4ms MetaModule (V2)

I couldn’t see a thread on this so as (a) I have just ordered one and (b) there is a pretty impressive new V2 firmware out; so I thought I would start a thread and see if there were any ither users?

Short overview of V2

4MS MetaModule v2.0 Update

heck of an update…

For4 anyone unfamiliar- you can build things (synths, drum machines, fx etc) in VCV rack and then transfer the patch to the module for stand alone use - there are about 1400 VCV rack modules currently converted to work with Meta. You can store almost unlimited patches and modules (SD CARD, USB or even Wifi transfer with an add on), you can play patches with built in sequencers, over CV or MIDI (USB) or of course process audio. Eurorack levels and powered but you can put it in a small portable case; for example, here it is as a drum machine:

Obviously you can also just use it as individual modules with automapping and a nice graphical display that goes full screen, you can also load samples/wavetables etc from the SD to the VCV modules.

The big advantage for me (over say the Disting NT) is can make modules very easily with VCV and I like the more graphical display for things like Oscilloscope Modules.

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Freekin’ love this module. Super fast boot up (couple of sends) and so easy to use- TBH I could have just played with the 4ms ensemble osculator all day! Here’s one for the Groovebox fans (seen as we are on Electronoughts)

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It can supposedly cure GAS!
https://medium.com/@tthomas1000/metamodule-saved-my-desk-and-my-wallet-9db3a60d0880

I cant say that’s true (we all know there is no cure, its terminal) but I was able to sell enough modules to pay for it is it covered what they did- so its at least GAS natural!

Also, after having it a week I bought the I/O (CV expander) so bang goes that theory- there are allows knob, button and trigger expanders coming out!!

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GAS Expenditure Delaying Tactic
( If you have a computer! )

Use the free VCV Rack, on your computer making sure you use only modules available on the MetaModule. This is also a way to test your commitment to this sort of system, with a big plus being when you do spend the money for the physical module, you have your own custom patches ready to go.

MetaModule Expanders

Audio Expander || Wi-Fi Expander

The MetaModule Audio Expander adds an additional 6 CV/Audio inputs and 8 CV/Audio outputs to your MetaModule patches, via a ribbon cable connected to the main MetaModule.

The MetaModule Wi-Fi Expander lets you connect to your MetaModule wirelessly using a web browser, to quickly transfer patches you created on the computer and play them on your MetaModule without swapping disks or USB drives.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Maybe some day there will be an expanded stand alone version of the MetaModule with a large screen, spread out controls, and these expansions built in.

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I think that’s called a “laptop”! :wink:

I kid, I kid…

I just got this, very easy to add on - there is apparently a gate expander coming as well which I am interest in . 4ms Company MetaDig - Eurorack Module on ModularGrid

Knobs and buttons…
4ms Company MetaKnobs - Eurorack Module on ModularGrid
4ms Company MetaButtons - Eurorack Module on ModularGrid

Looks like they are trying to fix support for RotoControl, eg two-way midi for the module as well.

I’ve been looking at effects boxes recently, specifically the H90 and the Polyend Mess for their ability to go proper deep with chaining effects together etc…how would the MetaModule compare to those as an effects unit?

I’ve never actually used any Eurorack stuff so not too sure on the FX potential.

If you’re not already into eurorack, I would recommend steering away from any eurorack FX module unless you you really intend to dive into eurorack in a serious way (Or you’ve got cash to burn and you enjoy fiddling with CV) . The key reason being cost:

  • You’re going to need at a minimum a case, a power supply, appropriate I/O modules for going from line level to eurorack level and vice versa, plus the FX unit(s) of choice. If you did this with the MetaModule + Pod48x + Intellijel I/O you’re already looking at >$1000.

  • The magic of eurorack FX comes from modulation – unless the gear you’re using already has lots of CV outs, you’re going to need to buy some envelopes, LFOs. Add another couple hundred bucks.

I say this as someone who has a huge eurorack setup, which I really enjoy, but if all you own are keyboard/desktop synths and drum machines I think you’re much better off investing in an H90 or getting something like a Morningstar ML10x reorderable loops switcher plus a bunch of pedals that can be reordered (in paralllel or serial) to your hearts content.

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Ah, hadn’t considered the extras involved…H90 looks like a bargain in comparison.

Or Zoia…bit of both

The good thin g is you can play with VCV rack for free (its the same stuff, it will sound identical) and see if you like making your own- its pretty easy and there is some great stuff. If you do you could pout the 4ms in a little pod case with a simple I/O, adds a couple of hundred.

EcoSkiff - Eurorack Case (44HP, Powered w/ 12V Brick): Amazon.co.uk: Musical Instruments & DJ

4ms Listen IO Stereo Input/Output Interface Module at Juno Records.

MetaModule only supports a sub-set of the VCV Rack modules. It’s a lot of modules but not all.

Also depending on your computer you may be able to run more modules together ( or less ) before running out of processor.

Other devices besides Zoia in the configurable modular world include :

  • disting NT from Expert Sleepers
  • Dubby from Componental
  • Hector from Poly Effects
  • G2 from Nord

… This is open to discussion. Depends what you might want in the total package.

Plus you don’t need to buy other modulation modules if you don’t want – configure them into your MetaModule patch.

A MetaModule by itself might be considered barebones, but so is a an H90 all by itself. It all depends what you want and how you use it.

Must say though it is hard to beat the sound of the effects on the H90.

Someone should list off all the effects modules available with the.MetaModule, to make this comparison complete.

It looks amazing.

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I swore I wouldn’t do eurorack again then this came out and I thought perfect, I’ll build a rack around it and it covers everything so no more gas.

It’s an excellent module and I love its range and potential but I was still finding myself constantly being tempted by other modules to work with it.

So I sold it all and never doing eurorack again. Glad I did

Never doing eurorack again

Hopefully

Maybe

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:thinking::face_with_peeking_eye::rofl:

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I was thinking of something with a modular workflow that didn’t need more eurorack modules (guitar pedal format). I did have the Beebo (similar to Hector but pedal format) and but preferred Zoia to the touch screen (especially in pedal format). Small touch screens just don’t work for me! Also have a DistingEx and looked at NT obviously, but its just so much easier (for me) to use the VCV methodology and there are so many more modules. Haven’t used G2 or Dubby.