The Nonlinearcircuits Fast and Bulbous module is a potent addition to any eurorack setup. Proving that two is often better than one, the module splendidly merges the capabilities of a voltage-controlled filter (VCF) and a phaser in one compact unit. Boasting an SSI2140 chip—an updated avatar of the much-loved SSM2040—it doesn't merely attempt to replicate the analog character and sonic richness of the past but goes one step further to provide a playground of sound exploration for the modern electronic musician.
Its design is a homage to the Anderton’s Device 1-6 and comes polished with thoughtful modifications to fit the demands of contemporary eurorack applications and the expectations of fastidious sound sculptors. At its heart lies the magic of operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) stages. The four OTA stages represent four rungs of creative freedom. With a handy switch for each, you can individually select between an all-pass (phaser) mode and a low-pass filter mode. The upshot is a device that allows you to forge your distinct sound – from subtle, evolving textures to volatile, intense sonics.
It's like owning an artist's palette that contains not just separate shades of sound but also the ability to blend these shades and create new ones independently. Just imagine the sonic textures you can create when you play with the switches; two stages in phaser mode, the others in low-pass filter mode, or any combination therein.
Another merit in its cap is the dry mix pot. Incorporating this into the design was an act of genius as this allows the incoming signals to be mixed with the output signal emanating from the 4th OTA stage. While this feature could be a thrilling perk in the phaser mode mainly, nothing precludes you from exploring its potential in diversified artistic ways. Your sonic investigations are held in check by nothing but the limits of your imagination.
To further enhance the audio manipulation capabilities, the Fast and Bulbous hosts a POLES function. This feature gracefully mixes the outputs of each OTA stage (or each pole, hence the name). Though the POLES feature might seem reserved when all switches are turned to Low Pass mode, it becomes a merrymaker when you flick one or more switches to Phaser mode.
To sum it all up, the Fast and Bulbous is not just a module—it is a journey. A journey that invites you to explore the unchartered territories of sound and design your unique tone. For the passionate seekers of innovative sound manipulation, this dual VCF/Phaser module introduces you to a world where you are no longer bound by the conventional delineations of sound creation and processing. It encourages musical wanderlust, leading you to new realms of tonal wonder. For the pioneering eurorack musicians out there, the Nonlinearcircuits Fast and Bulbous is more than just an extraordinary toolbox—it's an inviting wilderness of electronic music artistry.
Example Usage
To start exploring the Nonlinearcircuits Fast and Bulbous module, begin by connecting it to your Eurorack system. If you're a novice, don't worry — this module is designed to cater to users at all levels of experience.
First, familiarize yourself with the switches on the module. There are four switches, each corresponding to one of the OTA stages, allowing you to toggle between all-pass (phaser) and low-pass filter modes. A good initial setup is to experiment by switching two to three in one mode and the rest in another to hear the effect on your sound. This approach gives you a good understanding of how each setting can dramatically transform your soundscape.
Once you're comfortable with the switches, move to the dry mix pot. This control allows you to blend the incoming signal with the processed output. While it's beneficial in phaser mode, don't hesitate to adjust it in other configurations to explore the full potential of the module.
The POLES control introduces another layer of sound sculpting. It mixes outputs from each pole and reacts uniquely to different switch positions. Try flipping some switches to Phaser mode while others remain in Low Pass, and notice how the character of the mix evolves.
Remember, there are no strict guidelines; the beauty of this module lies in its flexibility. Trust your ears, experiment with settings, and immerse yourself in the creative process. As you continue to play and discover, you'll uncover a wide range of tones and textures that the Fast and Bulbous can offer, making it a unique addition to any modular setup.
To truly appreciate the versatility of the Nonlinearcircuits Fast and Bulbous module, let's delve into an intermediate-level usage scenario that showcases its dual capabilities as both a VCF and a phaser. This module's inclusion of the SSI2140 chip, reminiscent of the classic SSM2040 but with a modern twist, opens up a playground for sonic exploration.
Start by connecting a dynamic oscillator to the module's input to give a rich, harmonic source that will allow the Fast and Bulbous to flex its filtering muscle. Next, focus on the four switches that toggle between phaser and low pass filter modes for each OTA stage. Experiment with combinations, such as setting two switches to low pass and two to phaser, to discover complex textures that are neither purely filtered nor phased but a thrilling mix of both.
One of the highlights of this module is the POLES control. This parameter provides a weighted mix from the outputs of each pole, revealing subtle changes in timbre as you toggle the stages. Notice how it remains subdued when you stick to the low pass filter mode but bursts with character when a couple of switches are in phaser mode. This dynamic response can add a layer of evolving movement to your patches, perfect for creating vivid atmospheres or engaging leads.
Don't underestimate the dry mix pot, which can blend the processed and unprocessed signals shared at the OUT stage, usually seen in phaser applications. This addition allows for creative layering, helping your sounds retain their original character while weaving in the filtered or phased nuances. By adjusting the dry mix, you can craft patches that are full-bodied, integrating both wet and dry signals, with each retaining a key role in your sound design.
Finally, considering the module's potential for rhythmic modulation, attach a sequencer or LFO to influence the filter cutoff frequency. This adds another dimension of intelligence to the module, as it responds dynamically to evolving input, potentially transforming a static drone into a morphing, rhythmic landscape.
In conclusion, the Fast and Bulbous' dual functionalities of VCF and phaser, with its clever switching system, allow musicians to traverse a spectrum of sounds from subtle to extreme. Its design fosters a unique patching experience that can inspire users to push beyond conventional boundaries, appealing to those who seek pioneering sound design in the eurorack ecosystem. Whether you are sculpting percussive patterns or creating dense harmonic structures, this module is a powerful ally in the creative arsenal.
Further Thoughts
To truly unlock the creative potential of the Nonlinearcircuits Fast and Bulbous module, it's essential to dive deep into its dual VCF and phaser capabilities. This standout module hinges on the SSI2140 chip, an evolution of the legendary SSM2040 VCF chip, enhanced for the contemporary Eurorack landscape. The genius design allows you to toggle each of the four OTA stages between all-pass and low-pass filter modes, forming a versatile core for both sound design and performance.
At its heart, the Fast and Bulbous offers a unique playground with its four switches. Imagine the sonic palette you can explore by adjusting a couple of switches to phaser mode, leaving others in filter mode, creating hybrid textures that morph and shift with subtle manipulations. Whether in the studio or live on stage, this ability to transform each stage's characteristics offers a dimension rarely seen in traditional VCF modules.
Furthermore, the dry mix pot, generally more prevalent in Phaser mode, invites experimentation. Picture blending the processed signals from the module's output stage with your original audio to construct evolving, rhythmic textures that are complementary yet boundary-pushing. The balance achieved here could birth new sonic landscapes, enhancing any composition or live set with fresh audio perspectives.
POLES, a unique parameter of this module, demands attention from the adventurous sound sculptor. By harvesting the outputs of each pole and offering a weighted mix, it becomes particularly vibrant when at least one switch is set to phaser mode. This capacity to brighten the sound as you venture deeper into phaser territory beckons exploration and invites users to push the boundaries of traditional filtering.
In your exploration of Fast and Bulbous, consider its designs from legacy influences and the modern twists it introduces. By embracing its detailed capabilities and experimenting beyond conventional use, this module can become not just a VCF or phaser, but a pivotal element in your modular setup, replete with sonic possibilities that beg to be discovered.