DIY Braids (Black Magpie Panel)

Braids, a voltage-controlled monophonic digital sound source, is a synthesis history book in module form. It provides synthesis models of all the most famous and respected synthesizers throughout synthesis history, from Analog models, to rich FM and wacky wavetables and drum sounds. Each synthesis technique is chosen with the encoder knob, which can easily shift from style to style. The Timbre and Color knobs provide variations to the tone of each synthesis model. Most often, Color is a type of filter, while Timbre effects the waveshape style. Very often, these parameters simultaneously affect several dimensions of timbre, creating very complex movements which would be hard to generate with a traditional setup.

Within each synthesis model, there are a whole bank of parameters that can be adjusted using the encoder knob, including Bit-Depth, Sample Rate, a built in VCA and envelope combo, Quantization, Octave switching, as well as a few other more specific parameters.

Most of the timbres it generates are so complex that approaching them with a classic analog modular setup would require a full case of oscillators, filters, VCAs, waveshapers and ring-modulators – that’s why we call it a macro-oscillator – intricate digital synthesis algorithms wrapped in oscillator’s clothes. 

Braids Features

Braids is much more than just a sound source and boasts an incredible selection of over 40 synthesis models. For an in-depth look at what Braids is capable of, check out the official Mutable Braids Manual.

The full kit includes everything you need, and the processor is pre-flashed with the latest firmware at the time of kitting.
PCB + Panel Bundle includes the panel and the synthCube PCB (blue PCB material and immersion gold finish).

Braids Specs

• Format: Eurorack
• 16hp wide
• 5V voltage source needed (for example Mutable Instruments Volts)
• All inputs: 100k impedance, DC to 4kHz
• 12-bit CV capture
• 96kHz, 16-bit audio processing (some algorithms 2x or 4x oversampled)
• Cortex-M3 ARM processor
• Open-source hardware and firmware
• Easy firmware updates through an audio interface
• +12V: 15mA current draw
• -12V: 15mA current draw
• +5V: 85mA current draw