ALM/Busy Circuits have just introduced another two Eurorack modules, delivering a powerful new modulator that builds on the success of the Quaid Megaslope, and a compact two-operator FM voice.
Quaid Gigaslope
The first of the new modules, the Quaid Gigaslope, is described as a four-channel multi-mode modulator, with each of its channels capable of outputting a variable staged slope that can act as a complex envelope, flexible LFO or step sequence. Each slope can contain up to 13 independent or overlapping stages, and can be triggered or run freely, with control over their levels, durations and curves possible via local panel controls or CV signals. The output range of each slope can be set and optionally quantised to musical scales, while trigger outputs are available at the end of each stage and at the completion of a slope.
As its name suggests, the latest arrival builds on the capabilities of the company’s Megaslope module, and is said to easily cover everything from standard envelope duties to quantised sequencing and LFO tasks. It’s been designed to encourage more experimental use, with its overlapping slopes, self-modulation and cross-channel interaction often leading to more distinctive, unexpected and improvised results.
Key Features
- Quad multi-mode modulator with complex Envelope ,LFO and Step Sequencer modes.
- 13 modulation stages shared or split between slopes.
- Per-stage dedicated Level,Time and Curve controls.
- Per-slope Quantiser with 19 different scales.
- Selectable output ranges of ±5V, 0–5V or 0–2.5V.
- Assignable EOC (End of Cycle) or EOS (End of Stage) trigger outputs.
- Four freely assignable CV inputs.
- AXONCV expander support for four additional CV inputs.
- Fun, performance-oriented interface, well suited to ‘happy accidents’.
- All states preserved across power cycles.
- USB-C for quick and easy ‘drag-and-drop’ firmware updates.
- Skiff-friendly with reverse power protection.
- Two-Year Warranty.
- Made in England.
Tech Specs
- Size: 52HP
- Power: +12V 380mA / -12V 30mA
- Depth: 32mm (approx)
FMco
The FMco is a compact FM synth voice based on two-operator FM synthesis DSP implementation, and draws its inspiration from company’s Akemie modules, albeit tuned for more immediate use and a more modern sound.
The modules offers both manual and voltage control over its FM Index and Ratio controls, as well as a selection of classic operator waveforms, delivering a wide palette of FM sounds. a built-in decay envelope is routed to both FM depth and output level, allowing the FMco to function as a full synth voice when triggered. It also includes CV-controlled four-voice chords, an encoder-based tuning system and a stereo-widened output.
Key Features
Two-operator FM synthesizer voice with direct and voltage controlled parameters.- Eight operator waveshapes with direct and CV control with attenuator.
- FM index offset with direct and CV control with attenuverter.
- Ratio control with lock switch for both free and precise operator ratios.
- Trigger input for simple built-in decay envelope internally connected to index level and output VCA level.
- Easy, quick and accurate tuning via an encoder control.
- Direct and voltage controllable chord mode with inversion and up to four voices.
- Left and Right outputs with stereo-widening effect.
- USB-C for quick and easy ‘drag-and-drop’ firmware updates.
- Skiff-friendly with reverse power protection.
- Two-Year Warranty.
- Made in England.
Tech Specs
- Size: 8HP
- Power: +12V 65mA / -12V 25mA
- Depth: 32mm
Pricing & Availability
Both the Quaid Gigaslope and FMco are available now, priced at £699 and £239 respectively. Prices include VAT.
