Erica Synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine, mighty drum synth module is back

February 7, 2024 Synth Anatomy Eurorack, Hardware, News 0

In collaboration with the original developers, Erica Synths has brought the mighty Hexinverter Mutant Machine drum synth module back to life.

In September 2022, the Boutique company Hexinverter Electronique went out of business. A news that shocked the Eurorack world. But a modular angel came and saved part of the company. It was Erica Synths who agreed to take over some of the best-selling and famous modules.

With the Mutain Brain interface, the experimental Mindphaser complex VCO, and the VCNO, three modules have already made a comeback in 2023. Today, it’s time for another big one. Welcome back Mutant Machine.

Erica Synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine

Mutant Machine is a remake of the original Hexinverter module. Like the original, it’s an all-analog percussion module, using discrete components and ICs for a distinctly analog sound. Redesigned, and still no microcontrollers are used.

The membrane section is the main body based on two unique inverter core oscillators, each with three waveforms. They offer oscillator 2 detune, decay envelopes for the pitch, and sound and additional voltage-controlled scanning.

You can animate the wave scanning via the clock generator, the VCO, or external signals. With this, you can archive various complex timbres.

Then, the snappy section adds to the timbre by contributing noisy elements to the mix via a voltage-controlled noise oscillator. It has an adjustable noisy click, occurring at the beginning of the snappy sound. It has its own decay envelope and pitch control.

Both sections are summed in the final output with an additional drive. There is also a manual trigger button.

Full Modular

Things only get exciting and profound when you explore the patch capabilities of the module. Both membrane and snappy parts have an external input for replacing the built-in sound sources, opening the door for new sonic adventures.

Mutant Machine also features 13 control voltage audio inputs for a fully modular drum experience. Everything from trigger inputs up to CV control over the parameters is onboard. Additionally, you get seven audio and CV/gate outputs for perfect integration in other modules.

Further, it has dedicated outputs for each wave and noise oscillator, which means you can use the module as a complex VCO in your system when not active as a drum synth. So two modules in one.

Erica Synths and Hexinverter’s drum synth module is capable of a wide range of rich-sounding drum and percussive sounds. From classic 909-style house kicks, snares, and unique percussions to weird alien sounds.

First Impression

Many Eurorack users are happy about this remake. The Mutant Machine has long been considered one of the most versatile drum synth modules on the market. Now it’s returning as a regular product. Great to see it back on the market.

Erica Synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine is available now for 320€ + VAT + shipping.

More information here: Erica Synths

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