Midweek Modular: Magma dynamics, line level inputs and headphone outputs
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This week we saw modular music being made in a post-apocalyptic future, some hot lava compression and let’s take care of the ins and outs.
The fascinating computer game puzzler The Signal State has added a new mode where you can play with the in-game tools as a modular synth. The game very cleverly uses Eurorack-style modules to reprogram faulty equipment. In a new Sandbox mode, you can use these modules to make music. Read more about it here.
Meanwhile, Moog has announced a series of price hikes due to the increased cost of components and means of production. Is this a temporary glitch or a sign of things to come? Read more about it here.
Midweek Modular Bits and pieces
Here are a few more bits and pieces of modular news and coolness that I’m pleased to shine a light on for this week’s Midweek Modular.
Ginkosynthese Magma
Dynamics processing is becoming increasingly popular in modular. It’s like the impact of our signals is the last area to get any kind of treatment. With the Magma, Ginkosynthese is offering us a diode-based compressor to add some interesting character as we rework our audio.
Magma uses feedforward diode-bridge compression with Gain, Recovery and Release controls, plus a nice big Compress knob to let you feel your way in. You have CV control over the compression and a side-chain (ENV) input to help you pump the signal around other elements. Or you can leave it unplugged to sculpt the compression to the envelope of the input signal. And to set it all off is a glass orb of molten lava hotness – and we all need one of those.
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- Ginkosynthese website.
Beepboop Electronics Line-Euro X10
A very minimalist-looking module from Beepboop. A single fader with stereo audio in and out. It is a line level to Eurorack level amplifier with ten times gain. Line-Euro X10 makes it easy to connect any desktop synth, mixer or another device to your modular and have complete control over the level. Simple, easy and effective.
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- Beepboop website.
Feedback Modules PhoneZ
If you want to plug yourself into the listening zone then maybe the PhoneZ is for you. It’s a premium headphone amplifier in a 6HP module. It has a stereo input that can also be switch to mono and a single stereo headphone output. The distinctive cream knob used on all of Feedback’s modules provides precision control over the output level.
Feedback PhoneZ · Source: Feedback
It can drive both high and low impedance headphones. Another simple, easy and effective module.
- Feedback website.
AXIS Modular Split and 2X Input
Staying with our simple ins and outs theme AXIS Modular has two new modules to tackle some simple problems. Split is a passive module that splits a stereo minijack input into two mono jacks or the other way around. Perfect for bringing in the output of some little synths.
It will also convert a MIDI TRS-A connector into a TRS-B connector but I have no idea how.
2X Input is a compact stereo input amplifier like the Beepboop one, but on small knobs and a bit cheaper. So it really depends on what you like.
AXIS Split and 2X Input · Source: AXIS
Both are available as DIY kits.
- AXIS Modular Instagram.
Simon The Magpie Pocket Drone
While not being strictly modular I couldn’t help but notice that Simon The Magpie has released a smaller version of his Beehive Drone Synthesizer. It’s called, very simply, the Pocket Drone.
Pocket Drone has 12 oscillators divided into four banks of three with a volume control for each bank. It has a stereo output where half the synth is on the tip and half on the ring. The top row of oscillators are tuned slightly higher to give you a fuller range. It has a power jack but will also run happily on a 9v battery.
Then, all you do is turn it on and start finding your drone within the wasp factory of competing oscillators. Pure drone bliss.
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- Simon The Magpie website.
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