June 2023 Eurorack round-up
This month’s best new modules include a classy analogue VCO from ALM, Modbap’s ultra-versatile new dual filter module, and a few quality basics from Erica Synths and Intellijel.

ALM Busy Circuits TAZM-O
When you think of ALM, chances are you think of signature modules like Pamela’s New Workout or the Squid Salmple, but it’s worth remembering that the brand’s output covers the full range from simple utility modules all the way to the more esoteric offerings. It’s surprising that it’s taken more than 10 years for ALM to release their first analogue VCO, but the TAZM-O proves worth the wait. At heart, it’s a triangle-core oscillator with thru-zero FM, but this simple oscillator packs a couple of neat features which make it particularly interesting.
The main feature which sets the module apart from most is the continuous waveshape/pulse width control, inspired by Serge Tcherepnin’s New Timbral Oscillator from the mid 1970s. The Shape control morphs through sine, sawtooth, pulse and square waves and is also voltage controlled, giving you some interesting modulation options. Direct sine and sawtooth outputs are joined by Roland SH-101-style -1 and -2 sub-octave outputs, while CV inputs for FM index and octave transposition give even more precise control. A beautiful module, and great value at just over £300.

Modbap Meridian
Modbap’s Eurorack output continues to impress, approaching module synthesis from a hip-hop angle and ending up with distinctive, unorthodox tools which translate well to a range of musical styles. The Meridian is a dual multi-mode filter based around Electro-Smith’s Daisy Seed DSP platform, offering a choice of four filter types (ladder, OTA, comb and vocal formant) and four modes (low-pass, high-pass, band-pass and notch) per side. Versatility is the watchword here, and things get particularly interesting when you start combining different types and modes along with the built-in phase shifter and overdrive. The Meridian is a toolbox of timbres, allowing you to warp and twist sounds into new territory, with precise control over every parameter. Fairly pricey at £430, but you get a hell of a lot for your money.

Erica Synths Black EG2 and Black DADSR EG
The ever-reliable Erica Synths continue to deliver the goods this month with two more modules from their high-end Black Series. Both new releases are envelope generators, but they do things quite differently. The Black EG2 is a substantial reworking of the brand’s main ADSR envelope generator, a loopable design with adjustable gate length for use with trigger sequencers. It’s simple to use but versatile if you want to get involved with retriggering or controlling the gate length via CV.
The Black DADSR EG, meanwhile, bears some similarities to the EG2 – it’s also a loopable, retriggerable envelope generator with adjustable gate length – but it’s a more complex design, with CV control over most parameters and an optional delay stage before the initial attack phase. As such, the DADSR is the more versatile choice for modulation, especially with the added benefit of a bipolar output to act as an LFO, but it’s a little less immediate to use. Both are great value, with the two modules straddling the £150 mark.

Intellijel Audio I/O
Finally this month, Intellijel’s updated Audio I/O module is a pretty simple offering, but one which deserves highlighting as an excellent choice for getting balanced line-level signals in and out of Eurorack. The updated design changes the front panel layout, shifting the sockets from the bottom to the top, but also adds new chain connector to the rear, allowing you to connect to other compatible Intellijel modules including the Mixup 3U, Outs 3U, Stereo Mix 1U, XY IO 1U and Headphones v2 1U. With balanced ¼-inch and 3.5mm connections, six-stage LED meters, 20 dB of input gain and 6 dB of output gain, the Audio I/O is straightforward but effective.
Greg Scarth