Schlappi Engineering has announced that The Nibbler, a new module for exploring the musicality of counting in binary, is now available to pre-order.
It is a CMOS-based four bit accumulator, which means it counts from 0 to 15 in binary and overflows above that. It has separate gate outputs for each of the bits, as well as two stepped analog voltages made from adding those bits together.
It also has inputs for each of the bits as well as shifting, resetting, and changing the direction of the counter.
It runs up to audio rates, where is useful for subharmonic and noise generation and down to LFO, rate where it can be used for arpeggio-like sequences and rhythm generation.
The Nibbler Overview Video:
Features:
5 rhythmically related gate outputs (or audio rate square waves)
2 stepped voltage outputs
Second stepped voltage has selectable phase offset
Cherry MX Brown switch for reset
4 gate inputs for modulation
Chainable using carry in and out
Reset input can be used as hard sync at audio rate
Sinevibes has released Switch v3, the latest version of their gate sequencer effect plugin for macOS + Windows.
What they say about it:
“At its core foundation is a high-precision step sequencer that’s running in sync with the host transport and driving a gate pattern – a series of on/off switches that define whether the input audio will be passed through (gate open) or will be muted (gate closed). Switch has a total of 8 gate patterns with up to 32 steps each, and offers an extremely wide range of timing settings for creating polymetric or polyrhythmic motion in any time signature. A single gate pattern is active at a given time, however, all of the patterns can be edited on the fly, and the interface also offers multiple macro editing functions.
The sequencer algorithm has advanced swing support: not only the ratio can be smoothly adjusted in real time, with both positive and negative values, but it also keeps correct swing timing when the pattern length is an odd number. The gate itself has variable time and is shaped using a two-pole low-pass filter for natural yet snappy transitions – not too far from an analog circuit. With all its simple tools combined, Switch allows for extremely quick creation of rhythmic audio level patterns: from classic trancegate and intricate tremolo effects, to beat chopping, pulsating accents, complex staccato, and beyond.”
Features:
Step sequencer with rhythmically correct swing, polymetric and polyrhythmic abilities
8 gate patterns with individual step count
Two-pole analog-style lag filter for variable gate transition smoothing
One-pole lag filters on all continuous parameters for smooth, click-free adjustment
Switch v3 is available now for $29. If you previously bought either Strobe, Switch or Switch v2 gate sequencer plugin from Sinevibes – the new Switch v3 is a free upgrade for you.
The Modular Synth Ensemble, a project designed to get groups of people experimenting and performing together on modular synthesizers, shared this video, capturing a session with kids at the Popella music festival in Graz.
What the organizers say about the performance:
“Popella is a music festival for young and old in Graz. A children’s music festival that is primarily dedicated to modern styles, responds to the lifestyles and interests of today’s children and also appeals to parents.
This year, the MODULAR SYNTHESIZER ENSEMBLE was a guest at Popella in the Postgarage Graz. After a 4-hour workshop, the children played a live performance on the huge sound system in the large club room. It was powerful, not only because of the great sound system, but above all because the kids put on a masterful performance – listen for yourself.”
