Journey with me today as we unravel the sonic wonders encased within the versatile 4hp box of the Zlob Foldiplier Eurorack module, a compelling odd/even harmonics generator with nuance and character. In line with Zlob's precedent of empowering sound designers with compact yet comprehensive tools, this module is truly more than meets the eye.
Unconventional to its core, the Foldiplier combines inspiration from the mid-section of the Serge Wave Multiplier with elements of the Hemmo Bazz Fuss transistor-based oscillating fuzz. The result? An audacious sound modulation gem capable of delivering a variety of timbral flavors from a setup with quite a small footprint.
Channeling the art of waveform folding, the Fold knob adjusts the extent of the waveform's internal refolding—visualized conveniently through the red LED window below. Nudging this knob clockwise encourages and enhances the occurrence of folds, while injecting an external voltage to the Fold jack helps attain an even richer sea of folds.
Delving further into the controls, we find the Offset knob, a potentiometer that governs the admixture of bracketed DC voltage into the waveform. For the adventurous, sweeping this knob from one extremity to another can unlock a vast palette of positive and negative voltage injections, shedding a new light on your sound shaping experiments.
Pivoting to the Symmetry knob, we can further sculpture the dynamic of the folding process by adjusting the volume of negative or positive offset voltage which is folded into the waveform. Notably, when the Symmetry jack is fed with voltage, the Symmetry knob elegantly takes the role of an attenuator, offering refined control over the shaping process.
Perhaps the most captivating feature of the Foldiplier, however, is the feedback switch, selectable between two distinctive oscillating feedback paths. Whether favoring the tonal richness of low harmonics or the blithe flicker of high harmonic content, this module generously caters to all. Even more tantalizingly, when no input signal is present, this module transforms into an experimental oscillator, opening up a universe of unknown auditory textures.
Peering under the hood, one finds a meticulously crafted build, assembled with all-through-hole prototyping. The 4hp module is fashioned with a robust Double Sided PCB, replete with an onboard protection mechanism against reverse power mishaps. Offering moderate power consumption (40mA on the +12v rail, and 35mA on the -12v rail), and reaching a depth of 47mm or 1.75", this module is both practical and portable. Shipped with M3 black nylon screws, this piece will blend smoothly into any eurorack setup, bringing with it a plethora of unparalleled sonic experiments.
Indubitably, the Zlob Foldiplier stands tall amongst the potent tools any sound design enthusiast should consider for their modular synths arsenal. With its balance of sophistication and simple design, this eurorack module can transform the mundane into the extraordinary, helping enhance any musical endeavor with its nonlinear, unique timbres. Explore the unknown and prepare to be surprised with every twist and turn of the knobs – the audacious Zlob Foldiplier is here to unleash unparalleled soundscapes.
Example Usage
Novice Level Usage Example:
The Zlob Foldiplier is a versatile eurorack module that can be used to create unpredictable and unique timbres. Let's start with a basic patch to get you started.
First, connect the output of your sound source, such as a VCO or a sample player, to the input of the Foldiplier module. Adjust the volume of your sound source to a comfortable level.
Next, let's explore the Fold knob. This knob controls the amount of folding applied to the waveform. Start by turning the Fold knob counterclockwise to minimum. Gradually increase the knob's position to introduce more folds. You will notice that the sound becomes more complex and harmonically rich as you increase the folding.
To add some variation to the folding, let's use the Symmetry knob. This knob controls the amount of positive or negative offset voltage mixed with the waveform. By turning the Symmetry knob clockwise, more folds will occur on the positive troughs of the waveform, and vice versa when turning it counterclockwise.
Now, let's add some CV control to the folding. Take a control voltage source, such as an LFO or an envelope generator, and patch it into the Fold jack. Adjust the C.V. knob to set the attenuation level for the incoming control voltage. Experiment with different control voltage sources and modulation patterns to introduce dynamic and evolving timbres to your sound.
For even more sonic exploration, try engaging the feedback switch. This will allow the module to self-oscillate, generating its own waveform without an input signal. It's an excellent way to create experimental and chaotic sounds. Be mindful of the volume level when using the feedback mode, as it can get quite loud and intense.
Remember, there are no rules when it comes to using the Zlob Foldiplier module. Feel free to experiment with different settings, modulation sources, and patch configurations to discover your own unique sounds. Happy folding!
In order to showcase the intermediate-level usage of the Zlob Foldiplier Eurorack module, let's explore how it can be used to create evolving drone textures.
To begin, patch an LFO or an envelope generator into the CV input of the Fold jack. This will allow you to modulate the amount of folding applied to the incoming waveform.
Next, connect an audio source, such as a VCO or a sample, to the input of the Foldiplier module. Adjust the Fold knob to set the initial folding amount. Experiment with different positions to find the desired level of folding.
Now, let's introduce some asymmetry to the waveform. Patch a positive voltage source, like a modulation envelope, into the Offset jack. Adjust the Offset knob to add positive DC voltage to the waveform. This will create more folds on the positive troughs of the waveform.
To further shape the timbre, patch a modulation source, such as an LFO, into the Symmetry jack. Adjust the Symmetry knob to control the amount of modulation applied to the waveform. This will dynamically vary the offset voltage and, consequently, the distribution of folds across the waveform.
Feel free to experiment by connecting the feedback output to a mixer or an external effects processor. This will allow you to blend the feedback oscillations with the original waveform, resulting in even more complex and unpredictable timbres.
By combining modulation sources, adjusting the Fold knob, and exploring different offset and symmetry settings, you can create expansive and evolving drone textures that are rich in harmonics and full of sonic depth.
Remember to harness the Zlob Foldiplier's unique folding capabilities and its voltage-controlled symmetry and offset parameters to sculpt a wide range of nonlinear timbres that will add an extra dimension to your sonic palette.
Further Thoughts
One of the most exciting aspects of the Zlob Foldiplier Eurorack module is its ability to unleash unpredictable and unique nonlinear timbres. By harnessing the power of the module's oscillating feedback paths and voltage control options, you can dive into a world of experimental sound design.
To demonstrate this, let's explore a usage example where we create a complex evolving waveform using the Foldiplier. Start by patching an external audio source into the module's input. This can be a simple sine wave or any other waveform you prefer.
Next, set the Fold knob to a moderate position, allowing for some folding of the waveform. Adjust the symmetry control to introduce a mixture of positive and negative offset voltage. This asymmetry will create an interesting interplay between the positive and negative peaks of the incoming waveform.
Now, engage the feedback switch. This will introduce the module's oscillating fuzz circuit into the signal path, adding even more harmonics and complexity to the sound. Experiment with different feedback settings to find the sweet spot that resonates with your sonic vision.
To further shape the timbre, try modulating the offset control using an LFO or an envelope generator. This will add movement and dynamics to the evolving waveform, taking it into unexpected territories.
Finally, don't be afraid to push the limits of the Foldiplier by introducing additional modulation sources to the Fold and symmetry controls. This dynamic modulation will continuously reshape the waveform, resulting in ever-changing timbres that defy expectations.
In this example, we've only scratched the surface of what the Zlob Foldiplier can do. Its odd/even harmonics generation, voltage control over symmetry and offset, and feedback options provide a playground for experimentation and sonic exploration. Embrace the unpredictable nature of this module, and let its creative possibilities push your synthesis techniques to new heights.