Hermod+ 2.0 Update: More Modulation, Better Automation and Streamlined Workflow
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Hermod+ 2.0 Update: More Modulation, Better Automation and Streamlined Workflow · Source: Squarp Instruments
[04 February 2025] Squarp Instruments has taken a major step forward with the new Hermod+ 2.0 firmware, adding a host of new features to the Eurorack sequencer. At the heart of the update is an expanded internal modulation engine that now offers even more flexibility and creative control. The update should be of particular interest to users who work with extensive automation in their tracks. With this free update, the French developers have significantly expanded the potential of Hermod+, while also integrating some workflow improvements and bug fixes.
All About Hermod+ by Squarp Instruments
Squarp Instruments Enhances Hermod+ with Update 2.0
A major highlight of the new firmware is the expansion of the internal automation per track. Instead of just one modulation source, three additional internal automations (MOD2, MOD3 and MOD4) can now be used. This means that three more parameters can be automated per track, which is especially useful for more complex sequences. In addition, the Step Mode Analyzer now supports all track automations such as pitch bend, aftertouch, sustain and the new MODs (1-4). This opens up completely new possibilities for precise sound control within the modular setup.
The integrated modulation matrix also benefits from the update, as the new modulation sources can now be assigned as control parameters for effects. Another handy feature is the ability to send a track’s MOD value directly to the MIDI output as a program change. In addition, CV recording detection has been optimized so that automation is only recorded when a significant voltage change is detected. This saves valuable disk space and makes recording more efficient. In addition, the LFO effect has been given a new offset parameter function for even more precise modulation.
CV and MIDI Even More Flexible – Now With Improved Modulation Paths
In addition to the new features, improvements have been made to existing workflows. For example, Step Mode navigation has been reworked to allow for faster editing of sequences. CV/Gate input routing has also been improved, making it even more intuitive to integrate external signals into the sequencer. In addition, there is now a standard mute function that can be used to mute entire tracks or effects at pattern or track level.
Squarp Instruments Hermod+ is an elegantly rethought modular brain
[20 June 2023] Hermod+ is the new and improved sequel to the original Hermod modular brain, sequencer and Eurorack adventure playground. It looks magnificent.
Hermod+
The original Hermod was released back in 2017, and it was an ingenious, feature-packed hub of modular activity. It offered multichannel sequencing, a polyphonic modular connection, modular effects and complex possibilities. Hermod was brilliant but also, at least in my view, challenging to navigate. And so I find the idea that it’s been built upon and improved beyond all recognition to be quite a thrilling prospect.
So, what is the Hermod+ bringing to the party? Well, a lot of the brilliance from the original is still with us but there’s new stuff too. Most notable is the 4×4 matrix of 16 pads offering the ability to input notes, turn on effects, mute tracks and launch sequencers. That makes it a thousand times more playful than the original. You’ve got dedicated Reset and Clock outputs, so you don’t have to use up sequencing channels for those utilities. It also has the ability to record modulations.
Feature upgrades
The original feature set has also got some upgrades. It can now handle 16 sequencing channels over MIDI or 8 channels over CV/Gate. You can turn that into 8 CV and 8 MIDI tracks which is nicely versatile. You can record notes and automation directly into the sequencer, or you can get busy with the piano roll editor to program monophonic and polyphonic lines. Writing sequences was a bit of a chore on the original, so I hope it has a better flow. The lovely OLED screen is definitely going to help with that.
Squarp has boosted the effect count to 8 real-time CV/MIDI effects per track. These include randomisation, delay, envelopes, LFOs, ratchet, scales, swing and more. It can even generate its own sequences if you want.
Scenarios
Hermod+ can be super versatile in different scenarios. It’s a MIDI sequencer and can operate purely in that domain, and you can even plug a controller keyboard straight in the front. It can run your Eurorack producing countless modulation sources, sequencing, notes, triggers and effects. It can be a hub and translation service between your DAW and your Eurorack using MIDI-to-CV rather than all that messing around with DC Coupled audio interfaces.
The Hermod was impressive; the Hermod+ looks amazing. What we need now is to see it in action in a bit more depth than what we get in the lovely-looking marketing demo.
The Hermod+ is available now for €460.
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