The article "Analog Overdrive Adventures: High Pass VCF, Stereo Delays & Mangling Phasers" explores the creative potential of combining the Erica Synths Black High Pass VCF, Happy Nerding FX Aid, ST Modular DUCK, Bastl Instruments Basil, and Djupviks Elektronik The QU modules in a Eurorack setup. These modules offer unique features such as voltage control over cutoff and resonance, multiple audio effects with user presets, ducking and sidechaining capabilities, flexible stereo delay with modulation options, and a phaser and sound mangler inspired by vintage pedal designs. By creatively integrating these modules, modular synth enthusiasts can dive into a world of sonic experimentation and create captivating soundscapes.
The Erica Synths Black High Pass VCF is a high-quality 24dB/oct resonant high pass VCF with voltage control over cutoff and resonance. It also features a built-in post-filter overdrive circuit with user-adjustable drive amount, providing an essential tool for shaping and coloring sound in a modular setup.
Happy Nerding FX Aid offers 32 unique audio effects arranged in 4 banks, with three effect controls and an analog Dry/Wet control. Users can store their preferred presets, allowing for quick and easy access to favorite settings. The module can be easily reflashed with different effects, offering versatility and expanding creative possibilities.
ST Modular DUCK is a ducking module that reduces the level of an audio signal when a CV GATE signal is applied. With precise controls over amount, hold, rise, and fall, users can achieve dynamic and transparent level reduction without signal compression. The module also features CV input for external modulation, adding depth to sound manipulation.
Bastl Instruments Basil is a flexible stereo delay module that offers clean delay and lo-fi textures, with a space section for experimental effects such as chorus, flanger, and reverb. With V/Oct input for precise tuning, stereo spread, and flexible feedback options, Basil provides a versatile platform for creating ambient washes, glitchy textures, or distorted drones.
Djupviks Elektronik The QU module is a unique phaser and sound mangler inspired by vintage pedal designs and sci-fi influences. With dual outputs for stereo processing, CV inputs for modulation, and switches for different modes, users can explore a wide range of phasing and mangling possibilities. The module's feedback and mix controls allow for precise shaping of the affected sound, making it a valuable tool for sonic experimentation.
By combining these Eurorack modules in creative ways, modular synth enthusiasts can unlock a world of sonic possibilities, from subtle filtering and delay effects to dynamic sidechaining and experimental sound mangling. Each module offers a unique set of features and controls that can be tailored to individual preferences, allowing for endless exploration and discovery in the world of modular synthesis.
Example Usage
To create a unique and adventurous sound using the Eurorack modules, follow these steps:
- Connect the output of the Happy Nerding FX Aid module to the input of the ST Modular Duck module.
- Adjust the effect controls on the FX Aid module to select a desired audio effect from the available 32 effects.
- Use the CV input on the Duck module to control the level reduction of the audio signal based on the CV signal applied.
- Experiment with the Amount, Hold, Rise, and Fall potentiometers on the Duck module to customize the ducking effect.
- Listen to the processed audio signal through the output of the Duck module to hear the dynamic interaction between the effects applied by the FX Aid module and the ducking effect controlled by the Duck module.
By combining these modules creatively, you can achieve a unique sound with intricate dynamics and texture. Experiment with different settings and parameters to explore the full potential of your Eurorack setup!
Combine the Erica Synths Black High Pass VCF with overdrive, the Happy Nerding FX Aid 1U, the ST Modular Duck, the Bastl Instruments Basil, and the Djupviks Elektronik The QU to create a unique and dynamic sound processing chain in your Eurorack setup. Connect the audio output of your sound source to the input of the Erica Synths Black High Pass VCF to shape the sound with high pass filtering and overdrive. Then, route the output of the VCF to the input of the ST Modular Duck module to add sidechaining effects and dynamic level reduction based on a CV gate signal.
Next, take the output of the Duck module and feed it into the Happy Nerding FX Aid 1U to explore the wide range of 32 unique audio effects available in this module. Experiment with different effect controls and presets to add texture and character to your sound. From there, send the processed signal to the Bastl Instruments Basil for flexible stereo delay processing. Utilize the Space section of Basil to add depth and dimension to your audio using features like Blur, Filter, and Taps.
Finally, enhance your sound even further by running it through the Djupviks Elektronik The QU phaser and sound mangler module. Engage the QU mode to mangle and morph your audio into new and unexpected sonic territories. Adjust the feedback and mix controls to sculpt the phaser effect to your liking. Experiment with CV inputs and switches to create evolving textures and swirling soundscapes. By combining these modules in your Eurorack system, you can embark on analog overdrive adventures full of sonic exploration and experimentation.
Further Thoughts
When combining the Erica Synths Black High Pass VCF with the ST Modular DUCK module, you can create dynamic and expressive soundscapes. Use the Black High Pass VCF to sculpt your sound with precision, then route the output into the DUCK module to add captivating ducking effects to your audio. By adjusting the Amount, Hold, Rise, and Fall parameters on the DUCK module, you can control the level reduction and create rhythmic pulsations in your music. Experiment with applying CV signals to modulate the ducking effect further, adding depth and movement to your sound. The combination of these modules offers a versatile and creative approach to shaping your Eurorack soundscape.