The brilliant minds at After Later Audio have once again reaffirmed their expertise in the eurorack world with their innovative Light Rail module, designed explicitly for enhancing system connectivity. The module opens up new horizons, offering the ability to transmit up to eight channels of either audio or modulation over Ethernet. To enable this, the Light Rail setup includes two modules that can be quickly and efficiently linked with a three-foot CAT7e cable.
Ideal for interconnecting separate modular cases or managing complicated signal flows within larger eurorack systems, the Light Rail's primary use leans into its role as an inter-cabinet highway for signal transport. Imagine a scenario where you need to connect two cases or send a bundle of signals from one segment of your vast case to another, the Light Rail is tailor-made for such situations, functioning seamlessly and alleviating headaches of intricate cabling.
Another intriguing feature offered is the option to buffer up to four channels on each side. This gives users the versatility to have a local copy of the signal while simultaneously sending a buffered copy to the other module. So, what does this mean for eurorack users? In essence, you get to save yourself from the tedious task of using a MULT to retain a local copy.
Although, keep in mind that once one side of the Light Rail is in buffered mode, signal transmission on the buffered channels from the opposite side is limited. Notwithstanding, the additional four channels still preserve their bi-directional capabilities, making it a small price to pay for the local duplication feature.
Moreover, if you are considering alternate cable options—perhaps something longer or shorter—you would be best served sticking with CAT7e. This cable grade is superior in offering shielding, which the Light Rail harnesses for ground use. This helps to maintain a clean, noise-free signal path, sparing you the irksome issue of random noise infiltration.
As to be expected with any eurorack module, one must not overlook the potential for cross-channel bleed. Despite the Light Rail's design reducing the chance of bleed-through to a minimum, very minor cross talk between the channels could be detected. However, the scale of cross talk is negligible and shouldn't be a cause for concern. Remember, no electronic device is utterly free from cross talk. It’s simply an artifact of the physical world we live in.
No doubt, After Later Audio's Light Rail module stands as an ingenious solution to bridge the gap between separate eurorack cases, uphold signal integrity, and eliminate the need for an extensive array of MULT modules. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned modular synth enthusiast, the Light Rail, with its adjustable buffered channel options, bi-directional signals capacity, optimal CAT7e cable, and minimal cross talk, makes audio routing and modulation across any eurorack system both smoother and audibly richer. It is a testament to how advancements in connectivity can drive the evolution of modern eurorack modules by streamlining signal paths for improved setup and interconnectivity in your home studio.
Example Usage
When setting up After Later Audio's Light Rail module, keep in mind its primary function: seamless connectivity between cases or different sections of a large eurorack setup. The module facilitates this by transferring up to eight channels of both audio and modulation signals via a CAT7e cable. For beginners, start by connecting the two included modules with the provided 3' cable. This allows you to experiment with routing various signals across your setup without needing additional equipment.
An interesting feature for novices is the option to buffer up to four channels on each side. This means that you can maintain a local copy of the signal while also sending a buffered signal to the other end. It's particularly handy because it eliminates the need for a patching MULT, simplifying your setup while keeping the integrity of your signal intact.
When setting one side to buffered mode, be aware that the buffered channels will only support one-way transmission from the buffering side. The remaining four channels, however, remain fully bi-directional, allowing for more flexible configurations. For best results, use CAT7e or similar cables as their shielding helps in minimizing interference and ensuring solid grounding.
As you explore, note that while cross channel bleed is minimal, you might still encounter slight cross talk. This is typical and usually negligible, but worth noting as you tweak and optimize your signal paths. Experiment by sending different types of signals through the Light Rail and observe how it integrates into your existing setup, enhancing both creativity and connectivity in your eurorack environment.
To dive into enhancing your modular setup with the After Later Audio Light Rail module, you'll want to explore its powerful use of signal transport over Ethernet within your system. Begin by installing the pair of Light Rail modules, one in each of the cases you wish to connect, ensuring they are securely mounted and powered. Utilize the provided 3-foot CAT7e cable to establish the link between these modules, effectively enabling the transportation of up to eight audio or modulation signals seamlessly across cases.
In a typical intermediate setup, imagine your primary case houses your core synthesis engines while a secondary case might focus on effects and modulation sources. You have an enticing opportunity to route modulation signals from the secondary case to modulate parameters in the primary case. This allows for dynamic interaction without the clutter of traditional patch cables sprawling across your setup.
If you aim to manage signal integrity, particularly when using critical control voltages like pitch or gates, take advantage of the module's buffering capabilities. For instance, set up two of the channels to be buffered to secure a strong local copy and prevent degradation when the signal reaches the receiving module. This feature is invaluable when your patching could otherwise be impacted by voltage drops or distribution losses.
For more complex patching, maintain a keen awareness of the module’s channel configuration. If you're experimenting with buffering channels 1 through 4 on one side, remember that these ports will only transmit to the other module and not receive, while channels 5 through 8 remain available for bi-directional usage, maintaining their adaptability for signals that need to shuttle back and forth.
When planning your studio layouts or live performances, consider cable lengths and signal paths thoroughly. While the provided 3-foot cable suffices for most setups, adapting to longer spans requires quality shielding akin to CAT7e to minimize ground loop interference and maintain signal fidelity. Pay attention to any minimal cross-talk; utilize distinct channels for modulation and audio to maintain clarity where possible.
Integrating After Later Audio's Light Rail not only cleans up your patching but opens new realms of creativity and system organization. Whether routing signals across expansive setups or creating novel signal flows within a single case, this module stands out as a versatile tool in any eurorack enthusiast's arsenal, fostering connectivity that enhances both practical functionality and creative expression.
Further Thoughts
After Later Audio’s Light Rail module offers a remarkable solution for synthesists seeking to streamline connectivity across their Eurorack systems. By allowing audio or modulation signals to flow over Ethernet, it significantly enhances setup flexibility. One expert way to utilize the Light Rail is by segmenting your modular rig into different functional areas, each housed within its own case.
Imagine a scenario where you have a dedicated voice section in one rack and a dedicated effects processing section in another, using the Light Rail to connect them. With 8 channels at your disposal, you can effortlessly send multiple audio signals from oscillators or complex modulation sources to effects modules. This setup drastically reduces cable clutter and minimizes patch confusion, all while preserving audio integrity.
Consider the buffering option: you can preserve a local copy of critical signals like clock or pitch CV, ensuring synchronization or key modulation patters are unaffected by signal path complexity. This means, if you’re modulating a filter cutoff frequency in one case while simultaneously affecting a wave folder in another, buffered channels keep your workflow smooth and uninterrupted.
For performance setups or when integrating with other musicians, this module shines as it enables seamless signal transmission between separate systems, offering a robust and adaptable communication line. The flexibility of using standard CAT7e cables also allows custom lengths to accommodate varying stage or studio layouts, thus maintaining clear and stable communication without the typical interference or signal degradation associated with longer analog cables.
Ultimately, Light Rail empowers users to rethink their modular configurations, encouraging creative routing and comprehensive system integration which are invaluable for live performances, expansive studio setups, or anyone seeking to maintain tight control over a sprawling Eurorack environment.