Interfacing with the atmospheric logic module Klima, or the optic gate trigger Idein, KIEL by FKMG Circuits is a fine addition to the eurorack constellation. A 2hp expander module, KIEL deepens your soundscapes by transforming random gates from Klima or Idein into two related channels of random stepped control voltage.
KIEL operates on a PIPO (Parallel In Parallel Out) Shift Register circuit, adeptly converting your gate outputs into two varied yet interrelated streams of random stepped voltages. The front panel houses controls affecting the global voltage range across both channels, and a unique aspect of KIEL is in its ability to alter which gates influence the bits. This occurs through the bit-shift potentiometer, cultivating various tastes of randomness.
Clocking inputs for each channel function independently, permitting asynchronous stepping, a feature adding rhythmic complexity to your creations. Alongside this, the loop lock knob locks voltage sequences into a loop. Spanning from free-running sequences when turning the loop control fully counterclockwise, to a tight 8 or 16-step sequence when swept to a midpoint or fully clockwise, your patch's rhythmic bass becomes impressively versatile.
KIEL operates on a bitwise principle using input gates from either Klima or Idein to toggle individual bits. These gated bits are processed whenever clock trigger detection occurs. The result is a deviation between 0 to 5V, subject to the user's global voltage setting. The BIT-Shift potentiometer on the front panel is for altering the bit affected by each atmospheric data or color. Moving clockwise, Channel I shifts bits to the right, while channel II shifts left, providing two related but unique voltage outputs.
The CLK-I and CLK-II, two clock inputs, provide control separately over the individual channels, adding an extra dash of unpredictability. CLK-I is automatically assigned to CLK-II when there is no second clock input, leading to all channels stepping to the beat of the first input. This versatility further blossoms with Klima as your comparator output doubles as your clock source, elegantly simplifying the equation.
However, paired with Idein, assigning an external clock source is the way to proceed as Idein lacks an inherent clock. Although, one can patch an Idein output into KIEL's clock input, which results in a new stepped voltage upon a color threshold crossing.
Overall, the FKMG Circuits KIEL module is an intriguing key to unlocking boundless creativity enhancing your Eurorack setup. This 2hp marvel is an effective tool to refine, align and redistribute melodies alongside your Klima and Idein gate and trigger signals, offering endless possibilities to tune and turn your modular synth patches.
Example Usage
In a NOVICE-level usage of the KIEL module, you can start by connecting either the Klima or Idein module to the KIEL expander. Use the front panel controls to adjust the global voltage range of the output channels and experiment with the BIT SHIFT potentiometer to control the randomness of the voltages. The LOOP LOCK knob allows you to lock in sequences of voltages for repetitive patterns.
Make sure to understand the bit-wise principle behind KIEL's operation, where each input gate toggles a bit that influences the final voltage output after a clock trigger. Experiment with the RANGE control to set the overall voltage output range.
Remember that clocking is automatic when using Klima, but you'll need an external clock source when using Idein with KIEL. Utilize the two clock inputs efficiently, and note the normalization between Clock I and Clock II.
Lastly, be aware of the potential slight differences in output voltages due to the analog nature of the module, especially when outputting the same voltage in both channels. Consider using a quantizer to compensate for any drifts in voltage output.
Experimenting with KIEL's features can enhance your modular synthesis setup, adding unique melodies and dynamic voltages to your sound palette.
To start using the KIEL module in your Eurorack setup, first, make sure to connect either the Klima or Idein module to the KIEL expander through the appropriate back-panel connector. This will allow KIEL to receive the gate signals and convert them into random stepped control voltages for further manipulation.
Adjust the global voltage range using the RANGE control on the front panel to set the output voltage range for both channels. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired voltage output levels.
Explore the capabilities of the BIT SHIFT potentiometer to modify which bits are set by the incoming gates. By tweaking this control, you can influence the type of voltages generated at the output of each channel. Remember that Channel I shifts bits to the right, while Channel II shifts bits to the left as you turn the potentiometer clockwise.
Utilize the LOOP LOCK knob to lock in a specific voltage sequence. Turning the knob clockwise will establish a loop of 8 steps at the noon position or 16 steps at the fully clockwise position. This feature enables you to create repeating patterns or sequences in your modular synthesis setup.
Take advantage of the multiple clock inputs available for each channel to introduce asynchronous stepping and variation in your voltage outputs. If using Klima, the clock source is automatically derived from the comparator output. However, when employing Idein, remember to connect an external clock source to drive the module.
Keep in mind that Clock I is normaled to Clock II, ensuring that both channels sync to the same clock signal unless an alternative source is patched into the second clock input. Consider using a quantizer to compensate for any slight voltage variations that may occur due to the analog nature of the output attenuator.
By incorporating the KIEL expander into your Eurorack system, you can enrich your sound design capabilities by introducing melodic elements and dynamic voltage control to complement the gate and trigger signals generated by Klima and Idein. Experiment with different settings and configurations to unlock new creative possibilities in your modular synthesis workflow.
Further Thoughts
In practice, you can achieve intricate and evolving sequences by combining the KIEL module with other modulation sources and sound generators in your Eurorack setup. For example, patching the random stepped voltages generated by KIEL into the pitch input of a VCO can result in ever-changing melodies that add a layer of unpredictability to your compositions. Furthermore, integrating the voltage outputs from KIEL into various modulation inputs such as filter cutoff frequencies, wave shape parameters, or even effects parameters can introduce dynamic sonic textures and timbral shifts to your patches.
Experimenting with different clock sources for KIEL, whether it be the internal clock from Klima or an external clock signal, opens up a realm of possibilities for rhythmic variation and pattern generation. By syncing KIEL to diverse rhythmic sources within your modular system, you can create complex polyrhythms, evolving textures, and generative sequences that constantly evolve over time.
Consider utilizing KIEL in conjunction with sequencing modules, such as trigger sequencers or CV sequencers, to create intricate patterns that evolve and mutate in real-time. By modulating the BIT SHIFT parameter and adjusting the LOOP LOCK settings, you can sculpt the behavior of KIEL to generate evolving sequences that add depth and movement to your compositions.
Overall, KIEL offers a unique approach to generating random stepped voltages and modulating various parameters within your Eurorack system. By exploring its features and integrating it creatively into your modular setup, you can unlock new avenues of creativity and push the boundaries of your sonic explorations.