Hexinverter - Mutant Rimshot (2024)

909 and more – The Mutant Rimshot utilizes three oscillators to generate sound. Its circuit design is inspired by the correspondent drum voice of Roland’s TR-909. However, the sonic potential goes far beyond the classic. In detail, there are two rimshot types plus a clave mode. For processing the emerging drums, a multimode filter was implemented. High resonance values make the module self-oscillate, allowing the user to create zap sounds and such. By adjusting the Mutant Rimshot’s drive section, signals can be leveled as well as distorted. An amplifier, a decay envelope, CV connectors and an audio input for the filter complete the module.

Hexinverter’s Mutant Rimshot offers three modes of operation. Rimshot Hi is based on the sound of Roland’s TR-909. The Lo version features the same basic character, but uses a lower pitch range. Additionally, a clave mode was implemented. – This type of instrument is not available in Roland’s classic drum machine. The pitch of all drum models can be adjusted via a potentiometer plus there is a CV input.

Following the synthesis section, a drive circuit allows to edit the volume and add soft distortion effects. Afterwards, the multimode filter comes into play. The circuit features an audio input to mix the module’s sound with material from external sources. It is even possible to use VCF, VCA and envelope single-handedly. The filter is able to work as a high pass, band pass or low pass. Its cutoff frequency can be influenced by a potentiometer and a CV input with attenuator / inverter combination. A second knob is used to edit the resonance. High values result in self-oscillation of the circuit. A clipping section keeps the volume in check while the filter is screaming. It can be deactivated via a jumper on the back of the module.

Last but not least, there is an amplifier in the Mutant Rimshot’s signal path. It is controlled by a decay envelope, which can also be used to influence the filter’s cutoff. The module is played using trigger and accent inputs.