First, enjoy this poem about Mutable Instruments Plaits then read about the new and perhaps final update to one of the best eurorack modules in existence.
Music makers, hear my song
Of a synthesizer, Plaits, that won't go wrong
exquisite hardware and software anew
like ol’ Braids, all the sounds you knew
Simplicity reigns supreme
No screens or menus to be seen
Three timbre-shaping parameters per model
Make Plaits easy to use and control
Perfect for percussion too
Trigger input allows pop-pow come through
Built-in virtual low-pass gate
Enables Plaits to be a percussive mate
Versatile, user-friendly, Plaits is the key
A wide range of sounds, for you and me
Main and aux outputs, different flavors too
A valuable addition, to any synthesizer crew
The newest update adds several new synthesis modes and of course DX-7 patch support.
Classic waveshapes with filter: This model allows users to create classic waveshapes with adjustable resonance and filter character. It includes four parameters: HARMO (resonance and filter character), TIMBRE (filter cutoff), MORPH (waveform and sub level), and OUT (LP output). It also includes an AUX output with a 12dB/octave HP output.
Phase distortion and modulation: This model allows users to create sounds using phase distortion and modulation techniques. It includes three parameters: HARMO (distortion frequency), TIMBRE (distortion amount), and MORPH (distortion asymmetry). The OUT output features sync'd carrier (phase distortion), while the AUX output features free-running carrier (phase modulation).
Banks 3, 4, and 5 are the 2-voice Yamaha DX-7 patches, 6-operator FM synth with 32 presets: This model is a two-voice, six-operator FM synth with 32 preset sounds to choose from. It includes three parameters: HARMO (preset selection), TIMBRE (modulator(s) level), and MORPH (envelope and modulation stretching/time-travel). The two voices are alternatively triggered whenever a trigger is received on the TRIG input. When the TRIG input is not patched, a single voice plays as a drone, and the MORPH knob allows time-travel along the envelopes and modulations. The LEVEL input can be used as a velocity control, controlling loudness or timbre depending on how each preset is programmed. There are three banks of 32 presets available: basses/synths, keyboards/plucked strings/percussions, and organs/pads/strings/brass.
Bank 2 of DX-7 Patches
Bank 3 of DX-7 Patches
Wave terrain synthesis: This model allows users to create sounds using wave terrain synthesis and continuous interpolation between eight 2D terrains. It includes four parameters: HARMO (terrain), TIMBRE (path radius), MORPH (path offset), and OUT (direct terrain height). The AUX output features terrain height interpreted as phase distortion (sin(y+z)).
String machine emulation with stereo filter and chorus: This model allows users to create sounds that emulate a string machine with a stereo filter and chorus. It includes three parameters: HARMO (chord), TIMBRE (chorus/filter amount), and MORPH (waveform). The OUT output features voices 1&3 predominantly, while the AUX output features voices 2&4 predominantly.
Four variable square voices for chords or arpeggios: This model allows users to create chords or arpeggios using four variable square voices. It includes three parameters: HARMO (chord), TIMBRE (arpeggio type or chord inversion), and MORPH (PW/Sync). The OUT output features square wave voices, while the AUX output features a NES triangle voice. The TIMBRE attenuverter allows users to adjust the envelope shape. To use the arpeggiator, users can simply plug in a trigger input to clock it.
Sadly, Mutable Instruments have closed their doors but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a MI Plaits clone. Mutable has made all of their wonderful eurorack modules open source. Plaits offers a wide range of synthesis techniques for users to explore and create with. Whether you're looking to create classic waveshapes or emulate a string machine, Plaits has something for you.
Download the firmware here: https://forum.mutable-instruments.net/t/plaits-firmware-update/20719
Written by Matthew Piecora (aka EZBOT)