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Generate, Harness, and Control the Chaos





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Among the pantheon of possibilities available with Eurorack synthesis, randomization tools are arguably the most under-utilized. Behringer’s Chaos module seeks to harness its namesake force to introduce infinite manners of dynamic musicality to your arrangement, and Sweetwater’s synthesists wholeheartedly agree: they’ve succeeded. This 18HP analog powerhouse features two sequentially operating sub-sections: one that generates random gates tethered to a master clock and a second that produces random voltages clocked to the previous section. Each section’s trio of outputs includes a multitude of dedicated operating modes and multiplicative functions alongside a master feedback control to supplement your sound with immense textures. The best part? Virtually any module is fair game to connect, allowing for infinite possibilities to reimagine your rig.





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Crossing your t’s and probability





Chaos comprises two main sub-sections from which all entropic opportunities arise: the “t” and “X” areas. Fittingly, the “t” portion attenuates all things temporal, using its three outputs ? t1, t2, and t3 ? to generate random gates concerning the master clock, which is sent from t2. Using the Jitter knob, you can introduce successive degrees of “warping” to the clock, simulating the human imperfections of playing to a click track, letting you hone the naturality of the output. This function can be controlled via CV from another module, as well. There are also three color-coded operating modes for the section: green, orange, and red. Green mode uses a coin toss with each t2 pulse to determine if the output also sends from t1 or t3. Orange mode picks a random ratio with each pulse by which t1 and t3 are multiplied and divided, respectively. Red mode alternates t1 and t3 outputs. Finally, the aptly named Bias knob allows you to tilt the scale toward how frequently t1 or t3 outputs are triggered within each mode. Bias can also be controlled externally via CV.





X-hilarating musical possibilities





Architecturally, the X sub-section mirrors the t section: three outputs, three operating modes, a Bias knob, and an additional function unique to its processes. Each of the X1, X2, and X3 outputs produces random voltages clocked by their t-section counterparts; however, they can also be triggered externally, by something like Behringer’s Brains module. The X-section’s unique function is its Steps knob, dictating the voltage values and output behavior. Turning it counterclockwise smooths out the steps, while clockwise movement scales the voltages, bouncing through chromatic, major, major third, and even octave-sized intervals. Green mode directs all X outputs to follow the behaviors as indicated by the control panel’s settings. Meanwhile, Orange mode causes X1 and X3 to produce values opposite to what the control panel would generate. Red mode reconfigures these directives such that X1 follows the control panel, X3 reacts in opposition to whatever is generated by X1, and X2 is unbiased.





Dynamic texturization and temporal attenuation





For all the Chaos module’s mathematical functionality, it’s an impressively musical sampler that you can use to stunning effect without overwhelming your sound. Extensive CV connectivity includes clock speeds, Jitter, Steps, both Bias knobs, and Feedback, allowing you to deeply synchronize across countless components of your sonic palette. Using the onboard memory function, you can reintroduce any progression that piques your interest, thanks to its ability to recall the precise order of every clock aberration, voltage, and rhythm that precedes it. Moreover, the module includes a pair of individuated audio outputs designed to introduce another layer of sound-shaping: one output for the main sound and one dynamic variant. If you’re looking to inject some texture, the Feedback control and scale length control offer virtually infinite opportunities to create massive washes of soaring melodies and ambient grooves.





Behringer Chaos Analog Random Sampler Eurorack Module Features:


18HP module features analog architecture for premium operation and innovative sampling


Dedicated sub-sections are designed to work in sequence to produce an endless suite of rhythmic and melodic randomization


Color-coded operating modes unique to each sub-section balance chaos with creative guardrails for inspiring production and performance opportunities


Master clock dictates gate-triggering behavior of all 3 “t” outputs while each respective “X” output generates random voltages in relation to the activated “t” output


Interrelationship of t and X outputs enables complex synchronization opportunities across rhythmic and melodic values


Jitter control “warps” the clock to introduce naturality via human-like imperfections


Steps determine voltage-value behaviors, from smoothly distinguished to chromatic, major, major-third, and octave-sized intervals


Length control attenuates timing and scale values for t and X sub-sections, respectively, with color-coded modes unique to the length values of the t and X output behaviors


Audio output pair includes a primary out and a dynamic variant to ensure complex sound-shaping possibilities through nuanced layering


Extensive CV control includes both Bias controls, both clock values, Jitter, Steps, and Feedback, allowing for deeply exploratory and inspiring interoperative functionality