The Nano-Modules ARC Dual Function Generator, with its dual channels harnessing expansive functionality, is an exemplar of a robust and versatile Eurorack module. Each of these channels can seamlessly function in various capacities, from being an envelope generator (whether attack-decay or attack-decay-sustain-release), an audio or low-frequency oscillator (VCO / LFO), a slew limiter, to being a waveform modulator. This not only ensures a multiplicity of soundscapes within a single unit but also ensures a streamlined Eurorack setup.
The module's adjustable parameters offer even more customization. Users can meticulously fine-tune the rise and fall times, enabling the creation of distinct and sophisticated envelope shapes. The shapes can be adjusted from linear to logarithmic, or even exponential, offering unique sonic textures. This capacity is further enhanced by the ability to independently adjust the rise and fall, bringing forth an entirely new spectrum of sound modulation.
But the adjustability isn't confined to just rise and fall times and shapes. The addition of an attenuverter or VCA/Polarizer for the generated function takes your control over your sound to a new level. Whether you want to tame your sound or unleash its full volume, you are in complete control.
The ARC doesn't stop there, it also offers a sustain mode, not usually seen in function generators. This makeshift sustain stage opens doors for more traditional ADSR like functionality, proving its adaptability yet again. Speaking of adaptability, an offset adjust is included for pitch or voltage shifts, allowing nuanced tweaks to your patch.
Under the additional feature category, the in-built comparator, logic section, and comprehensive CV control underscore its expansive capabilities. The comparator opens new possibilities for rhythmic creation, while the logic section, offering minimalistic digital-analog hybridization, facilitates rich, synchronized modulation. With CV control for virtually everything, real-time modulations or automated motion become an easy task.
In reviewing the module, Divkid brings the tool's complexities into comprehensible chunks and provides valuable insights on how to maximize its full potential.
Its 24HP dimensions and depth of 40mm, including connectors, sheds light on its compact and skiff-friendly design. This ensures that it is adaptable and space-saving for your specific Eurorack setup.
The Nano-Modules ARC, undoubtedly embodies the essence of multi-functional design in the modular world. Its adaptability and flexibility are testimony to the degree of sound modulation that one can achieve with it. Be it in wave morphing, creating intricate envelopes, or designing custom LFOs, ARC is a tool to explore.
Presently available through distributors and the manufacturer's website, the Nano-Modules ARC Dual Function Generator further strengthens its standing as a must-have module for modular enthusiasts looking to explore their sonic potential endlessly. It is a significant addition to any Eurorack ecosystem, promising to inspire a plethora of creative patch explorations for both the novice and the seasoned modular synthesist.
Example Usage
In this NOVICE-level usage example, we’ll explore the basic functionalities of the Nano-Modules ARC Dual Function Generator, ideal for users new to modulation and envelopes.
Start with the module powered up in your Eurorack case and ensure you have a basic patch setup ready for experimentation. Connect an audio output to monitor the effects. Begin by using Channel 1 as an envelope generator. Connect a gate signal from a simple sequencer or keyboard to Channel 1’s trigger input. This will allow you to control the amplitude of your sound source, shaping each note with an adjustable attack and decay. Use the Rise and Fall knobs to experiment with different attack and decay times. Notice how a longer rise time results in a softer, more gradual onset of the sound, while a short rise time creates a sharp, percussive attack.
Next, explore Channel 2 to understand its function as an LFO. Patch the Channel 2 output to modulate a filter’s cutoff frequency. Adjust the Rise and Fall times, and experiment with shape to create various modulation effects, from a slow, sweeping filter movement to a rapid, rhythmic pulse. Switch the shape between linear, logarithmic, and exponential to explore how the modulation curve affects the sound. If desired, fine-tune specific modulation depths using the attenuverter control.
Dive into the additional functionalities by using Channel 1 as a slew limiter. Take a CV source like a sequencer and patch it through the Channel 1 input, using the output to control pitch. Notice how the slew limiter smooths out abrupt changes in pitch, creating glides and portamento effects.
Finally, experiment with the Comparator and Logic sections. Feed signals into these inputs and observe how they process and interact, potentially sparking creative layering opportunities in your patching. With each new configuration, take note of how the ARC’s features can be leveraged for versatile modulation, opening the door to more complex sound design exploration.
As with any new module, regular practice and experimentation will enhance familiarity and foster a deeper understanding of the ARC’s capabilities, steadily unlocking its full sonic potential.
In this intermediate-level deep dive, we explore how to harness the full potential of the Nano-Modules ARC Dual Function Generator by using its sophisticated modulation capabilities to craft a dynamic rhythmic pattern. Begin by utilizing the ARC’s dual channels to design complementary envelope shapes. Set Channel 1 as an Attack-Decay (AD) envelope with a quick attack and a slower exponential decay. This will create a snappy, percussive element perfect for driving a rhythmic sequence. Route the output to a VCA controlling a noise source to simulate hi-hats or snare-like accents in your patch.
Simultaneously, configure Channel 2 as an Attack-Sustain-Release (ASR) envelope. Dial in a moderate rise, activate the Sustain mode, and set a fast release. Apply this envelope to modulate a bass drone or a pad, using the ARC’s VCA/Polarizer feature to dynamically alter the amplitude and polarity, allowing the sound to evolve with unpredictability throughout your performance.
Now, introduce the ARC’s Comparator function to add a layer of complexity to your modulation scheme. By feeding it a slowly fluctuating control voltage from an external LFO or the ARC itself operating in LFO mode (thanks to its extensive range), generate a gate signal whenever a specific threshold is crossed. Use this gate signal to retrigger Channel 1 occasionally, injecting variability into your rhythm and keeping the listener engaged.
To expand the sonic palette, employ the Logic section of the ARC to combine outputs from both channels. Explore using AND or OR logic operations to synchronize envelope actions, creating intricate modulated textures that interact with each other. For example, use the arc of Channel 1’s decay phase via the logic unit to influence the rise time of Channel 2, resulting in a rhythmic interplay that pushes your synthesis boundaries.
Adjusting the Shapes parameter independently for Rise and Fall for each channel yields even greater modulation depth, allowing for precise sculpting of the envelope curves. This feature enhances the tonal identity of your sounds, from buttery smooth transitions to stark, rapid modulations suitable for evolving soundscapes or rhythmic variability in techno and ambient styles.
Finally, leverage the CV control over all parameters to orchestrate evolving compositions in real-time, offering performance versatility that few modules can match. Connect sequencers or other control setups to automate these parameter shifts and witness how the ARC transforms a modular setup into an expressive sonic masterpiece. The dual function nature of the ARC ensures that it is not just a part of your system, but an integral engine of creative modulation, encouraging exploration and sonic discovery.
Further Thoughts
To truly harness the power of the Nano-Modules ARC Dual Function Generator, a seasoned modular enthusiast would start by connecting each of its two channels to create complex layers of modulation. Begin by configuring one channel as an envelope generator while utilizing the other as an LFO. Route the envelope to modulate a filter cutoff on another module; its ADSR capabilities allow for precise shaping of your sound. Simultaneously, utilize the second channel to provide LFO modulation to a wavefolder, experimenting with varying shapes from linear to exponential for dynamic tonal shifts.
The ARC’s adjustable Rise and Fall times allow for crafting intricate rhythmic patterns. Experiment with logarithmic and exponential settings to achieve differing impacts. Use the Attenuverter feature to either amplify or invert the modulation signals, opening a wide spectrum of sonic textures. Enhance this further by employing the ARC's waveform modulating abilities. Send an audio-rate signal to morph between VCO and VCA functions, unveiling unexpected harmonic results.
Incorporate the Logic section to combine outputs from both channels, creating unpredictable modulation events. Experiment with CV inputs to dynamically alter Rate, Shape, and Offset parameters, bringing real-time performance control into your sonic explorations. The ARC’s slew limiter capability can be ingeniously applied to smoothen sharp modulation transitions or glissando effects within your patches.
Integrate external CV or gate signals via ARC’s dedicated trigger and signal inputs to sync your modules cohesively, propelling rhythmic precision into the forefront of your performance. By tapping into its Sustain mode, transform the module into a sustain-rich drone machine capable of ambient soundscapes or pads.
Expert users will value the comparator function to extract gate signals from complex waveforms. This expands the ARC's role into a pulse generator within a larger system, contributing to advanced patching techniques.
Ultimately, the ARC is not just about modulation but about redefining what can be achieved within the confines of a eurorack setup. Each configuration and modulation path opens up a plethora of sonic possibilities, cementing its role as an indispensable tool for those craving innovative sound design.