Super SynthesisPHRSR Knob Recorder

In this episode of the 62HP series, we’ve loaded up our Intellijel Palette case with a plethora of cool modules from Super Synthesis, alongside a few other key modules to build out a Pingable Percussion instrument. For our purposes, a “ping” is a gate or trigger signal that will be used for things like triggering internal envelopes or resetting the phase of clock rates.

The centerpiece of this system is the PHRSR from Super Synthesis, a two-channel phrase recorder that captures knob movements in sequences up to 16 steps in length. One thing which makes this module unique is that the external clock input doesn’t override the internal clock, but rather it performs a hard sync reset that can be manipulated to create swing, syncopations, and other metric transformations. Also from Super Synthesis, we’re running dual 2OPFM modules for percussive FM sounds, the VCAR for CV controllable attack-release envelopes, and the ISO two-band DJ-style EQ.

We’ve also chosen a few multi-functional modules to give our compact Eurorack system a bit more versatility. The ever-flexible Ornament and Crime, malleable Pique from After Later Audio (based upon Peaks from Mutable Instruments), and the Milky Way multi-effects module by Endorphin.es help this little box pack a punch well above its weight. For sequencing, we’re relying upon the trusty SQ1 from Korg, and a special edition PO-133 Street Fighter Pocket Operator from Teenage Engineering processed by the Ritual Electronics Guillotine adds some additional sonic accompaniment.

In the wide world of modular synthesizers it can be daunting deciding where to start, and scrounging up the funds to take the plunge can pose an obstacle to many.
So in this video our pal Wes shows us a few of his favorite tactics for planning a budget modular system under $500 !