As a successor of the Intellijel Atlantis and inspired by the iconic Roland SH-101, the Intellijel Atlantix promises to elevate our expectation of Eurorack modules' power, flexibility and innovation. This creative synthesizer is an all-in-one, 42HP Eurorack module, providing a complete subtractive synthesizer voice that offers a unique depth of sonic possibilities. Across VCOs, VCF, VCA, S&H, Noise, and an Envelope, the Atlantix holds the fundamental infrastructure of sound synthetization.
Among the standout highlights of the Intellijel Atlantix are its pair of Triangle Core VCOs and a cascaded 4-Pole multimode filter. VCO A boasts Thru-Zero FM capabilities empowered with INDEX and pulse-width modulation (PWM), facilitated by a Hard/Soft Sync and an Octave switch. Its counterpart, VCO B, focuses on Linear FM, and includes an LFO/VCO switch, Hard Sync and its own Octave switch. This supremely versatile design allows a much wider range of sonic exploration on a comparatively compact interface.
Adding to the versatility, there is a Suboscillator at your disposal that spans two octaves over three modes. The inclusion of white and pink noise sources facilitates a fuller range of sonic texture and depth. This is further istrengthend by the six-channel mixer composing VCO A Waveforms, Sub, Noise, and two Aux inputs.
The Intellijel Atlantix does not stop at mere sound creation. It's a playground built for modulation experimentations. The Mod X and Y buses are all about quick modulation routing, handling sources from VCO B, S&H, Noise, and feedback. Both branches of this modulation highway come with built-in polarity and level-shifting switches for granular control and flexibility.
The analog ADSR envelope can be controlled manually and includes three time ranges in a nod to classic synthesis techniques. Plus, the envelope section has a manual gate and level (velocity) input. Adding to randomization and complexity, there is a patchable Sample and Hold modulation source designed for colourful sound-scaping.
The Atlantix isn't just about the inside; the exterior takes Eurorack modules to a new level too. With its 20 sliders, four knobs, 27 toggles and two rotary switches, the hands-on control experience with the Atlantix is both engaging and expedient. Furthermore, with an impressive ensemble of 32 jacks, combinations for creative and complex patching are not limited. Opt for the additional Atlx expander and gain 16 more jacks to expand dedicated outputs and advanced routing capabilities even further.
The Atlantix doesn't merely respect past synthesis techniques; it brings them into the modern world, utilizing the very best of analog technology while articulating future innovation. Whether you are constructing rich bass and lead sounds, mixing white and pink noise, or crafting complex modular synthesis, the Intellijel Atlantix is a superb synthesizer that delivers a wide palette of sonic possibilities in your Eurorack case.
Example Usage
To create a basic sound using the Intellijel Atlantix, start by adjusting the settings on the two voltage controlled oscillators (VCOs). Experiment with the different waveforms and modulation options available to craft a unique sound. Use the mixer section to balance the levels of the various oscillator outputs, sub-oscillator, and noise sources.
Next, explore the capabilities of the cascaded 4-pole multimode filter. Try out different filter modes such as lowpass, highpass, bandpass, and phaser to sculpt the timbre of your sound. You can also experiment with filter modulation sources to add movement and dynamics to your sound.
Utilize the analog ADSR envelope to shape the amplitude of your sound over time. Adjust the envelope settings to create evolving textures and expressive dynamics. You can trigger the envelope either manually or externally for more intricate control.
For modulation, use the built-in routing options to introduce randomness, feedback, and creative modulation sources into your patch. Take advantage of the modulation buses to easily route modulation sources to different parameters without the need for additional patching.
If you have the Atlx expander, explore the additional possibilities it offers, such as dedicated waveform outputs, filter outputs, and a ring modulator. These expanded capabilities can further enhance your sonic explorations and open up new avenues for experimentation.
Don't hesitate to mix and match different settings, modulations, and patch configurations to unleash a wide range of creative sonic possibilities with the Intellijel Atlantix Eurorack module. Have fun exploring the vast sonic potential that this powerful analog synthesizer voice has to offer.
In the Mixer section, you can adjust the balance of the primary oscillator's waveforms, sub-oscillator noise, and two auxiliary inputs that are normalled to additional VCO A waveforms or VCO B waveforms. The auxiliary inputs also allow you to patch other external signals into the mix. The second Auxiliary input has a switch that allows you to route the source between the mixer sum or directly into the VCA (post-VCF). The latter is a way to pass an unfiltered fundamental signal to the final VCA stage and then blend it with filtered audio from the VCF. This draws inspiration from the architecture of the CS-80 where a sine wave is mixed with the filtered audio to make glassy tones with some added harmonics.
Further Thoughts
To further expand the sonic capabilities of the Intellijel Atlantix, consider integrating the optional Atlx expander module. This expansion provides dedicated outputs for the A and B oscillators, filter outputs, and a ring modulator, opening up a whole new realm of self-patching and intricate modulation possibilities. By incorporating the Atlx expander into your Eurorack setup, you can delve deeper into advanced signal routing and create complex connections between modules, pushing the boundaries of your sound design even further.