonic spread parameters. This will create dynamic changes in the bassline over time.
- Finally, play around with the pitch of the Basimilus Iteritas Alia using a keyboard or sequencer. Explore different patterns and note sequences to find the perfect bassline for your track.
By following these steps and experimenting with the various controls and modulation options, you can create a powerful and unique bassline using the Basimilus Iteritas Alia. Its flexibility and sound design capabilities go beyond percussion, making it a valuable addition to any modular synthesizer setup.
Further Thoughts
The Basimilus Iteritas Alia is not just your average drum synthesizer; it has the power to take your music production to new heights. With its versatile features and intuitive controls, the possibilities are endless. Let's dive into one expert-level usage example that showcases the universal capabilities of this incredible Eurorack module.
Imagine you're working on a track that needs a unique lead sound that cuts through the mix. Instead of reaching for a traditional lead synth, you decide to explore the sonic possibilities of the Basimilus Iteritas Alia. By engaging the oscillator controls, you can craft a complex waveform with harmonic spread, adding just the right amount of grit and character. Further experimentation with the FM synthesis capabilities allows for intricate modulation and movement.
To sculpt the sound to perfection, the wavefolder comes into play. By pushing the boundaries of wavefolding, you can achieve harmonically rich and evolving tones that captivate the listener's attention. With a combination of subtle adjustments to the envelope controls, you create a lead sound that not only stands out but also has an organic and dynamic feel.
The versatility of the Basimilus Iteritas Alia doesn't stop there. Utilizing external CV inputs, you can incorporate modulation sources from other modules in your Eurorack setup to further shape the sound. This opens up endless creative possibilities, allowing you to explore complex modulation paths and create evolving textures that evolve over time.
What sets the Basimilus Iteritas Alia apart from other drum synthesizers is its envelope output. This means that you can use the module not only for creating and shaping drum sounds but also for modulating and shaping other elements within your patch. With a single module, you're able to add depth and movement to your entire composition, blurring the lines between percussion and modulation sources.
So, whether you're looking to craft powerful drum hits or venture into uncharted sonic territories for leads and basslines, the Basimilus Iteritas Alia is the perfect tool for your Eurorack arsenal. Its intuitive controls and innovative features make it a must-have module for both beginners and experienced modular enthusiasts alike.
Expand your sonic palette and unleash your creativity with the Basimilus Iteritas Alia – the universal drum synthesizer that refuses to be confined to a single role. It's time to explore new sonic frontiers and witness the unrivaled power of this extraordinary Eurorack module.