Vita Synths 4X-AT-85 mkII is a new 4-channel 8-bit drum module for Eurorack, featuring per-channel mixing and send-return FX loop.
Starting with a modular drum synth can quickly become very expensive. Additionally, it can occupy a significant amount of rack space, as a separate module is required for each instrument (e.g., kick, snare).
A more clever solution is to use a module that already includes some voices or a complete drum voice with everything, like the one from Endorphin.es, for example. For a relatively small price of 159€, the Czech developer Vita Synth offers the new 4X-AT-85 mkII, a drum module featuring four drum voices and more.
Vita Synths 4X-AT-85 mkII
4X-AT-85 is a new and updated version of Vita Synths’ 4-channel, 8-bit drum module for Eurorack, based on four ATtiny85 microchips. According to the developer, there is now drum triggering at the start of each pulse, eliminating any delay.
The module features four distinct channels: kick, snare, hi-hat, and perc, each offering four selectable, fixed Lo-Fi samples (4×4). Vita Synths promises that they sound much better thanks to the saved space.
There doesn’t seem to be a way to change the samples, but you can tweak them with a pitch knob and with filters. Yes, there are filters.
Each channel has a precisely tuned lowpass filter that preserves more of the details and the 8-bit glitch shrieks. Plus, there is a second, switchable lowpass filter stage per channel.
The new version also features an OPA2134PA-based operational amplifier, giving the mkII a warm tone even though the new samples are punchy and loud.
Then, each channel offers a trigger input with protection against negative voltage. This allows you to experiment safely and even trigger drums with a bipolar LFO.
A highlight of the module is the built-in send-return FX loop connectivity, allowing for further shaping of the drum sounds with external effects.
First Impression
At first glance, this is a beautiful, characterful drum module that offers a relatively inexpensive entry into the world of modular drums, at 37.25€ per voice. Four samples per voice may not be many, but they are certainly sufficient for beginners.
Vita Synths 4X-AT-85 mkII is available now for 159€ with shipping from the Czech Republic.
More information here: Vita Synths (Etsy)
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