Future Sound Systems - Eurorack Modular Maker

Future Sound Systems Spectral Devastator FIL2 overview

Published on Jun 27, 2012 by futuresoundsystems

www.futuresoundsystems.co.uk
http://soundcloud.com/futuresoundsystems

"This filter will turn your favourite Abba tracks into the next Merzbow LP."

Future Sound Systems Spectral Devastator FIL2 Operation Demo

Published on Nov 2, 2012 by futuresoundsystems

"Overall demonstration of the Spectral Devastator's operation and sound.
More information at www.futuresoundsystems.co.uk
Follow FSS at www.facebook.com/FutureSoundSystems"

Future Sound Systems modular session 4/7/2012

Published on Jul 4, 2012 by futuresoundsystems

"Alesis Ion's arpeggiator provides sequencing via MIDI to CV interface. Patch features:

FUTURE SOUND SYSTEMS:
Decade Counter DC1
Convulsion Generator FIL1
Spectral Devastator FIL2 x2

DOEPFER:
A-190-2 MIDI to CV interface
A-110 VCO
A148 S&H
A-121 VCF
A-132-4 Quad VCA
A-143-2 Quad ADSR
A-143-4 Quad VC(LF)O
A-145 LFO
A-140 ADSR
A-138 Mixer at final output stage

KORG MS20 LFO (built for Eurorack)
LIVEWIRE Audio Frequency Generator VCO"

New Future Sound Systems Brunswick DIY Synth

Synthfest 2018 - Future Sound Systems Brunswick DIY Synth

Published on Oct 9, 2018 sonicstate

"The Brunswick synthesizer from Future Sound Systems presents a single VCO, two-pole multi-mode VCF, dirty VCA and basic LFO and envelope sections. A 24-point patchbay allows for external voltage control over VCO pitch and envelope gate, as well as a slew of other inputs and outputs from 3.5mm mono jacks."

via Future Sound Systems

"The Brunswick synthesizer from Future Sound Systems was originally commissioned by BEEF in 2018 as a workshop kit synth. Whilst designed as an affordable, bare-bones synth voice, the Brunswick presents a single VCO, two-pole multi-mode VCF, dirty VCA and basic LFO and envelope sections. A 24-point patchbay allows for external voltage control over VCO pitch and envelope gate, as well as a slew of other inputs and outputs from 3.5mm mono jacks.

FSS is pleased to announce a wider release of the Brunswick kit through Thonk, where kits will be available at the price of £99 from 19th October 2018 onwards. Very limited stock of pre-built units can be ordered below, shipping direct from FSS HQ (batteries not included).

Price: £225.00 (incl. 20% VAT) + shipping

CLICK FOR MORE »

Future Sound Systems Spectral Devastator FIL2 processing external audio

Published on Oct 16, 2015 Future Sound Systems

"The Future Sound Systems Spectral Devastator FIL2 can be used as a distortion and filter unit for external audio, coming from outside a modular synthesizer. Here the module is demonstrated with two drum loop sources - a Linn LM1 pattern and the Apache breakbeat. Various patching techniques are discussed for optimum crunch.

Future Sound Systems
Unique designs and ideas in sound since 2005
Award winning engineering since 2014
www.futuresoundsystems.co.uk"

Mass Harmonic Excitement & Tonal Sculpting // Future Sound Systems FIL4 Timbral Sculptor

video upload by DivKidVideo

"Here we have the new Timbral Sculptor Eurorack module from Future Sound Systems. It’s a harmonic power house with both filtering (with multiple unique twists) and wave folding in one module. It features clever routing and an additional VCA to patch in extra voltage control or add further dynamics to your patch. There’s also an in built Audio FM which comes from Future Sound Systems deep diving into some quirks (faults?) in some of the early Korg filter designs and then exploiting them for additional musical processing. There’s both rectifying and folding (a second wave folder!) in the resonance path of the filter which really pushes the wave shaping potential of this into some unique wave shapes that would otherwise be hard to synthesise. Clever stuff!"

"The Timbral Sculptor from Future Sound Systems together several synthesis elements designed for altering the harmonic content of audio signals at its input. The module is comprised of a multi-mode filter, VCAs, a deadband wavefolder, and a rectifier and Lockhart wavefolder in the resonance path of the filter. The Timbral Sculptor therefore can be coupled with one or several oscillators, as well as modulation sources, for a full synthesizer voice. The Filter component of the Timbral Sculptor has been designed to range from clean, low-distortion filtering to chaotic noise generation, particularly through the use of non-linear elements in its resonance path.

The Timbral Sculptor’s multi-mode filter is a -18dB/octave three-pole design based around the SSI2164 IC. When used without the rectifier or wavefolder in the resonance path, the filter behaves “cleanly” with low distortion. The filter will self-oscillate at maximum Resonance, and also has slightly accentuated Resonance at higher Cut-Off Frequency, imitating filters such as that found in the Roland TB-303. 1V/Oct control over the Cut-Off Frequency is available at the Frequency CV1 input, and the Resonance can also be voltage controlled via an attenuverter. Additional features to this filter include the Audio FM attenuverter and, in the resonance path of the filter, a rectifier network and Lockhart wavefolder. These can be employed to drastically change the behaviour of the filter. Each individual state output from the filter is fed through a VCA, courtesy of another SSI2164, and akin to the Cyclical Engine VCO module. The mixed output of this is then passed on to the next component in the Chain, whether that be the Chain Output or the deadband wavefolder named 'Timbre'.

The 'Timbre' section is named after a well-regarded deadband wavefolder design, prominent in “West-Coast” designs both new and old. Whilst the Filter section of the Timbral Sculptor belongs to classic subtractive synthesis, the Timbre section can be seen as relating to additive synthesis, as the harder the Timbre section is driven, the greater the number of harmonics that are added to the input. The Timbre section can be manipulated using the Drive control (when in Pre configuration) or from the VCAs at the filter’s outputs (when in Post configuration).

The Timbral Sculptor also features an exponential-law VCA, which can be used completely independently from the other elements of the module if desired. Otherwise, the VCA can be placed at the beginning or end of the signal chain. Note that this VCA can be employed when the Timbre section is in the Pre configuration to give voltage control over the Drive."

Gristleizer Modules presented by Future Sound Systems & Roy Gwinn // Modular Meets Leeds 2017

Published on Sep 28, 2017 DivKidVideo

"What an absolute pleasure to have Finlay of Future Sound Systems and Roy Gwinn present the new Gristleizer modules at Modular Meets Leeds 2017. Unfortunately Chris Carter couldn't be with us on the Sunday (although links to his performance and interview below) but Roy shared his stories of the original unit created when he was only 15 years old, revisions, ideas, googling his own name and Finlay then took us through a series of killer audio demos with Mutable Instruments Braids through the modules, electric guitar and beats from a Korg Volca. I feel honoured to have people like this involved with Modular Meets so thanks to all involved! "

#3modulechallenge Future Sound Systems // Modular Meets Leeds 2017

Published on Sep 20, 2017 DivKidVideo

"Here's a great noisy and experimental #3modulechallenge from Finlay at Future Sound Systems. He's using the FSS Pin Matrix as well as two of the new Gristleizer modules from FSS in collaboration with Chris Carter and Roy Gwinn."

Also see: Chris Carter Performance // Modular Meets Leeds 2017

Future Sound Systems Brunswick synthesizer (BEEF) DIY synth voice // Synthfest 2018

Published on Oct 16, 2018 DivKidVideo

"Here's the new Brunswick DIY synthesizer from Future Sound Systems, soon to available through www.thonk.co.uk . It's got that lovely fizzy fading sound as the VCA is close to fading out entirely and the filter does a lovely weird sync effect like a harmonic/pitch locking when it's pushed. A really beefy (actually created for BEEF http://www.beefbristol.org Bristol Experimental and Expanded Film) little unit. This was Synthfest 2018 held by Sound on Sound magazine in the Octagon, Sheffield."

Future Sound Systems Brunswick

Exploring Future Sound Systems Cric - a monster analogue patch-matrix synth

video upload by Signal Sounds

"The Future Sound Systems Cric is a fully analogue, matrix-patchable electronic music synthesiser. In this video, sound designer and composer Michael Manning shares some patches and thoughts on this monster synth after having it in his studio for the past few weeks.

Future Sound Systems say: 'Cric is far from yet-another-monosynth but the heart of an analogue electronic music studio. Rock solid VCOs give the user pitch precision and FM flexibility. A comprehensive filter section affords timbral sculpting from basic filtering to total transformation of incoming tones. Four cyclical function generators can be used as envelopes, LFOs or audible VCOs. Pin matrix patching allows for the synthesiser to be configured as a traditional 3 * VCO mono-synth, a paraphonic synthesiser, a drum machine, a noise and drone box, and so the list goes on. Four inputs and outputs with a microphone preamplifier on input 1 allow for audio processing, external CV control, feedback routing and much more.'

Cric is shipping now and you can order here: https://www.signalsounds.com/future-s..."

Moogfest 2017: Program Themes & Lineup Announcement

Just a heads up, the lineup for Moogfest 2017 has been announced. As always, check out moogfest.com for full details on the event. The following is a small capture for the archives via the Moogfest newsletter.

"Hailed as 'the most adventurous and cutting edge' festival of 2016, Moogfest returns with a commitment to futurist conversations and performances that wrestle with our historic moment, and reflect on the festival’s home in North Carolina.

In celebration of its 11th iteration, Moogfest will unveil its lineup over the next 11 weeks through their weekly “Future Thought Future Sound” email newsletter, inviting the Moogfest community to explore program themes like Transhumanism, Techno-shamanism and Protest.

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Future Sound Systems Cric masterclass | 26 Feb 2025

video upload by Signal Sounds

"A recording of our in-store event on 26 February 2025, with Finlay of Future Sound Systems giving an in-depth demo of the awesome Cric matrix-patchable synthesiser!

Cric is available here:
https://www.signalsounds.com/future-s...

More on Future Sound Systems:
https://www.futuresoundsystems.co.uk"

Superbooth 2018 - Future Sound Systems Cyclical Engine & Spectral Devastator

Published on May 4, 2018 DivKidVideo

"Finlay from Future Sound Systems brings us some ' West Country Synthesis' in the form of a new (and to all knowledge totally unique) analogue oscillator called the Cyclical Engine and an updated 'FIL3' filter which is a new revised Spectral Devastator (dual filter HP-LP). Lots of sweet spots, great functions on the new oscillator and a lovely sound to the filter.

We're proud to have our Superbooth 2018 content sponsored by www.thonk.co.uk"

See the Future Sound Systems label below for more.

Future Sound Systems Reveals Cric - New Patch Pin Matrix Electronic Music Synthesizer

Future Sound Systems · Cric demos

via Future Sound Systems

Cric is a fully-analogue patchable synthesiser, designed to showcase our approach and attitude towards subtractive sound synthesis. It is not a clone or derivative of a pre-existing musical instrument, nor is it simply our Eurorack modules cased up in a box. Whilst some of Cric’s functionality descends directly from our experience in designing modular synthesiser components, it has been designed as a fully fledged, standalone instrument, which can easily be introduced into an existing electronic music studio, or even form the heart of an entirely new set-up.

Rock solid voltage-controlled oscillators give the user both pitch precision and FM flexibility. A comprehensive filter section affords timbral sculpting from basic filtering to total transformation of incoming tones. Four cyclical function generators can be used as envelopes, LFOs or even audible VCOs. Pin matrix patching allows for the synthesiser to be configured as a standard triple-VCO subtractive synth, or a paraphonic synth, or a drum machine, or a noise box, and so the list goes on. Four inputs and outputs allow for audio processing, external CV control, feedback routing and more - there's even a microphone pre-amp on input 1. Steel casing, Mirrl-clad HIMACS end-cheeks and hand assembly and testing ensure a rugged and durable build quality.

RRP: £2,499.00 Available 7th November 2024

Technical specifications:

Oscillators : Three SSI2131-based analogue VCOs in Recombination configuration, white noise generator

Filter : SSI2164-based 18dB/octave state-mixable analogue VCF, with wave-folding, based on the Timbral Sculptor

Dynamics : SSI2164-based VCAs present in DNA oscillators, filter section and as a standalone VCA

Modulation : Sample and hold + four cyclical function generators offering AD and ASD envelope configuation, cycle mode, and slope and pulse sources

Routing : 24 source x 32 destination active pin matrix allowing for splitting and summing of all signals

I/O : Four DC-coupled inputs and outputs for multi-channel audio and CV use. Microphone pre-amplifier assigned to In 1. Headphone amplifier on Out 1

Dimensions : 550 x 310 x 80 mm, 5.3 kg

Power : +12VDC (centre positive, 2.1mm barrel jack connector), 2.5A, PSU included

CLICK FOR MORE »

Future Sound Systems P.O.C.A. VAC1 demonstration

Published on Nov 5, 2015 Future Sound Systems

"This video demonstrates the workings of the new FSS VAC1 Passive Optically-Controlled Attenuator module."

via Future Sound Systems

"The Passive Optically-Controlled Attenuator, or P.O.C.A., is designed to give a set of vactrol-based gates in a compact-but-usable module. Its four gates can be set to act as low-pass-gates, or normal optically-controlled attenuators (for a "VCA" type action) via jumpers on the rear of the module. CV is normalled in a downwards fashion, so that control signals input to the top gate can effect the gate at the bottom. This is also true of the audio, but with a gate's output normalled to the next gate's input. This allows for steeper filtering slopes and sharper control. It is recommended, however, that only two gates are used per chain as external buffers may struggle with high impedance inputs. To summarise, the features of the P.O.C.A. VAC1 are:

-Quad optically-controlled attenuator module
-Jumpable LPG or VCA modes
-Normalling provides easy control and signal patching
-2mm thick fibreglass panel
-Sturdy but compact design and construction
-Hand assembled and tested by Finlay Shakespeare at FSS HQ in Bristol

Price: £70 + shipping, calculated upon checkout"

An introduction to the Future Sound Systems FIL3 Spectral Devastator

Published on Feb 4, 2019 Future Sound Systems

"This video explores the tonal qualities of the Future Sound Systems FIL3 Spectral Devastator filter module. The FIL3 presents two filters - one high-pass and another low-pass - which can be chained together and manipulated for various filtering, distortion and waveform manipulation effects. Don't expect this thing to behave - it won't.

The FIL3 is available now from www.futuresoundsystems.co.uk and all good modular synthesizer retailers."

Future Sound Systems MX1 in overdrive

Published on May 26, 2016 Future Sound Systems

"A short patch demo of a couple of MX1s handling the audio summing of a modular system.
The first MX1 has its "normal" output patched back into the 4th input, which then provides an overdrive control.
The MX1 is now available to purchase from Future Sound Systems:
www.futuresoundsystems.co.uk

The MX1 mixer module from FSS is designed to present a compact, affordable mixing solution for Eurorack users. The MX1 gives four audio inputs in as many HP, with both normal and phase-inverted outputs available. The level controls of the MX1 are logarithmic, but the channels are DC coupled, so CVs can be summed together using the MX1 if necessary. The MX1 provides unity gain of each channel when the level control is fully clockwise, meaning that there is no loss of signal when mixing. This also allows for the MX1 to be overdriven, especially if the same source is multipled to the four inputs. A set of expansion headers also allow for the FSS P.O.C.A. VAC1 and Whitehall SW1 modules to be used alongside the MX1 without any patching required.

To summarise, the features of the MX1 are:

-Four channel mixing in 4HP
-Logarithmic level controls for audio input level scaling
-DC coupled channels allow for CV summing
-Normal and phase-inverted outputs
-Unity gain summing allows for overdrive effects
-Expander board and cable allow for normalling from FSS VAC1 and SW1 modules.
-Reverse power protection
-2mm thick fibreglass panel
-Hand assembled and tested by Finlay Shakespeare at FSS HQ in Bristol"

Future Sound Systems Workshop at Thonk Saturday June 22 - Brighton

via Thonk where you can register.

"This workshop is run by Finlay and Jamie from Future Sound Systems at Thonk in Brighton

Pick a unit and come build it with help from Future Sound Systems. Saturday June 22nd 2019 at Thonk in Brighton.

TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE

The workshop is at Thonk HQ in Brighton on Saturday June 22nd 2019, please arrive at 9.30am. Thonk is an inclusive and gender positive environment. The workspace is wheelchair accessible with accessible toilets. If you have any special needs or access requirements of any kind please do let us know in advance and we will try our very best to accommodate you. We welcome anyone over the age of 11 to attend, anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please bring I.D. if you are under 18 and unaccompanied.
The Thonk office is only an 8 minute walk from Brighton train station, we’ll send you more details once your order is placed. We provide everything you need, kits, tools and tuition.

Free hot drinks provided."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Superbooth 20HE: Future Sound Systems Recombination Engine

Published on Apr 26, 2020 sonicstate

"Just down the road in Bristol we managed to catch up with Mr Finlay Shakespeare at Future Sound Systems. Having just released his sophomore album Finlay has also found the time to release his second VCO the Recombination Engine.

The Recombination Engine is a triple oscillator design that has some very unique features for creating waveforms. Built around a new generation of CEM3340 VCO chips the Recombination Engine uses a novel novel wave-splicing technique to create waveforms.

In this video gives us a full rundown of the Recombination Engine. If you’d like to know more then head on over to Future Sound Systems"

Future Sound Systems TG2 Gristleizer // LFO, VCO, weird rhythms + modulation in Eurorack

Published on Jun 25, 2019 DivKidVideo

"Here's the TG2 Generator from Future Sound Systems which is made with Roy Gwinn and Chris Carter (of Throbbing Gristle) as part of the new Eurorack Gristleizer range. It's an LFO that goes into audio range with points for external modulation, internal wave folding, different/unique pulse and PWM like audio options and it's also a totally weird rhythm generator. Skip around with the timings below and leave a comment

TIMING INDEX / SECTIONS

00:10 previews

00:42 Intro, features etc

02:05 LFO, modulator functions

04:24 Oscillator audio rate functions, LOVELY bass tones. Audio rate modulation, FM, sync etc.

07:27 ULTIMATE GRISTLE! TG2 with the TG3 + TG4

08:33 Sequenced oscillator, pitch range demo, warm “woody” folded tones.

10:27 Meet your new favourite weird rhythm generator

13:21 Modulated modulation

Thank you to Future Sound Systems for their sponsorship of this video. Their sponsorship made this demo video happen, however they had no control of what I said, patched or the sounds I made."

Future Sound Systems OSC2 Recombination Engine // a UNIQUE triple analogue Eurorack oscillator

Published on Apr 10, 2020 DivKidVideo

"Here we have a total unique triple analogue (or analog for our stateside friends) oscillator for the Eurorack format from Future Sound Systems. The OSC2 Recombination Engine has a master ‘Scissor’ oscillator that can audio rate switch, sync and glue waveforms together from separate positive and negative DNA oscillators. The Glue section is a VCA that merges the positive and negative waves at the rate of the Scissor with options for additional level modulation and mixing internal or external sounds with an added input.

It’s a massively varied unit with everything from soft and sweet sines and triangles working independently to a totally mad as a box of frogs noise oscillator and everything in between. Coaxing out digital DX style musical FM has been easy, it’s a total wizard with AM synthesis and the unique wave the waveform level VCAs work. So I look forward to further exploration.

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Future Sound Systems Eurorack Modules (Including Gristleizer)

Published on Dec 16, 2019 Perfect Circuit

"Future Sound Systems modules have all of your distortion and signal destruction needs covered. FSS worked with Chris Carter of Throbbing Gristle to turn the Gristleizer effect into multiple modules with more features and CV controls that the original Gristleizer. The OSC1 and FIL3 are an oscillator with interesting wave shaping controls and a wild dual filter reminiscent of an MS20.

FSS also has a collection of routing and utility modules including a 9X9 pin matrix module, 6 channel muting module with both momentary and switched muting. The MAKROW macro control outputs 6 CVs by turning one knob or from a single CV control.

Future Sound System modules available here: https://www.perfectcircuit.com/future..."

Future Sound Systems Introduces Gristleizer Based Eurorack Modules

via Future Sound Systems

"FSS is proud to announce a new series of Eurorack modules based around The Gristleizer, a coveted effects unit used and adapted by Chris Carter of Throbbing Gristle. Originally based around Roy Gwinn's "Guitar Effects Pedal" design, as published in the July 1975 issue of "Practical Electronics" magazine, The Gristleizer was used throughout Throbbing Gristle's recorded and live catalogue, and is seen as a vital component of their pioneering sound.

Four decades on, after several calls from the Eurorack community, FSS met with Chris Carter and Roy Gwinn to discuss the potential of an updated Gristleizer circuit. From one module came four; the oscillator, filter and VCA sections of the original "Guitar Effects Pedal" circuit have become their own distinct modules, whilst a pre-amplifier inspired by Jonny Reckless' discrete FET-based designs has been added to the line-up. The Gristleizer series, therefore, not only presents the sound of the original effects units, but also additional features which ensure optimum compatibility with modern Eurorack systems and artistic workflows. This has all been made possible through Roy Gwinn's meticulous attention to detail, coupled with Chris Carter's expertise as a pioneering electronic artist.

Further information on each module is available below. FSS is now taking pre-orders for the four individual modules for release and shipping in November 2017.

"TG2 Gristleizer Generator

The Gristleizer Generator has been designed to replicate the original functionality of the Gristleizer's oscillator section, but with many new additions. With a brand new design from Roy Gwinn, the TG2 Generator is far more stable than its predecessor, featuring 1V/Oct tracking amongst other features. However, as with its original, the TG2 spans from low frequency ranges into the audible range, and makes for a killer bass oscillator as well as a fully featured LFO.

The core of the oscillator is based around a shape-variable ramp generator, with similar functionality to that found in the Korg MS Modulation Generators. Here, the Shape control takes the Ramp output from a descending sawtooth, through triangle, to an ascending sawtooth shape. This varying ramp waveform is then input to a wave-folder, which outputs both Fold and Pulse waveforms, based on how the Gain and Offset controls are set. Lastly, the original ramp waveform is fed into a comparator for the Clock output, the pulsewidth of which is variable using the Shape control.

The Gain and Offset of the TG2's wave-folder are both voltage controllable, as well as its Frequency via an attenuated control input and a 1V/Oct control input. The TG2 can also be reset by external sources via the Sync input.

Price: £200.00 + shipping"

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