In this article, we explore the Manifold Research Centre TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack Expander Module. This unique module opens six Einstein-Rosen bridges, also known as wormholes, allowing you to send external CV inputs to perturbate the gravitational interactions of the Tetragrid star map system.
The TetragridDoor to the Stars module features hyperspace switches to open and close the portals/inputs. The inputs are normalled down, so if only one input is patched, the signal is cascaded to the other inputs. However, if you don't want this behavior, you can disengage the unused inputs through the switches. This flexibility allows you to customize your patching options.
Once your CV has been sent through the portal, it will appear on its corresponding pad on the playing board. By connecting the CV output to different pads on the playing board, you can affect the internal behavior of the Tetragrid. This magnetic patching feature provides a unique way to gravitationally bend the Tetragrid to external forces.
By manipulating the Tetragrid's behavior, you can produce interesting effects. For example, you can stall the outputs over a certain threshold or force a reset of the Tetragrid cycles, similar to the sync on a VCO. Slow rising or falling CVs can lead to FM-like behaviors, resulting in increased or decreased speed.
It's important to note that the behavior of the CV input depends on the magnetic patching on the Tetragrid. Different results can be obtained based on the patching configuration. The Tetragrid generally seeks a threshold of around 3 volts, but this can vary depending on the specific patching setup.
The use of the hyperspace switch adds unpredictability and playability to your patch. It can quickly bring you to unexpected results, making the exploration of the cosmos within your Eurorack system an exciting journey.
One advantage of the TetragridDoor to the Stars module is that it can handle +10V/-10V signals without any issues. The module's inputs are scaled down and rectified, allowing you to send signals within this range without any concerns about voltage compatibility.
In conclusion, the Manifold Research Centre TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack Expander Module provides a unique and chaotic exploration of the cosmos within your Eurorack system. With its ability to open wormholes and perturbate the gravitational interactions of the Tetragrid star map system, this module offers a range of possibilities for creating interesting and experimental sounds. The use of the hyperspace switch adds unpredictability and playability, making it a valuable addition to any modular setup.
Example Usage
Usage Example:
Imagine you have a complex Eurorack patch that consists of various modules generating intricate rhythms and melodies. You want to introduce an element of chaos and unpredictability into your composition. This is where the Manifold Research Centre TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack Expander Module comes into play.
Using this expander, you can open up six different wormhole portals, allowing external CV inputs to perturbate the complex gravitational interactions of the tetragrid star map system. Let's say you decide to send a slow rising CV signal through one of the portals. As the signal passes through the portal and appears on its corresponding pad on the playing board, you can connect it to surrounding pads using magnetic pins.
Now, here's where the fun begins. By patching the CV signal to different pads on the tetragrid, you can gravitationally bend the tetragrid and influence its behavior. Need to stall certain outputs above a specific threshold? Simply connect the CV to the desired pads, and the tetragrid will respond accordingly. Want to reset the tetragrid cycles or introduce FM-like behaviors? Experiment with different patching configurations to achieve the desired effect.
Keep in mind that the behavior of the CV input will vary depending on the magnetic patching on the tetragrid. The threshold that the tetragrid is looking for is generally around 3 volts, but the results will depend on the specific patching configuration. The use of the hyperspace switch adds an extra layer of playability, allowing you to quickly discover unexpected results.
One important thing to note is that only the unipolar side of the CV signal will interact with the tetragrid. But don't worry – the inputs are scaled down and rectified, so you can send +10V/-10V signals into the expander without any issues.
To integrate the TetragridDoor to the Stars expander module into your system, you'll need to wire it correctly. Connect the 2x4 pin header of the expander to the corresponding 2x4 header on the tetragrid (matching the orientation indicated by the donut). Additionally, ensure that the 2x5 power header on the expander is properly connected to your power supply, paying attention to the orientation marked by the white silk screen line.
In conclusion, the TetragridDoor to the Stars expander module opens up a universe of sonic possibilities within your Eurorack system. By introducing external CV inputs and gravitational interactions to the tetragrid star map system, you can add an element of chaos and unpredictability to your compositions, allowing for unique and inspiring musical journeys.
Happy travels through the cosmos of sound with the TetragridDoor to the Stars!
Usage Example:
Now, let's dive into an intermediate-level usage example of the Manifold Research Centre TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack Expander Module. Imagine we have a complex patch setup involving multiple oscillators, filters, and modulation sources. We want to introduce an element of unpredictability and chaos into our sound design. This is where the TetragridDoor to the Stars comes into play.
First, we patch a slow-rising unipolar control voltage (CV) signal into the first input of the TetragridDoor to the Stars. This CV signal represents the external force that will perturbate the complex gravitational interactions of the tetragrid star map system. Remember, the threshold that the tetragrid is looking for is around 3 volts.
Once the CV signal is sent through the first portal, it appears on the corresponding pad of the tetragrid playing board. We then use the magnetic pins to connect this CV signal to its surrounding pads, influencing the internal behavior of the tetragrid.
By patching the CV signal to different pads on the tetragrid, we can create various effects. For example, if we connect it to pads that control the output levels of our oscillators, we can create FM-like behaviors. Increasing or decreasing the CV signal's speed can result in different frequency modulation effects.
Furthermore, we can experiment with patching the CV signal to pads that control the reset of the tetragrid cycles. This can lead to interesting sync-like effects, where the tetragrid only runs when the threshold of the CV signal is met.
Remember, the use of the hyperspace switches on the TetragridDoor to the Stars adds a significant amount of playability and can lead to unexpected results. Don't be afraid to experiment and explore the chaotic system of the tetragrid with your external set of rules.
To wire the TetragridDoor to the Stars expander module into your star gate system, connect the 2x4 pin header of the expander to the corresponding 2x4 header on the tetragrid (matching the orientation). Additionally, the module requires power, so connect the 2x5 power header (matching the orientation of the red stripe) to your power supply.
With the TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack expander module, you can explore new sonic territories by bending the tetragrid to external forces, introducing unpredictable elements into your patches, and unleashing the power of chaos in your music production. Happy travels through the doors to the stars!
To learn more about the Manifold Research Centre TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack Expander Module, you can visit the official product page: [Link here]
Further Thoughts
One fascinating usage example for the Manifold Research Centre TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack Expander Module is to create a dynamic and immersive generative sequence inspired by the cosmos. By utilizing the expander module, you can send external control voltage (CV) inputs through the six Einstein-Rosen bridges (wormholes) and perturbate the complex gravitational interactions of the tetragrid star map system.
Imagine patching a slow-rising CV to one of the inputs, and as it passes through the wormhole, it emerges at its correspondent pad on the playing board. From there, you can use the magnetic pins to connect it to surrounding pads, influencing the behavior of the internal tetragrid.
The beauty of this setup is that the behavior of the CV input is entirely dependent on the magnetic patching on the tetragrid. By strategically connecting the pads, you can manipulate the tetragrid to respond to external forces. Imagine stalling certain outputs when the CV exceeds a threshold, or forcing a reset of the tetragrid cycles akin to a VCO sync. Slow rising or falling CVs can even introduce FM-like behaviors, altering the speed of the tetragrid's movement.
It's important to note that the threshold the tetragrid is looking for is approximately 3 volts, but the actual outcome will depend on your specific patching configuration. The hyperspace switch on the expander adds a delightful element of unpredictability, often leading to unexpected and exciting results.
A notable feature of the TetragridDoor to the Stars expander is its ability to interface with unipolar signals, meaning it will interact with the tetragrid system using the scaled-down and rectified version of your +10V/-10V control signals. This eliminates the need for signal level adjustments and ensures compatibility.
It's worth mentioning that while you can introduce external rules and influence the tetragrid's behavior, full control over the chaotic system cannot be achieved. It will always retain an element of unpredictability and complexity, which adds to the module's allure.
In terms of wiring your star gate system, the expander module features two pin headers. The upper one, a 2x4 header, serves as the gateway for your CV signals and should be connected to the corresponding tetragrid 2x4 header. Ensure proper orientation by matching the orientation indicators. The lower pin header is a 2x5 power header, with the orientation of the red stripe (-12V) clearly marked for easy identification.
With the Manifold Research Centre TetragridDoor to the Stars Eurorack Expander Module, you are invited to embark on a journey through the cosmos, exploring the uncharted territories of generative music and experimental soundscapes. Let your creativity soar and discover new sonic frontiers.