4MS Percussion Interface & Expander Modules

Nice dual-module gate / envelope generator which can run off any audio signal. Feed it drums, synths, samples or a mic input and and generate CV modulation signals.

Supplier's Notes:
The Percussion Interface (PI) and PI Expander are a pair of Eurorack modules that generate gates and envelopes from acoustic drums, samplers, drum machines, and virtually any audio source.

Converting microphone, instrument, line and modular signals into CV and clock / gate signals, the PI and PI Expander are suited for synchronizing sequencers or other modules to the rhythm of an audio track or live percussion. The modules can simultaneously be used as a pre-amp for microphones or line-level signals, while generating inverted envelopes useful for side-chaining. The PI module contains all the core functionality and can be used without the Expander to conserve space. The Expander requires the main PI modules and adds three gain stage options, a modular-level audio output jack, a 1 / 4" (6.35mm) input jack, and envelope attenuation capabilities. The two modules are only sold together, they are not available separately.

Electrical and Mechanical Specifications:
Module size (PI):
4 HP Eurorack formal module
0.98" (25mm) maximum depth with power cable
10-pin Eurorack power header

Module size (PI EXP):
4 HP Eurorack formal module
0.98" (25mm) maximum depth with power cable
8-pin cable connects to PI

Power consumption:
with PI Expander
+12V: 104mA
-12V: 65mA
without PI Expander
+12V: 69mA
-12V: 56mA

Audio Inputs:
1 / 8" [3.5mm] on PI main module, and 1 / 4" [6.35mm] on PI Expander
100k input impedance, AC-coupled

Audio Outputs:
Voltage range: -10.4V to +10.8V, DC-coupled
1k output impedance
Gain Characteristics
Gain range: < -100dB to +54dB (500x)
Clip light turns blue when signal (post-gain) exceeds 2.5Vpp
Gate is triggered when signal (post-gain) exceeds 6.3Vpp
Clip light flashes red when signal clips on Audio Out jack (exceeds +10.8V)
Gate Out Jack
1k output impedance
+8V gate / trigger signal
6ms - 0.5s pulse width
+ Env Out jack (jack on PI main module)
1k output impedance
+9V peak (sustain), -60mV resting (off)
15ms attack time
70ms - 6s exponential decay time (1% of peak voltage)
- Env Out Jack (jack on PI main module)
1k output impedance
+9V resting (off), -150mV peak (sustain)
15ms attack time
70ms - 6s exponential decay time (1% of peak voltage)
Env. Out jack (attenuated jack on PI Expander)
1k to 26k variable output impedance
+9V maximum
-60mV minimum
Inv. Out jack (attenuated jack on PI Expander)
1k to 26k variable output impedance
+9V maximum
-150mV minimum
Included with the PI+EXP:
8-to-16 pin power cable
8-to-8 pin cable for connecting to the Expander
M3 Knurlie screws (4)

4MS Percussion Interface & Expander Modules review at Juno Daily

• Sensitivity knob, Low/Medium/High gain switch, and clipping LED
• Sustain control to prevent misfires, increase gate length, and control the envelope
• Envelope decay control
• Non-inverted and inverted envelope outputs, useful for side chaining
• Four envelope outputs: two attenuated with independent attenuators, and two non-attenuated
• Envelope following or generation modes
• Gate output for clocking sequencers or any unit with a clock or trigger input
• Compatibility with drums, pads, samplers, microphones, piezos, drum machines, etc.
• 1/8" or 1/4" input jack (6.35mm)

If you decide an product is not suitable within 14 days of delivery, you can return it to us for a replacement or refund. Returns must be unused and in their original, undamaged packaging.

Some items are excluded from our money back guarantee:
- Computer software that has been unsealed or registered
- Any item that comes directly into contact with the nose, ears or mouth

To arrange a return, just contact our customer service department on 020 7424 2800 or via our customer support form.