Layered Tensions: 10 Cables

video upload by Maknouchi

"Improvised modular synth performance using Serge Easel system, TKB touch keyboard sequencer, and the Crocodile module. Exploring generative patches, analog textures, ambient noise, and chaotic control voltages.

A 10-cable patch introducing instability to the envelope via pitch CV and comparator output. Layered through looping, the structure reveals Serge’s nuanced volatility—uncertainty and motion coexisting within minimal constraints.

Here is a list of the gear I used for this video :
Random*Source Serge
empress effects Zoia"

The Buchla Series - Demos by synthemodulaire

video upload by synthemodulaire

Playlist:

1. [The Buchla Series] #0 introduction

"Here is the introduction to a new series of videos about Buchla synthesizers.
I will try to create comprehensive videos on the Buchla 200 series modules"

2. [The Buchla Series] #1 Differences between eurorack and Buchla

Edit. I forgot to mention that Buchla audio levels are line levels, they don't need to be attenuated to be used with external gears like eurorack. Moreover the CV doesn't use the same standards by default, Buchla uses 1.2 V/Oct tracking and 10V Gates.

3. [The Buchla Series] #2 - Buchla 245 Sequential Voltage Source

In this episode, we will focus on the Buchla 245.

00:00 Overview
06:20 Simple sequence
07:40 Random sequence
09:13 Gate sequence
10:49 Analog groove
12:20 Analog preset manager
14:02 One shot mayhem

4. [The Buchla Series] #3 - Buchla 281 Quad Function Generator

In this episode, we will focus on the Buchla 281 (and briefly compare to the Tiptop Audio version features).

00:00 Overview
02:06 Self Cycling Mode
04:08 Trigger Mode
05:00 Gate Mode
05:55 Chaining Functions
08:22 Modulating the Modulator
09:22 Or's
11:45 Quadrature Mode
13:35 Conclusion, a few words about the Tiptop Audio version
14:27 Bonus ! Let's listen to the 281

5. [The Buchla Series] #4 - Buchla 266 Source of Uncertainty

In this episode, we will focus on the Buchla 266, the random generator that inspired so many others (Wogglebug, Noisering, etc.).

00:00 Introduction
01:01 Noise Source
01:43 Fluctuating Random Voltages
03:10 Quantized Random Voltages
08:49 Stored Random Voltages
13:53 Integrator
16:23 Sample and Hold

6. [The Buchla Series] #5 - Buchla 296 Programmable Spectral Processor

In this episode, we will focus on the Buchla 296, Programmable Spectral Processor.

00:00 Introduction
00:41 Manual Mode
04:16 Comb Filter
06:26 Bandpass Filter
10:30 CV Controlled EQ
12:49 Enveloppe Followers
15:15 Vocoder
18:30 Patches Examples

SAModular Buchla Format Source of Uncertainty

via this Reverb listing

SAModular's clone of the Buchla 266. You can find a demo previusly posted here. See video 5 in the playlist here for an overview.

CLICK FOR MORE »

New Eurorack Modules Coming From Doepfer

Doepfer will be showcasing the above new modules at SUPERBOOTH25. Details on each follow.
Check with dealers on the right for upcoming availability.

Module A-119-2 is kind of a dual version of module A-119 without envelope follower. Instead two amplifiers are available and the module width is 4 HP only.

The module contains two amplifiers with separately adjustable amplification levels. Each channel is equipped with an overload display. The module can be used also for stereo signals, e.g. the stereo output of a smartphone.

Controls and displays:

Level 1/2: manual control of the amplification in the range 0 - about 45.

Overload 1/2: overload LED, begins to light up for output levels beyond about 10Vpp (+/-5V)

In 1: audio input 1 (monophonic or stereophonic, see technical details)

In 2: audio input 2 (monophonic)

Out 1/2: audio output (monophonic)

Technical details:

for higher amplifications the two amplifiers can be daisy-chained

normalling options: the signal applied to socket In 1 can be normalled to socket In 2 in different ways by means of a jumper on the pc board:

socket In 1 is connected via a mono patch cable (standard patch cable) to a monophonic signal and this signal is normalled to socket In 2 (i.e. the same input signal for both sub-units): jumper on pin header JP2 in upper position

socket In 1 is connected via a 3.5 mm stereo TRS cable to a stereophonic signal and the second channel of the stereo signal is normalled to socket In 2: jumper on pin header JP2 in lower position

no normalling: jumper is removed from pin header JP2

all inputs and outputs are DC coupled. Thus the module can be used also for the amplifications of control voltages.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Buchla & Tiptop Audio Introduce the Quad Sample & Hold and Polyphonic Adapter Model 264t

TipTop Buchla 264t – What is a quantizer anyway? video upload by Dexba

"We finally have a quantizer in Buchla form, but that poses some questions: what even is a quantizer?
Why is not called that? And how did they handle polyphony in modular 50 years ago?"

264t Quad Sample & Hold & Polyphonic Adapter module demo - Tiptop & Buchla

video upload by Stazma

"Today we are going to check out the new module from the Tiptop & Buchla 200t serie: the Quad Sample & Hold & Polyphonic Adapter Model 264t!

So we will talk about ART a lot, and even play around with TWO 259t to create four voice polyphonic patches."


264t Poly Patch video upload by Todd Barton

"This patch was first unfolded by Kyle Swisher on his Source of Uncertainty Podcast: https://www.amazon.com/Colour-Ink-Jas..."

Also see Todd Barton's original Buchla 264 experiments: • Buchla 264
You can find his Patreon with additional resources here: / synthtodd

via Tiptop Audio

Message from the Mothership to all 200t users on Planet Earth!

We are thrilled to bring you the Quad Sample & Hold and Polyphonic Adapter Model 264t. The module is now shipping, and pre-orders are open at our dealers. Price: $265. [check with dealers on the right for availability]

Don Buchla designed the original 264 in 1970, but only a few were ever mad,e. This module features high-speed sample & hold circuits that can also switch to track & hold, delivering the exceptional performance you’d expect from a Don Buchla design. To push the boundaries further, Don added a groundbreaking feature: the Polyphonic Adapter. This was a bold vision at a time when polyphony was virtually unheard of, synth pioneer Tom Oberheim wouldn’t introduce the world’s first polyphonic synthesizer, the SEM, until 1975. With the 264t, we’ve taken Don’s polyphonic concept one step closer to full realization. We’ve added ART outputs that can drive multiple oscillators equipped with ART, such as the 259t Complex waveform generator. Plus, we’ve incorporated built-in scales, adding a complete ART quantizer working seamlessly alongside Don’s original analog circuits.

Background Modulars No.10 Buchla200 & DX5

video upload by Memetune Studio

"Don’t have a real Buchla 200 (cloned) and Yamaha DX5 to hand? No worries! Just put this video on in the background (in full-screen mode), and have the next best thing 😁

Here is 10 minutes of self-playing modular synthesiser randomness. Why not put it on loop - then you can have it bubbling away in the background while you do other things

A note on the patch: The DX5 is being triggered and pitched from the Buchla 200 modules (mostly a 280 in cycle mode and 262 Source of Uncertainty, plus some MARF) using a Kenton CV to MIDI Converter. The DX5 is programmed to make a percussive drum-like sound using six operators. The DX5 audio signal then goes back into Buchla modules - mainly the 277 and 288 Delays, which are being fed back on themselves to create the bowed-string-like sounds. The Dodeca module provides mixing, random panning and reverb. The SOU sends random voltages to the 280 so it cycles irregularly. The whole patch has a cybersynthetic nature because it is always on the edge of going chaotic with the feedback to the delays, but it keeps itself under control by injecting new DX5 sounds into the path just in time to settle it back down before it happens again"

Three Eurorack Systems: Custom All-Black, Intellijel, & Buchla Based System

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

Thress systems via these listings

1. Complete All-Black 3U Eurorack Modular Synthesizer System

2. Full Intellijel Eurorack Modular Synthesizer System

3. Buchla Music Easel Eurorack System in Handmade 7U Suitcase

CLICK FOR MORE »

Noise Engineering Announces Gamut Repetitor, a Four-Channel Generative Sequencer

video upload by Noise Engineering

Press release follows:

Los Angeles, CA — Modular synthesizer company Noise Engineering, known for their unique Eurorack and software instruments and effects, has announced a new generative sequencer: Gamut Repetitor.

Noise Engineering has a history of taking classic synthesizer building blocks and putting their own spin on them. This time, they’ve taken the idea of random voltage generation, inspired by the Source of Uncertainty, and completely rethought the concept from the ground up, allowing for a huge amount of control over the results and an immediate and enjoyable patching experience.

Gamut Repetitor features four channels, each with their own trigger and CV outs. A global Reset input can be used to keep looping sequences in phase, and each channel features an advance input. The inputs normal down so the whole module can be run from a single clock, if desired. Triggers can be passed through to their respective outs directly, or randomized trigger sequences can be generated for complete note sequencing.

Gamut Repetitor’s workflow is fast and jamable. The Root parameter chooses a key, and a switch-controlled quantizer selects a set of notes, from exclusively octaves to chromatic, with many scale and chord variations in between. The Spread parameter adjusts how far the generated voltages will deviate from the root note, and the Down/Up parameter adjusts the direction of the deviation.

The real fun begins with the Length parameter. At the highest setting, random voltages are continuously generated, but turning the parameter down will loop the previous voltages, creating a sequence between 1 and 32 steps long, depending on the setting.

With its extensive CV inputs and plethora of outputs, Gamut Repetitor can easily be integrated into large generative patches, working seamlessly with other signal generators. However, its clever design and comprehensive interface also allows it to generatively sequence up to four voices with only a clock input.

Gamut Repetitor is available in both black and silver, and is available now at https://noiseengineering.us and at retailers globally. [Check with dealers on the right.]

Features
* Generative sequencer with four channels
* Internal quantizer with 27 selectable scales
* Continuously generate or loop random voltages
* Loops can be up to 32 steps long
* Generate CV and trigger patterns
* 100% CV-controllable interface
* Run with a single clock or advance channels separately

Availability and pricing:
Gamut Repetitor: In stock in black and silver. Shipping from Noise Engineering and retailers starting June 20th, 2024; MSRP US$370

https://noiseengineering.us/products/gamut-repetitor

MakeNoise PrssPnt & Channel Saver | First Patch

video upload by Cinematic Laboratory

"When MakeNoise announced the two little utility modules I couldn't help wondering why.

Channel Saver is like the two center Maths channels which most of us already have in our case. But it's also remarkably close to a Buchla 257 voltage math because of the crossfader. Unfortunately it doesn't have a CV to crossfade, which X-PAN has. It's a nice utility on its own, and a welcome patch buddy for Maths when it's doing 22 more important things. It all sounds like no big deal, but the combo can do amazing things once you start patching. A new module will exponentially expand your options.

PrssPnt is a no-brainer imho. Pressure Points was the go-to module for adding human interaction, but it was also the module that always had to go in favor for more important utilities. The video claims it's discontinued, but it's not. It's still available and in stock. The Brains expander, however, is officially in the discontinued list. Regardless, there's always room for the 4HP PrssPnt and even a tiny bit of human touch can do wonders. You'll be the clock, the expression and the source of uncertainty. I should have used that line in the video. But I bet you'll see it in a next Shared System X episode.

In this first-patch video, I removed Maths and Tempi, so no clocks or envelopes. I had to move the case around by touch and creativity. Working with limitations isn't just a fun challenge, it also makes room to really listen what your VCO's are capable of. I thought I knew the DPO, but it seems I only scratched the surface."

box of uncertainty

video upload by studio snippets

"A new unit from a brilliant new designer – exclusive to Soundgas – we absolutely love this wild and unpredictable box which can create stunning sounds and rhythms from pretty much anything.

The BOU is a characterful and unpredictable audio sampler, designed for experimentation and improvisation. please feed it a wide variety of sound sources including but not limited to field recordings and household objects, acoustic instruments, synthesizers and electronic equipment, songs by your favourite recording artist (or your least favourite…).

There are no menus, sub-patches, presets or save functions. The BOU is immediate and imperfect.

Please note that these are handbuilt and hand-finished units; some imperfections to the finish and knobs is to be expected.

The user manual can be found here

Record

The capture button records for the length that it’s pressed for (maximum 3 seconds), recording from the built-in microphone, unless a line input is connected on the back in which case that source is captured. the looped sample begins to play back immediately.

Mix

There is no overall volume control for the BOU. both of the playback samplers have their own level control, as does the fragment space and occult emanation parameters which are routed as pre-fade effects.

Play

There are two sample players which behave differently: particle and fragment. each has a control for length, speed and level.

There is additional control for pitch and direction of particle, whilst fragment can be sent to space.

Occult emanation should be used liberally with caution.

Power supply:

Requires a 9v centre positive supply (not included).

External measurements (including knobs):
24 x 18 x 8 cm"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Buchla & Tiptop Audio Long sequence with a sequential switch feat. Model 207t and doppfer A151

video upload by Flat Round Modular Music

"How to extend a short sequence up to twenty steps with a sequential switch and how to randomize it with Source of uncertainty.

Patch notes and a surprise sample from 1010 Music. Bitbox Mk II

Have a look."

4/4/24 (swarm) Gieskes Klok & No Drum + Zerosum Inertia PLXNA2 + OAM Uncertainty + Lexicon PCM 70

video upload by Cfpp0

"Butterflies, bats, 16mm swarm: Gieskes Klok modulates itself and No Drum and Olivia Artz Modular Uncertainty, which modulates No Drum, while Klok gates No Drum."

You cand find additional Gieskes Kok module posts here.

This appears to be the first post to feature Olivia Artz Modular. Details on their modules follow via Perfect Circuit and Noisebug.

"Uncertainty from Olivia Artz Modular is a 2hp coin toss module; it is open source, with new, user-swappable firmware being developed. So, it will continue to grow and offer new functionality!

In the standard firmware, the top input accepts gates, triggers, or any signal between -5V and +5V. Based on whether the input is positive or negative, it uses two different types of logic to produce gates at the corresponding eight outputs. If the input is above +1V, then the module does eight differently-weighted "coin tosses"—one for each output. If the outcome of the toss is "heads," a +5V signal is output for as long as the input stays above 1V. If the input signal is -1V or lower, a slightly different coin toss algorithm is used, where the outputs are paired—if the result of the toss is "heads," the upper output of the pair in question sends out a signal, and if it's "tails," the lower outputs sends out a signal.

Alternate firmwares are available for free, and loading them is as easy as plugging in your module via the rear PCB USB connection, dragging on a file, and you're done. The first new official firmware is a VU meter—with the panel LEDs displaying the current voltage level, and each LED getting a dedicated gate output—somewhat like a multi-window comparator! Olivia Artz's Uncertainty module is a great way to add chance operations to your rack without sacrificing space.

UNCERTAINTY FEATURES

2HP chance module with alternate firmwares available
Default firmware uses two distinct coin toss algorithms to convert incoming bipolar signals into eight streams of outgoing gates
Open source
One CV input with 10-bit resolution
Eight gate outputs"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Random Listening

video upload by Todd Barton

"Ever wondered what the diffserence was among the various flavor randomness in the Buchla 266 Source of Uncertainty? Of course the faceplate graphics give a clue but I prefer listening to the different densities, distributions and ranges. Using the 1979 Modular Switcher this is possible to compare them in real time. Enjoy!
My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/synthtodd"

Buchla Format 200 Series Analog modular Synthesizer

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"Custom Buchla format analog modular synthesizer, inside a birch plywood carrying case with closable-patched lid in great working shape.

Includes 12 professionally built and calibrated modules. 18 stackable Pomona banana cables of various size, 8 Pamona MDP-S banana jumpers, 16 tini jack cables in three sizes and power supply with IEC cable.

Modules are as follows:

258 Dual Oscillator
285 Frequency Shifter
266 Source Of Uncertainty
281 Quad Function Generator
292C Quad Lopass Gate
207 Mixer/Preamplifier
259 Programmable Complex Waveform Generator
291 Dual Voltage Controlled Filter
257 Dual Voltage Processor
256 Dual Control Voltage Adder
277 Signal Delay Unit
294 Four Channel Comb Filter

This synth sounds amazing and has included some hard to find chips as parts of the circuits including the original Buchla spec microphone preamp and some very hard to find SSM chips in the 258. It’s been a joy to put together and use and I hope it will go to a home where it’s appreciated. Thanks for looking!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

BAF 2024: Black Corporation - Jupiter 8 Desktop

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla and Friends 2024 we hooked up with Roman Filippov of Black Corporation who has produced a limited edition charity version of his synthesizer, based on the Jupiter-8, with all proceeds going to non-military charities in Ukraine. Filippov also announced his collaboration with Buchla, bringing back vintage modules that were released in the early to mid-70s. These modules have been recreated using modern technology, while still maintaining the core sound of the original Buchla models. They also include new features such as USB and MIDI out, polyphonic aftertouch, and extended tracking capabilities. The Buchla modules are now available for purchase through the Buchla website and the official sourceofuncertainty.com web store.

Jupiter 8 Desktop Price: 4,299 USD

https://black-corporation.com/"

See the Source of Uncertainty announcement post here.

SOURCE OF UNCERTAINTY - New Collaboration Between Buchla & Black Corporation's Roman Filippov

Soviet Space Child wrote in to let us know Buchla has teamed up with Black Corporation's Roman Filippov to release reissues of classic Buchla modules though a new venture called SOURCE OF UNCERTAINTY. From their new website https://sourceofuncertainty.com:

"AUTHENTIC REISSUES OF CLASSIC BUCHLA MODULAR. Source of Uncertainty is the official store for Buchla Classic Reissues, created by Roman Filippov of Black Corporation.

BUCHLA CLASSIC REISSUES SIGNIFY A RETURN TO PRODUCTION OF THE ICONIC COMPOSITIONAL AND PERFORMANCE TOOLS, using original parts wherever possible, plus minor adaptations for greater low-noise performance and reliability and component availability. We ship worldwide, direct from the engineer."


Roman actually got started cloning Buchla modules prior to forming Black Corporation. See the labels below or do a search for him if you want to go down the rabbit hole.

The following are the current modules listed:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Buchla Sili Con Cellosax Model 298 By M.E.M.S. & Associates

video upload by Source Of Uncertainty

"A lengthy deep dive and demo of the Sili Con Cellosax module. I cover its functions, what it does within the specific patch it was designed for, and then I present an adaptation of the patch and perform with it using a guitar.

More information about the module: https://modularsynthesis.com/mems/298...

More information about The M.E.M.S. Project: https://www.memsproject.info/"

See the link above for additional info.

"This module detects musical phrases defined as continuous sound followed by a short period of silence It starts by counting musical phrases 1 to 7. They are indicated by the appropriate LED at the end of the phrase. After the 8th phrase the Go LED indicates and the mode switches to generating a Response pulse, End of Response pulse, and a Delayed End of Response output.

If silence is detected in this mode for approximately 15 seconds the Time Out LED indicates as a warning that this could be the last phrase. If silence continues for approximately another 15 seconds the Last Phrase LED indicates and the Response outputs no longer function.

Any new phrase detected either during a Time Out or Last Phrase reinitiates the Go mode where the cycle repeats. A System Initialize is required to restart the Phrase Counter."

Buchla 200 Classic Reissue Series Complete Set with Case

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"Complete set of the recent 200 series reissues from Buchla. Case is a powered SAModular 8hp.

Includes -
258 Oscillator
281 Quad Function Generator
292C Quad LoPass Gate
207 Mixer
257 Dual Voltage Processor
266 Source of Uncertainty
230 Triple Envelope Follower
Powered SAModular Case
Blank Panel"

Pings with Random Delays

video upload by Todd Barton

"Pink Noise to Buchla 230 Envelope Follower then Pulse out to ping the SoundFreak EMS Filter onto the 292 Lo Pass Gate and finally to the 1979 Stereo Digital Delay with its Time and Feedback being randomized from the 266 Source of Uncertainty."

The MARF Files: Ep 8 - The Flexible CV Processor & Slew Limiter For Your Sequencer. + Ref Envelopes!

video upload by Source Of Uncertainty

"A continuation from the last episode [episode 7 here]. The MARF becomes a quantizer, attenuator and slew limiter for the MEMS Project Sequential Voltage Source Model 245. I then delve into the Reference output and use it as a dynamic envelope."