Distorted Time and Flashing Patterns: Combining FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, and Quad Variable LFO
In this article, we explore the combination of four Eurorack modules: FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, and Quad Variable LFO. The combination of these modules offers a vast range of creative possibilities and can be used to create complex and experimental soundscapes.
The FSU White module is a versatile module that offers timbral distortion and time bending effects. It features ring modulation and frequency shifting, allowing for vintage analog mayhem. The module also includes a glitch bank with time-based effects that push delay and pitch to more extreme and experimental sounds. Additionally, the Sound on Sound feature recreates the ability of reel-to-reel tape decks to overdub endlessly without multi-tracking, adding a variety of digital processes like pitch shifting and granular playback for a more experimental approach to sound manipulation.
The Beat Freqs module functions as a gate pattern generator, producing unique and unpredictable patterns through its 12 gate outputs and flashing LEDs. This module is based on the "beat frequency indicator" schematic, offering a visually engaging experience with its rotating LED displays. The patterns generated by Beat Freqs can be quite unpredictable yet always seem to provide useful patterns, making it a great tool for generating rhythmic variations and adding a sense of randomness to your music.
The Video Mult module is a buffered multiple module that provides unity gain buffering, allowing for multiple connections without signal degradation. When connecting one source signal to multiple modules, it's common to experience signal loss or glitches. However, the Video Mult solves these issues by ensuring that each output socket tracks the input correctly, regardless of the number of modules it's connected to. This module is especially useful when working with control voltage signals, such as LFOs or pattern mixes, providing a clean and reliable way to distribute signals to multiple destinations.
Lastly, the Quad Variable LFO module offers four low-frequency oscillators with various waveforms, modulation options, and tempo-based modes. The module includes a wide range of waveforms, including sine, triangle, saw, square, and more, with variable shape controls for added flexibility. The LFO rates can be set using logarithmic response modes, tempo-based modes, or specified in Hz. The Quad Variable LFO also features extensive modulation capabilities, with 8 modulation busses and selectable sources, destinations, and amounts. This module provides versatile modulation options for shaping and evolving your sounds.
Combining these modules opens up new sonic landscapes, where time is distorted and patterns flash in unpredictable ways. The FSU White module brings aggressive timbral distortion and time-bending effects, while the Beat Freqs module adds unique pattern generation with its flashing LEDs. The Video Mult module ensures clean signal distribution to multiple destinations, and the Quad Variable LFO offers versatile modulation and wave shaping possibilities. Together, these modules offer a playground for experimentation and creativity, allowing you to create complex and evolving soundscapes like no other.
Whether you're a seasoned modular synthesizer user or just starting your journey, the combination of FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, and Quad Variable LFO is sure to inspire your musical creations. Explore the possibilities of distorted time and flashing patterns, and let your imagination run wild with these powerful Eurorack modules.
Tags: Eurorack Builds, Distorted Time, Flashing Patterns, FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, Quad Variable LFO
Example Usage
Combining the FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, and Quad Variable LFO modules can create a unique and dynamic sound experience. Here is a novice-level usage example:
- Start by connecting the output of the Quad Variable LFO's sine waveform to the input of the FSU White module.
- Adjust the controls on the FSU White module to add timbral distortion and time bending effects to the sine waveform.
- Take the output of the FSU White module and connect it to one of the inputs of the Video Mult module.
- Connect the output of the Video Mult module to different modulation inputs on the Quad Variable LFO module.
- Experiment with different waveforms and modulation options on the Quad Variable LFO to create intricate and evolving patterns.
- Use the Beat Freqs module to generate gate patterns and connect it to the clock sync input of the Quad Variable LFO to synchronize the modulation.
- Take the output of the Quad Variable LFO and connect it to the input of the Multifilter 2 module.
- Play with the Multifilter 2 module's controls to shape and sculpt the sound, using the variable mode output to add dynamic filtering effects.
- Experiment with different modulation sources, such as the other outputs of the Quad Variable LFO or additional modulation sources, connected to the Multifilter 2 module to further enhance the sound.
- Take the output of the Multifilter 2 module and listen to the distorted time-bending sound with flashing patterns coming from the combination of these modules.
By combining these modules, even novice users can explore the possibilities of distorted time and flashing patterns in their eurorack system. Have fun experimenting and creating unique electronic music!
To create a distorted time and flashing patterns effect, you can combine the FSU White module with the Beat Freqs module, the Video Mult module, and the Quad Variable LFO module.
- Connect the output of the FSU White module to the input of the Beat Freqs module. This will allow you to generate unique gate patterns based on the frequencies of the signals.
- Take the gate patterns generated by the Beat Freqs module and use the Video Mult module to distribute the signals to multiple other modules. This will ensure that each module receives the correct gate pattern without affecting the signal levels.
- Use the Video Mult module's buffered multiple outputs to connect to various parameters of the FSU White module, such as the timbral distortion and time bending settings. This will allow you to modulate these parameters and create evolving and dynamic distorted sounds.
- Take one of the outputs from the Video Mult module and route it to the Quad Variable LFO module. Use this gate signal to synchronize the LFO rates to the gate pattern generated by the Beat Freqs module.
- Use the Quad Variable LFO module to modulate various parameters of your Eurorack system, such as filter cutoff, oscillator pitch, or modulation depth. Experiment with different waveforms and modulation options provided by the Quad Variable LFO module to create complex and evolving modulation patterns.
By combining the FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, and Quad Variable LFO modules, you can create a unique and intricate audiovisual experience with distorted time effects and flashing patterns. Let your creativity flow and explore the vast possibilities of this powerful combination!
Further Thoughts
To create a mind-bending audio-visual experience that will push the boundaries of your eurorack setup, combine the FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, and Quad Variable LFO modules.
Start by patching the FSU White module into your audio signal path. Experiment with its various distortion modes, including ring modulation and frequency shifting, to add vintage analog mayhem to your sound. Engage the Glitch bank for time-based effects that push delay and pitch to extreme and experimental levels. Use the Sound On Sound feature to create endless overdubbing, reminiscent of reel-to-reel tape decks.
Next, utilize the Beat Freqs module to generate intricate gate patterns. By feeding two signals into the module, you can observe the flashing LEDs on the circular display, indicating the relative frequencies of the signals. The resulting patterns can be unpredictable and unique, adding a dynamic visual element to your performance.
To enhance the visual aspect further, incorporate the Video Mult module. This dual-channel video-rate buffered multiple allows you to connect one source signal, such as an LFO or pattern mix, to multiple modules without signal degradation. With three outputs per channel, you can distribute your visual signals without loss or interference. The Video Mult module ensures that each output socket tracks the input accurately, regardless of the number of modules it is connected to.
Finally, employ the Quad Variable LFO to introduce complex modulation to your audio and video signals. With its extensive array of waveforms, including sine, triangle, saw, square, and chaotic options, you can add evolving and unpredictable modulation to various parameters. Use the LFO rates in different modes to sync the modulation to your desired tempo or create tempo-based effects.
By combining the FSU White, Beat Freqs, Video Mult, and Quad Variable LFO modules, you can create a sonic and visual experience that defies expectations. Whether you're performing live or working in the studio, this combination opens up endless possibilities for distorted time and flashing patterns.