The Berlin School from Frequency Central is an exceptional 8 step analogue sequencer that will take your creativity to a whole new level. The marriage between the classic CD4017 analogue sequencer and microcontroller is what makes this module unique and special. The microcontroller provides several novel features, including onboard clock divisions, quantised manual, quantised output, and voltage controlled transpose.
One of the most remarkable features of this module is its 4/6/8 step sequence options. These options give you the capability to create unique and complex electronic music that you won't find anywhere else. The sequencing options are easy to use, and you can modify them to fit your musical needs.
Another great feature of the Berlin School module is the quantised output. This feature ensures that the voltage output is always consistent with the selected musical scale. This means that you can create precise and musical notes that will fit perfectly into your productions. Moreover, the quantised manual feature permits you to manually dial in accurate notes to create melodic sequences that will astound and surprise your listeners.
Additionally, the voltage controlled transpose function provides instant and efficient pitch modulation. This feature gives you the freedom to experiment with different tonal contrasts to create new sounds or to modify existing notes.
The module's clock divisions feature is also noteworthy. It allows you to subdivide the pulse into smaller units, which can be utilised to create unique rhythmic patterns. One of the great things about the clock division feature is that it's easy to implement, and you can do it on the fly.
In conclusion, if you're looking to create exceptional electronic music production, the Berlin School from Frequency Central is the sequencer module that you need. Its many features allow you to craft complex and innovative sequences that will undoubtedly satisfy your creative needs. Overall, this module is a must-have for any music producer who wants to take their sound to a new level.
Example Usage
If you're new to using sequencers, Berlin School is a great option to start with. Simply connect your preferred oscillator or sound source to the output of the sequencer, then use the dials and switches to set your desired sequence of notes. Start by choosing the number of steps you want your sequence to have (either 4, 6, or 8), and then use the step knobs to manually enter the note values for each step. Once you've got your sequence programmed, turn on the clock and watch as the sequencer steps through your pattern, creating a unique and evolving melody. Use the transpose control to shift the entire sequence up or down in pitch, or connect an external voltage source to the transpose input for even greater control. With just a few simple steps, even a novice can start exploring the creative possibilities of Berlin School.
To add more variation to your sequences, try using the Berlin School's "Transpose" function. This feature allows you to shift the pitch of your sequence up or down by a set number of semitones, either manually or via CV control. For example, you could set the Transpose to +5 semitones and trigger it with a rhythmic gate pattern to create a melodic pattern that steps up in pitch as it progresses. Experimenting with different Transpose amounts and triggering patterns can lead to some truly unique and unpredictable results.
Further Thoughts
One particularly exciting way to unleash your creativity with Frequency Central's Berlin School is to use its quantised manual transpose feature. By pressing and holding the sequencer's function button, you can enter manual transposition mode. From here, turning the sequencer's rotary encoder will transpose the sequence by semitones, with the LED display indicating the current transposition. Additionally, quantisation ensures that the transposition always snaps to the nearest semitone, making it easy to create musical riffs and patterns on the fly. Whether you're jamming with other musicians or exploring new sonic territory on your own, the Berlin School's flexible manual transpose function is a powerful tool for electronic music creation.