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MUSICAL FEATURES

Bishop's Miscellany is the latest version of the "Instant Riff Maker" module that lets you create riffs instantly.

Bishop's Miscellany mk2is a two-channelCV/Gate step sequence engineand has the following three functions:

  • Sequence Recorder

  • CV/Gate Processor

  • (Re)generation engine

The sequence is intuitiveRecordQuantize, generate, edit, rearrange, destructively process, save, and recallIs possible.

in the moduleNon-volatile memory using SD cardIt is equipped withStore thousands of sequencesYou can.Playlist ModeCombined with this, it's suitable for both live performance and detailed studio composition.A compact and powerful sequence player.

Pattern looper, CV/Gate multi-effects, duophonic (two simultaneous voices) generating sequencer, 2-track sequence player--Bishop's Miscellany mk2 can do all of these things and is effective by freely switching between roles.

HOW TO USE

With Bishop's Mescellany Mk2, you can press the REC button to record the input CV/Gate sequence, then modulate and process the sequence before outputting it. You can also re-record the result of the modulation. Even if no sequence has been recorded, you can use the Gen function to generate and modulate a sequence from scratch.

For the recorded sequence, firstメ イ ン ペ ー ジThis will non-destructively set the basic settings such as sequence length and scale.(Re)Gen Five ofThe two modulation functions can be activated on the fly with dedicated buttons and knobs according to your settings.

Interface

 
The explanation of each part is displayed by mouse over


Screen Navigation

The interface of Bishop's Miscellany mk2 isMenu pageThe VI features a screen for navigating the VI. The page title is displayed at the top of the screen. Parameters are navigated and edited using the encoder. To select an item, turn the encoder until the item is framed (A), then press in to enter edit mode. The selected item is framed in white (B), and you can adjust its value by turning the encoder. Pressing the encoder again will exit edit mode.

Channel

Bishop's Miscellany features two independent channels. Most values and operations are specific to the currently selected channel, indicated by an illuminated CHANNEL 2 or CHANNEL 1 button. To switch channels, press the corresponding button. The screen displays information related to the selected channel.

The MAIN page, PROCESS page, (RE)GEN page, and EDIT SEQ. page are all channel dependent and display information for the active channel.

On the other hand, the PLAYLIST and MEMORY pages are channel independent and display values for both channels simultaneously, while the OPTIONS, ACV and PROJECT pages are also channel independent and handle information related to the overall operation of the module.

Channels can also be edited simultaneously, see "Channel Linking" below.

External Recording

Bishop's Miscellany mk2 records sequences step by step based on the selected sequence length and the incoming clock signal. Record, overdub and erase operations are per-channel and affect only the currently selected channel. There are two sources for recording, each with its own dedicatedREC buttonYou can access it at:

External recording (bottom right REC EXT button): Captures signals from an external CV/Gate source

Internal recording (REC INT button at bottom left): Records actions performed directly on the module (e.g. activating the (Re)Gen or Process sections).

We will focus on external records here and discuss internal records later.

To record an external sequence, connect a clock signal to the CLOCK input and a CV/Gate source (keyboard, joystick, sequencer, modulation source, etc.) to the CV and GATE inputs of the channels you want to record. A reset signal is not required, but is very useful for synchronizing the module with your system.

Next, select the connected channel with the corresponding CHANNEL button and adjust the settings on the MAIN page as needed.

When you're ready to record,Hold the REC EXT button to start recording.While recording, the channel output follows the input signal. Releasing the button will stop recording and play back the recorded step sequence. The module will not automatically stop recording at the set length; it will return to the first step and continue recording as long as the REC EXT button is held. Pressing the REC EXT button during playback will overwrite the data in the recording buffer.

If the sequence has not yet been recorded, the sequence length parameter containsAL(Automatic Length)QL(Quantized Length)Two additional options appear: AL records at any step length, and QL quantizes the length to a number of steps according to a fixed grid.These options will appear at the top of the list after clearing a channel (and if enabled in the Options menu).

Other recording related button operations are as follows:

REC EXT + HOLD: Instead of holding down the Rec Ext button, hold Hold and press Rec Ext to continue recording until you press Rec Ext again.
ERASE + CHANNEL:
Clears all data from the channel's recording buffer.
REC EXT + ERASE: Removes individual steps from a recorded sequence.
REC EXT + CHANNEL: CV and GATE inputs can be monitored from the output without affecting the recording buffer.Listen modecalled.
To activate Listen Mode, press the EXT REC button and a channel button simultaneously (the External Record LED will flash slowly to indicate Listen Mode is active).

Main Page

Below we will explain each page where you can set various settings: The Main page gives you direct access to the main parameters for the sequences you have recorded in Bishop's Miscellany MK2.

1. Sequence Length: Set the number of steps in the sequence from 1 to 64.
2. Clock Division: Set the clock division ratio in the range of 1 to 16. The square icon in the upper right corner will flash in sync with the selected division.
3. Progress: Displays the progress of the current sequence.
4. Semitones: Transposes the entire sequence in semitone steps. C is unchanged, C# is +1 semitone, B is +11 semitones. *This transposition is applied after quantization.
5. Octave: Shifts the entire sequence up or down by an octave (-3 to +3).
6. Stairs: Selects the scale applied by the quantizer.
7. (Re)Gen: Set the (Re)Gen algorithm to use.
8. Process: Set the Process type to use.

Process page

The Process page provides details about the currently selected Process type, its mode, and the parameters and values of the Process knobs.

1. Process Type: Displays/changes the currently selected Process.
2.Process ModeSome Processes have multiple operation modes (e.g. Slide has two modes: "fixed time" and "fixed speed").
3.Process potentiometer parameter and value: Displays the parameter set by the Process knob and its value.

There are five Process options to choose from:

slide: Adds a through (slide) effect to the step. There are two modes: "fixed time" or "fixed speed." Use the knob to adjust the slide depth (2-0%).
Gate Length: Controls the gate length of a step (0-100%). External gate lengths can also be saved when recording. However, overdubbing does not overwrite external gate lengths.
Ratchet: Adds a ratchet (gate repeat within a step). There are two modes: "Gate length dependent" and "Independent". The knob sets the ratchet type (multiplier).
Vibrate: Adds vibrato to the pitch using an LFO. Use the knob to set the depth (0-100%).
Noise: Adds noise to the CV output. There are two modes: "White" and "Red". The knob adjusts the amount of noise (2-0%).

(Re)Gen Page

(Re)Gen is a suite of algorithms that allow for live sequence generation and transformation. These operations act as performative tools, with a wide range of applications including:

-Generate sequences without external CV/Gate signals

- Generating musical randomness
- Mangling of recorded sequences
- Adding changes to a sequence during playback, etc.

1. (Re)Gen Algorithm: Shows the currently selected (Re)Gen algorithm.
2.3.Potentiometer parameters and valuesEach (Re)Gen algorithm has two parameters,(RE)GEN X,Operate with (RE)GEN Y. Parameter names and values are displayed.

The algorithms that can be selected are as follows:

Generative Algorithms (new sequence generation)
Random 1: Completely random. X = probability of change, Y = CV range
Random 2: Gaussian random distribution. More musical.
Arpeggio: Ascending, descending, and triangular step patterns. X = pattern, Y = range.
Path: Generates a phrase with decoration. X = probability of direction change, Y = number of steps
Knob: Records the Y knob movement and triggers when it changes. X = Sensitivity

Regenerative Algorithms (regenerate from existing sequences)
Range
: Offset and scale the CV output (X = Gain, Y = Offset)
Speed: Change playback speed and direction (X = direction, Y = speed)
Rate : Loop by thinning out the number of steps (X = start position, Y = thinning rate)
Slice: Slice sequence (X = slice selection, Y = length)
Random Slice: Random slice (X = jump probability, Y = slice length)
Delay : Delay in steps. X = delay time, Y = pitch shift
Remember : Randomly replace some steps. X = range, Y = replacement activation probability

Internal Recording

BM mk2 allows you to further record processes and (Re)Gen actions, which is called Internal Recording. To record:REC INT buttonWhile holding down the button, operate the Process or (Re)Gen knob. Each process operates independently, and up to five processes can be operated in parallel. Also, as with REC EXT, if you press REC INT while holding down HOLD instead of REC INT, recording will continue until you press REC INT again.

Channel Linking

The two channels (CH2 and CH2) on Bishop's Miscellany MK1 are completely independent, but can also be linked. Pressing both channel buttons simultaneously will link the channels, with both LEDs lit and one dimmed. To select the desired channel, press the appropriate button (the selected LED will be bright).

 

Memory Page

Bishop's Miscellany MK2 features non-volatile memory on a microSD card for storing data such as sequences.

Sequences can be organized into playlists, which can be used to prepare live sets or create structured tracks.

The MEMORY page provides an overview of each channel's current sequences and active playlists. It is also the management screen for loading and saving sequences and playlists.

1.2.Channel 1 & 2 Sequences

- Displays the sequence number currently being played on each channel
- If there is an "*" at the end of the number, it means that there has been a change since the last time it was loaded.

3.4.Channel 1 & 2 Load/Save
When loading or saving, a pop-up menu will appear allowing you to select a number and confirm/cancel.

5. Playlist
Shows the currently active playlist
If there is an asterisk (*) next to the playlist number, the changes have not been saved.

6. Playlist Load & Save
When you save/load a playlist, a popup will appear allowing you to select the playlist number and confirm/cancel.

Behavior when saving/loading

Clicking the "SAVE" or "LOAD" button will open a popup where you can edit the sequence number/playlist number and **Confirm**/**Cancel**.

If the loaded sequence has been edited, an "*" will automatically be added to the number.

When saving a sequence, you can optionally save the currently assigned Process and (Re)Gen algorithms and their parameters (see the Options page in the manual for details).


Sequence Save/Load popup
1. Sequence number: Select the sequence number to save/load

2.Confirm/Cancel: Confirm to proceed, Cancel to return to the MEMORY page.


Playlist Save/Load popup

1. Playlist number: Select the playlist number to save/load
2.Confirm/Cancel: Confirm to proceed, Cancel to return to the MEMORY page.


Playlist Page

The Playlist page allows you to arrange your sequences using slots, each of which can be looped individually or played continuously, controlled by the encoder, ERASE and HOLD buttons.

1. Current playlist
The current playlist is selected by Save/Load operations from the MEMORY page.
2.Selected slot
The slot surrounded by a white frame is currently selected. Select a row with the channel button and select a slot with the encoder. To edit a slot (assign a sequence number), press and hold the encoder for 2 seconds → the frame will become solid and the number will flash → select a number with the encoder → press again to finish.
3.Playing slot
The currently playing slot will have a flashing bar on the left (CH1) or right (CH2) side.
4.Slot separator
Every four slots are separated by a dot, making it easier to organize all 4 slots.
5.Channel indication
Indicates the currently selected channel. Use the channel button to switch.
6.Scrollbar
7.Empty slot
If no sequence is assigned to the slot, "---" is displayed.

Special button functions (Playlist page only)
ERASE button: Select the next slot to play
HOLD button: Starts playback of the selected slot

Playback mode (configurable in the options menu)
Setlist mode: Playback position can only be moved manually. Option to play both channels simultaneously. In this mode, the selection box spans two columns.
Tracker mode: Automatically jumps to the next slot when a sequence finishes playing. When an empty slot is reached, it returns to the first sequence.

Edit Sequence Page

This page gives you access to the sequence editing tools (all destructive), the encoder to select an action and press to execute, and the popup to configure further settings.

Shift: Shifts the sequence forward or backward in steps.
→ Useful for adjusting the position after resetting or when calling up a pattern.

Reverse: Reverses the order of the sequence.
→ For example, if you have an 8-step sequence, the order will be reversed: 1→8, 2→7, etc.

Duplicate:

Copy a sequence repeatedly to create a longer sequence.
→ When you set a new sequence length, the original sequence is inserted repeatedly.

Example: 3 step sequence → duplicate to 10 steps.
8 step sequence -> Duplicate to 16 steps.


Copying Parameters
Copy the following parameters of the current channel to the other channel:

  • Length
  • Division (Div)
  • Root Note
  • Scale
  • Octave


Copy sequence + parameters
In addition to the above parameters, the sequence itself is also copied.


Copying only the sequence
The parameters remain the same and only the sequence is copied to the other channel.

These tools allow you to smoothly prepare complex transformations and performance sets.

Assignable CVs Page

Bishop's Miscellany MK2 has four assignable CV inputs that can control a variety of functions. These CV inputs can be assigned to a number of assignments (B) organized into five categories (A):

Category (A):
TRANSPORT, PLAYLIST, COMPUTE, PROCESS, (RE)GEN

Assignment item (B):
Choose from many options such as RUN 1, CLOCK 2, ADDRESS 1, etc.

To assign a CV input:
1. Select CV input with the encoder
2. Scroll to select a category (A) and press to confirm.
3. Scroll to and select the assignment item (B) (press to confirm)

This flexible CV assignment allows for modulation from external modules and real-time control during performance.

A detailed list of assignments is available atmanualPlease refer to.


Options

There are various options available to customize the behavior of Bishop's Miscellany MK2. Use the encoders to select an item and edit the parameters.
For a complete list of options, seemanualPlease refer to.


CV/Gate Multi-Effect

This module can also be used as a CV/Gate multi-effect for external sequences.
How To Use
- Press and hold EXT REC
- Or press EXT REC + CHANNEL simultaneously to enter "Listen mode"
→ Process actions and (Re)Gen algorithms are applied to external sequences in real time.

Project

Save up to 999 sequences, 99 playlists, and projects including CV assignments and option settings.
When you save a sequence or playlist, your settings are automatically saved without having to save your project separately.

Important points about saving a project:
- If you save a sequence or playlist, you don't need to save the entire project separately.
- CV assignments and option settings are automatically saved in the current project.

Action items
1. Current project name
2. Create a new project
3. Load a project
4. Duplicate the current project

This feature allows you to flexibly switch and manage live sets, experimental patches, preset construction, and more.



undo

-Supports one level of undo.
-Valid for external recording, (Re)Gen, and Process recording.
- Press ERASE + HOLD simultaneously to cancel.

Select Bus

Select Bus is a protocol that allows digital communication between modules using a ribbon cable on the back of the module.
Communication conditions
- Uses 15- and 16-pin power cables
- Requires a large 16-pin x 16-pin ribbon cable
- This unit operates as a receiver (slave)
- All communication modules must be connected to the same bus board

firmware Update

1. Download the latest firmware from shakmat.com/support

2. Power off the module

3. Remove the SD card and copy the .bin file to the root directory.

4. Insert the SD card and start the module while pressing the PROCESS button.

5. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete



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