Erica Synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine Module

The Erica Synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine Module began as a quest to create a rich-sounding eurorack snare drum synthesis module to complement the existing Mutant Drums. The project quickly became too large and costly to justify the module being capable only of snare drum sounds. So, the decision was made to learn from the architecture of the TR-909’s snare and kick circuits, to develop a module capable of generating multiple forms of analog percussion, and various other effects.

Like the other Mutant Drums, the Machine has its roots in classic analog percussion synthesis. Even though it can create alien sounds, it still can deliver those classic 909 house snares and kicks if you want them. There are no microcontrollers in the Machine. The signals and waveforms are all generated by discrete components and ICs, for a distinctly analog sound, and user experience. Now redesigned by Erica Synths and according to an agreement with Hexinverter Electronique the module features a manual trigger button.

ARCHITECTURE OF THE MACHINE

The Mutant Machine is a dynamic analog instrument capable of generating a wide palette of sounds, ranging from various forms of analog percussion to complex drones and oscillations. To achieve this much variety, the Machine features two synthesis sections which are summed together at the final output: MEMBRANE and SNAPPY. Like the other Mutant Drums, the MEMBRANE and SNAPPY circuits began their mutation as classic analog percussion techniques and have been reimagined from the ground up for 21st century modular synthesis.

The MEMBRANE forms the main body of the sound by way of two analog VCOs, and the SNAPPY section further adds to the timbre by contributing noisy elements to the mix. A noisy CLICK which occurs at the beginning of the SNAPPY sound can have its volume adjusted independent of the main decaying SNAPPY texture.

The waveforms which make up the MEMBRANE can be selected manually by button press, or the WAVESCANNER can be used to automatically scan through the available analog waveforms. By modulating the frequency through which waves are scanned, unique, complex sounds are created. The SCAN FREQ works something like the timbre control on a complex oscillator. Experimentation is encouraged by the many modulation inputs and outputs available to you. The Machine features 8 CV and gate inputs for modulation as well as two external audio inputs, for bringing other modules into the Machine’s unique synthesis core. There are many audio outputs for maximum versatility, allowing you to use the Machine to create drones and alien timbres for use elsewhere in the modular analog system.

FEATURES:

• Microcontroller-free analog percussion synthesis engine
• Unique Inverter Core oscillators form the MEMBRANE. Each analog oscillator has three waveforms to select from
• Capable of synthesizing everything from heavy-hitting bassdrums to classic 909-style snares and other complex timbres
• Modular design gives the Machine many auxiliary purposes, great for modular sound design of many varieties, and not just percussion
• The SNAPPY section is comprised of a voltage controlled noise oscillator, for modelling the noisy part of drum timbres
• Both MEMBRANE and SNAPPY elements have an external input for replacing the built-in sound sources, opening up many avenues of possibility
• 13 control voltage and audio inputs, for a fully modular drum experience
• 7 audio and CV/gate outputs for maximum integration with other modules
• Dedicated outputs for each WAVE and NOISE oscillator mean you can use the Machine as a complex VCO in your system, when not synthesizing percussion