Expert Sleepers Cicely, a new CV-controllable octave fuzz FX module and the latest disting EX firmware, adds a 4-voice spectral freezer algorithm.
Expert Sleeper’s specialty is the digital level. With its disting module, Andrew Ostler (Os) created an epic multi-functional module with a massive selection of algorithms. The Disting EX took his work to the next level with more sophisticated algorithms.
Analog is also a thing for Expert Sleepers. In the past 2 years, Os released some new analog modules with novel concepts. With Cicely, the next analog module is now available
Expert Sleepers Cicely
Cicely is a new 8HP octave fuzz FX module for Eurorack. It’s all analog and is inspired by the legendary Octavia guitar pedal by Roger Mayer, says Expert Sleepers. Cicely adapts the concept for the modular world by adding CV control over the effect and some extra features.
The effect is essentially one of adding an octave on top of the input note, but this only really applies to pure input tones. Resulting in more complex and varied timbres. On top, it offers the possibility to overdrive the sound for even more wild and edgy. There is also a “green” center knob that adds asymmetrical clipping to your sounds.
An excellent addition is the built-in envelope follower, allowing you to create very dynamic distorted, fuzzy sounds.
On the connection side, it has two audio inputs, three CV ins (gain, center, and mix), audio output, and two envelope follower outs (regular, inverted).
Expert Sleepers Disting EX Update: Spectral Freezer
Back in September, Andrew Ostler (Os) released another big update for the Disting EX. The module grows and grows. The latest firmware adds a powerful 4-voice spectral freezer. It works in the frequency domain and analyses the frequency spectrum of your inputs.
In the algorithm, you can freeze a specific area and create endless soundscapes. A great new algorithm, and there is more new:
- incorporated disting mk4 firmware version 4.26
- changes to the reverb mix in the dream machine algorithms: now smoother that avoids clicks
- the MIDI Player algorithm can now optionally process live MIDI input.
- new accessibility commands to show the algorithm input and output key displays.
- a new setting to disable all MIDI mappings by default.
Finally, there are many fixes for existing algorithms.
First Impression
Distortion FX are still rare in the Eurorack area. An octave fuzz in Eurorack is nice to see. On the other hand, the new spectral freezer is an excellent addition to the Disting FX. I hope there will soon be a version of the Disting with a large display and a better interface.
Expert Sleepers Cicely is available now for UK £159 (inc VAT), US $189 (exclusive of sales tax), EU €154.36 (exclusive of VAT). The Disting EX update is free of charge.
More information here: Expert Sleepers
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