BlaknBlu has released mk2 versions of its Eurorack modules: Oscar Tria, DSF, Foxtrot Duo filter, and Alpha Duo VCA, with new designs and improved feature sets.
In April 2024, the British developer company BlaknBlu first made a name for itself. Among other things, he released the Oscar, Foxtrot, and Alpha Duo modules in their first two years.
Great modules, but their ergonomics weren’t quite perfect for me. BlakBlu has now released the MK2 series, which makes the modules more aesthetically pleasing and offers other refinements.
BlaknBlu Mk2
The following BlaknBlu modules have received Mk2 versions: OSCAR TRIA2, OSCAR DSF2, FOXTROT DUO 2, and ALPHA DUO 2.
Even though the modules remain at 10HP, they now feature a more attractive and inviting faceplate. According to BlaknBlu, they have totally redesigned the analog electronics, resulting in new knobs and jack positions.
They promise that they still have the same great sound of the original modules, but thanks to the redesign, they have more space to accommodate more CVs and controls. I much prefer the new design.
Like the Mk I, all the modules are stereo, but they can now be switched to mono – summing their outputs for easier integration into mono signal flows. All interfaces share the same layout, indicating they are based on a single platform.
The MK2 Modules
Here is a little summary of each module:
Oscar Tria MK2 is a stereo oscillator that consists of 25 oscillators, where each can be swept from sawtooth through triangle to square (PWM).
It has different modes: swarm for super-saws, stereo VCO with sinusoidal wavefolder, and chord mode with 20 built-in chords that can be stretched over five octaves.
Oscar DSF Mk2 is a stereo, complex VCO that delivers everything from deep FM basses to classic DX-style bells, tings, and clangs to dark drones and more. There is again the green mode, giving you two oscillators for true stereo outputs.
Like the MK1, it also has a built-in VCA, but now with an additional VCA CV attenuator.
The new Mk2 version now features a dedicated VCA CV attenuator for when you are driving the VCA from the Partials CV inputs, as well as a new dedicated VCA CV input.
Foxtrot Duo MK2: is a stereo VCF with three classic filters: ladder Minimoog, Sallen & Key MS-20, and state variable Oberheim SEM.
Each filter sweeps from bandpass to low-pass, then to high-pass incl. notch, plus there is a 12dB input boost for driving it harder. The new MK2 comes with a dedicated V/oct input for improved keyboard tracking.
Alpha Duo Mk2 is a stereo VCA with a warm, valve-emulation overdrive and a harder, clipping-style overdrive. Flip the response switch to 4-quadrant, and Alpha Duo2 becomes a ring modulator.
In 4S mode, each of the two stereo channels operates independently, with its own CVs. New in the MK2 version is a CV input for the overdrive level and a handy 6dB input boost.
There are no videos available for the Mk2 versions yet. Here’s one from the Mk1 version:
First Impression
It’s great to see that the BlaknBlu modules now look better. The extra features are also a welcome addition.
The new BlaknBlu Mk2 modules are now available in the UK for £305 including VAT.
More information here: BlaknBlu
Be the first to comment