The Confundo Funkidos is a testament to the versatile nature of the Eurorack format. Hailing from the innovative team at Noise Engineering, this four-part probabilistic rhythm crossfader stands as an unparalleled tool for transforming percussion within modular setups.
At its heart, the Confundo Funkidos serves the function of rhythm crossfading and muting. Simply patch two pairs of rhythms to the left and right inputs, then use the CV-controllable crossfader, coupled with the three Curve algorithms, to morph and intertwine these rhythm lines any way you desire. Each channel is specked with a mute switch, offering the ability to discreetly bring a voice in and out of a patch at your will.
For those who thrive on live performances, imagine the seamless, on-the-fly adjustments to rhythm compositions this module can facilitate. Hitting the Burn button injects instant accents and fills into your performances, ensuring they never fall into the realm of the commonplace.
The second iteration of this module elevates the innovation a notch higher, with the addition of four Accent outputs. These are not your typical accents; they're generatively created using the rhythm inputs. This opens up an organic, dynamic dimension to the most straightforward trigger sequences. These Accent jacks can output high or low gates, opening up avenues for using them with dedicated percussion modules or as modulation sources within your patch.
The Burn functionality has also been given a healthy boost, with the inclusion of a potentiometer. This helps add a more tactile feel to fill creation, all under your fingertips. As if that wasn't enough, the Mute switches have been expanded with three positions: each channel can output triggers, but it won't receive Burn fills or output accents when set to the middle position.
Indeed, the Confundo Funkidos is a truly unique and hands-on utility, adding an extra layer of richness to your rhythm tracks. It doesn't matter whether you're crafting intricate groove patterns in the studio or commanding the dancefloor with a live set, this module ushers you into a novel echelon of modular performance. This well-crafted piece of engineering is designed – and destined – to breathe new life into your percussion system, providing you with boundless creative opportunities.
To conclude, the Noise Engineering Confundo Funkidos stands as a testament to the evolution of modular synthesizers. With its potent combination of rhythmic crossfading, Curve algorithms, mute utility, and expanded Burn and Accent functionalities, it's a powerhouse of innovation that can revolutionize your percussive explorations.
Example Usage
As a novice exploring the Confundo Funkidos, you'll want to start simple and gradually incorporate its robust features into your setup. Begin by patching two different rhythm patterns into the left inputs and two into the right. Let's say you have a basic kick pattern on one left input and a snare rhythm on the other, with corresponding hi-hats and toms on the right.
Now, use the crossfader to blend between these left and right rhythms. You can manually adjust the crossfader knob to hear the transitions or utilize an external CV source for dynamic switching. Experiment with the three Curve algorithms to alter how your rhythms combine. Each curve will offer a unique response and feel for your evolving pattern.
The mute switches allow you to easily bring certain rhythms in or out of your mix. Engage them to see how muting elements can introduce new dynamics and focus in your music. The Burn button is your gateway to spontaneous fills, so tap it to inject unexpected bursts of rhythm when you're feeling adventurous.
Don't overlook the new Accent outputs. Patch them into another module, like a filter or VCA controlling a hi-hat or clap. This adds expressive dynamics, making simple rhythms come alive. Even without complex modulation sources, these accents can drastically personalize and enhance your patterns.
Finally, play with the Burn potentiometer. Turning it will adjust the intensity and frequency of the fills, providing more control over their impact in your performances. As you grow comfortable, remember that exploring the full range of controls and combinations is key to unlocking the Confundo Funkidos' potential. Every session will pave the way for more innovative rhythmic possibilities, transforming how you approach percussion in your modular setup.
To harness the full potential of the Confundo Funkidos, start by patching two distinct rhythmic patterns into the left and right inputs. Let's say you're using a basic kick and snare on the left and a more complex hi-hat and tom sequence on the right. Using the crossfader, which is CV-controllable, you can smoothly transition between these patterns. This allows for creative rhythmic blending that evolves over time, perfect for adding dynamic tension and release within your performance.
Dive deeper by exploring the three Curve algorithms. Experiment with these curves to discover the unique ways they shape the fade between your input rhythms. Each algorithm provides different tonal variations and rhythmic interplay, so try integrating smooth, logarithmic, and exponential transitions at different points in your set. This will keep your audience captivated as subtle shifts and dramatic changes unfold in your percussion landscape.
The added Accent outputs are a game-changer for generating new percussive ideas. Patch these to additional percussion modules, like a bass drum or a pinged filter, to layer complexity onto your existing patterns. The generative nature of the accent patterns breathes new life into simple beats. By using the Accent outputs as modulation sources, you can add an even deeper level of dynamism, modulating parameters on other modules in your setup.
For live performance, the Burn feature becomes an indispensable tool. The added potentiometer allows for manual control over fill intensity, giving you the tactile ability to introduce intricate fills with just a turn of a knob. Mastering this feature can yield satisfying flurries of sound that push the momentum of your track at just the right moments.
Finally, don't overlook the expanded mute functionality. With three positions, you can choose whether a channel outputs just the rhythms or includes fills and accents. This gives you the flexibility to instantly bring elements in and out, sculpting your rhythmic expression with precision. Experimentation with this feature during jams will quickly show you how Confundo Funkidos can transform static sequences into a living, breathing part of your set. Keep exploring and you'll find that with each session, your percussion performances climb to new heights.
Further Thoughts
To truly harness the creative possibilities of the Confundo Funkidos, let's explore an expert-level patch that transforms basic rhythms into a complex, evolving percussion landscape. Start by selecting two distinct rhythm patterns for each pair of inputs. Choose varying time divisions, such as a snare on 3/4 beats for the left input and a hi-hat on 5/16 beats for the right. This asymmetrical pairing sets a rich foundation ripe for experimenting with the module's signature functions.
Next, bring in modulation sources to control the crossfader: a slow LFO for gradual, sweeping changes and a step sequencer for abrupt, rhythmic fader shifts. Use the CV inputs to dynamically shift between the selected rhythm patterns, creating a fluid movement that constantly fluctuates between the left and right inputs. Here, leverage Confundo Funkidos' Curve algorithms to add unpredictable variations; select from the three available curves to suit your desired effect, whether it's a smooth morph or a sudden transition.
Embrace the module's Burn functionality with the updated potentiometer for precise control over spontaneous fills. Trigger it at key performance moments, either manually or via a gate sequencer, to introduce unexpected flourishes and breaks. The expanded Burn feature allows you to dial in the fill intensity, offering nuanced performance gestures that seamlessly integrate into the mix.
Integrate the newly-added Accent outputs to extend these dynamic layers further. Patch them into separate percussive voices or modulation destinations to accent underlying rhythms, turning simple sequences into multi-textured rhythmic tapestries. Selectively engage the Mute switches to isolate patterns, allowing for strategic breaks or drops in the performance. In the middle position, retain a steady rhythm flow that omits Burn effects or accent taps, providing a quieter undertone against the accented bursts.
By strategically combining all the features of the Confundo Funkidos, you can breathe new life into static percussion patterns, transforming them into a constantly shifting, immersive rhythm narrative. The interplay between modulation, rhythmic diversity, and on-the-fly performer control positions this module as an indispensable tool for advanced users seeking to elevate their percussion game.