K4816 Production Model
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K4816 // Pattern Generator
Buchla-format CV and MIDI Pattern Generator
Building on the success of the K4815 Pattern Generator
originally designed for Eurorack, the K4816 offers Buchla
users this amazing module with a design optimised for
this high-end format. The K4816 Pattern Generator by
Kilpatrick Audio packs incredible power into a single space
module. The K4816 can produce notes and varying control
voltages for a wide range of musical and experimental sound
applications. Its unique approach to music creation is sure to
have you finding new melodies and rhythms never heard
before. Unlike a step sequencer, where the player picks each
note in a sequence, the K4816 creates sequences by combining a
scale, a visual pattern (as shown on the display) and a
sequence playback motion to determine the rhythms and notes
that are actually played. Other parameters can adjust the note
and sequence length, as well as the transposition, direction
of playback, and so on.
In addition to features found on the original K4815 Pattern
Generator, the K4816 adds new CV inputs: Pattern Type, Motion
Start and Motion Length. These allow unprecedented real-time
control over the playback position and currently enabled
spaces on the grid. The Offset In allows for easy mixing of an
external voltage with the CV output for FM and other
effects. And the clock Start, Continue and Stop jacks provide
pulse inputs for controlling the clock and resetting playback
position. You can even control the internal high-stability
clock generator via analog pulses or MIDI.
The K4816 is also fully MIDI compatible. With a built-in MIDI
interface and extensive MIDI implementation, the K4816 can
bridge the gap between analog and MIDI control. For instance,
clock control pulses generate MIDI clock messages
automatically. And the Motion Start, Motion Length and Pattern
Type inputs generate MIDI control change messages on the MIDI out jack,
and these parameters respond to MIDI too. You
can also use a MIDI keyboard to start, stop and transpose
the patterns in realtime and reverse the playback
direction. In X/Y output mode you can generate control change
messages and stepped voltages instead of notes.
Pattern Generation Concept
New ways of creating melodies and control signals help to
break new ground in music and sound. The K4816 helps you
explore new melodies and rhythms using a unique concept of
generating patterns. Unlike random pattern generators or ones
based on various mathematical concepts, the K4816 bases its
music-making foundation on simple scales, visually-designed
patterns, and intellectually-designed motions. These three
elements can be controlled by the player in realtime to create
an enormous variety of sounds. And it is done in a visual way
that is fun to use. Everything happens on the 8x8 LED matrix,
which is both a visual indicator and a conceptual view of how
the system works internally. Scales, patterns and motions are
all mapped to points on the matrix, which show in realtime
exactly what is happening.
The K4816 concept can be thought of as three distinct layers:
- Scales - Underneath the 8x8 LED matrix are the notes
which are assigned to each of the 64 points on the grid. The selected
scale can be major or minor, large or small. These are selected with
the maj/min and large/small switches. Only four choices might
seem like a limitation, but what happens on the other two layers
ultimately affects the rhythms and melodies that are produced.
- Patterns - Patterns are visually designed icons, symbols
and patterns which define which notes will play. They are shown in
the background at all times. There are 32 patterns which can be
selected with the PATTERN TYPE knob or an external voltage.
If a point on the 8x8 LED matrix is lit, the underlying scale note
is active. If the playback ball lands on that point, its note will play.
- Motions - Motions define how a sequence is
played. Each motion defines up to 64 steps in a sequence. Each
step can land on any of the points on the 8x8 LED matrix. If a
step lands on a point which is lit, a note will play. There
are 64 different motions, some sequential and
musically-designed, and others more abstract or
geometrically-designed. By using MIDI it is possible transpose
the scale, and also to start and stop motion playback with
note commands, changing the K4816 into a special type of
auto-arpeggiator.
The K4816 Pattern Generator is only available for a limited time.
Special thanks to Hugh, wizard Buchla user and collaborator who
encouraged and helped to make this special module possible.
Features and Specs
- Buchla form-factor with 7" height, 1 space (4.25") wide
- Musical note, control and clock signals generated using unique methods
- 64 LED (8x8) multi-brightness grid to show patterns and status
- Clock control via internal clock, or external MIDI or analog clock
- Clock, Direction, Start, Continue and Stop inputs (10V pulses, or 10V held for Direction)
- Motion Start, Motion Length, and Pattern Type CV inputs (0-10V range)
- Offset Input actively mixes (analog) with CV/X output for transposition or modulation
- CV/GATE or X/Y analog outputs (0V to 10V range)
- CV is 1.2V/octave - 8 octave range
- GATE supports Buchla-style trigger pulse / sustain waveform for controlling 281e, etc.
- Built-in MIDI input supports note, CC and clock control over MIDI
- Built-in MIDI output to drive synths and sequencers, and use as a CV to MIDI interface
- Comes equipped with a Buchla power cable - requires +15V, -15V and +5V for operation
- Designed and made in Canada using high quality parts.
- Warranty: 1 year
Downloads and Info
Firmware Updates
New firmware for the K4816 is available and can be updated by the user. All modules ship with the stock firmware
but additional functionality can be obtained by updating. Please see the Firmware Updates
page for information about updating your module.
Availability
New units available in 2018!
Available exclusively through: Noisebug
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