Best Modules in 2024

In 2024, many interesting new products have appeared from various companies in the world of modular synths. In this article, as a recap, we will introduce various modules released this year by theme from the modules handled by Clockface Modular!

Multifunctionality of "All in One" modules

2024 was a year marked by the release of "All in One" modules in many ways. The 4ms MetaModule and Expert Sleepers Disting NT, which can be considered "modular synth" modules, are high-performance modules that allow you to select and combine the tools you need inside the module to create your own patches. In addition, Befaco Oneiroi, which can generate ambient soundscapes in one unit, and the experimental Collide1, are modules that have the potential to create a piece of music by themselves and can become the center of a compact system.

4ms MetaModule & Wi-Fi Expander
This is one of the modules that symbolize 2024. It is a next-generation module that can execute data created with the software modular synth, VCV Rack. In addition to being a sound generator, it can also be used as an effect, sequencer, mixer, modulation source, etc. to freely operate patches created with VCV Rack on hardware. Data exchange with VCV Rack is done via USB memory/micro SD card, but if you use Wi-fi Expander, you can wirelessly receive patch data from a PC/mac on the same network. Expansion modules such as CV input and control expander are also scheduled to be released.

Expert Sleepers Distinguished NT
The latest and greatest of the multi-function Disting series of modules. With 12 inputs and 8 outputs, you can use as many of the familiar Disting algorithms as your capacity allows. You can also control it via MIDI/I2C by connecting the pins on the board to the included TMB, and you can feel the potential here too!

Befaco Oneiroi
This ambient drone voice module goes beyond synth voices and combines loopers, oscillators, filters, and effects into one. Designed for live performance, each sound section can be controlled by a slider. In addition, you can create pad ambient and drone sounds with a modulation LFO that can be assigned to each parameter and a randomizer that can select a target.

Joranalogue/Hainbach Collide 4
A Eurorack lock-in amplifier module developed in collaboration with Hainbach.
It detects the frequency and phase difference between the externally input sound and the internal oscillator, and outputs the result as sound and voltage.
This experimental module can be used in a variety of ways, including as a frequency shifter, ring modulator, oscillator, and filter.

Synth Voice & VCO Module

Ten years ago, when you thought of a modular synth, you would start by learning the standard VCO → VCF → VCA patch, but now there are many synth voice modules that combine all of these elements. Using synth voices saves space, costs, and time, so using a voice module is a practical choice.

On the other hand, VCO modules that do not have envelopes or VCAs and basically produce a continuous sound were released with a focus on waveform synthesis. Analog VCOs included the Eurorack version of the Buchla 259t and Serge's new oscillator Medusa, a memorable release from the original West Coast synth brand! 

Intellijel Designs Atlantix
A synth voice module inspired by the SH-101, a successor to the Atlantis module.
The modulator has been enhanced from the previous model, allowing the selection of two waveforms, and a phaser mode has been added to the filter section.
The oscillator now has through-zero FM and FM Index control, allowing for more flexibility in FM sound creation, making it possible to quickly create synth bass and lead sounds.

ALM Busy MCO MkII
Similarly, ALM's digital oscillator MCO has been upgraded to the MKII version, making it even more powerful.
It features a color LCD screen and seven switchable voice modes that include the original MCO wavetable as well as vocoder and SID chip emulation, and the envelopes and LFOs for pronunciation/modulation allow for a wide range of sound creation even on its own.
The three assignable external CV inputs can be further expanded using the Axon series.

Random*Source Serge Medusa
A new generation Serge subharmonic oscillator consisting of seven oscillators.
All OSCs can individually set the pulse width and subharmonic division, allowing you to create powerful unison sounds or orchestral pad sounds with a stereo feel.

Buchla & Tiptop Audio 259t Programmable Complex Waveform Generator
The long-awaited complex oscillator module of the Eurorack Buchla series.
Based on the original 259, it is possible to create harmonically rich sounds using the modulation index and wave folder.
It is a perfect match with the Low Pass Gate 292t from the same series.

Shakmat Modular Battering Ram
A kick sound module that is simple to operate and allows you to smoothly create sounds by using the necessary parameters.
All major parameters are equipped with CV inputs, allowing you to instantly create sounds ranging from 808 to 909.
This is an excellent sound source that can create a gutsy sound with two types of overdrive and cut low frequencies below the audible range with the HPF.

Shakmat Modular Archer's Rig
Hi-hat sound module with 14 selectable noise source modes.
It has two trigger inputs, close and open, and the decay time can be set for each.
The noise source section allows you to select from 13 different types of digital sound sources and external inputs, and is a hybrid design of digital and analog that passes the noise through the analog circuit's VCA, VCF, distortion, and low-cut section.

RYK Modular ALGO
A four-operator FM oscillator module with simple operability.
When you press the button, the FM algorithm will be displayed on the panel and the ratio and depth of each operator can be set by turning the knobs.
Wave Warp allows you to morph the operator's waveform from not only sine waves but also triangle waves and pulse waves, and it also has a Wavefolder.

ALM Busy Cizzle
A dual phase distortion oscillator inspired by the Casio CZ series. OSC A, which can morph the PD algorithm, and OSC B, which can switch between three modes, each have a built-in VCA. It also has a chord mode, and the two oscillators can create a rich sound palette.

VCF/VCA Module

VCF and VCA are often combined with VCOs, but recently there seems to be a lot of integrated VCF/A. In fact, even in vintage synths, the sound character is often created by combining not only VCF but also VCA, so for those who are particular about the tone, these integrated types are recommended. Also, many resonator type filters have been released in recent years, both analog and digital. In addition to being used as a sound source, they are useful for adding flavor to sounds by utilizing resonance, so they are recommended for those who are aiming to create deeper sounds.

Analog Sweden SWEnigiser Proto VCF/A
An analog filter/VCA module based on the prototype of the Enigiser synth, which was popular in the 90s.
The combination of two rotary switches provides 12 filter modes, which are sent to a VCA with drive via internal wiring.
This is a recommended module for inputting your own oscillators to create analog synth voices.

Hikari Instruments VCA Timbre
A waveshaper module with a variable CV response VCA and two pairs of Buchla-style Wavefolders.
The sound after passing through the VCA is sent to the Wavefolder via internal wiring, and the strength of the waveform folding changes depending on the volume.
Each function can be used independently and can also be used in stereo.

Erica Synths Graphic Resonant Filterbank + Expander
Digitally controlled analog 10-band resonant filter module.
The level settings for each band can be saved and switched via external CV/clock.
All 10 bands can be increased or decreased using external CV, and manual control is also possible using an expander.

Random*Source Serge VC Resonant Equalizer (VCRESEQ)
This is an expansion module of the famous Serge Resonant Equalizer, which finally adds individual outputs and CV inputs to each band. Feedback patches using the added inputs and outputs allow for more powerful sound creation than just equalization. This is a powerful module that can not only process sound, but also create it. 

Effects/Sound Processors

The effects/sound processor category is characterized by the latest unique digital modules. Digital tape loopers, granular delays, and other types that buffer audio and combine it with voltage control are particularly well-stocked among Eurorack modulars.

Make Noise Bruxa
A filter delay module created in collaboration with Alessandro Cortini.
The Strega's Time/Filter Experiment section was converted to a Eurorack and the CV output part, which was previously a touch plate, was jacked.
This is a delay module that makes it easier to create sounds by self-patching and to link with other Eurorack units.

Buchla & Tiptop Audio 285t
A fully analog frequency shifter/balance modulator module reissued from the Buchla system 200 lineup.
It consists of two types of circuits that create complex tones from the input sound.
The frequency shifter has a built-in reference OSC and can be controlled both manually and with external CV.This is a welcome release, as analog frequency shifters tend to have complex circuits!

Knobula Echo Cinematic
A stereo delay/reverb effect module with a built-in LFO for modulation. It also features knob recording, which allows you to memorize the operation of each parameter, allowing you to apply dynamic effects. The delay sound can be changed by the type of EQ, which can be switched, to change the tone of the delay sound, feedback, or both.

Qu-bit Electronix Stardust
The new product from Qu-bit is a highly functional digital tape looper. This is scheduled to arrive in early 2025, but since Qu-bit is strong in buffered modules, this is an exciting product to look forward to!

Modulation Control

There are already many types of modulation sources, and the releases in 2024 were relatively quiet. Among them, the release of the GTS "Mathsized" by adding a voltage processor section to the DUSG from Serge was a hot topic. Also, the knob recording function installed in the RYK Envy Machine seems to be becoming a bit of a trend from now on.

Random*Source Serge GTS
An advanced module of Serge's representative Dual Universal Slope Generator.
The wider range Slope section from the DSG now works better at audio rates.
By mixing with the two additional external inputs, it is possible to generate a more advanced CV as a modulation source.

RYK Modular Envy Machine
A 4-channel envelope/LFO module with knob recording of parameters.
A multi-functional modulation source that allows you to switch between ADSR, AD, LFO, random CV, and CV source for each channel.
This module can attenuate the output and external CV, making it suitable for a variety of situations.

Instruo Dail
A compact pitch CV quantizer module that also supports TRS/USB MIDI. It can not only quantize user scales, but also transpose them and has a slew limiter function.
You can also set scales using a MIDI keyboard using the included expander.

ALM Busy Mega Milton
A composite utility module packed with small functions. Preamp, unity mixer, attenuator, slew limiter, noise, S&H, multiple are packed into 8HP. The slew limiter part can be enabled/disabled by an external gate. All-in-one types of utilities are also on the rise.

Conclusion

In 2024, Eurorack modules became even more diverse, with all-in-one types becoming more prominent, while options such as redesigned and advanced classical analog circuits were also prominent. Think about your musical style and be sure to get a module that suits you.Show Room,FormWe are also waiting for your setup consultation!