New Grayscale Helix An Evolution Of Mutable Instruments Plaits
Grayscale has introduced Helix, their latest Eurorack module, and a sort of spiritual successor to the Mutable Instruments Plaits.
The Grayscale Helix is described as an ‘advanced macro oscillator’. It’s essentially a redesign of Plaits, with more hardware and software features.
New features include: pitch quantization, parameter randomization, and an internal modulation bus.
All 24 algorithms from the final Plaits v1.2 firmware are included, and a new algorithm, the Lo-Fi Oscillator, combines a Buchla-inspired waveshaper with bit rate and sample rate reduction, adding intentional aliasing effects and harmonic distortion. The LED matrix displays all 25 algorithms simultaneously, avoiding the need to switch banks.
The pitch quantizer provides 35 scales, covering both familiar musical territory and obscure microtonal experimentation. Parameter randomization allows all DSP parameters to be randomized whenever a trigger is received. The degree of randomization can be limited and biased for each individual parameter, providing results that range from subtle organic variations to glitchy digital chaos.
Dedicated knobs for the LPG/VCA level and envelope decay time open up new creative possibilities by providing direct access to these previously hidden parameters. The envelope time can be externally modulated and the envelope is now accessible as a modulation source through the new ENV (envelope) and EOD (end of decay) outputs.
The modulation bus, accessed through the CTRL input, allows the internal envelope to be replaced by an arbitrary external control signal. The external modulator is routed to all seven CV inputs simultaneously and may be independently shaped for each parameter using the dedicated attenuators. Because the ENV output remains accessible on the front panel, the internal envelope can still be cross-patched to one or more parameters.
Grayscale Helix Advanced Macro Oscillator Intro Video:
Grayscale Helix Audio Demos:
Helix vs Plaits:
Attribute Helix Plaits
Width 18 hp 12 hp
DSP Algorithms 25 24
Display LED Matrix 8 LEDs
Inputs 10 8
Outputs 4 2
Amplitude and Envelope Decay Knobs Yes No
Envelope Decay CV Input Yes No
Envelope and EOD Outputs Yes No
Modulation Bus (CTRL Input) Yes No
Pitch Quantizer Yes No
Parameter Randomization Yes No
+12V current draw 70 mA 50 mA
-12V current draw 11 mA 5 mA
The Grayscale Helix is available now for $399.
