Bank Transfer Between VCV Pamela's PRO Workout & Hardware

video upload by ALM TV

"This video details the process of transferring banks between Pamela's PRO Workout in VCV Rack and the hardware module, making it possible to replicate patches from the virtual world in your system and vice versa. VCV's context menu options ‘Export backup’ and ‘Import backup’ work with the standard Pam PRO backup files, making transferring saved banks work in either direction.

Note, for bank transfer to work properly the firmware versions between the VCV and hardware Pam's must match. To display the FW version in VCV see the 'info' section in the context menu. We reccomend making a backup copy of the bank files before transferring."

ALM Introduces CIZZLE - Casio CZ Style Digital 'Phase Distortion' VCO Eurorack Module

video upload by ALM TV

Update: 3rd video, pics, and details added below. Check with the dealers on the right for availability.

"The 'CIZZLE' is a dual digital 'phase distortion' VCO inspired by the classic Casio 'CZ' series synthesizers. It brings the specifics of 'CZ' style phase distortion (PD) synthesis into Eurorack with the inclusion of primary and secondary oscillator layering and detuning (with up to 8 voice chord generation), extended morphable PD wave generation algorithms, unique resonance wave generation, plus specific 'end of chain' ring modulation and noise modes that are key to the CZ sound.

The voices also feature built in VCAs and various modulation controls and inputs, a cv-able chord mode, tracking ability, triggered mode switching and can be output independently or mixed with stereo widening.

The 'CIZZLE' finally brings characteristic CZ style synthesis to Eurorack with a rich palette of sounds from mellow ambient tones, 90s Detroit Techno inspired chords, Reese style basses, and synth tones with unique faux resonance squelch."

Time Stamps:
0:00 - Intro
1:08 - Frequency Controls
4:20 - OSC A Controls
12:38 - OSC B Ring Mod
18:08 - OSC B Noise
23:30 - Chord Mode
28:57 - Patches - Acid Bassline
30:58 - Patches - Ambient Chords
32:46 - Patches - Beat
34:38 - Outro

Satoshi & Makoto Meet CIZZLE

video upload by ALM TV

"ALM / Busy Circuits invited artists Satoshi and Makoto, renowned Casio CZ synthesists, to the Clockface Modular shop and studio in Tokyo, Japan to try out the new ALM CIZZLE module. This short film documents the visit and provides a translated interview.

Satoshi and Makoto are a twin duo that received international acclaim in 2017 with the release of their debut album 'CZ-5000 Sounds and Sequences' on Safe Trip. In 2020, their follow up album "CZ-5000 Sounds and Sequences Vol. II” was released, solidifying their dedication to the Casio CZ synthesizer.

The new ALM CIZZLE is a dual digital 'phase distortion' VCO inspired by the classic Casio CZ series synthesizers. It brings the specifics of CZ style phase distortion (PD) synthesis into Eurorack with the inclusion of primary and secondary oscillator layering and detuning (with up to 8 voice chord generation), extended morphable PD wave generation algorithms, unique resonance wave generation, plus specific 'end of chain' ring modulation and noise modes that are key to the CZ sound. The CIZZLE is available now from fine ALM stockists worldwide.

Very specail thanks to Clockface Modular for hosting Satoshi & Makoto.
https://clockfacemodular.com

Satoshi & Makoto's Music:
https://nemutai.bandcamp.com"

Cizzle: a killer Casio CZ-style voice from ALM / Busy Circuits

video upload by Tom Churchill

"Cizzle is a Eurorack synth voice from ALM Busy Circuits based around Phase Distortion synthesis, which Casio pioneered in their CZ series back in the 1980s.

It contains two digital oscillators that would typically be combined and used as one voice, but you can also use them independently. Each oscillator can produce four-note chords and has its own VCA, so all you need is an envelope or two to start using this as a complete voice.

Buy at Signal Sounds:
https://www.signalsounds.com/ALM_Busy..."

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:43 Patch previews
02:10 What is phase distortion?
02:48 Cizzle overview
06:27 Deep house chords
09:34 Ring mod electro synth
12:34 Sweeping synth arpeggios
13:56 Jacking house loops
16:22 Two separate voices
18:12 Dual stepped modulation
20:16 Chord progression sequencing
23:06 Freaky techno loops



The ’CIZZLE’ is a dual digital ’phase distortion’ VCO inspired by the classic Casio ’CZ’ series synthesizers. It brings the specifics of ’CZ’ style phase distortion (PD) synthesis into Eurorack with the inclusion of primary and secondary oscillator layering and detuning (with up to 8-voice chord generation), extended morphable PD wave generation algorithms, unique resonance wave generation, plus specific ’end of chain’ ring modulation and noise modes that are key to the CZ sound.

The voices also feature built in VCAs and various modulation controls and inputs, a cv-able chord mode, tracking ability, triggered mode switching and can be output independently or mixed with stereo widening.

The ’CIZZLE’ finally brings characteristic CZ style synthesis to Eurorack with a rich palette of sounds from mellow ambient tones, 90s Detroit Techno inspired chords, Reese style basses, and synth tones with unique faux resonance squelch.

Feature List
→ Dual phase distortion VCO with direct and voltage controlled parameters.

→ Easy, quick and accurate tuning via an encoder control.

→ 9 morphing phase distortion ’Algorithms’ (Osc A) with direct and CV control.

→ PD Offset ’Shape’ with direct and CV control.

→ Unique CZ resonance waveform (Osc B) with direct and CV control.

→ Multiple Osc B modes; Rez, Ring Mod, and Noise based on classic CZ synthesis.

→ Mode switchable via direct and trigger control.

→ Optional Osc B frequency tracking of Osc A with offset.

→ Voltage controlled chord mode with inversion and up to 8 voices.

→ Dedicated oscillator output level VCAs.

→ Separate dual or mixed outputs with stereo widening effect.

→ Skiff friendly with reverse power protection.

→ 2 Year Warranty.

→ Made in England.

Ideal For

→ Flexible and precise primary digital voice duties in a Eurorack system.

→ Creating basslines, rich chords, drones, morphing tones, percussive hits etc.

→ Unique digital squelch.

Motto Akemie Presets - 6 Voice FM Drum Synth Plugin

video upload by ALM TV

"Demoing some of the factory presets included with ‘Motto Akemie’ - our new 6 Voice FM drum synth and step sequencer for your DAW."

See the announcement post here.

Introducing Motto Akemie - 6 Voice FM Drum Synth Plugin

video upload by ALM TV

"'Motto Akemie' is a 6 Voice FM drum synth and step sequencer for your DAW.

Each voice is based on our renowned ’Akemie’s Taiko’ Eurorack module featuring similar controls and playful FM sounds from pure sinusoidal oscillations to mega clonks to chaotic self-feedbacking enveloped noise. The built in multitrack step sequencer allows for quick polyrhythmic pattern creation with step modulation of all parameters, randomisation and Pam style scaling across storable pattern banks and presets. Voices can also be played and controlled via MIDI with support for MTS-ESP microtuning.

Motto Akemie is available now to download for macOS and Windows for $40 with an optional fully functional 7 day free trial.

More info & download here: https://busycircuits.com/motto-akemie

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Intro
0:42 - Kick sound
1:22 - Snare sound
1:47 - Hi Hat sound
2:30 - Basic sequencer modulation
2:55 - Rimshot sound
3:37 - Tom sound
4:41 - Bass line
5:49 - Copying a pattern
5:58 - Further sequencer modulation
7:14 - Performing changes
7:40 - Outro"

Pam PRO Sync Guide

video upload by ALM TV

"Here we take a look at numerous ways to sync Pamela's PRO Workout with other hardware and software including syncing two Pams, external Din Sync, MIDI clock, LFO BPM modulation, the Pam Sync DAW plugin, and finally syncing the virtual Pam PRO in VCV Rack.

In general most forms of sync expect a standard 24PPQN clock and Run 'Din Sync' type signal set for the Clk and Run inputs. These settings can be changed from Pam's BPM menu to accomodate other common clock PPQN speeds and Run or Reset signals to align with the sync signals produced by other hardware devices."

Introducing ALM MEGA MILTON - Compact Utilities

video upload by ALM TV

"The 'MEGA MILTON' is a smorgasbord of handy all analog utilities in just 8HP that will greatly extend the functionality of your Eurorack system.

It includes a stereo line input converter for incorporating line level external sources into a Eurorack system, a fixed 4 input mixer with breakout attenuator for combining signals, a gated slew limiter for adding slides to sequences, a sample and hold with analog white noise with a myriad of uses such as generative melodies or producing percussive textures and finally a buffered mult for droop free signal distribution with handy LEDs to monitor.

All sections are normalised to help with typical use cases such as generating random CV from the sample & hold section, a smooth random source from the slew output and breaking out a standalone attenuator from the fourth mixer input.

The 'MEGA MILTON' provides essential classic synthesizer building blocks for patching in any Eurorack system. In this video we take a look at all of its features."

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

ALM VCV Patches

video upload by ALM TV

"Here we demo the full lineup of ALM VCV modules including Pamela’s PRO Workout, Tyso Daiko, MFX and our bundle of free modules in a variety of different patches.

All modules featured are available now to purchase from the VCV Rack store, including the Pam PRO, MFX and Tyso Daiko alongside our FREE collection that includes the MCO, Pip Slope, Beast’s Chalkboard, Tangle Quartet and O/A/x2.

Create simple clocked triggers, complex rhythmic waveforms, quantized melodic patterns or random chaos with the Pamela's PRO Workout, access a multitude of classic hardware effects processors with the MFX, and generate classic 12-bit digital wavetable drum voices via the ‘Tyso Daiko’.

Download the latest update of the VCV Pam PRO to share and back up banks with the hardware version. The new context menu options ‘Export backup’ and ‘Import backup’ act like the standard presets in VCV but can be loaded from a hardware Pamela’s PRO Workout.

For more info please visit: https://busycircuits.com/vcv/ To purchase visit: https://library.vcvrack.com/?brand=AL..."

ALM Introduces MFD - DJ Crossfader & Stereo VCA

video upload by ALM TV

"The MFD is a 2-channel stereo crossfader designed for live DJ-style mixing and jamming in Eurorack. Two mono or stereo inputs are mixed to a single stereo output via direct or voltage control. Additional Cue controls provide preview monitoring of either input pre-mix via dedicated Cue switches and an output.

Voltage control over the crossfade and DC coupling allow for further creative uses such as a high quality stereo VCA or as a mix processor for either stereo audio signals or CV.

The MFD is designed to have very low noise and cross bleed and employs equal power crossfading for smooth constant level blending between signal sources."

VCV Pamela's PRO Workout DAW Sync Setup

video upload by ALM TV

"Here we take a look at the simple setup process for syncing the VCV version of Pamela's PRO Workout to a DAW via our free Pam Sync Plugin or VCV's built in MIDI to CV module.

This process should work with any DAW but requires the pro version of VCV Rack for use as a plugin within your DAW.

*Note the sample rate must match between both VCV and the DAW for sync to work properly.

Pam Sync is a FREE simple ‘just works’ DAW plugin for syncing Pam to your DAWs clock via low latency audio signals. It uses 2 audio (i.e. stereo) channels to provide a ‘DIN sync’ type signal consisting of a clock and a run signal to be patched into the Pam’s ‘Clk’ and ‘Run’ inputs. Once connected Pam will stop and start with your DAW and match the tempo.

The plugin should work with any DAW that supports VST or Audio Units. See the README.txt in the download for more setup documentation.

Pam Sync is available now as a free download for both Windows and Mac. Get it here: busycircuits.com/almpg001"

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Intro
0:02 - Sync via Pam Sync Plugin
1:29 - Sync via VCV MIDI to CV
2:25 - Outro

MFX Basics: Ensembles Ensemble

video upload by ALM TV

"This video is part of our series of tutorials covering the various MFX effects engines. Subscribe to stay up to date with future episodes.

The MFX's ‘Ensembles Ensemble’ is a collection of chorus/ensemble effects based on classic circuits from the 70s and 80s. It includes 8 different modes plus a built in 2 octave pitch shifter. In this video we take a deeper look at all of its features while processing bass, chord and drum sounds via the direct outs and FX send of the MEGA-TANG.

The MFX is a compact 6HP Eurorack stereo digital audio multi effects processor. It offers 18 different full featured effects programs plus a number of metering utilities."

CHAPTERS
0:00 - Intro
0:20 - Modes - Processing Bass
1:53 - Modes - Processing Chords
4:20 - Pitch Shifter - Processing Bass
5:31 - Pitch Shifter - Processing Drums
6:28 - Pitch Shifter - Processing Chords
7:26 - Outro

Thanks for watching!

Pamela's PRO Workout: External CV Part 2 - Macros, Probabilistic Cross Fader, Acid Basslines

video upload by ALM TV

"Pamela's PRO Workout includes up to 4 built in (8 with AXON) freely assignable CV inputs that can control any and all of its parameters. This powerful feature allows for endless expressivity and complex modulation possibilities. Here we take a look at a few examples of how external CV can be used to broaden Pam's functionality even further, including the creation of a 'macro' modulation depth control, probabilistic rhythmic cross fader, and a 303 inspired acid bassline."

Additional Pamela's PRO Workout posts

ALM in VCV Rack - Software Modules - PAMELA'S PRO WORKOUT Comes to VCV Rack

video upload by ALM TV

"Full ‘virtual’ software versions of popular ALM Busy Circuits modules are now available for VCV Rack, the virtual modular platform based on Eurorack modular synthesisers. Here we quickly demo a variety of patches in VCV.

Create simple clocked triggers, complex rhythmic waveforms, quantized melodic patterns or random chaos with the Pamela's PRO Workout, access a multitude of classic hardware effects processors with the MFX, and generate classic 12-bit digital wavetable drum voices via the ‘Tyso Daiko’.

All modules featured are available to purchase now from the VCV Rack Store alongside a selection of free modules.

For full specs please visit: https://busycircuits.com/vcv/
To purchase visit: https://library.vcvrack.com/?brand=AL..."

And a press release for PAMELA'S PRO WORKOUT FOR VCV RACK:

The ubiquitous clocked modulator Eurorack module Pamela’s PRO Workout is now available virtualised as a software plug in for VCV Rack - a free popular cross platform software based virtual modular synthesiser.

It’s array of must have clocking and modulation capabilities are now accessible from within VCV. Add a powerful essential tool to your VCV Rack or simply audition its feature set before acquiring the physical module.

VCV Pamela’s PRO Workout provides 8 highly editable outputs producing various control voltage signals, all correlated and synced to a BPM based master clock.

Each output can produce anything from simple clocked triggers to complex rhythmic waveforms, quanitsed melodic patterns or random chaos with many parameters controllable directly or via assigned external CV. These features, combined with a proven, easy to use and quick user interface provide almost limitless synced modulation possibilities in a tiny amount of space.

VCV Pamela's PRO Workout plugin runs the exact same core DSP and user interface code as the physical Eurorack module. It includes the

‘AXON-2’ CV expander and offers additional features such as support for multiple instances plus keyboard and mouse control shortcuts.

Available now from the VCV Rack Store for $20

Launched alongside VCV PAM PRO are two new freely available modules; the popular MCO & Pip Slope (mkII) both available now alongside a selection of other useful free ALM VCV modules:

• VCV Beast’s Chalkboard: Octave Switcher & More • VCV O/A/x2: Dual Offset & Attenuverter

• VCV Tangle Quartet: Quad Linear VCA & Mixer

• VCV MCO: Compact Digital VCO

• VCV Pip Slope (mk II): Compact Envelope Generator

Other software versions of popular ALM Busy Circuits modules are also available for VCV

Rack including:

VCV MFX: a compact stereo digital audio multi effects processor offering 16 different full

featured effects programs plus a number of metering utilities. Available now for $20

VCV Tyso Daiko: a dual 12-bit wavetable drum voice that features a wide ranging pitch sweep section, tilt EQ, digital wavefolder, unique surface control, and CV control over all parameters. Available now for $15"

Pamela's PRO Workout: Advanced Looping - Deconstructed Beats, Call & Response, Drum Fills

video upload by ALM TV

"The Pam PRO’s expanded looping functions provide a powerful tool for track building and composition, capturing and repeating any signals generated by the outputs. The new Wake, Nap and Shift parameters help to add musical structure and space to looped patterns and CV. Here we patch up a few examples showing how the new loop functions can be used."

Time Stamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:51 - Deconstructed Beats - Loop Wake & Nap
4:07 - Melodic Call & Response - Loop Shift
8:02 - Adding a Drum Fill
11:42 - Outro

Additional Pamela's PRO Workout posts

Pamela's PRO Workout: Advanced Euclidean - Reset, Placing Patterns & Irregular LFOs

video upload by ALM TV

"The Pam PRO’s expanded Euclidean section provides a highly musical tool for generating patterns in both triggers or any CV produced by an output. Helpful realtime visual display plus the additional pad and shift parameters take Euclidean sequencing further, allowing for more intentional patterns and variation. Here we take a look a few examples of how Euclidean sequencing can be used.

This is part of our new video series where we take a closer look at the more unique and powerful features of Pamela's PRO Workout. Subscribe to stay up to date on upcoming videos in the series!"

Time Stamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:46 - Euclidean Reset
6:15 - Placing Patterns with Pad & Shift
10:08 - Irregular Euclidean LFOs
13:42 - Outro"

Pamela's PRO Workout: Trigger Modifier - Externally Triggering Envelopes & Random

video upload by ALM TV

"Pamela's PRO Workout now includes a special trigger modifier option which allows any output to be disconnected from the master clock and externally triggered via any of the 4 built in inputs. Here we take a look at some examples of how the trigger modifier can be used including as a basic envelope generator or triggered random source."

Time Stamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:45 - Triggered Envelopes
6:21 - Triggered Random
9:39 - Outro

ALM MFX Basics: Pocket PL8 Reverb

video upload by ALM TV

"The MFX's ‘Pocket PL8 Reverb’ is a plate style reverb based on early digital algorithms with a dense metallic sound. It offers all the magic of a massive aluminium plate whilst remaining small enough to fit in your pocket. In this video we take a deeper look at all of its features processing both melodic and percussive sounds via the FX send of the MEGA-TANG.

The MFX is a compact 6HP Eurorack stereo digital audio multi effects processor. It offers 17 different full featured effects programs plus a number of metering utilities."

Additional ALM MFX posts

Pamela's PRO Workout: External CV - Complex Modulation, Bursts & Beats

video upload by ALM TV

"Pamela's PRO Workout includes up to 4 built in (8 with AXON) freely assignable CV inputs that can control any and all of its parameters. This powerful feature allows for endless expressivity and complex modulation possibilities. Here we take a look at a few examples of how external CV can be used to broaden Pam's functionality even further, including the creation of a chaotic CV modulation source, burst generator, and voltage controlled Euclidean beats.

This is part of our new video series where we take a closer look at the more unique and powerful features of Pamela's PRO Workout."

You can find additional ALM TV Pamela's PRO Workout videos here.

Pamela's PRO Workout: Generative Sequencing Part 2 - Evolving Patterns

video upload by ALM TV

"Pamela's PRO Workout is a powerful generative source of both random rhythms and modulation. Combined with the loop parameters, pitch quantiser, and more, these sources of randomness can be transformed into repeating rhythmic or note sequences that can be altered and shaped or evolved. In this follow up to part 1 we take a look at how to reset the random seed using Cross Operations, creating a completely new sequence every 4 bars.

Note this can be done using any external CV as well by setting the Cross Source to 'In 1' or 'In 2'.

This is part of our new video series where we take a closer look at the more unique and powerful features of Pamela's PRO Workout."

You can find additional ALM TV Pamela's PRO Workout videos here.

Pamela's PRO Workout: Generative Sequencing Part 1 - Melodic Loops & Patterns

video upload by ALM TV

"Pamela's PRO Workout is a powerful generative source of both random rhythms and modulation. Combined with the loop parameters, pitch quantiser, and more, these sources of randomness can be transformed into repeating rhythmic or note sequences that can be altered and shaped or evolved. In this first part we take a look at how to create repeating sequences from scratch with a follow up video coming soon.

This is part of our new video series where we take a closer look at the more unique and powerful features of Pamela's PRO Workout. Subscribe to stay up to date on upcoming videos in the series!

For more information on the Pam PRO please visit: https://busycircuits.com/alm034/
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/busycircuits/
Follow us on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/busycircuits

Time Stamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:52 - Generative CV Sequencing
4:39 - Probability Beats
9:05 - Outro


Thanks for watching!"

Pamela’s PRO Workout: Off-Grid Timings with Human, Swing & Ramp Flex Ops

video upload by ALM TV

"Flex Operations are a powerful feature of Pamela's PRO Workout that allow outputs to be taken 'off the grid' for functionalities such as swing, random ‘human’ fluctuations in timing, and unique up and down ramping of the clock speed. The various Flex Ops make it easy to create groovy and organic rhythms, ever changing CV modulation signals and more. In this video we take a look at the different types of Flex Operations."

Pamela’s PRO Workout series