Live Jam #111 - Calm / Downtempo / Techno - Eurorack modular synth and Arturia Beatstep Pro

Published on Nov 8, 2017 Monotrail

"A calm techno session wit the modular generating all sounds. The faster melody is generated by a unsynced looping envelope, the baseline is sequenced from the BSP. Kick and hats from the BD808 and MFB hats, other percussive sounds are synthesized with the help of the Make Noise LxD.

If you want to be part of my project, support future videos and receive special patron bonuses, such as free mp3s of all my Live Jams, please visit: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Special thanks to Legendary Patron:
Out Of Orbit - https://www.youtube.com/user/xaverito

More info on Monotrail:
Site: http://monotrail.blogspot.de
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail
Bandcamp: https://monotrail.bandcamp.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monotrailmusic
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/monotrailmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monotrail

Stuff used:
Eurorack modular synthesizer with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-156, a-160-2, a171-2
Erica synths: Black wavetable VCO
Expert Sleepers: Disting MK4
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Malekko heavy industry: Unity mixer
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: OH/HH/CY
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Tiptop Audio: BD808
Diy: Quad passive attenuator"

Monotrail Tech Talk Eurorack Sound Design Sessions - Noise & Transients

Can NOISE make you sound better!? – Eurorack Sound design sessions

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Noise is a common ingredient in synthesis. But many stand alone synths have limited ways to use it. In this video I explore some ways to patch and use noise in modular patches. Not just the classic white noise. But also sampled and self made noise!

My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Timetable:
00:00 – All about noise
02:37 – Noise in a voice
08:37 – Sound design & texture
12:48 – Noise as a modulation source"

My sounds changed when I discovered transients! – Eurorack sound design ep2

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"A transient - or the short start of a sound - has a lot of impact on how a sound is perceived. Yet a lot of synths and patches don’t explore transients very well. With a modular system, there are many ways to create and sculpt transients in detail, so in this video we take a closer look at some options!

My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Timetable:
00:00 – Transients
01:13 – Basic filter transient patches
04:53 – More filter transient patches
08:28 – Sound shaper transient patches
12:59 – Separate transient patches"

Live Jam #92 - Techno / Upbeat - Eurorack, Korg er-1, Volca Sample, Microkorg, Plugiator, Microbrute

Published on Jun 28, 2017 Monotrail

"Sometimes you are just in the mood for a more upbeat song. Hope you like it!

Monotrail is now on Patreon! If you want to be part of my project, support future video's and receive special patron bonuses, check out: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Site: http://monotrail.blogspot.de

Stuff used:
Arturia Beatstep Pro, Akai APC key 25, Arturia Microbrute, Korg Microkorg, Korg Volca Sample, Korg electribe er-1, Use Audio Plugiator and Eurorack modular system with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-148, a-156, a-160-2, a171-2
Erica synths: Black wavetable VCO
Expert Sleepers: Disting MK4
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Malekko heavy industry: Unity mixer
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: Dual LFO
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Tiptop Audio: BD808
Diy: Quad attenuator

Audio via the Mackie 1202vlz4 mixer to a Moto Ultralite MK3 hybrid.
External effects: T.C electronics M350 for reverb

Live Jam #97 - Drone / Beats / Noise - Eurorack skiff with Disting mk4 as sample player and clock

Published on Aug 2, 2017 Monotrail

"I am currently on a residency in Madrid, and unfortunately again didn't have a lot of time for this jam. I know this selection of modules can sound more complete and controlled, maybe next week :) But there are some nice sounds, and I did got to mess around with the Disting playing drumloops and clocking the rest of the rig. There are some very audible out of sync moments, but there is potential here. All drum samples but the kick where made from street recordings made here in Madrid.

If you are interested in learning more about my residency you can find more info on a blog I keep on my visual arts website: http://rkamerbeek.nl/espositivo.html

All sounds are from the modular, the laptop is only used for recording. Disting mk4 is the sample player, sending clocked triggers. Main sound is the Doepfer a143-4 square mix out through the wasp filter, lots of feeback on the Clouds.

Monotrail is now on Patreon! If you want to be part of my project, support future video's and receive special patron bonuses, check out: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Site: http://monotrail.blogspot.de"

Live Jam #87 - Downtempo / Chill / Techno - Eurorack, Arturia Beatstep Pro, Korg Volca Sample

Published on May 24, 2017 Monotrail

"Another run with a compact setup. The Beatstep Pro is sequencing the Modular and the BD808 kick. The volca sample adds some extra drums.

Site: http://monotrail.blogspot.de
Bandcamp: https://monotrail.bandcamp.com
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/monotrailmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monotrail

Stuff used:
Arturia Beatstep Pro, Korg volca Sample and Eurorack modular system with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-148, a-156, a-160-2, a171-2
Expert Sleepers: Disting MK4
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Malekko heavy industry: Unity mixer
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: Dual LFO
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Tiptop Audio: BD808
Diy: Quad attenuator

Audio via the Mackie 1202vlz4 mixer to a Moto Ultralite MK3 hybrid.
External effects: T.C electronics M350 for reverb"

Live Jam #91 - Ambient / Self playing patch / Generative music - Eurorack, Black wavetable vco

Published on Jun 21, 2017 Monotrail

"A simple drone based on some forest sounds and the great Erica synth Black wavetable vco.

Monotrail is now on Patreon! If you want to be part of my project, support future video's and receive special patron bonuses, check out: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Site: http://monotrail.blogspot.de

Stuff used:
Eurorack modular system with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-148, a-156, a-160-2, a171-2
Erica synths: Black wavetable VCO
Expert Sleepers: Disting MK4
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Malekko heavy industry: Unity mixer
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: Dual LFO
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Tiptop Audio: BD808
Diy: Quad attenuator

Audio via the Mackie 1202vlz4 mixer to a Moto Ultralite MK3 hybrid.
External effects: T.C electronics M350 for reverb"

The ultimate introduction to eurorack envelopes

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Envelopes are a classic and crucial building block in synthesis. However, there are many different options available, all with subtle differences. In this video series I tackle all the things you should know and consider when picking an envelope for your setup. In this first part I cover Triggers & Gates, and Stages & Behaviour. In a video coming soon I will dive deeper into topics like modulating, looping, trigger and gate creation etc. So, stay tuned!"

Timetable:
00:00 – Intro
04:10 – Triggers & Gates
06:10 – Gates
07:16 – Triggers
08:21 – Stages & Behaviour
08:32 – AD envelope
10:10 – Behaviour type 1 (triggered)
11:29 – AHD envelope
13:10 – ADSR envelope
14:37 – Behaviour type 2 (gated)
17:12 – DADSR envelope
18:16 – Check envelope length!
18:52 – Basic patches

How to REALLY use your envelopes - All about envelopes - part2

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Envelopes are crucial building blocks in synthesis, but they can do much more then control the volume of a sound. In this video we’ll have a look at what you can do with CV control over envelope stages. How you can mix, invert, and combine envelopes to create unique shapes. How looping envelopes add a lot of modulation power. And how you can get the most out of envelopes that generate gates and or triggers. Enjoy!

Full disclosure: The 3 envelopes used in this video are supplied by Erica Synths. A lot of fun videos on interesting topics (like this one) wouldn't financially be possible otherwise. Huge thanks!"

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Timetable:
00:00 – Intro
01:17 – Modulate the envelope
09:30 – Mix & Invert
13:16 – Envelope looping
18:28 – Triggers & gates out

Live Jam #96 - Evolving / Drone / Textures - 84hp Eurorack skiff

Published on Jul 26, 2017 Monotrail

Sounds like traffic, a factory, and the ambient sounds of the city.

"I am currently on a residency in Madrid, combining sound and visual arts. For this project I decided to bring this small eurorack skiff along, and nothing else. Unfortunately I did no have as much time for this week's jam as I wanted, but I will try to make it up during the next few jams that I will make here with this setup.

If you are interested in learning more about my residency you can find more info on a blog I keep on my visual arts website: http://rkamerbeek.nl/espositivo.html

All sounds are from the modular, the laptop is only used for recording. Disting mk4 is the sample player, with speed, start position and reset being modulated. Main sound is the Doepfer a143-4 square mix out through the wasp filter. Kick(ish) sound is the Doepfer a-143-4 triangle mix out through the Make noise LxD.

Monotrail is now on Patreon! If you want to be part of my project, support future video's and receive special patron bonuses, check out: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail"

Introduction to looping & granular synthesis - With ADDAC112 VC looper & granular processor

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Today we are going to get started with looping and granular synthesis, using the ADDAC system 112 VC looper and granular processor. An extensive module with lots of hands on and CV control over it’s looper and granular section. The possibility to record and store loops, and using those to build granular textures make it a bit of a workstation for granular processing, with an interesting approach.

In this video I quickly explain the concept of recording loops and using those to create grains. But mainly we go over most of the functions and features of this brand new module. I’d like to make a video with more patch ideas and sound demos in the future, so let me know if you have specific wishes!

This video is sponsored by ADDAC system, but manufacturers have no saying over the content of my videos. All opinions and thought expressed are my own. https://www.addacsystem.com

Timetable:
01:13 – Looping & Granular
02:49 – ADDAC112 overview
03:31 – Mixer
04:41 – Looper
07:14 – Looper patches
09:10 – Granular
12:07 – Deviation
13:33 – Granular patches
17:44 – Menu & screen

If you want to support my project:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail
Bandcamp: https://monotrail.bandcamp.com"

Additional ADDAC 112 posts

Live Jam #74 -Experimental / Techno - Euroroack modular synth, Korg volca Sample, DIY sequencer

Published on Feb 22, 2017 Monotrail

"Another experiment with a small patch on the modular and the volca in techno modus.

Bandcamp: https://monotrail.bandcamp.com
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/monotrailmusic

Stuff used:
Korg Volca sample, DIY sequencer and Euroroack modular system with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-148, a-156, a-160-2, a171-2
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Malekko heavy industry: Unity mixer
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: Dual LFO
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Tiptop Audio: BD808
Diy: Quad attenuator

Audio via the Mackie 1202vlz4 mixer to a Moto Ultralite MK3 hybrid.
External effects: T.C electronics M350 for reverb"

Klavis Grainity, the new granular filter - patches & audio demos

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

You can find additional Klavis Grainity demos in previous posts here.

"Today we take a deep dive with Grainity, the first ever granular filter. It runs a multimode and granular filter in parallel, and proves to be a fun sound design tool. It offers a lot of sounds from subtle textures and metallic sounds, to detuned unison, phaser and of course, broken up granular sounds."

CLICK FOR MORE »

The ADDAC Random Bezier Waves

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Best day ever! I have been working on a module with the amazing people over at ADDAC, and it’s finally here! The Random Bezier Waves is an easy to use dual organic random voltage generator. Both waves have manual and CV control over frequency and output level. Curve and offset control, as well as three different clipping modes allow for a lot of different waves, from calm organic flowing voltages to chaotic jumping madness. The module produces 6 wave outs, and has two different gate outputs on top, making it great for patch-driving features and generative setups."

Timetable:
00:00 – Introducing the Random Bezier Waves
02:02 – Module overview
07:11 – Basic patches
16:46 – Advanced ideas
22:14 – Generative heart



"This module started with an idea from Rijnder Kamerbeek aka Monotrail, a straightforward random generator with interpolation between random points making it something like a complex, ever evolving, LFO

The concept is simple. It contains two identical smooth random voltage generators. Each has a frequency, level, offset and curve control. The frequency control sets a steady pace with which bipolar random voltages are generated. The level control works like an attenuator/VCA on the output, reaching from max output to closed. The offset allows shifting the whole wave up and down on the voltage range. Curve determines the shape of the interpolation.The bipolar activity on the main outputs as well as gate outputs are visualised with LEDs.

Both Frequency and Level controls have a CV input with attenuator. When there is nothing patched into the CV inputs, these are internally connected to the main output of the other channel. This normalization makes it very easy to add randomization to the frequency or level for more depth, or of course, add cross-modulation for chaotic voltages.

The output VCAs are usefull to dial in subtle and time-based modulation without the need for external VCAs. For example, to modulate the amount over time with an envelope, or use the other generator with slower speeds to add random changes to the level of a random voltage.

Both generators also have two other outputs. One is an exact inversion of the main output, so it responds to the level and CV input. This is great for stereo or inversed effect patches. The other is a simple pulse output, here there are two different behaviours, channel A outputs a pulse at every random generation, channel B acts like a comparator. Whenever the main is positive this comparator output is a high gate. And whenever the main output is negative or close to 0, there is no gate output. Great for random triggers or firing other events like envelopes.

A couple other outputs are also available and are obtained by averaging both channel main outputs. The first output is the average while the second is an inverted average."

8-bit signal processing for eurorack - Drezno & Lipsk / Leibniz subsystem / Xaoc devices

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"The Leibniz subsystem from Xaoc devices is a line-up of modules that work with 8-bit conversion. It’s a unique concept that allows for a lot of interesting signal manipulation and generation. In this video I explain what 8 bit is, and how it’s implemented in this line-up, using Drezno and Lipsk. Of course, there are multiple chapters with patch ideas and audio demos as well.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail"

Live Jam #53 - Electro / Post Rock - Eurorack, Microkorg, Microbrute, Akai APCkey25, Ableton

Published on Sep 28, 2016 Monotrail

"Still working on a 25min track for the first official Monotrail release, so I made a few jams based around a similar vibe. I really enjoy using drum samples again.

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/monotrailmusic

Stuff used:
Arturia Beatstep Pro, Akai APC key 25, Korg Microkorg, Arturia Microbrute, and Eurorack modular system with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-148, a-156, a-160-2
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: Dual LFO
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Diy: Quad attenuator

Audio via the Behringer mixer to a Moto Ultralite MK3 hybrid.
External effects: T.C electronics M350 for delay and reverb"

The easy way to dynamic drums – random samples with Squarp Rample

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Samples can be a powerful tool when performing with a compact modular system, or when jamming in the studio. In this video I use the Squarp instruments Rample to show a specific trick with random and rotating samples. It’s great for dynamic drums and melodic variations.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Timetable:
00:00 – Intro
01:19 – Concept
02:51 – Random samples
12:19 – Rotating samples"

Live Jam #78 - Self playing patch / Ambient - Eurorack modular synthesizer

Published on Mar 22, 2017 Monotrail

"I really like to make this self playing patches when I don't have a lot of time to work on a full track. They can sound great, and I always learn new things about my modular.

Bandcamp: https://monotrail.bandcamp.com
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/monotrailmusic

Stuff used:
Eurorack modular system with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-148, a-156, a-160-2, a171-2
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Malekko heavy industry: Unity mixer
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: Dual LFO
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Tiptop Audio: BD808
Diy: Quad attenuator

Audio via the Mackie 1202vlz4 mixer to a Moto Ultralite MK3 hybrid.
External effects: no external effects used."

How to create pre-filter stereo patches on the modular – Zagrzeb - Xaoc devices

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Zagrzeb from Xaoc devices is a great, compact and smooth stereo filter. That makes it perfect to deal with complex stereo signals. But how to make these? In this video I go over the functions and features of Zagrzeb, but also share lot’s of ideas for pre-filter stereo patches. Both with basic synth-ingredients, as well as a couple of dedicated stereo modules.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Follow my channel @Monotrailmusic if you are interested in my music!

Timetable:
00:00 – Intro & sounds
01:14 – Zagrzeb overview
02:27 – Basic module patches
03:29 – Patch 2
05:03 – Patch 3
05:50 – Patch 4
06:10 – Patch 5
07:13 – Patch 6
07:51 – Patch 7
08:37 – Patch 8
09:09 – Patch 9
09:50 – Patch 10
11:08 – Patch 11
11:55 – Patch 12
12:24 – Stereo module patches
14:25 – Patch 2
16:26 – Patch 3
17:38 – Patch 4
19:31 – Zagrzeb patches
20:28 – Patch 2
21:11 – Patch 3
21:48 – Patch 4
22:35 – Patch 5"

Let’s create beautiful harmonies with a shift register!

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Shift registers are powerful tools. In this video I demonstrate my favorite trick, creating layered melodies based on a single sequence. I explain the concept and show the core patch using three voices. But also go over a couple of interesting variations and ways to play with the sequences."

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Timetable:
00:00 – Intro
01:48 – Shift register
04:48 – Core patch
08:34 – Patch variations
12:34 – Stored sequences
16:17 – Sequence variations

Live Jam #116 - Electronic / Melodic / Beats - Eurorack, Arturia Microbrute, DSI mophoX4

Published on Dec 13, 2017 Monotrail

"A Calm session with some organ-like tones from the mophoX4 and percussion from the modular. The camera quit working after about a minute, so I had to fill in some non-live footage. The end is real ;)

If you want to be part of my project, support future videos and receive special patron bonuses, such as free mp3s of all my Live Jams, please consider becoming a Patron by donating a small amount of money on a monthly basis via Patreon.com. For more information visit: https://www.patreon.com/monotrail

Special thanks to Legendary Patron:
Out Of Orbit - https://www.youtube.com/user/xaverito

Stuff used:
Dave Smith Instruments MophoX4, Arturia Microbrute, BeatstepPro and a Eurorack modular synthesizer with:

Doepfer: a-118, a-119, a-124, a-143-4, a-156, a-160-2, a171-2
Erica synths: Black wavetable VCO
Expert Sleepers: Disting MK4
Intellijel: Dixie II, uFold, Quadra, 2xTriat , Linux, mult
Malekko heavy industry: Unity mixer
Make noise: MMG, Lxd
Mutable instruments: Clouds, Peaks
MFB: OH/HH/CY
Synthrotek: Echo, Deluxe power
Tiptop Audio: BD808
Diy: Quad passive attenuator"

Top 10 eurorack modules Superbooth 22 – (A personal selection by Monotrail)

video upload by Monotrail Tech Talk

"Superbooth 22 is over, and this time I was finally able to hang around, meet some people, and see some new modules! I thought I’d make a little compilation with 10 modules that stood out to me. Among others a collaboration between Endorphin.es and Andrew Huang, the Xaoc devices Sophia, Verbos Electronics polyphonic envelope, and a project that involves Yann Tiersen. In this video I just explain why the modules stood out to me.

Timetable:
00:00 – Intro
00:28 – Endorphine.es / Andrew Huang - Ghost,
01:41 – Neuzeit Instruments - Quasar
03:12 – Knobula - Kickhain
04:44 – AtoV project - Dual Harmonic Oscillator
06:05 – Xaoc Devices – Sophia
06:59 – Bastl Instruments - Pizza
08:20 – Verbos Electronics – Polyphonic Envelope
09:35 – Instruo - Larachd
10:49 – Erica Synths / Moritz Klein – Edu series
11:40 – Eowave / Touellskouarn / Yann Tiersen - Ostilh "