Waldorf waves hello to the ‘Eurorack Pack’ at The NAMM Show 2016

REMAGEN, GERMANY: high-quality synthesizer developer Waldorf Music is proud to introduce its so-called ‘Eurorack Pack’ — a stylish, state-of-the-art, self-contained modular synth system, comprising the kb37 CONTROLLER KEYBOARD and three colourful new modules for the ever-present Eurorack format to accompany the already-available nw1 WAVETABLE MODULE launched last year — at The NAMM Show 2016, January 21-24 in Anaheim, California, USA…

More and more synthesizer enthusiasts are acknowledging the ever-present Eurorack small-format modular system that is increasingly popularised (and heavily populated) by an ever-growing band of merry manufacturers — both ‘boutique’ or otherwise — now numbering hundreds worldwide. Waldorf Music made its grand Eurorack entrance last year when introducing its innovative nw1 WAVETABLE MODULE — providing the worshipped wavetable set from the company’s classic (discontinued) Microwave and Wave synthesizers, speech synthesis, user wavetable creation, and much more besides — to widespread critical acclaim. And having done that, what would you do next?

Now that collecting Eurorack modules is an ‘addiction’ — albeit one filled with much musical merriment, where discerning musicians can creatively customise their modular synth setup as and when the need (and money) arises — albeit without spending a huge amount of money all at once, why not raise an entire family of stylish, state-of-the-art Eurorack modules? Meet the all-new Waldorf Music members…

Three different modulation sources in one module make the mod1 MODULATOR MODULE the control centre of any ‘Eurorack Pack’ patch. From simple envelopes and LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators) to complex looped multistage curves, the mod1 MODULATOR MODULE delivers rich and endless modulation options — and all based on pure analogue circuitry for everything from super-smooth curves to razor-sharp edges that still sound far from ‘digital’. From gently undulating LFOs to ultra-precise hard cuts, here it is innovative analogue circuitry all the way for a truly musical touch!

The dvca1 DUAL VCA MODULE is built around two VCAs (Voltage-Controlled Amplifiers) with a wide range of options, including the most important one of all: an ability to musically colour the signal. Starting in dry mode results in high-precision analogue amplification, and turning the Colour knob adds a warmer and more colourful timbre to the signal based on a finely-crafted state variable filtering circuit. But beyond that, simultaneous Linear and Exp (exponential) control as well as specialised AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) coupled inputs are also provided. Positive Gain control makes the dvca1 DUAL VCA MODULE a true ‘amplifier’ and flexible Linked modes make modulated panning perfectly possible.

The cmp1 COMPRESSOR MODULE is a true high-end analogue compressor that not only adds punch to the signal path, but can also be modulated in intriguing and unconventional ways! Side-chaining with an adjustable Balance control opens up a huge set of modular possibilities. Put it this way: the cmp1 COMPRESSOR MODULE has all the features expected from a modern compressor, including Attack and Release controls, Auto (automatic) and Man (manual) modes, Hard and Soft knee, as well as output Gain and Bleed amount of the original signal.

Saying that, the developers went one stage further with the kb37 CONTROLLER KEYBOARD, comfortably accommodating (and providing power for) all four of those Waldorf Music modules. It can helpfully house up to 100 HP of Eurorack modules in its conveniently-angled panel sitting atop a 37-note, full-sized Fatar TP9 keyboard, featuring a super-high-quality key-bed that transmits velocity and aftertouch. As such, the kb37 CONTROLLER KEYBOARD provides extremely flexible control for any mounted modules, thanks to its high-resolution, temperature-stable 16-bit CV (Control Voltage) interface. Moreover, MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) channel is programmable, positioning the kb37 CONTROLLER KEYBOARD as the perfect partner for studio and stage usage alike. As well as providing perfect connectivity, capably serving performing players and sound designers’ desires with an array of realtime control elements such as PITCH and MODULATION wheels, the kb37 CONTROLLER KEYBOARD is compact and easy to transport — just like a conventional synthesizer keyboard, bringing both style and reliability to any performance setup.

So, Meine Damen und Herren, Ladies and Gentleman, please put your hands together to welcome Waldorf Music’s ‘Eurorack Pack’ to the production and performance table. Fill it at your leisure for your musical pleasure — preferably with Waldorf Music modules… oscillate (with the critically- acclaimed nw1 WAVETABLE MODULE), modulate (using the new mod1 MODULATOR MODULE), amplify (dvca1 DUAL VCA MODULE), and compress (cmp1 COMPRESSOR MODULE)!

The ‘Eurorack Pack’ will be being showcased on Waldorf Music’s booth (#6009) in Hall A at The NAMM Show 2016, January 21-24 in Anaheim, California. Come check it out!