Erica Synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine Dynamic Analog Percussion Synthesis Engine Eurorack Module (29 HP)

Erica Synths Hexinverter Overview

Generate all manner of drum and percussion sounds with the erica synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine, a dynamic analog percussion synthesis engine in a 29 HP Eurorack module. The machine was initially designed to create snare drum tones, but quickly transformed into a module capable of generating multiple forms of analog percussion and other various effects.

Mutant Machine can deliver a wide variety of tones from classic 909 kicks and snares to completely alien sounds. There are 13 control-voltage and audio inputs for a complete modular experience and 7 audio and CV/Gate outputs for maximum integration with other modules. With dedicated outputs for each Wave and Noise oscillator, you can use the Mutant Machine as a complex VCO in your system, when not synthesizing percussion.

At a Glance

Microcontroller-free analog percussion synthesis engine

• Unique Inverter Core oscillators form the MEMBRANE. Each analog oscillator has three waveforms to select from
• Capable of synthesizing everything from heavy-hitting bass drums to classic 909-style snares and other complex timbres
• Modular design gives the Machine many auxiliary purposes, great for modular sound design of many varieties, and not just percussion
• The SNAPPY section is comprised of a voltage controlled noise oscillator, for modelling the noisy part of drum timbres
• Both MEMBRANE and SNAPPY elements have an external input for replacing the built-in sound sources, opening up many avenues of possibility
• 13 control voltage and audio inputs, for a fully modular drum experience
• 7 audio and CV/gate outputs for maximum integration with other modules
• Dedicated outputs for each WAVE and NOISE oscillator mean you can use the Machine as a complex VCO in your system, when not synthesizing percussion

Waveform scanning feature generates complex timbres from analog waveforms

• The MEMBRANE's waveforms can be scanned through automatically by the wavescanner's voltage-controlled clock generator, or an external clock or VCO can be used
• SCAN FREQ CV forms a unique form of timbre control, making the Machine act like a complex oscillator at its WAVES output
• The ENABLE input allows you to gate the wavescanner on and off with a CV or gate signal

Architecture of the Machine

• The Mutant Machine is a dynamic analog instrument capable of generating a wide palette of sounds, ranging from various forms of analog percussion to complex drones and oscillations. To achieve this much variety, the Machine features two synthesis sections, which are summed together at the final output: MEMBRANE and SNAPPY. Like the other Mutant Drums, the MEMBRANE and SNAPPY circuits began their mutation as classic analog percussion techniques and have been reimagined from the ground up for 21st century modular synthesis.
• The MEMBRANE forms the main body of the sound by way of two analog VCOs, and the SNAPPY section further adds to the timbre by contributing noisy elements to the mix. A noisy CLICK, which occurs at the beginning of the SNAPPY sound can have its volume adjusted independent of the main decaying SNAPPY texture.
• The waveforms which make up the MEMBRANE can be selected manually by button press, or the WAVESCANNER can be used to automatically scan through the available analog waveforms. By modulating the frequency through which waves are scanned, unique complex sounds are created. The SCAN FREQ works something like the timbre control on a complex oscillator.
• Experimentation is encouraged by the many modulation inputs and outputs available to you. The Machine features 8 CV and gate inputs for modulation as well as two external audio inputs, for bringing other modules into the Machine's unique synthesis core. There are many audio outputs for maximum versatility, allowing you to use the Machine to create drones and alien timbres for use elsewhere in the modular analog system.

Membrane Architecture

• The MEMBRANE forms the main body of the sound by way of two analog oscillators, each offering three waveforms from which you can select.
• The analog waveforms can be selected manually by button press, or the WAVESCANNER can be used to automatically scan through the available waveforms. By modulating the frequency at which waves are scanned, complex timbres are created.
• The scanner can be gated on and off via CV or gate with the ENABLE input.
• An external audio source can replace WAVE 1 in the signal path if a signal is patched into the WAVE 1 audio input.

Snappy Architecture

• The SNAPPY generator features a voltage-controlled noise oscillator reminiscent of vintage 8-bit computers. Small variations in pitch can produce dramatic changes in the overall sound produced by this unique oscillator.
• This section of the Machine complements the MEMBRANE by adding a decaying noise element to the mix. The decay is voltage controllable.
• The CLICK generator derives its sound from the same source as the SNAPPY, but its volume is adjusted independently.
• Should you tire of the internal noise generator, virtually any sound source can be injected into the signal path by plugging into the SNAPPY IN.

Eurorack Ready

• Width: 29 HP
• Depth: 1.2" / 30 mm
• Includes power ribbon cable with 16-pin Eurorack power headers and mounting screws
• Power Consumption: +12V: 139mA, -12V: 115mA