As the world of modular synthesis grows ever larger, pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration, Sovage Engineering’s Oxymoron Analog Cross-Modulator sets the bar even higher. Brimming with feature-rich assets, this little beast of a module brags six independent modulators, each capable of outputting sinusoidal and square waveforms. From slow-evolving drones to frantic modulations, each modulator can act as a standalone oscillator, or in unison, generate a cacophony of synced sounds.
But what makes Oxymoron truly remarkable is its internal cross-modulation utility. By feeding the oscillators into each other, this utility creates an intricate web of interconnectivity among the modulators. This feature unlocks an array of sonic possibilities: atmospheric drones that slowly evolve and add tension, funky textures laden with character, and harsh noise landscapes, all accessible at your fingertips. From serene to spooky to cacophonous, the Oxymoron's inner machinations can cover a wide range of moods.
The Oxymoron also offers three channels, identified as A, B, and C. Each channel mixes the output of two modulators and includes a volt-per-octave input. Combining these features allows for detuned tones, synced bass lines, leads, chords, or chaotic modulation when implemented as an LFO. The flexibility within each channel makes the Oxymoron a goldmine for sound design.
Looking at the larger Eurorack system integration, Oxymoron doesn’t disappoint. It can be the perfect module for designing drum machines by providing both sound source and modulation. When paired with complementary modules such as BINOME, it creates percussive rhythms and soundscapes that would otherwise require multiple modules to achieve. An excellent fit with nearly any setup, Oxymoron remains an invaluable modulator, understanding your needs and consistently delivering results that might surprise even the most experienced sound designers.
All things considered, the Oxymoron Analog Cross-Modulator is much more than a standard modulation source. It stands apart as a twofold powerhouse: a broad-spectrum modulator and a robust drone machine. Whether you're seeking to craft experimental soundscapes, generate inharmonic noise, or simply desire a versatile Eurorack module for your setup, Oxymoron could be just the tool to unlock your sonic chaos.
Example Usage
The Oxymoron Analog Cross-Modulator is a versatile tool that thrives in both standalone and integrated setups. For novice users, it’s an accessible entry point into the world of modulation and sound design.
Begin your exploration by patching a simple setup. Connect the A output of Oscillator 1 to the volt-per-octave input of Channel A. Switch Oscillator 1 to the 'sinusoidal' waveform setting and fine-tune its frequency to create a foundational tone. Next, patch the mix output of Channel A to your audio output. This will serve as your starting sound source.
To add complexity, begin integrating the other oscillators. Connect Oscillator 2’s A output to the volt-per-octave input of Channel B and set it to a square waveform. This will create a rhythmically interacting sound, as the square wave introduces a pulse that contrasts nicely with the smoother sine wave of Channel A. Adjust the mix levels to blend the two channels harmoniously.
Utilize the cross-modulation feature by patching Channel A’s output back into the modulation inputs of both Channels B and C. This will start producing intricate layers of sound, where the different oscillators influence each other, leading to a texture that evolves as you manipulate the controls.
For rhythmic pulses, try turning some oscillators to faster speeds while leaving others at a slower tempo. This will form a chaotic yet structured rhythmic foundation. You can further experiment by flipping the switch to the 'oscillator' position, transforming the modulators into sound sources that interact with each other.
Lastly, explore the act of mixing all outputs for a more comprehensive sound. By doing so, you can achieve everything from ethereal drones to harsh, distorted textures, making the Oxymoron a true sonic playground. With this approach, even a novice can venture into the depths of noise and drone creation, crafting unique soundscapes that can evolve with every adjustment.
The Oxymoron Analog Cross-Modulator offers a rich palette for sonic exploration, making it an ideal choice for intermediate users looking to deepen their understanding of modulation and sound design. To illustrate its versatility, let’s dive into a usage example that highlights its potential in creating complex textures and rhythmic patterns within a modular patch.
Begin by patching the Oxymoron into your signal chain. Connect the output of channel A to a filter module, while channel B's output feeds a reverb module. The use of channels A and B allows you to layer different modulated signals, combining them at a mixer or in your effects chain. Next, set the Oscillator mode switch in the middle position to unlock both oscillatory behavior and modulation capabilities across multiple channels.
For this patch, turn the waveforms on channel A to sine and channel B to square. Adjust the rate of both modulators, keeping one set slow for an ambient foundation and the other fast for rhythmic pulses. This juxtaposition leads to rich, evolving textures. As you play with the volt-per-octave inputs on both channels, send a MIDI signal or CV from your sequencer; this will provide pitch information to the Oscillator, creating melodic content interwoven with the modulation signals.
Next, spark some rhythmic interest by utilizing channel C to modulate the filter cutoff of the signal going into the reverb. Choose a slower square waveform for channel C and adjust its modulation depth. The result will be an interesting interplay between your filtered sound and the evolving reverb tail. You might also experiment with the cross-modulation feature by feeding the output of one channel into the input of another, generating complex phase relationships and overtone interactions that can turn harmonics into chaotic yet musically relevant sounds.
For an added layer of complexity, introduce the Oxymoron’s capabilities as a standalone drone machine. Utilize the mix outputs to stack channels creatively, simultaneously sending multiple, slightly detuned sounds into a delay unit. This stacking will create a thick wall of sound. Adjust the internal modulation connections to sculpt textures, exploring aggressive metallic timbres or softer, organic drones by manipulating the waveform selection and combining the outputs.
Finally, if you want a percussive element, connect one of the channel outputs to a dedicated drum module. Use the Oxymoron to provide both sound source and modulation, creating a dynamic kick drum or snappy snare with the oscillators modulating the pitch over time for a more intricate sound. Incorporating other modules like the BINOME will enhance the pitch and rhythmic interplay, solidifying your patch as an evolved drone and drum machine hybrid.
This example showcases the Oxymoron's unique strengths, encouraging experimentation and inviting you to push boundaries within your modular setup. The possibilities are immense, and it will consistently support your creative ambitions, whether it's producing intricate soundscapes or driving rhythmic compositions.
Further Thoughts
The Oxymoron Analog Cross-Modulator stands out as an incredibly versatile module that excels in a variety of contexts, making it an essential tool in the arsenal of any serious sound designer looking to unlock the potential of sonic chaos. Its architecture, featuring six independent modulators arranged in a cascade, allows for an expansive range of sound creation.
To demonstrate its capabilities, let’s explore a patch aimed at sculpting lush, evolving drones layered with intricate modulation. Begin by utilizing the A and B channels of the Oxymoron. Set one channel to generate a slowly oscillating sine wave, while the other is dialed to produce a more rapid square wave. This juxtaposition creates a rich texture that serves as a foundation for your soundscape. Adjust the mix outputs to taste, allowing the two modulators to interact, generating a beautiful blend of harmonic content.
Next, take advantage of the cross-modulation capability by routing the output of channel A into the modulation input of channel B. This connection introduces a dynamic element, causing the timbre of channel B to shift in response to the changes in channel A. As you tweak these parameters, you will notice the sound evolving, producing everything from subtle fluctuations to sharp rhythmic bursts, perfect for creating a constantly morphing environment.
To layer complexity, introduce a third oscillator from an external source, possibly a classic subtractive synth or another Eurorack module. Feed this source into one of the Oxymoron's channels to allow the internal modulators to work as an LFO, influencing both the pitch and amplitude. Experiment with varying the rates, and switch between fast and slow settings to tease out different aspects of your patch. Syncing this external oscillator with the Oxymoron's outputs can yield tight, punchy sequences or sprawling ambient washes, depending on your creative direction.
In the pursuit of more aggressive textures, engage the square wave outputs at higher frequencies. This can produce rhythmic pulses akin to a drum machine, especially effective when combined with a simple envelope from another module to create impactful percussive hits. Here, the Oxymoron can seamlessly transition from melodic drones to chaotic, glitchy drum patterns, showcasing its duality as both a modulation powerhouse and a sound source.
Finally, don’t overlook the potential of using the Oxymoron as the core of a larger drum machine setup. Pairing it with modules like the BINOME, as mentioned, allows you to not only generate complex percussive sounds but also to modulate their characteristics, resulting in a cohesive, interactive sound environment. The marriage of internal modulation with external influences fosters an atmosphere of creativity where every turn of a knob can unlock new dimensions of sound.
The Oxymoron Analog Cross-Modulator truly embodies the essence of exploration in modular synthesis, serving as a reliable ally in the journey towards sonic experimentation. Whether you seek serene textures or frenetic noise, its capabilities ensure that inspiration is always just a patch away.