The Klavis Grainity, a digitally-controlled full-analog path Granular + Multimode VCF, is a game-changer in the realm of analog VCF (Voltage Controlled Filter). With an unprecedented concept of granular analog filtering, Grainity promises to bring a radical change to sound design and synthesis. The granular filter and the multimode filter, both of which have separate outputs, pave the way for an unheard spectrum of sound results - from subharmonics to harmonies, unison to flange effects, and formant filtering. A dedicated output allows for the mixing of these two filter types, offering the potential for even broader sonic experimentation.
The term 'granular' in the context of this module comes from the innovative thought process of composer Yannis Xenakis, which focused on composing sound using small segments, termed 'grains'. It is this concept that Grainity has impeccably embodied, enabling the shaping of sound using granules to create unique audio patterns. Digital control certainly breathes fresh life into this concept, offering capabilities beyond the rudimentary methods of tape cuts and splices that were used in Xenakis’s era.
The granular VCF segment of Grainity employs a unique approach for sound processing. The incoming sound cycle is determined, and thereafter, it steps through diverse phases of filtering and variations of itself, following certain predefined patterns, known as structures. The controls have been designed in a way that allows one to modify the phase of the cycles, the frequency offset, structure selection, and frequency division of the filter cycles. These functionalities strongly complement the standard filter frequency and resonance controls.
Notably, despite utilizing a microprocessor, Grainity is beyond its technical definition – it is neither a digital audio processor nor converts or generates audio signals. The sounds remain in the analog domain, passing through analog circuits from input to output. The microprocessor’s function is purely to control the analog circuitry and to handle the display interface.
The granular VCF in Grainity challenges traditional notions of sound filtering. Rather than acting as a subtractive synthesis tool, removing frequencies to shape the sound, it often adds more to it. This process tends to expand both the lower range, generating subharmonics, and the upper harmonic contents in several ways.
It is worth noting that Grainity is very different from many digital modules that employ the concept of granular processing. These modules typically center around layering sound grains, resulting in a blurred and cloudy texture. On the other hand, Grainity does not use delay lines or sampling memory, yet it remains true to the core values of granular synthesis. Its function, as per the original concept, is not in layering but in repurposing sound grains to form new patterns and structures.
In conclusion, Klavis Grainity is a transformative addition to the toolbox of any eurorack enthusiast. As an innovative blend of tried-and-true analog filtering and granular synthesis, it offers a remarkable breadth of opportunities for sound design. Its ability to create and explore novel textures marks it as an essential module for those looking to venture further into the sonic frontiers. Get ready to unearth new depths of sound with each interaction. Always remember, your sound, your rules. Happy sonic exploration!
Example Usage
In this NOVICE-level usage example, let's explore how you can start using the Klavis Grainity module to shape and manipulate your sound:
- Start by patching an audio source into the Grainity module.
- Adjust the Frequency and Resonance controls on both the Granular VCF and Multimode VCF sections to hear the impact on the sound.
- Experiment with the Phase Inversion switch to switch between the two filter paths and explore the sonic differences.
- Mix the output of both filters using the dedicated output to blend the filtered signals.
- Try modulating the controls using CV inputs to introduce movement and dynamic changes to your sound.
- Explore the self-resonance capability of the Multimode filter for interesting tonal variations.
- Dive into the unique controls of the Granular filter, such as Structure selection, Frequency Division, and Phase settings, to sculpt intricate textures.
- Don't forget to save your favorite settings before powering off, as the Grainity maintains its current settings over power cycles.
- Consider updating the firmware via a simple audio file to access the latest features and improvements for your creative explorations.
With these steps, you can start unlocking the sonic potential of the Klavis Grainity module and begin your journey into analog granular filtering. Experiment, play, and let your creativity flow as you delve deeper into the sonic frontiers with this innovative Eurorack module.
To showcase the versatility of Klavis Grainity in an intermediate-level patch, let's create a dynamic evolving texture. Start by sending a slow random voltage LFO to modulate the Frequency control of the granular filter. This will introduce fluctuations in the granular processing, adding subtle variations to the sound.
Next, patch an envelope generator to modulate the Resonance parameter of the multimode filter section. Adjust the envelope to have a slow attack and release to sculpt the filter response over time, creating gradual swells and fades in the frequency spectrum.
For more intricate timbral shifts, patch an external audio source with rhythmic patterns into the Detect input of the granular section. This will synchronize the cycling of the grains with the incoming audio, generating complex rhythms and textures that interact with the source material.
Experiment with the Structure selection and Frequency Division controls in the granular section to explore different grain patterns and lengths. Combine this with phase adjustments to further manipulate the granular processing, pushing the boundaries of sonic experimentation.
Finally, route the mixed output of both filter paths to external effects modules like delays or reverbs to add spatial depth and ambiance to the evolving texture. Tweak the shared Frequency and Resonance controls to fine-tune the overall tonality of the processed sound.
By incorporating these techniques and exploring the wide range of modulation possibilities offered by Klavis Grainity, you can craft intricate and evolving sonic landscapes that blur the line between traditional filtering and granular synthesis.
Further Thoughts
In this expert-level usage example, let's delve into integrating the Klavis Grainity into a modular synth setup focused on creating immersive ambient textures. Utilizing the granular filtering capabilities of the module, we can transform simple melodic lines into lush, evolving soundscapes.
Patch Setup:
- Connect an oscillator output to the audio input of the Grainity.
- Use an LFO to modulate the frequency and resonance parameters of the granular filter section for dynamic movement.
- Patch an envelope generator to control the cutoff frequency of the multimode VCF for shaping the overall tonality.
- Employ multiple CV sources to modulate the structure selection, cycling phase, and frequency division parameters of the granular filter for intricate sound manipulation.
Sound Exploration:
Begin by dialing in a simple melody or chord progression on your oscillator. Engage the granular filter section of the Grainity and start experimenting with different structure selections to alter the grain patterns of the incoming sound cycle. Adjust the cycling phase and frequency offset controls to explore variations in timbre and texture.
Next, blend in the output from the multimode VCF to introduce traditional filtering characteristics and sculpt the frequency response of the processed sound. Use the phase inversion switch to create phase cancellations and unique filter interactions between the two filter paths.
To add depth and complexity to your sound design, try modulating the various parameters of the Grainity using external CV sources. For example, using an envelope follower to modulate the granular filter's cycling phase can result in rhythmic variations that enhance the evolving nature of the sound.
By combining the granular filtering capabilities of the Klavis Grainity with traditional VCF processing and extensive modulation options, you can push the boundaries of sonic exploration within your Eurorack system, unlocking a world of expressive and immersive textures.