Step 8: The Revolutionary Eurorack Sequential Tracking/Sampling Register Module

Step 8 by Joranalogue Audio Design is a game-changer in the Eurorack world, offering a versatile and revolutionary sequential tracking/sampling register module. The module, which can perform as a sequencer, sequential switch, counter, analogue shift register, and much more, features an octet of high-stability track/sample-and-hold stages, each with an analogue output with an attenuation slider and a gate output.

The module is equipped with a built-in 8-step counter, which can control the switch sequentially, or the switch can be directly addressed by an analogue control voltage (CV). Step 8 employs advanced circuit techniques that result in totally transparent signal paths with low noise, distortion, and voltage 'droop,' but with high bandwidth and precision. The LED lights on the module's interface visualize the status of each stage in real-time, and the possibilities of manipulation are limitless. You can mute inactive stages, pause the counter, reset it, change its direction, or even shift stages on each step.

Step 8 also features a scanning output, which can take your creativity even further and make sequencer or addressed voltage source use intuitive and straightforward. The module offers a configurable voltage mapper, hocketing controller, clock divider, graphic waveshaper, and multi-output analogue downsampler, among other advanced applications.

In conclusion, the Step 8 module is an impressive and versatile modular building block that offers many possibilities when it comes to sequential control and register modules. It is a must-have module for any modular synthesis enthusiast, and with its transparent signal paths and high precision and bandwidth, it can add a new dimension to your Eurorack setup.

Example Usage

If you're new to using the Step 8 Sequential Tracking/Sampling Register Module, a simple application would be to use it as a clock divider. Connect the clock signal to the first input of the switch, then connect one of the outputs to the clock input of your sequencer or other modules that require clock signals. Use the 8-step counter to divide the clock signal into various ratios, like dividing it by 2, 3, 4, or more. This will create a more complex rhythmic pattern in your music. Try experimenting with different settings to hear how it affects your sound.

An intermediate level usage example of the Step 8 module is to use it as a clock divider. You can send clock pulses from an external source into the Step 8's gate input and the module will then divide the incoming clock signal by a factor of 8. This means that for every 8th pulse received, the Step 8 will output a gate signal to trigger your sound source or effect module. You can adjust the output voltage levels and attenuation slider for each stage to fine-tune the sound in real-time, and even pause or reset the counter as needed. Additionally, you can also shift the stages on each step and create new rhythmic patterns, adding even more variety and complexity to your music production.

Further Thoughts

One particularly interesting application of the Joranalogue Audio Design Step 8 module is as a hocketing controller. By using the sequential tracking/sampling register to rapidly switch between two or more sound sources, you can create complex rhythms and melodies that seem to bounce back and forth between channels. This can be achieved by patching the audio outputs of the sources into the module's inputs, then using the switch to alternate between them. By varying the speed and direction of the counter, or modulating it with a CV source, you can create a wide variety of unpredictable and exciting patterns. With its low noise, distortion, and high precision, the Step 8 is the perfect tool for exploring the possibilities of hocketing in eurorack synthesis.

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