Maximizing Versatility: Creating Unique Eurorack Sounds with Voltage Control
Eurorack modular synthesizers have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing users to create unique and versatile sounds by combining different modules. One key element of creating these sounds is voltage control, which allows for precise and dynamic control of signals. In this article, we will explore ways to create unique Eurorack sounds by combining modules such as the Synthfox LVL, ADDAC304, Tubbutec 6equencer, Instruo Lion, and Tronix Audio MFE 303.
The Synthfox LVL is a dual signal summator that excels at addition, subtraction, attenuation, and inversion of signals. Each summator has three inputs, each with a level control and a switch that selects between attenuator or attenuverter action of the summator. Outputs are fit with a bicolor LED indicator. When the three inputs of Summator 1 are normaled to the respective inputs of Summator 2, the LVL becomes a 3-input, 2-output mini matrix mixer if only Summator 1 inputs are used. +6V is normaled to Summator 1 bottom-most input (input 3) jack, allowing the respective (blue) knob of Summator 1 and Summator 2 to act as manual DC offset controls.
The ADDAC304 Manual Gates provides users with eight manual gates (0 +5v) in a compact package. Four out of these eight available gates can act as momentary switches, outputting the signals in their respective inputs when each gate’s button is pressed.
The Tubbutec 6equencer is a TR-606 inspired step sequencer available in different Eurorack form factors. Despite its compact size, it has many powerful features and is optimized for live performance. It allows quick programming and editing of drum patterns.
The Instruō lìon is a 6×6 matrix mixer with a pin-style interface similar to those found on iconic modular synthesizers of the 1970s. Its applications range from signal routing and effect insert functionality to true summing with cascaded attenuation capabilities. Live patching made easy with the use of the included pin and insert cables. Centralize your I/O network with lìon.
The Tronix Audio MFE 303 is a triple multimode Steiner Parker filter, mixer, and equalizer consisting of three Steiner-Parker filter units that include resonators, light overdrive input amplifiers, and a subsequent 3-channel equalizer and audio summing mixer. The fully analog equalizer is based on a circuit from the early 80s and consists of treble band (shelf characteristic), middle band (bell characteristic), and depth band (shelf characteristic). In addition to the filter inputs, the EQ has two separate audio inputs. Each filter channel can be controlled using a potentiometer or CV inputs, allowing users to fine-tune their sound precisely.
By combining these modules and using voltage control, users can add manual control, matrix mixing, equalization, overdrive amplification, and filtering to their modular synthesizer setup. The possibilities for creating unique and versatile sounds are endless, and the author encourages experimentation to achieve the desired results. With voltage control and the right combination of modules, it's possible to maximize versatility and create unique, captivating Eurorack sounds.
Example Usage
A novice-level usage example to maximize versatility and create unique eurorack sounds with voltage control is by combining Synthfox LVL, ADDAC System ADDAC304 Manual Gates, Tubbutec 6equencer in Pulp Logic 1U Tile format, Instruō Lìon, and Tronix Audio MFE 303. Start by using ADDAC304 Manual Gates to control the flow of signals to the other modules. Use LVL to add, subtract, attenuate, or invert voltage signals and route them through the matrix mixer of Lìon. Use MFE 303 for filtering and equalizing the signals for unique effects. Finally, use the 6equencer to create and modify patterns that can then be used to control the gates of ADDAC304. Experiment with different combinations of these modules to discover endless creative possibilities.
To create a versatile and unique sound, use the LVL summator's manual controls to combine varying signals from different sources like the ADDAC304 manual gates, then route the combined signal through the MFE 303 Steiner-Parker filter units for further manipulation. Use the Lion matrix mixer to send the output to different destinations or use the cascaded attenuation to achieve the desired output. The Tubbutec 6equencer can be used to program complex patterns and rhythms. By using the voltage control capabilities of these modules, you can achieve unique and diverse sounds.
Further Thoughts
One way to maximize the versatility of these modules is to combine them in a patch for creating unique and complex sounds. Here's one possible example:
- Use the ADDAC304 Manual Gates to trigger the Instruo lìon, routing its output to all three inputs of Summator 1 on the Synthfox LVL module.
- Adjust the levels of each input on Summator 1 to create a mix of filtered signals.
- Use the Tubbutec 6equencer to create a rhythmic pattern to trigger the MFE-303's Steiner-Parker filters, adjusting the filter cutoff and resonance with CV inputs.
- Use the MFE-303's equalizer to sculpt the sound further, adding or reducing frequencies as desired.
- Finally, route the output of Summator 1 to the input of Summator 2 on the Synthfox LVL module, adjusting the levels further to create a final mix.
This patch combines the unique features of each module to create a complex and evolving sound, with rhythm and timbre controlled by the Tubbutec 6equencer and the MFE-303's filters and equalizer. The Synthfox LVL module provides a way to mix and attenuate the signals, adding further depth and complexity to the sound.