u-he CEN2RION is a new 6-channel DC-coupled scanning mixer module for Eurorack with advanced routing options: available now
The Berlin-based company u-he is well known in the plugin space. The team has also been diligently developing Eurorack modules for several years. The first modules, such as CVilization and Wiretap, are already on the market.
Another, which has been shown several times as a prototype at trade fairs, is now also available. More precisely, it’s the u-he CEN2RION, a unique mixer module.
u-he CEN2RION
The module is not another traditional mixer but one with exciting modular sound design possibilities.
u-he CEN2RION is a 6-channel mixer with DC-coupled inputs that works equally with audio and CV. In addition to its classic mixing duties, the module’s highlight feature is the powerful scanning functionality.
According to the developers, it has its own unique idea of a scanning mixer. That starts with the controls. Instead of startic level knobs, it builds its foundation on two layers, A and B.
They share the same six inputs but mix to separate mono outputs, which makes the module more than just a regular summing stage. It can be described as a router that can reconfigure itself in motion.
Two parameters per channel: SELECT chooses the channel focus while WIDTH broadens it to neighboring inputs. Think of it as sliding a window across your sources, smooth and click-free thanks to a Vactrol-style release curve.
Three Operation Modes
CEN2RION has three operation modes. In DUAL mode, layers A and B are entirely independent of each other. Each output is determined only by its own controls and CV inputs.
Then, in LINK mode, B follows A with bipolar offsets, which makes it easy to turn six mono sources into a stereo field, for example. SPLIT mode, on the other side, divides the inputs into two groups of three: layer A for 1-3, and layer B for 4-6. This is neat for stereo pairs or parallel routings.
Every parameter has a CV input with an attenuator, allowing you to animate the scanning. Another clever addition is the AUX sockets, which can be used as both inputs and outputs. You can either feed external signals directly into the mix or route fixed submixes of channels 1-3 and 4-6.
What makes it even more interesting is that the u-he CEN2RION can use both audio and CV signals. This allows you to mix CV signals after the scanning system, thus achieving advanced dynamic modulation sources.
First Impression
I must admit that I’ve only ever used traditional mixers in my Eurorack system. The possibilities offered by a scanning mixer, and CEN2RION itself, sound appealing, as you can route signals (audio and CV) very creatively, something that’s impossible with traditional mixers.
u-he CEN2RION is available now for 399€ at retailers like Schneidersladen and Perfect Circuit.
More information here: u-he
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