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- Karl
Filter & EQ karl / multi-mode stereo filter / 8 HP ⇣ Karl is an analog multi-mode filter that is loosely based on the KORG MS-10 and MS-20 filters, but has been improved to handle two mono or one stereo audio source. The Resonance can still be varied independently per channel, which is very interesting when using two different audio sources at once. If you want to merge the two audio sources there is a Mix Out next to the two independent outputs per channel. 1/3 key features Analog Dual/Stereo-Filter 4 Filter Modes: LP, HP, Phaser and Overdrive Independent Resonance Control Mix two Mono Signals Mono to Stereo Converter CV Control over Cutoff Frequency CV Attenuator Expander Module Wrong Polarity Protection specs & downloads width: 8 HP depth: 28 mm power: 56 mA @ +12V / 45 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual Karl has four modes: Low Pass Mode: Classic Analog Low Pass Filter High Pass Mode: Classic Analog High Pass Filter Phaser Mode: A small band of frequencies is filtered next to the original signal being passed through Overdrive Mode: If Resonance is increased the filter will quickly jump to overdrive, which creates some nice Harmonics The Modes may be changed via jumpers on the back of the module. In any mode the Cutoff Frequency may be changed via CV. The CV signal can be attenuated with the CV potentiometer. There is also an expander module available. The „Karl Mode Selector“ gives you front panel control over the modes and an alternative audio input for the right channel that can be activated via switch. prev Up next
- uSum
Mixer & VCA μ sum / moog cp3 based 3-channel analog mixer with eq & mute switches / 8 HP ⇣ μSUM is the successor of KNEAD and has an improved circuitry and PCB layout. It was inspired by the famous MOOG CP3-Type Mixer. The circuit adds some nice harmonic distortion to the signal with heavy clipping, if the inputs are turned to the maximum. As the mix is bussed passively turning one input up may result in a reduction of the other inputs. Therefore the output cannot exceed any other input´s level providing auto-leveling on high volumes. 1/3 key features CP3 Transistor-Based Analog Mixer 3 Audio Channels 3x EQ 3x Mute Switch 3x Signal LEDs MIX Volume Skiff friendly Wrong polarity protection specs & downloads width: 8 HP depth: 30 mm power: 56 mA @ +12V / 45 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual There are three potentiometers to adjust the LEVEL for each signal. Additionally you may change the frequencies of each channel by turning the EQ knobs. EQ will boost high frequencies turning the knob clockwise and boost low frequencies turning it counter-clockwise. On top you will find MUTE switches for easy sound comparison or live mixing. LEDs will indicate if a signal is passed through. The LED´s brightness can be set with trim potentiometers for each channel. The MIX VOL knob controls the volume of the summed signal being supplied at the OUT Jack. Knead Expander has been omitted on the μSUM Mixer. prev Up next
- About | ST Modular
ST Modular has garnered acclaim for its DIY Eurorack Modules, which empower users to assemble personalized modular synthesizers using supplied PCBs and components they acquire themselves. ST Modular has garnered acclaim for its DIY Eurorack Modules, which empower users to assemble personalized modular synthesizers using supplied PCBs and components they acquire themselves. The array of modules available spans oscillators, filters, sequencers, mixers, LFOs, envelope generators, effects., but also desktop synthesizers and tools, each meticulously designed by ST Modular to offer exceptional versatility. These modules cater to an extensive range of sound manipulation and modulation possibilities. The origin of these modules traces back to a personal hobby managed by an individual enthusiast. The expertise in electronics and circuit board construction essential for bringing these projects to life was acquired through a blend of book learning, hands-on breadboarding, and engaging conversations with fellow synthesizer enthusiasts. Until today, ST Modular is operated as a non-profit small business, utilizing all revenues to cover costs for prototyping new modules and synthesizers. ST Modular doesn't directly sell its designs, but instead provides licenses to third parties for manufacturing and distribution. Alongside the sale of PCBs, panels, and DIY kits, certain partners of ST Modular also provide fully assembled modules. Stefan Tretau The S and T before Modular Hey! I am Stefan — a multi-faceted individual acknowledged for my roles as a devoted father, a loving husband, and a passionate musician. My journey in the world of music commenced during the early 2000s, where I found myself captivated by the realm of electronic music. Armed with a selection of electronic instruments, including a TB303, MC307, Micro Modular, and Xbase09, I embarked on a creative exploration that would come to define my artistic identity. In due course, my musical endeavors expanded beyond personal exploration. Live performances became an integral part of my artistic expression, and I successfully transitioned to releasing music on esteemed labels such as Heimatmelodie, Karmarouge, Fortek, Broque, and Night Drive, etching my presence into the electronic music landscape. Sometime around 2010, I took the step of founding my own label, ST RECORDS . The journey began with the vinyl release "Whatever Happened," and to this day, it remains the platform through which I share my music with the world. Yet, my interests transcended performance and production, leading me down the path of curiosity. In 2015, a pivotal juncture in my journey arrived when I grasped the intricate mechanics behind sound generation, particularly concerning Schmitt Triggers and Operational Amplifiers. This understanding marked the genesis of a fresh chapter, propelling me into a phase of self-guided learning encompassing circuit board design, soldering techniques , and culminating in the construction of my first DIY effect pedals. The allure of the "do-it-yourself" ethos grew stronger, prompting me to deepen my knowledge, craft my own schematics, and experiment with prototypes on breadboards. As my passion for modular synthesizers burgeoned, I embarked on a new venture in 2017 — designing my own Eurorack modules, such as "Switched", "Triple Tom", "Cyllene" and "Franz". The positive reception and subsequent demand from the DIY community inspired me to take the next step. Recognizing the enthusiasm for recreating these modules, I made front panels and circuit boards accessible through pushermanproductions.com. This marked the genesis of ST MODULAR , an endeavor driven not by commercial aspirations but by a desire to innovate within the modular synthesis landscape. Unlike the usual practices in the industry, ST Modular is more about pursuing a personal artistic vision for me than fulfilling the wishes and ideas of others. I prioritize uncharted functionalities and distinctive designs, unfettered by market trends. This approach enables me to cater to my own artistic instincts while fostering a sense of community engagement among fellow enthusiasts. ST Modular remains a project driven solely by passion, devoid of profit-oriented objectives . Witnessing individuals create music using modules I've conceived brings me immense satisfaction, encapsulating the essence of artistic camaraderie. The crux of my journey lies in the harmony of music, where notes and circuits converge to create a symphony that resonates beyond temporal confines. Thank you for visiting these pages, Stefa n Up
- Duck
Mixer & VCA duck / duck ing module / 4 HP ⇣ If you ever have an issue with an overcrowded and muddy mix or you just want to achieve that „sidechaining-sound“, DUCK will bail you out without any signal compression. 1/3 key features Duck ing/Sidechaining Module Amount Control Duck ing Envelope Controls CV Input Wrong polarity protection specs & downloads width: 4 HP depth: 40 mm power: 35 mA @ +12V / 25 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual DUCK is a duck ing or sidechaining module that reduces the level of an audio signal when a CV GATE signal is applied. Trigger CV will work, but then you won´t be able to create slow duck ings. The module has four potentiometers that control the way the signals is „ duck ed“: AMOUNT sets the overall effect of level reduction. Fully counter-clockwise the level will be released to a maximum amount possible. Fully clockwise there is no level reduction at all. This lets you smoothly fade out the duck ing effect which is very useful in live situations. It also give you control over how much of the inserted signal should be reduced in level. HOLD determines the length of level reduction when the gate signal at the GATE input jack is high. If HOLD is turned to the left you will have a rather „plucky“ type of level reduction. RISE sets the amount of fade-in that‘s applied to level reduction. The more you turn RISE to the right, the slower duck ing is introduced, when gate is high. You can create some really slow fade outs with large rise values. The potentiometer is pretty sensitive here, leave it fully counter-clockwise to have short duck ings. FALL sets the mount of time the signal needs to fully recover from level reduction. In conjunction with RISE you may create some very slow fade-in and fade-outs with these controls. Obviously you can also set both to a very quick and responsive level reduction, especially if you are using duck ing together with a kick drum. Two LEDs indicate the signal level (left LED) and the level of signal reduction (right LED). Additionally you may control level reduction via CV. Any positive signal patched into the CV input will reduce the level of a signal applied to the IN jack. If you use the CV jack, HOLD, RISE and FALL will have no further effect. prev Up next
- Tricay
Modulation & Random tricay / tripple decay / 6 HP ⇣ Seamlessly trigger three versatile Decay Envelopes by patching a single trigger. 1/3 key features 3x Decay Trigger Multiplier LED indication Skiff friendly Wrong polarity protection specs & downloads width: 6 HP depth: 28 mm power: 38 mA @ +12V / 15 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual When you connect a trigger signal to TRIG 1, it's distributed to all three Decay Envelopes. This connection is disrupted when another cable is plugged into TRIG 2 or TRIG 3, allowing for independent triggering of the envelopes if desired. Adjust the decay length using the three potentiometers, spanning from quick and snappy to prolonged and release-like. This versatility suits a variety of sounds, including synth lines and percussions. The status of each Decay Envelope is conveniently displayed through an LED indicator. Voltage is generated and accessible via OUT 1, OUT 2, and OUT 3 jacks, providing options for modulation and sound generation in your setup. Furthermore, by inputting a trigger signal into TRIG 1 and configuring all decay settings fully counter-clockwise, Tricay can function as a Trigger Multiplier, expanding its utility and creative potential. prev Up next
- Midi Thru | ST Modular
MIDI THRU serves as an operational MIDI multiplier, enabling a 1 to 5 connection, utilizing 3.5mm TRS jacks. In contemporary times, numerous devices incorporate TRS jacks for their MIDI connectivity. To establish connections with standard MIDI cables, you would require 3.5mm stereo audio jack plugs to MIDI DIN 5-pin adapters. Additionally, the majority of MIDI tools are exclusively designed with traditional MIDI DIN jacks. This is where the functionality of MIDI THRU becomes evident. midi thru / active 1x5 trs midi thru / 0 HP ⇣ MIDI THRU serves as an operational MIDI multiplier, enabling a 1 to 5 connection, utilizing 3.5mm TRS jacks. In contemporary times, numerous devices incorporate TRS jacks for their MIDI connectivity. To establish connections with standard MIDI cables, you would require 3.5mm stereo audio jack plugs to MIDI DIN 5-pin adapters. Additionally, the majority of MIDI tools are exclusively designed with traditional MIDI DIN jacks. This is where the functionality of MIDI THRU becomes evident, allowing direct connections between your TRS MIDI devices without necessitating adapter cables. key features USB MIDI THRU 1 Input, 5 Outputs A or B-Type TRS Input LED Indication Plug & Play USB Powered Optional TRS-Switch for the Outputs 0HP Desktop-Tool documents Optional TRS-Switch (Type A ↔ Type B): description / manual There is one MIDI input which is switchable from TRS MIDI Type A (this is the new standard used by KORG, Make Noise, AKAI and IK Multimedia) to TRS MIDI type B (this is the old alternative standard used by Arturia, Novation or 1010Music) by means of a push button. The input signal is actively multiplied to 5 TRS-Type A outputs. An LED indicates if a MIDI signal is being processed. MIDI THRU is powered via USB-C. Since it is an active device, it can only be used in one direction. Therefore, the outputs cannot be used as inputs. If you need a simple TRS-A to TRS-B adapter, please check out the workmate trs switch . Up
- Oberhausen
Oscillator oberhausen / analog complex oscillator / 42 HP ⇣ OBERHAUSEN is a CEM3340 based Dual Voltage Controlled Analog Oscillator designed to create a wide range of complex waveforms. It wasn't designed to offer the most perfect waveforms, but definitely ones with lots of character and grit. OBERHAUSEN features two principle oscillators and two modulation oscillators. 1/3 key features Analog Complex Oscillator 2x CEM3340 based Principal Oscillator 2x Modulation Oscillator 8x Waveform Output Mix Waveforms with 8 Slide Potentiometers Blend Principal Oscillators to One Main Output Create a Wide Range of Different Waveforms Skiff Friendly Wrong Polarity Protection specs & downloads Width: 42 HP Depth: 28 mm Power: 110 mA @ +12V / 90 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual Both principal oscillators offer five different waveforms. Each waveform´s level can be adjusted with a dedicated volume slide potentiometer and is available at a separate output jack. The sum of the OSC1 and OSC2 waveforms can be blended either manually with the large potentiometer in the middle of the module or via CV and is available at the main OUT socket. Each sum is also supplied at the OSC1 and OSC2 output jacks separately (after BLEND). OSC1 (Principal Oscillator) NOISE - White Noise with a fixed high pass filter at 320Hz. SUB - Two Sub-octave waves based on the SAWTOOTH waveform. They can be activated individually with the SUB -1 and SUB-2 switches. PULSE - PULSE waveform with adjustable PULSE-WIDTH via PW knob or CV with a dedicated attenuator PWM CV. TRI/SAW - Either a TRIANGLE or SAWTOOTH waveform according to the TRI/SAW switch. TONE - Accentuates either low or high frequencies of all OSC1 waveforms. FM - FM input for either EXPONENTIAL or LINEAR FM, adjustable via FM switch (mid position is off). V/OCT - 1V per octave input and a precision duplicate output of the incoming CV signal for further external processing. FRONT PANEL CALIBRATION & GAIN - A trimmer potentiometer for V/OCT tuning and OSC GAIN is located on the front side of the module. OSC2 (Principal Oscillator) TRI/SAW - Either a TRIANGLE or SAWTOOTH waveform according to the TRI/SAW switch. PULSE - PULSE waveform with adjustable PULSE-WIDTH via PW knob or CV with a dedicated attenuator PWM CV. OSC1´s PWM CV input is normalized to the OSC2 pulse-width modulation input. TIMBRE - Buchla inspired timbre generator. The timbre setting can be changed with the TIMBRE knob or via the CV input with an attenuator. SINE - Pure and analog SINE wave. FM - Either EXPONENTIAL or LINEAR FM, adjustable via FM switch (mid position is off). Can be generated internally or via external CV. FM VCA - The FM input´s amplification can be controlled via an internal VCA. As soon as a jack is plugged into the FM VCA input jack FM modulation will only be applied in accordance to an incoming CV signal (such as an LFO or Envelope Generator). OSC SYNC - OSC2 can be loosely or tightly synced to OSC1. OVERLOAD - Feedback Distortion with Clipping LED for all OSC2 waveforms. V/OCT - Separate 1V per octave input. OSC1´s 1V/OCT signal is multiplied via a precision buffer and normalized to OSC2´s 1V/OCT input, if no jack is present at the OSC2 V/OCT input. This routing can also be deactivated with the V/OCT INV switch. Additionally the normalized V/OCT signal can be inverted and routed to OSC2, if the V/OCT INV switch is in the down position. FM OSC (Modulation Oscillator) FM OSC only modulates OSC2´s frequency. The RATE can be set with the FM RATE knob. The oscillator´s waveform can be changed from TRIANGLE to OFF to SQUARE WAVE with the FM switch. The amount of modulation applied can be adjusted with the FM CV attenuator, if no jack is plugged into the FM input jack. An LED indicates if FM modulation is active taking any FM VCA modulation into account. With the help of the the FM switch the modulation type can be set to either exponential or linear. MOD OSC (Modulation Oscillator) The MOD OSC is a low frequency oscillator that internally controls BLEND CV, OSC2 TIMBRE CV and OSC1 PWM CV (which is normalized to OSC2 PWM CV). Its RATE can be adjusted with the MOD knob and the final depth is set by the destination CV attenuators BLEND CV, PWM CV and TIMBRE CV. The oscillator´s waveform can be changed from TRIANGLE to OFF to SQUARE WAVE with the MOD switch. MIX & BLEND In order to mix both principal oscillators and their waveforms OBERHAUSEN features two 4-channel mixers and a additional blend mixer. With the help eight dedicated slide potentiometers each waveform´s level can be set. Additionally you can blend between OSC1 and OSC2 either manually, via CV at the BLEND input jack or internally with the MOD OSC and BLEND attenuator. OBERHAUSEN QUICK START GUIDE: OBERHAUSEN_QUICK_START .pdf Download PDF • 453KB prev Up next
- ST Records | Modular Music
In the vibrant tapestry of the music world, a remarkable chapter was written in 2010 when ST RECORDS was brought to life by the visionary German musician, Stefan Tretau. With a resounding debut in the form of "Whatever Happened," etched into the grooves of vinyl, the label embarked on a journey from techno to downbeat that would soon weave its melodies into the digital realm. ST RECORDS RELEASES SHOP PLATFORMS ST MODULAR RELEASES Modular Meditation Catalogue No.: ST019 Welcome to this sonic meditation session. As you settle into a comfortable position, take a deep breath in, and let it out slowly. Close your eyes and begin to let go of any tension in your body. Imagine yourself in a serene place, a sanctuary where you can fully immerse in both Meditation and Daydream . Allow your mind to wander freely, embracing the peace and calm that surrounds you. In this tranquil space, your thoughts can flow like a gentle stream, unbound and free. Now, focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, feeling the air fill your lungs, expanding your chest. As you exhale, release any stress or worries. This simple Activity shifts your Perception , grounding you in the present moment. Notice how each breath draws you deeper into a state of relaxation and awareness. Envision your body entering a state of Recovery and Repair . With each breath, you are rejuvenating every cell, every muscle, every organ. Feel the healing energy flowing through you, mending and revitalizing, bringing balance and harmony. As you continue to breathe deeply, reflect on Productivity and Creativity. These are not opposites but partners in your journey. Visualize your creative ideas taking shape, leading to productive outcomes. Embrace the synergy between these two forces, allowing them to fuel your passions and aspirations. Think about the challenges you have faced and the inner Resilience and Strength you have developed. Picture yourself standing tall, grounded, and unshakeable. Your resilience is a wellspring of power, enabling you to overcome any obstacle and emerge even stronger. Now, let us turn our attention to Rest and Sleep . Imagine yourself sinking into a soft, comforting bed. Feel the weight of the day lifting off your shoulders. Your body and mind are ready to rest, to drift into a peaceful, restorative sleep. Allow yourself to fully relax, knowing that rest is essential for your overall well-being. As this meditation comes to an end, take a moment to appreciate the calm and tranquility you have cultivated. Slowly bring your awareness back to the present moment. Wiggle your fingers and toes, and when you are ready, gently open your eyes. Carry the peace and insights from this session with you, and remember that you can return to this sanctuary within yourself whenever you need. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! Bleak Drear Catalogue No.: ST018 Debuting Stefan Tretau's newest release, this collection features four pulsating techno tracks that are bound to command the dancefloor. Immerse yourself in the relentless beats and cutting-edge production, as each track unfolds a distinct sonic journey within the realm of techno. Feel the relentless energy with "Binary Strain," a track that fuses mechanical precision with an infectious groove. Let the binary patterns guide you through a journey of rhythmic complexity. Experience a sonic transformation with "Entropy Shift," where evolving textures and relentless percussion create a dynamic shift in the techno spectrum. Brace yourself for a journey into controlled chaos. Delve into the depths of techno melancholy as "Fragmented Discord," sets the tone with brooding rhythms and atmospheric undertones, capturing the essence of introspective intensity. Concluding the release with "Sullen Remains", immerse yourself in a cacophony of fragmented sounds meticulously arranged into a cohesive techno symphony. Witness the discord harmonize in this mesmerizing finale. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! Fatal Contradiction Catalogue No.: ST017 Introducing the latest release from Stefan Tretau, featuring two electrifying tracks that are sure to ignite the dancefloor. This digital release showcases the best of their signature sound, blending pounding techno beats with innovative production techniques to create a unique and immersive experience. The first track, Fatal, is a relentless journey into the depths of techno. The driving bassline and driving percussion will keep you moving until the very end. The second track, Contradiction, is a true masterclass in production. The intricate rhythms and pulsating synth stabs create a sense of urgency that is impossible to resist, while the infectious groove keeps the energy high from start to finish. With this release, Stefan Tretau demonstrates their versatility and skill as producers, delivering two tracks that are perfectly crafted for the dancefloor. Whether you're a die-hard techno fan or a newcomer to the genre, this release is a must-have for anyone who loves cutting-edge electronic music. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! Blank Canvas Catalogue No.: ST016 Introducing "Blank Canvas", a stunning techno EP that transports you into a realm of futuristic soundscapes and pulsating beats. Expertly crafted by producer Stefan Tretau, this collection of five tracks is an exploration of the intersection between technology and music that pushes the boundaries of what is possible with the genre. The opening track "Rosa Sparks" is already captivating with driving rhythms and hypnotising synths that transport the listener to a darkly lit city of the future. "Snacks" explores the complexity of human emotions and relationships in a world where technology is interwoven with every aspect of our lives. "Retrograde" takes things to a new level with its straightforward beats and catchy synth sounds, while "Absolute Moments" explores the nostalgia of modern techno and its influence on the genre. Finally, "Walk Back" brings the EP to a powerful close with a driving groove and uplifting message of hope and unity. With its expertly produced techno anthems, finely tuned arrangements and pulsating beats, 'Blank Canvas' is an EP that will definitely get you dancing. So put on your dancing shoes and let this EP take you on a journey into the future of techno. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! MOONCAKE Catalogue No.: ST015 Mooncake is a versatile release that moves stylistically between house, deep house and downbeat. Each of the tracks has its own unique character and sets itself apart from the other tracks on the release. „Call me Maybe“ is a forward moving house track that carries through a rolling bassline and floating lead sounds. Classic percussion and well staged breaks are framed by vocal-like pads. „Millennium“ is a classic deep house track with smooth chords and pads. Driving rides underline the sounds and tempt you to tap your foot.„She Said“ follows in the same footsteps and treats the listener with ear candy in every minute. A perfect piece to look out the window while driving. „Obscurity Stars“ has a melancholic character, but does not forget to spice melancholy with a good portion of groove. FM bass sounds meet saxophone pads, rounded off with rarely heard vocal sounds, a great listening experience. The last track called "Luck of the Edge" has equally melancholic qualities, but knows how to break them up with its downbeat-like framework. Interesting vocals, beautiful pads and well-tempered chords form a varied and unique arrangement. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! OSTINATO MODULARE Catalogue No.: ST014 Ostinato Modulare is a collection of modular blueprints, that captivate the listener through repetition and dynamics. It creates its energy as part of the essence of becoming to run in two directions at the same time - the direction of constancy and that of change. This collection, exclusively created with modular or semi-modular synthesizers, does not allow distance and is associated with cognitive insight and far-sighted incomparability. It shows the metaphysical perception that not all pieces of music of the modern modular age are of the same nature and kind, which offers a subtle consolation to the listener. Thus, unlike language, musical expression is not just a convention that has become socially anchored over time and shaped into supposed certainties, but is an expression of true moments and feelings without caring about a certain order. “Music breaks out again and again, forms new structures, it mutates and creates new connections, which nevertheless can always be understood immediately”, Stefan Tretau once said. Hence, with transfigured restraint and withdrawn loudness he has designed an antipole to the omnipresent anger of our times, giving the listener the opportunity to withdraw into an imaginary aviary, at least for a short period of time. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! MIND WORKS Catalogue No.: ST013 Mind Works is a very versatile mini album presenting seven very different tracks from pounding techno to ambient melodies. "Reat" is the beginning and presents itself as a minimal, but impelling techno track that cuts a fine figure on every dance floor. Rolling hats, dark tones and a functional arrangement are the tools for a functional techno track adventure. More dignified and groovy "Mori" continues the album with its very own style. Swinging hats, tribal percussion and housy notes convey a sense of infinity. "Robab", on the other hand, conveys a mysterious mood. Freely floating jazzy sounds and unique percussions carry the listener through a small electronic world of experiences. A piece that sets interesting accents without drifting into the ridiculous. "Lative" begins with a pounding attitude, but unfolds a hypnotic depth that fits wonderfully to passing landscapes. "Itle" lives from a very harsh sounding bassline that works its way through the track. It never stops being waving and meandering keeping the listeners ears busy in every state. In contrast to that pleasant-sounding pad sounds dissolve themselves in an ambivalent atmosphere that's hard to describe. Lovely and incredibly groovy "Bina" heralds the quiet end of the album. The rhythm of the bass line never seems to be static and is part of the organic foundation on which the song is built on. Hypnotic piano sounda and a warming melody in the middle section make this piece a matter of the heart. "Unive" is a melody recording of a modular system. There is no fixed arrangement, no post-production, only raw analogue sounds with all their facets and peculiarities. Here Stefan mainly uses sound generators that he has built himself under his ST Modular imprint creating a piece of loveliness that is hard to beat. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! DIVIDING OUR GRIEF Catalogue No.: ST012 Stefan Tretau returns with his first release in 2016 presenting a very versatile EP on his own label ST Records. Including banging techno tracks and tech-house beats as well as melodic downbeat and experimental-chillout, this release invites you to a sonic adventure. This adventure, however, does not want to be experienced only for the duration of a moment, but asks for a concentration on the ongoing moment. This continuous recurring flow of the specific and unforeseen is the starting point of this EP. Thanks to its catchy rhythm and functional character “Purified Content" makes it easier for the listener to enter a timepiece that is comparable to the rhythm demanding entry into a musical night. It is "Interference on the Rebound" that continues with a merger of the inner world. It sets the world or rather perceives it as reality itself and makes the flowing movement not only to an abstract moment, but a period of time. "Particles" presupposes an awareness of the present´s transience. If you let your inner eye look out of the window you may see the guide posts at an rhythmic interval just as if they had divided our time into units. A track that pushes the possibility of all events completely into the background. “Staring at Histerics" is like a reversed blueprint of our restless present time. Like a solution this track focusses on the physicality and spatiality of the listener, until the organical crackling ending finds a milieu-like transition to the world-closing track "Bijou". Here it dissolves itself, the resonance between the subject and the world, and you may hope to completely escape from the current acceleratorism with its feasible fantasies. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! RADICAL Catalogue No.: ST011 Perhaps "Radical" is the best name for Stefan's first EP in 2015. And that´s just because the style of this publication has changed radically in contrast to his previous releases. Driving beats and rolling synth-sounds move these tracks to the edge of a techno moment. Furnished with chords and melodic moments the first track "Radical" takes the lead. At the beginning this piece doesnt show what will evolve with time. Because in the middle of the track each foot will feel the beat and wants to move on, just to keep pounding with a big grin after the break. "Dissolving" is defined by its straight-driving beat, its grinding sounds and melodic accompaniment as a perfect tool for Dj-use. No innovation award is expected here and no revolution is born, because "Dissolving" just wants to live up to one´s name and dissolve in a mix to be part of a whole. Chords, again Chords, a bit of reverb and much delay - these are the ingredients that make the third title of this EP to a melancholic deep house track. Almost ten minutes seem to be much at first, but in the course of the track this length arises to be a perfect base to mindlessly getting lost in it. "Lacidar” marches to a different drummer. Being less impulsive, but more funky and cozily here, this track provides a melody, which will surely cause earwigs. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! CHIVVY Catalogue No.: ST010 It seems that Stefan Tretau has renounced his past. Parallel to his last release "Set your Mind to Control the Heart of the Sun" his new mini-album "Chivvy" moves again off the beaten track. However, it turns out to be less analog and abstract than the previous album. You may call it crackling-jazzy and floating-melodic, if you want to describe music at all. It seems that a classic house track is not essential for the success of a new release. Ease and melody are his new fashion. Even if this fashion is only a temporary equalization of taste and it will probably not last for too long. He believes lack of imagination to exploit new opportunities is not an option. Only with imagination can he accept the new, rebel against the old, leave the familiar behind and transform the common to the unknown. For Stefan it is impossible to set his own limits a priori. They must be recognized, experienced and perceived. Even if his constant search does not have the goal to enhance the music. At least it satisfies his desire for roots and origin and paves his way forward. Future needs origin, even if it means to reverse the slowness of the origin and the rapidity of the future. Only cessation leads to consciousness. Finally "Chivvy" is not only an expression of an inner trait, but it is a hunt for musical backgrounds. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! SET YOUR MIND TO CONTROL THE HEART OF THE SUN Catalogue No.: ST09 Releasing his new album "Set your Mind to Control the Heart of the Sun" Stefan Tretau explores the subtlety of abstract sounds without any climax and insistence, just for its own sake and the effect of a musical time as a whole. Recently Stefan Tretau feels most comfortable apart from the club-context. Being a forward-thinking producer he is rather interested in the experience of music making and active listening than dance floors with flash lights. A successful development, but also a risky encroachment into the niche. The very first track of the album "Sparks in Ray of Light" sounds like the sun as a symbol of life, the origin of beings and not least as joy of the day and beauty of the sky. It is a shallow kick off with soundscapes and drone sounds, but it also reflects the strength and tightness of rays of sunlight. With the help of musical pleasantness and classical instruments the next three pieces "Lost in a Molecular Cloud", "Luminosity for a Few" and "Contrasting Tendencies" fill the room with the same zestfulness consequentially. Just after this smooth introduction "Substance Necessary" acts as a wake-up call from the happy depth. Its linear and stomping beat walks straight into the rhythm of alleged shady sides. "Fifth Ray of Neve" shows Stefan´s origins and presents itself as a classic deep house track. Supported by pretty chord sounds and analog sound effects it prepares the listener for the most mainstream capable title of the album. Equipped with a vocal, a break in the middle, a solid beat and all that goes with it "The New Solar Silence" spreads a solid tech house atmosphere. But Stefan dares not to return to the club too much as "Corona's Flare" and "Ulysses sample" already explore the vastness of jazzy-analog swing again. Rarely heard sounds and a lot of details keep the tension taut, just until the penultimate appearance of "Sun Soul Supreme" rises up into the basement of the next electronica jazz club. Here you will also find "Faintly Sweet" with its intangible abstract patterns and vivid sounds – a truly abstract ending. This release is not easy, it's versatile, detailed, constant and shallow, but also powerful and abstract. It needs time to listen and a slow approach to get your mind accustomed to it, just like your eyes to the light of the sun. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! RISE UP Catalogue No.: ST08 Less weight, more playfulness, less deepness, more house - perhaps that was Stefan Tretau's intention with his latest EP "Rise Up" on ST_Records. According to the season ST008 rather shines with swinging basslines and cheerful head-banging rhythms, instead of profound chords and pads. "Rise Up" sounds like a wake-up call, an invitation to move. The groovy bassline exudes a direct funk that is pollinated by chords and melodies. In the break a whole swarm of sounds effuses just looking for the best house nectar, only to await the sweet juice of the next perennial in the last part of the track. Even with "Orange Blossom" the piece is carried by the bassline. Slightly stomping and singing with the accompaniment of a thousand-marching bees the strings prepare the listener to the underlying irony of the track, that is being confirmed by the easiness of the melody until the last bar. Oldskoolish and moody “Buckwheat" starts off. The funky carved up 303 Bassline hatches out of its honeycomb in the middle of the song and unfolds its beauty extensively in the contrary held break. Playful and fresh the track leads the swarm to the peripheral areas of any acid moments. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! LOVE, LORE, LOWLINESS Catalogue No.: ST07 Three words whose meaning do not have a high reputation nowadays. People seem to be too much influenced by the ubiquitous fast pace, the media omnipresence of the incomprehension and chronic overconfidence. Love Lore Lowliness is criticising the hedonistic crowd by snapshots of works and polaroids of silence without being sentimental, and as a sideffect, it shows Stefan Tretau's versatility on ST Records. [LOVE] Love is generally known as the strongest feeling of affection and esteem a person can place in another. A state of intimate posture and deep connection that transcends any particular purpose or use. A feeling that is not only met with people, but also things and actions. Love is an explanation of action in full surrender, continuously and over again, regardless of the appreciation obtained. [LORE] The knowledge to understand things and then aligning his action according to it doesnt come out of the blue. It needs some effort you will find this lore as a pay check in the decision fundus. The expectation to get, control and dominate without much struggle is the biggest obstacle - not the perfection of knowledge is important, but the confrontation with the challenge. Whereby also languishing ignorance is a chance for the unexpected. [LOWLINESS] Humility is not the misunderstanding of the submission to the Lord. Without denying this, the term has more useful meanings: humility and the realization that you will not always reach the goal first. Lack of humility and lack of self-confidence to show humility are a breeding ground for disaffection and assault. Only the one who lowers his head once, sees the floor, carrying him constantly. [ALBUM] Whether you are transferring these words directly or indirectly on the album and it´s music, is up to each individual. Regardless of this it becomes clear what is the reason for doing such a work: the love of music creation, the motivation to learn new and the serenity that it will be hardly heard by anyone. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! POLES APART Catalogue No.: ST06 Nothing on earth can be further apart from each other than our poles. Also ST006 takes us to distant worlds, abstract landscapes and deep voyages. Therefore "Poles Apart" is the name of Stefan Tretau´s latest EP on ST_Records and it´s a must for any deep-house-hedonist. The best way to enjoy electronic music is to completely lose yourself in it. With "Poles Apart" that succeeds from the very first minute. Delay dipped Chords continually flow against the incipient beat and let the listener worlds back away. Almost technoid and with rustling hats the second track "Into the Past" starts off. Deep-sounding, almost scratchy chords set up where Poles Apart left off. In this case, the piece remains extremely straightforward and definable, but without losing any tension. "Constancy of Purpose" is like the moment where you fly slowly over a large glacier. Floating and with continuous rhythm ice flies by and one hardly noticed how the flashing percussion describe a size that is only evident at a second glance. "Edge" sounds like cuddling ice floes. Pleasant melodies are accompanied by cracking ice sheets, ice rain pattering follow footstep-like hats and backward-moving pad sounds complete the subtle arrangement that acts as the conclusion of a caressing circular motion. Apparently from another end of the world is "Bugs". With its LFO-pitched bass drum, the staccato guitar sounds, the blips and opening hats, this sound seems like a still unknown arctic being who courts for further attention with its dry and direct bass sounds. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! SOMETIMES I FEEL LIKE A SHRIMP Catalogue No.: ST05 How does it feel to be a shrimp? And when do you know that the time has come? To answer this question Stefan Mallmann 's original crustacean was put through the mill three times on the fifth publication on ST_Records. The original is not at the beginning, because at the end it becomes a real shrimp. So it´s Mallmann 's "Van de Merwe" edit starting with cheerful deep house and walking jauntily into the chord district. Droning vocals that sound like alien calls may be the only reason why you should not freely enjoy the South African sun. Tretau 's "MNU" elaboration appears to be dancing in a square, barely escaping from shearing attacks. Being snappy and percussive this track remains in tech house laboratory and fetches one shrimp after another out of the slum. Slightly metallic and sounding like junkyard stomps, Tretau 's "No Human" remix jumps straight into the battle suit. Technoid sounds and a continuous beat are literally searching for new fuel to fly the shrimp-flight-module. Mallmann 's “Original” has been through all transformations and is finally mutated to the real shrimp. With driving bongo and conga hits, a subtle techouse-crust and distinctive shrimp calls this piece appears to be the mothership on the way to it´s home planet. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! ALTERNATIVES TO SINGULARITY Catalogue No.: ST04 Following his last album success "Yesterday you said tomorrow" on Broque Records in 2011 Stefan Tretau now presents the next album release on his own label ST_Records. "Alternatives to Singularity" is not a logical continuation of his previous work, but rather an evolution and resolution of old structures. Therefore you will miss straight forward beats and the known Tretau-Arragements at first, but instead you get a wonderful mix of Electronica, glitchy Dubstep, Breakbeat and classic Deep House. Nevertheless, despite of Stefan´s temporary reorientation he remains true to himself and carries on combining deep sounds with catchy melodies. As a result, the bassline in the frist track "Hacked Japanese Toilet" is mixed with the moving sounds of the topic to such an extend, that you can hardly escape from its ease and playfulness. Despite of the unabashed beat-framework, the light-heartedness of a summer walk also dominates in the following tracks "How soon is now" and "Lake on to Iceland". "Last Soliloquy" surprises with a classical drum´n bass presentation and releases its happiness thru wonderfully staged guitar recordings, just before "Pencil Nunchakus" jazzy rhythm is floating down the slope like a rich river. With "River as Seen" and "Now Hangs Framed" Stefan then moved back again to his roots. He easily fades from playful rhodes house to dubby deep house. Rhythmically straight and packed with melancholia "Locomotive in Lodz" then opens the last third of the album, where "Digital Dementia" builds a source of recognition values by its unusual sounds. Finally, "Curiosity Sings" is not only the last track of the album, but also a remarkable conclusion that stays as a reminder of good times in your memory. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! COME ON OVER Catalogue No.: ST03 Stefan Tretau strengthens the reactivation of his label with his third release on ST_Records. "Come on Over" is the newest EP and it comes over with a melodic-deephouse-inside underneath its techhouse-coat. "Come On Over" spreads with an expecting attitude, an unsealed anticipation for something forthcoming. Despite the deeper chords this track takes shape of a cheerful figure using airy piano sounds and a mellow melody. Surly a piece one can hardly escape from. The "Come On Over Miles Deluxe Remix" goes a step further than the original and highlights the excitement with a challenging groove. Miles combines deep chords with a bouncing counterpart, just to break the suspense with the aid of an atmospheric surprise in the last third. Great! „Through Changes" knows how to present its qualities with a simple groove and keeps his retro-look until the last beat. A perfectly staged rim shot in the first and deep synthsounds in the second half make this tune become a true runner! Being set free and coming with a rolling bassline "Choose To See" highlights the auspicious character of this EP. A delay-covered vocal, raindropping mallet-percussions and a simple melody leave this piece to be a warm welcomed partner for your ears. „Inside Of An Atom" explores the nature of dubtechno and chillout using simple chords, wide spread guitar licks and delayed percussion. This track maintains its fluffy and poetic touch and may leave you stranded a million miles from where you began. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! HIGH WAYS Catalogue No.: ST02 The first MP3-EP coming under my own direction is now available. It includes a healthy mixture of deep and tech-house tunes and crows with impulsive and dreamy beats. Like a lonley ride "High Ways" unfolds its hypnotic impact. Immeditaly you try to syncronize the beat to the passing road markings. Lovely melodies and effect covered tones in the first and almost floating synthsounds in the second part of the track bypass like landmarks on the roadside. A truly melodic track that keeps one moving. "Daniel Doppler" has chosen a roadster for his High Ways Remix. Being almost unstoppable, this beatengine keeps running straight towards its intention. Daniel uses the original´s samples in a descreet, but recognizable manner. During the break it feels like cruising towards the rising sun, just to push the gas pedal in the field of electronics immediatley afterwards. Truly the most racy track on this ep! "The Best Is Yet To Come", what a promise! Due to its frisky character and underlying funk this track seem to contest its title itself. Fresh chord sounds and a hint of oldskool let this tune become a hotty, that doesnt have to promise anything more. What do seals and electronic music have in common? Well, they almost sound the same! The underwater recordings remind on effect sounds of a modular synth. Therefore its no surprise "Not the End Of The World" easily reconciles seal calls, cracking ice and arctic water. The result is a dubby deep house track that holds all required skills: chords, delay effects, in-depth melodies and loads of an arctic atmosphere. Get your copy! Stream on Spotify! WHATEVER HAPPENED Catalogue No.: ST01 Limited vinyl release. Stefan Tretau returns with this mighty fine techno 3 tracker on the new ST imprint. Two melodic Detroit inspired bangers (title track Whatever Happened and Lily), while EqF kid is on the more minimal modern darker house side. Heavy modern club tools by Tretau! SOLD OUT! Stream on Spotify! PLATFORMS Up
- Chasing Lights
Sequencer chasing lights / analog rhythm sequencer / 22 HP ⇣ Discover the comprehensive capabilities of chasing lights, a fully-featured analog trigger sequencer boasting 3 channels and 8 trigger steps per channel, channel chain and a clock divider. 1/3 key features 3x8 Steps Analog Sequencer 8 Trigger or Clock Outputs Clock Divider Channel Chaining Sum Output and B/C Swap Wrong Polarity Protection specs & downloads width: 22 HP depth: 28 mm power: 75 mA @ +12V / 48 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual CHASING LIGHTS is a 3-channel analog trigger sequencer with a total of 8 trigger or clock outputs. Each channel has 8 trigger steps that can be activated or inactivated with a push-button per step. LEDs indicate if a step is active and which step is currently playing in a sequence. The trigger signals are available at the output sockets A, B and C. Each sequence can be clocked at its own external clock rate. The A CLOCK input is normalized to the other clock inputs and also to the CLK THRU output to sync CHASING LIGHTS to other sequencers. In addition one CV RESET function is available per channel. The RST ALL button can be used to manually reset all sequences to the first step. It can also act as a HOLD function as long as the button is pressed or the CV input is high. This is especially useful if you want to change the sequence lengths spontaneously. The A/B/C LENGTH switches can be used to set three different lengths per channel. 2/3 and 8 for channel A, 5/6 and 8 for channel B and 5/7 and 8 for channel C. All channels are summed at the SUM output. Each channel can be enabled or disabled for summing using the A/B/C SUM switches. Outputs B and C can be swapped with the SWAP B/C button to create rhythm variations. Wait! No mutes? To have less HP and a better practical experience, the channels should be muted using external modules with on/off switches (such as the vactrol mute ONCE IN A WHILE) or mixers (like PHOEBE, SUM2 or STEREO SUM). The A CLOCK input is also routed to a clock divider. Three divider outputs provide six different clock divisions and can be switched off in the centre position of the corresponding switches. With CLK VARI the counting direction of the internal divider can be changed by CV. This can be used to create interesting clock changes. Channel CHAIN is one of the most interesting functions of CHASING LIGHTS. It is possible to chain all three channels one after the other to create sequences up to a length of 24 steps. There is also an external input CHAIN EXT that can be included in the chain creating even longer sequences. You can set the chain length from 2 to 4 steps, with 2 chaining only channel A and B and 4 steps chaining all channels plus the external input. You can control the speed at which the channels are chained one after the other manually or by CV. It is also possible to reset the chaining sequence to channel A by pressing the CHAIN RESET button or using control voltages. CHASING LIGHTS QUICK START GUIDE: CHASING_LIGHTS_QUICK_START .pdf Download PDF • 1.66MB prev Up next
- Yace
Modulation & Random yace / cv decay envelope / 6 HP ⇣ YACE is a fully featured decay envelope with voltage controlled decay length. It offers the best you can expect from a simple decay module and is a great companion for controlling other VCAs, filters or sound-changing oscillator controls. 1/3 key features Decay Envelope CV Control CV Input Attenuator Level Control Response Knob and Range Switch Cycle Function Gate Mode specs & downloads width: 6 HP depth: 28 mm power: 81 mA @ +12V / 36 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual A trigger or gate signal at the GATE socket (INP in the picture) starts the decay envelope and a corresponding CV is output at the OUT socket. An inverted version is available at the INV socket. With the DECAY slider you can change the decay time manually or by CV. With a CV attenuator you can control the level of the length change by CV. The DEC LVL potentiometer controls the level of the decay and is great for controlling filters. A jumper on the rear panel lets you choose whether the DEC LVL potentiometer affects only the regular decay output or also the inverted output. With the RESPONSE control you can change the response curve from very snappy to rather long and soft. The RANGE switch offers three decay length ranges, from fast decay for drums to very long decay curves for slowly evolving sounds. The INP switch changes the input mode from trigger to pulse. Pulse mode adds a sustain stage to the envelope that holds the envelope as long as the incoming pulse is high. The CYC switch activates a cyclic mode where the decay restarts when it reaches its end. In addition, an EOC (End Of Cycle) pulse is output at the EOC socket. With the INFLUENCE input (marked by a curved arrow pointing upwards) you can further change the decay level. Connect an LFO or triggers here to create attacked and more organic decay envelopes. It only responds to voltages above 5V. prev Up next
- DA
Utilities & PSU da / dual attenuverter and offset / 3 HP ⇣ DA provides two channels of audio/CV processing with the help of two active attenuverters. 1/3 key features Dual Attenuverter Dual -5V to +5V Source Offset and Mixer LED CV Indication Wrong polarity protection specs & downloads width: 3 HP depth: 25 mm power: 12 mA @ +12V / 12 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual Unconnected inputs are normalized to an internal +5V constant voltage, which is very helpful to apply a specific voltage from -5V to +5V to another module´s CV input. The output of the first channel is da isy-chained to the second, allowing the 2 channels being mixed together. The second channel may act as an offset for the first channel. Use this module to attenuate or mix signals, add an offset or change a CV signal´s polarity. prev Up next
- Trommelmaschine
Oscillator trommelmaschine / three-voice hybrid drum synthesizer / 18 HP ⇣ TROMMELMASCHINE is the German name for "drum machine", and it perfectly sums up the essence of such a machine: a versatile three-voice digital and analog drum module that can be used to create a range of kick drums and various percussion sounds. 1/3 key features 3 Voice Drum Generator Digital & Analog Drum Synth plus Noise Two Digital Drum Modes CV Inputs with Attenuators Internal Mixer Individual Outputs Wrong Polarity Protection Firmware based on MI Peaks: Released under cc-by-sa-3.0 License specs & downloads width: 18 HP depth: 28 mm power: 165 mA @ +12V / 72 mA @ -12V documentation videos description / manual This drum module features a DIGITAL DRUM VOICE (D) with PITCH and TONE control that has three modes (with latest firmware V2): KICK, SNARE and PERC. Press and hold the MODE switch for one second to switch between the KICK and PERC modes. When in KICK mode, press the button briefly to switch to SNARE mode. In KICK mode the sliders are MOD1 = DECAY, MOD2 = TRANSIENT, MOD3 = PITCH ENV and in PERC mode MOD1 = COLOR, MOD2 = DECAY and MOD3 = FM AMT. In SNARE mode the sliders are MOD1 = DECAY, MOD2 = SNAPPYNESS, MOD3 = TONE. PITCH and MOD can be changed manually or via CV with dedicated attenuators. If nothing is connected to the CV inputs, the MOD CV attenuators change the response curve of the MOD sliders. Turn them to the right to get a linear response and to the left to get a logarithmic response. This facilitates precise adjustment of the slider positions. The ANALOG DRUM (A) voice has DECAY, DRIVE and PENV (pitch envelope) sliders, plus PITCH and LENGTH (pitch envelope length) potentiometers. These can also be controlled via CV. The PITCH CV input tracks 1V/OCT and can be used to play notes. The EMPH input lets you emphasize the signal. This jack can be used as an input to control the internal VCA, e.g. to feed it with an ADSR. The third voice is a NOISE GENERATOR (N) with COLOR control and DECAY slider. The decay of the noise can also be controlled via CV. All voices have individual trigger inputs (D. TRIG is normalized to the other trigger inputs) and individual outputs and are also summed using an internal mixer at the MAIN output. The volume of each channel can be changed with the volume pots. Loudness LEDs indicate when a voice is close to clipping. TROMMELMASCHINE QUICK START GUIDE: TROMMELMASCHINE_QUICK_START .pdf Download PDF • 984KB prev Up next
