Tags: Utility module

Notes: The hands-on control of hardware meets the versatility of software. Bridging the gap between Eurorack and VCV Rack, the MetaModule includes over 160 built-in modules plus access to over 200 third-party options.

Supplier's Notes:
The MetaModule puts real knobs and jacks on virtual software modules. Step back from the computer and make music with hardware, while keeping the flexibility and expandability of software.

The MetaModule comes with over 160 built-in modules from 4ms Company, Befaco, HetrickCV, NonlinearCircuits, and Scanner Darkly, plus clones of popular classics such as the Mutable Instruments eurorack modules, fun physical modeling algorithms, and lots of handy utilities.

All of the included modules are also available on the computer using the free program VCV Rack. Whether you make patches on VCV Rack and transfer them to the MetaModule, or if you just create patches directly on the MetaModule, there are plenty of creative modules to inspire new ways to make music.

MetaModule Plugins

If the 160+ built-in module aren't enough, you can load more modules as plugins. Already there are over 200 modules in third-party plugins from Bogaudio, Valley, ChowDSP, NANO Modular, and the list is growing. 4ms have an SDK available to make it easy for VCV Rack plugin developers to convert their plugin to a MetaModule plugin. 4ms' licensing terms are non-restrictive: developers are welcome to distribute their plugin in any way they wish, commercially or not.

Mapping Knobs and Jacks

The MetaModule has 12 knobs that can be mapped to virtual knobs. Each knob can be mapped to up eight virtual knobs, and each mapping can have a different range and offset. You also can save a group of mappings as a Knob Set and switch between Knob Sets with the encoder. You also can map the 8 inputs and 8 outputs to virtual module jacks. Also, the MetaModule is a USB MIDI host, so you also can map MIDI CC, note, gate, and other parameters to knobs and jacks.

Expanders

There are lots of ways to customize your MetaModule. A Wifi expander allows you to wirelessly transfer patches from your computer. Add eight more knobs with the Knob expander, or buttons with the Button expander. A CV/Audio expander adds more high-resolution inputs and outputs, and the Gate In/Out expander adds not only gate jacks but also TRS MIDI and I2C.

Under the Hood

There are six CV/Audio inputs, two gate inputs, and six CV/Audio outputs. The CV/Audio jacks are all 24-bit, 48kHz DC-coupled, -10V to +10V. A USB-C jack accepts MIDI devices and thumb drives. Patches and plugins can be loaded via a USB drive or microSD Card, and internal flash memory lets you save patches you always want to come back to.

The processor is more advanced than anything 4ms has used in the past, and is among the most powerful processors found in Eurorack. Startup time and latency are blazingly fast.

Modules

160 built-in modules
Over 200 3rd-party module plugins available so far, and the ecosystem is growing
Create patches using VCV Rack or directly on MetaModule

Patches

Patches are loaded from microSD Card, USB drive, or via the Wifi expander
Patches can be optionally saved onto internal flash memory
Create patches using VCV Rack or directly on MetaModule
Patches can be given a name and description

Mappings

Map each physical knob to up to 8 virtual knobs
Set range and offset for each mapping, including inverted control
Knob mappings are grouped into Knob Sets, and changing Knob Sets can be done quickly without menu-diving
Map physical jacks to virtual jacks, seamlessly making splits/mults
Add or edit modules, cables, and mappings in real-time while the patch is playing
Create alias names for mappings like "Kick Drum Level"

Interface

Simple, intuitive graphical interface lets you zoom in on details, or zoom out to get a big picture
Patch View displays the patch as faceplates and cables, with knobs, buttons, and lights animating in real-time
Knob Set View simplifies the display, showing only the mapped knobs for the current Knob Set
Module View shows just one module and lists the names of each jack, knob, and control legibly
Mapping View lets you adjust details of a knob mapping
Adjust styles and visual preferences to your liking
Save, rename, duplicate, and delete patches
Firmware updater and plugin loader read from microSD Card or USB drive

Hardware

12 Knobs
8 CV/Audio outputs, 24-bit 48kHz, -10V to +10V, DC-coupled
6 CV/Audio inputs, 24-bit 48kHz, -10V to +10V, DC-coupled
2 Gate inputs
USB-C jack: MIDI Host or MSC (External drive) Host
microSD Card slot
Internal Flash RAM for additional patch storage
Dual-core 800MHz Cortex-A7 plus Cortex-M4 co-processor
512MB DDR3 533MHz RAM
Bare-metal operation for fast startup and low latency

26hp

Notes: Based on similar circuits to the legendary Maths module, the CH.SVR ('channel saver' is a three-part function generator module based around sum/offset/attenuversion features. Great value for an accessible entry point to CV signal processing.

Supplier's Notes:
The Ch.Svr music synthesiser module is a small utility module, offering several channels of signal-processing that will be useful in just about any modular system. As a condensation/extension of the sum/offset/attenuversion aspects of MATHS, it continues the great tradition of sculpting the control signals we use to sculpt our sound signals.

Features:

Scale, amplify, attenuate, or invert an incoming signal using Channels 1 or 2
Generate DC offsets when Channel 1 or 2 is unpatched
Crossfade between two signals, or attenuate one signal, using Channel 3
SUM and INVerted Sum Bus for addition, subtraction, mirroring, inversion etc.
Individual Channel Outputs for Channels 1 and 2 allow independent use of all three channels
Anywhere you need more subtle modulation, Ch.Svr is there for you... now all your eurorack slivers may have subtle and intentional modulation they deserve!

Specifications:

Width: 6hp
Max Depth (incl. power cable): 30mm
Power: 20mA @+12V / 10mA @-12V

Notes: For anyone who has ever struggled with finding their way around a Eurorack synthesiser on a dark stage or a dimly lit studio, Dim 2 presents an illuminating experience. In just 4 HP, it provides a complete solution to upgrade your modular system with a pair of dimmable console lights.

The high-efficiency PWM dimmers run at high frequency, ensuring flicker-free and noise-free operation. Additionally, extensive line filtering keeps your Eurorack power supply happy and clean.

Not limited to just manual control, both dimmers also feature control voltage (CV) inputs, turning the connected lamps from simple light sources to voltage controlled audio-visual spectacles.

While the use of the included BNC LED lamps is recommended in order to keep power consumption low, halogen lamps may be used as well. Provided your power supply is beefy enough, up to 6 W of power may be drawn from each output. This even makes it possible to drive 12 V LED strips, truly making your patches shine bright.

4 HP | +12: 150 mA, -12: 5 mA | JORD2

Notes: AUTOPILOT 1U is an innovative tuner module. Tune your oscillators fast, just apply the AUTOPILOT 1U in between the pitch CV and apply the reference waveform. Previously available as a dual autotuner AUTOPILOT in 3U version (4hp) and now as a single autotuner 1U Intellijel format version (6hp).

440 A-note or 261.62 Hz C-note scales: selected mode saved on next power up

Tune your oscillators instantly, just apply the Autopilot in between the pitch CV and apply the reference wave

Play the reference note from your sequencer or CV keyboard. Now a single tap on the button tunes your oscillator to the closest A/C note.

Power consumption:
20 mA +12V
10 mA -12V
0 mA 5V

Dimensions
6 HP
35 mm deep

Notes: This is Befaco's new collaboration with Robin Vincent aka Molten Music Technology. A Stereo bypass module to gate control the send of your signals to your favorite effect!

Molten bypass features a hard/soft bypass control, to hard cut the return of your effect or allow the long tails of your reverb to stay after you bypass the effect. Also a gate/latch control to use either triggers or gates for control and a gain control for the returned signal.

Specs

Current needs: +12V: 33mA, -12: 26mA, 5v:0
Width: 4 HP
Depth: 42mm (including power connector)
Designed, kits prepared and modules assembled in Barcelona.

Notes: THE SBG-PRO supports mono, stereo, balanced, and unbalanced input and output via 6.35mm jacks with level matching controls with clipping indication. The module features both direct and voltagecontrolled equal power crossfading between wet and dry sources.

Additionally, an expression input, along with the included 'floating ring' cable and conditioned output, ensures safe, voltage-limited CV control of external devices from your modular system.

The module extends its sibling, the original S.B.G, by adding full size stereo balanced jack connections and voltage control focusing more on connectivity with not just pedals but also pro audio equipment including rack effects, 500 Series modules and mixing consoles.

Notes: 8 channels of audio or modulation over ethernet. There are two modules and a 3' CAT7e cable to connect them together. There are 8 total channels that are unbuffered and bi-directional. The primary usage is to connect two cases or just send a bundle of signals from one part of your larger case to another. You also get the option of buffering up to four channels on each side. This gives you a local copy of the signal and sends buffered copy to the other module, saving you from having to use a MULT to keep a local copy.

Some notes:

When one side of the Light Rail is in buffered mode, you cannot send signals from the opposite side on those 4 buffered channels (the other 4 channels can still be used in bi-directional mode)

If you are after a different longer/shorter cable, you will get the best performance with CAT7e as it offers the shielding, which is used for the ground.

While the cross channel bleed is minimal, you will notice some very minor cross talk between the channels.

Notes: ADDAC200RM allows a simple and straight forward way to monitor the voltage of your system. A 0.1% precision analogue voltage meter shows the status of both +12V and -12V rail.

Eurorack +/-12V power rails

Although we all refer to Eurorack PSU voltages as +12V and -12V this is hardly ever the case, although most systems operate at close proximity to this ideal reference, there are situations where the drop from the ideal voltage is large enough to influence the performance of your system.

PSU current ratings

Running a PSU too close to its limits will always cause more stress to the PSU, a good practice it to use only about 75% of your PSU maximum ratings, this will greatly extend the PSU life.

PSUs will show a small voltage drop as current increases which will drastically increase when pushed closed to it's limits. Heat will also influence this drop, heat is related to the current drawn, as more current is being drawn more heat will build up on the PSU, heat conditions will reduce the maxi- mum amount of current that can be delivered by the PSU. While the current consumption drop is somewhat stable and immediate (as you turn the frame on the current consumption will stabilize in a few seconds) the heat drop will take some time to occur, heat will build up over time until it stabilizes and only if it has "headroom" to stabilize. If heat dissipation is not effective than the drop will continue until it reaches a balance point which can be several volts below the 12V reference. At this point your PSU will be under great stress and the heat generated is prone to leave some permanent scars.

Heat will start to have an impact at about an ambient temperature of 50 degrees celsius, at 70 degrees the maxi- mum current rating will drop by 50%. If your PSU is rated at 2A maximum and it's running at 70 degrees then it will only be able to deliver 1A maximum.
For the PSU this is a complex balancing act as current influences heat and heat influences the maximum amount of current available which all together influences the voltage drop.

This is why it's so important to keep the PSU load at a sensible level.

PSU protections

Some PSUs feature over voltage, over current and overheating protection and will turn off when the operating conditions trigger any of the protection threshold levels.

At this point it's typical that the PSU will enter a Hiccup mode, where it turns on checks the current conditions and quickly turns off if they haven't changed, leaving it in an intermittent limbo where it powers on and off at some regular frequency.

If the conditions change enough to drop below the protection threshold levels then the PSU will automatically recover and stay on.

PSU stress

Different situations can be responsible for causing stress that can damage the PSU, it's possible to reverse a ribbon power cable enough times or leaving it connected long enough to partly damage the PSU.

Another situation is having a module that due to some partial previous damage may be drawing more current than specified which will not be accounted for when calculating your system current consumption.

Stress can cause permanent damage to the PSU, however some damages can be only partial leaving you with a PSU that no longer features the specs described by the manufacturer but with no apparent misbehaviour. The LED monitors on bus boards will be on, but in reality it will be underperforming at an unknown percentage of the original specs. These situations can be quite hard to debug without the proper tools to evaluate the cause of the problem.

PSU impact on modules

Some modules are more susceptible to PSU changes than others, modules that feature internal regulators will be less susceptible to PSU voltage, modules that use internal +5v, +/-9v, +/-10v regulators will have more tolerance than modules that use the PSU voltages directly like it is for most cases. Also modules that use voltage reverse protection will already have a 0.3v to 0.8v drop inherent to the protection circuit.

While many digital modules can withstand lower voltages some others will be more dependent on the reference voltage and may show strange behaviours.

This module can help preventing all these situations, it won't fix any problem but can help on the day-to-day monitoring of your system and in keeping your PSU in healthy conditions.

Tech Specs: 4HP/3,5 cm deep
60mA +12V
60mA -12V

Notes: The PAN/XFADE module is a combined routing processor for creating panning and crossfades. The PAN/XFADE works either as a signal panner, meaning one input signal is moved continuously between the left and right output, or, in crossfade mode, where it blends between two input signals into one output. Of course controllable by CV; and working for audio signals as well as DC control voltages.

Notes: Programmable Volt/Octave CV calibrator and transposer

Clever four-channel utility module designed to make it easier to achieve perfect oscillator tracking and transpose CV signals. Also includes some neat quantising and portamento features.

The CalTrans solves issues encountered when playing tonal music with a modular system: tracking problems, curves unrelated to Volt per octave ratio, limited octave range, cumbersome transpose, ...

The CalTrans corrects and expands the range of troublesome VCOs and brings V/Oct tracking to anything that oscillates.

Besides calibration, the CalTrans offers live play features. Each channel can be quantized and any combination of them transposed jointly.

A pair of rotary encoders with detent allow an precise selection of octaves and semitones.

VCOs whose tracking doesn't go high enough to follow the leader will see their pitch repositioned in their highest possible octave so that the global harmony is unaffected.

You can add a pinch of portamento and glissando to each channel and save the whole in user presets.

Firmware 1.17 offers:
* User editable input scaling to match sources that don't generate perfect 1V per octave signals.
* Complete rewrite of the main processing with higher precision.
* ... and the unavoidable fixes and tweaks ;-)

The updated user manual 1.4 is much expanded with operations described in exquisite details :-)
.. and a version 1.5 corrects a mistake in the input calibration description and eases the reading elsewhere.

Dimensions
6 HP
36 mm deep

Current Draw
44 mA +12V
8 mA -12V
0 mA 5V

Notes: The Flexshaper is a highly versatile module when it comes to modify evolving voltages in other directions and levels.

Five settings allow you to fold/expand/clip/compress/invert partially or completely any CV or audio signal.

The module can act as an envelope-shaping tool, frequency multiplier, waveshaper, clipper, distortion, limiter, curve changer, and more.

Five CV inputs offer limitless control over the placement of the voltage points for dynamic signal sculpting.

Birth of the product

The idea of the Flexshaper comes from a feature in the Oberheimr Matrix synthesizers called Tracking Generator.

This signal processor was part of the modulation matrix and meant to be virtually inserted between modulation sources and destinations in order to change the shape of the controlling signal.

The Flexshaper applies the same concept using the same 5 shaping points. However, it goes beyond Oberheim's implementation on two main aspects:

It goes fast enough to process signals at full audio rate
The 5 points are dynamically adjustable (CV) in real-time
Besides, the Flexshaper can process adequately bipolar and unipolar Eurorack signals, even changing them one another.

Dimensions
6 HP
21 mm deep

Current Draw
6 mA +12V
7 mA -12V
32 mA 5V

Notes: Punch MG is a unique module with VCA-DECAY & Mute GROUP designed for Eurorack systems.

This module has been specially crafted to generate dynamic percussive sounds while also offering the capability to manage multiple signals simultaneously through its innovative mute group feature.

Punch MG provides a versatile platform for crafting dynamic percussive sounds. With its mute group feature, it allows you to handle numerous signals concurrently.

The manual will guide you through the various features and functions of Punch MG, enabling you to explore its full potential.

Key Features:

Dynamic Sound Generation: Punch MG is engineered to generate dynamic percussive sounds with finesse, offering a range of creative possibilities.

Mute Group Interaction and Signal Patterning: Utilize the mute group feature to enable interactions between signals that share the same group.

This feature enables signal muting and amplitude limitation when multiple signals are triggered simultaneously. The amplitude and decay time of each signal are influenced by others in the same group. This characteristic can lead to captivating pattern variations when focusing on specific channels.

Expandable Capability: By linking two modules, you can expand the effect of the mute group to accommodate up to eight signals, fostering intricate interactions and captivating sonic landscapes.

AM Sound Creation: Connect audio rate signals to the level input to explore the creation of AM (Amplitude Modulation) sounds, further extending the sound design possibilities.

Envelope outs: Each envelope's polarity can be inverted using dedicated switches on the front panel, enabling you to achieve effects like side-chain compression and ducking. Moreover, the mute group circuit's influence extends to the envelope signal output, providing intriguing modulation capabilities that add a unique layer of creative expression to your sonic endeavours.

16 HP
Power consumption 180mA@+12V, 64mA@-12V

Notes: Connect Eurorack Cases without long patch cables. Great for jams and large systems.

7Path is a pair of modules that can connect two points in your system, or two different systems together via an ethernet cable. Think of it like a patch cable extension cord: instead of 7 long patch cables, you just have 1 ethernet cable! 7Path allows patching of any type of eurorack signal to be passed between the modules. There is no restriction for using only input or output signals on the modules, you can have combinations of both.

The jack numbers between the modules are 1-1. Thus, a signal you patch to the #4 jack of a 7Path module will be available on #4 jack of the other 7Path module!

Technical Specs:
- 4HP x 3U x 20mm deep
- Passive module (no power required)
- Supports signals up to 10ft (unshielded ethernet cable, more if shielded)

What's in the box:
- 2x 7Path modules
- 4x Mounting screws
Note: Does not include ethernet cable

Notes: Octo I/O is a bi-directional passive Polytip to 3.5mm expander and a Polytip Mult. The expander section lets you break out to each individual voice from a polyphonic module. The mult section lets you mult Polytip polyphonic signals from one source to multiple destinations. For example patching the OCTOSTAGES envelopes to control both your OCTOPASS filters and HEXAGAIN VCAs.

Dimensions:

6HP - Depth: 15mm

Current Draw:

Module does not draw current

Notes: The LedPressor is a full stereo Diode-based compressor module.
Its unique core adds character and color to any signal passed through it.
The LedPressor can be used as a normal compressor with low input levels, but as the input volume increases and the "nuke" LED lights up, it enters a new territory that combines compressor and overdrive, creating a dynamic overdrive effect.

Get it pumping with the Side Chain
The module features an external sidechain input that accepts audio and CV signals. Only the sidechain signal passes through a high pass filter, which gives the user greater control over the sound shape. The audio signal itself is not affected by the filter.
Parallel compression
The module also includes a mix knob that can be controlled with a dedicated mix CV input, allowing for greater flexibility when blending dry and wet signals. Additionally, it features a momentary bypass button to easily adjust the levels of dry and wet signals.
Feed-Back Or Feed-Forward - it's your choice
The module can be configured with a feed-back or feed-forward topologies with a jumper in the back.
Reverse polarity protection
The module have proper reverse current and over current protection in its power input stage to protect the module in case it was connected the wrong way or connected to a faulty power supply.
Dimensions
Width
: 12HP
Depth
: 34mm
Current Draw
+12V
: 20mA
-12V
: 15mA

Notes: 
Q^Mix
4 channels CV/Audio polarising mixer
Q^Mix is a four-channel CV and audio mixer designed to take simple signals and combine them into something altogether new.
The four DC-coupled inputs feature a switch that selects between linear attenuation or bi-polar attenuversion.
Q^Mix can be used to sum simple signals to create much more complex results.
perfect for use as a final volume control when used as an audio mixer.

Technical Specifications
All inputs are DC-coupled.
Four-channel audio and CV mixer.
Logarithmic attenuation on the output stage.
Input impedance: 100k for all inputs.
Noise filtering and resettable fuses on the module's power input.
Reverse current protection.
Dimensions
Width
: 6HP
Depth
: 10mm
Current Draw
+12V
: 5mA
-12V
: 5mA

Notes: The M module is a 5-way Polytip signal multiplier. It takes a single polyphonic audio, CV, or gate signal set and routes it to up to five multiple outputs. The module is completely passive and requires no power. Like all Polytip jacks on Tiptop Audio modules, the jacks on the M module are top-quality components made in Japan.

Size: 4HP - Depth: 15mm

Power: no power required

Notes: A passive module to allow easy connection from Modular to Eurorack, avoid flimsy hook probes or alligator wires with a robust connection that will keep your signal intact.

Features:

3.5mm jack to BNC including 50O male-male cables.
Ships calibrated set to 10x as default, user's can select 1x but soldering a smd jumper.

Specs:

4HP
15mm deep
Passive

Notes: PM DB25 MKII is an expander output for the MKII versions of the Performance Mixer and Channels.

Pre-fade and Post-fade connections are available for all channels. The DB25 has 16 outputs. All mixer channels are stereo, so one DB25 handles the main PM MKII (either pre or post), and the DB25 can handle 2x Channels (either pre or post).

Simply connect the cable to the Pre or Post headers on the back of the PM MKII or Channels MKII modules to choose pre/post.

The PM MKII has an additional header with both Aux Sends, Master Bus, and Submix Bus.

Connect a DB25 cable of your choice to the front connector and then straight to your DAW or recording interface.

For use with original WMD Performance Mixer, an adapter board can be added on. Please note that width behind panel is increased by 8mm when adapter board is added on. This may require some clever position in your case. The original Performance Mixer still only offers Pre Fader Outputs.

Notes: Voltage-controlled lag processor and slope detector

Transforms stepped notes into smooth acid slides with independent speeds for both upper and lower notes.

The onboard slope detector generates gates while the output is rising or falling, allowing events to be activated when moving to upper or lower voltages.

Additionally, it can convert a gate signal into an Attack-Sustain-Release (ASR) envelope.

The shape control feature helps balance speed versus input range, enabling quicker speed while sliding to further notes allowing for time compensated portamento.

Features

Perfect pitch tracking (error < 1 mV)
Independent rise and fall controls
Assignable CV input for rise and fall times
Three selectable speed ranges
Fader-based interface allows for one-handed adjustment of rise and fall times

Specs

Current needs: +12V: 20mA, -12: 15mA, 5v:0 on additional rails
Width: 4 HP
Depth: 25 mm (including power connector)
Designed, kits prepared and modules assembled in Barcelona

Notes: Chris Huggett, chief designer at EDP came up with a novel little circuit for the filter envelope of the Wasp, based around half a CD4013, half a CD4066 and half a LM3900. It was an A/R generator with looping option which would proceed through its whole cycle from only a trigger input. He further developed the circuit for the filter envelope in the Gnat to use just one knob to provide a range of attack envelopes when anti-clockwise (from 12 o'clock), and a range of release envelopes when clockwise (from 12 o'clock). 12 o'clock gives a very short symmetrical blip. As you can build two of these with a CD4013, CD4066 and LM3900, Frequency Central have provided both a two knob version and a one knob version, each has its own place.

Both envelope outputs are 0V to 5V.
All Q and not-Q outputs are 0V to 8V
Upper section cycle times: 23Hz to 20 seconds
Lower section cycle times: 8Hz to 10 seconds

Product Specifications:

Depth: 39mm
Width: 8HP
12V draw: 30mA
-12V draw: 0mA
5V draw: 0mA

Notes: Four-part probabilistic rhythm crossfader

Confundo Funkidos is a rhythm crossfader and mute utility. Patch two pairs of rhythms to the left and right inputs, then use the CV-controllable crossfader and three Curve algorithms to fade between them and combine them in different ways. Each channel has a mute switch which can be used to bring a voice in and out of a patch at will. Tap the Burn button for some instant fills, and your percussion performances will never be the same.

New to the second version is the addition of four Accent outputs. Accent patterns are generatively created using the rhythms at the inputs, adding a new, dynamic dimension to even the simplest of trigger sequences. The Accent jacks output high or low gates, which can be used with dedicated percussion modules or as modulation sources in a patch.

The Burn functionality has also been expanded, with the addition of a potentiometer for more versatile and hands-on fill creation. Even the Mute switches have been expanded with three positions: each channel can output triggers but not receive Burn fills or output accents when set to the middle position.

If you want to liven up your percussion system with a completely unique and hands-on utility, Confundo Funkidos brings modular performance to a whole new level.

Size and Power

12HP Eurorack
+12v: 55mA
-12v: 15mA
Confundo from Latin confundo - "to blend"

Funkidos agitation disease - from Flemish fonck "agitation" with suffix dos for "two"

"Second blended agitation"

What's in the box?

Module
Power cable

Noise Engineering no longer include screws with newly packaged modules, but Bulk screws are available for purchase separately.