Beginning the sonic adventure with the Djupviks Elektronik DE-22 Tangram, this spritely 6HP eurorack module proudly stands in the arena of dual LFO modulation. At its heart, this module hosts a chaotic core that is innately linked with the DE-22's unique character. Armed with two outputs for each LFO—including triangle and square waves—this module readily serves a mesmerizing 10v peak-to-peak voltage for audiophiles to feast upon.
However, it is the innovative employment of chaotic internal CV signals that sets this module apart from the rest. These signals, numbering two in total, are pre-patched to each LFO's CV inputs. By making use of the individually corresponding pots for each CV input, users can infuse a dose of randomness into their music. With a simple rotational flick, you can transform each LFO's behavior and embrace the beauty of semi-random oscillation.
In what could be considered a generosity of design, the DE-22 Tangram also houses a range switch. This seemingly mild accomplice holds the power to toggle between two different initial speeds for each LFO, named 'SLOW' on the control panel for simplicity's sake. Where you may just be treading the waters of slow, dreamy waves, the flip of a switch may also take you racing through high-speed modulations.
Adding another distinct feature to its artillery, the DE-22 offers a dedicated mix output. This facet can be employed to artistically merge both chaotic signals with the square wave of LFO 1 and the triangle wave of LFO 2. The result? A host of intricate waveforms and patterns that carry the breath of new life. When a capably applied CV control is employed over the LFO’s in the said scenario, the produced patterns can verge on the truly fascinating!
Quietly asserting its presence, there is also an unlabelled output poised above the mix output on the module. This provides direct access to the chaotic CV signal and works as a catalyst to derive complex modulation schemes.
In essence, the Djupviks Elektronik DE-22 Tangram serves as a playground to set your creative and chaotic impulses free. Whether you are seeking to explore semi-random oscillations, intricate envelope formations or mesmerizing modulation techniques, this 6HP eurorack module can be your able companion. It shines the light not merely on the path of sound design and electronic music but illuminates the very possibilities where art and machine coalesce into a symphony of sound!
Example Usage
Getting started with the Djupviks Elektronik DE-22 Tangram is an exploration into the subtle interplay between predictability and chaos, allowing users to easily create evolving textures and dynamic landscapes. This dual LFO module, despite its compact 6HP size, offers a robust feature set that serves both novice users and seasoned synthesists.
To begin your journey with the DE-22 Tangram, connect the triangle and square wave outputs from each LFO to various modulation destinations on your system. These could be filter cutoff frequencies, oscillator pitches, or any other voltage-controlled parameter. The 10V peak-to-peak voltage of these outputs ensures a significant impact on the parameters they modulate, bringing lifelike movements to your patches.
Experiment with the built-in chaos by using the module’s unique CV control capabilities. The internal chaotic CV signals are normalled to the CV inputs of each LFO, which are managed through the module's intuitive pots. Start by gently turning these pots to introduce a touch of unpredictability to your LFO patterns. You will notice that as the chaotic signal influences each LFO, it begins to behave in a semi-random manner, further expanding the creative horizons of your patch.
The range switch, labeled “SLOW,” is an excellent tool for beginners to explore different LFO speeds without feeling overwhelmed. Engage the “SLOW” mode to slow down the oscillations, allowing you to perceive subtle changes in modulation. This is particularly useful for crafting ambient soundscapes or evolving sci-fi textures.
The mix output can be a game-changer in your creative endeavors. It blends the chaotic signals with the square wave from LFO 1 and the triangle wave from LFO 2. Connect this output to any destination to hear how the synthesis of chaotic and classic waveforms manifests in unexpected but intriguing patterns, especially when you tweak the CV inputs for dynamic control.
Finally, don't overlook the unlabelled output above the mix output, which allows direct access to the raw chaotic CV signal. This source can be fed into any part of your modular setup that accepts modulation, turning ordinary patches into living, breathing entities. Even as a novice, embracing these features of the DE-22 Tangram can lead you to discover new realms of modular synthesis where chaos meets order in creatively profound ways.
Unleashing the full potential of the Djupviks Elektronik DE-22 Tangram involves harnessing its dual LFO dynamics to create a swirling tapestry of sound that hints at predictability yet thrives in chaos. The DE-22 Tangram's biggest draw is its chaotic core, where each of the two LFOs behaves with a unique character thanks to its chaotic CV signals. By manipulating the two pots, you can infuse the LFO outputs with varying degrees of these random signals, sculpting a richly textured modulation that mimics the capriciousness of nature. This semi-random behavior can be particularly enlightening when applied to filter cutoffs or VCO pitch, introducing fluctuations that maintain a human touch in digital landscapes.
Begin by exploring the range of each LFO. The "SLOW" switch is crucial here, offering a base frequency change. In the slower range, the LFOs can stretch modulations over longer periods, ideal for sprawling ambient textures or gradual shifts that evolve almost imperceptibly. Conversely, switching to the standard mode accelerates these fluctuations, injecting vibrancy and unpredictability into rhythmic sequences or percussive elements. The duality of slow and fast modulation enables the Tangram to fit seamlessly into almost any patch, solutionizing both the need for serene ebb and flow, or erratic pulses.
The mix output is another point of intrigue. By blending the square wave of LFO 1 and the triangle wave of LFO 2 with their chaotic core, it becomes a powerful tool for writing serendipity into the narrative of your sound. This output can be particularly enchanting when routed through a VCA or a wavefolder, venturing into territories of dynamic complexity that simple LFOs cannot reach alone. The resulting waveforms can challenge traditional structures, leading to unforeseen sonic discoveries and inspiring new creative directions.
The unlabeled output of the pure chaotic CV signal provides you with a raw ingredient for creative modulation. Using it to manipulate parameters across other modules can spread its chaotic influence throughout your system, injecting random motion anywhere you see fit. This opens doors to experimentation, such as sending it into a quantizer for melodic randomness or directly driving the CV input of resonant filters for unpredictable resonance sweeps.
In practice, an intermediate user can exploit the DE-22’s chaotic tendencies to forge soundscapes laden with intricate modulations—whether it be the gentle whisper of an evolving pad or the complex interplay of dissonant leads and rhythms. Its small 6HP footprint belies its capability, making the DE-22 Tangram a versatile and powerful addition to any modular arsenal. Remember, the key to mastery with this module lies in your willingness to embrace and steer its chaotic nature; this symbiotic relationship between precision and unpredictability is where creativity thrives.
Further Thoughts
To fully exploit the Djupviks Elektronik DE-22 Tangram module, start by understanding its dual LFO structure infused with a chaotic core. Each LFO provides two distinct waveforms: a triangle and a square wave, both outputting at a robust 10 volts peak-to-peak. The essence of what makes the Tangram a standout piece in modulation lies in its chaotic internal CV signals. These signals, two in number, are normalled directly to the CV inputs of each LFO, providing a pathway to introduce unpredictability into your modulation workflow.
Controlling these CV inputs with the designated pots on the panel allows you to introduce a semi-random element to your LFO outputs. This results in waveforms that are both dynamic and complex, serving as a wellspring for creative modulation tasks. The Tangram provides a range switch, known as “SLOW” on the module panel, which lets you select between two fundamental speed settings for each LFO. By engaging with this feature, you can set the base tempo before layering chaotic influences.
One of the most intriguing features of the Tangram is the mix output. This blends the chaotic signals with the square wave from LFO 1 and the triangle from LFO 2. By leveraging CV control over these waves, you can generate intricate and evolving patterns that defy static repetition. For those craving pure chaos, the unlabelled output located just above the mix output provides direct access to the untouched chaotic CV signal.
Whether you’re seeking subtle unpredictability or erratic fluctuations, the DE-22 Tangram encourages exploration. Pair it with other modules to expand its chaotic potential, experimenting with how its semi-random outputs interact with various audio or CV signals in your system. By doing so, you transform simple modulation into a controlled randomness that adds depth and interest to your compositions.