WMD - Chimera
- Order number: 170283
- Depth: 30
Chimera is a granular synthesis module specialized in metallic percussion sounds. Eleven so-called surfaces are available. They are based on recordings of, for instance, a tambourine, sleigh bells, drill bits, wrenches, shell casings, coins, chains, stomp box enclosures or front panels. Morph and density parameters, two envelopes and a multi effects processor allow users to tweak each sound to taste. For playing the module, there are trigger, accent and choke inputs. Thanks to groove patterns and a multitude of CV connectors, lively, dynamic rhythms can be created in no time. The Chimera’s basic sound is grainy and hard. Besides modern, metallic drums, it is also possible to produce all kinds of cool special effects, for instance robot vocals or sounds reminiscent of epic space battles.
Chimera features eleven basic sounds, so-called surfaces, which are morphed into one-another as the corresponding potentiometer is turned. Another knob determines the grain density. Furthermore, there is a pitch control with a range of five octaves. A decay envelope can be used to modulate the pitch. A second envelope controls the built-in VCA. For additional sound adjustments, a multi effects processor was implemented. Three algorithms are available, in detail quality reduction, sample rate reduction and comb filter. Via a potentiometer, it is possible to alter the effect intensity (quality / sample rate reduction) respectively the position of the comb filter. All parameters mentioned so far can not only be adjusted manually, but are also voltage controllable. In addition, there is a CV input for influencing the VCA independently of the integrated envelope.
The Chimera can be played via trigger, accent and choke inputs. A button allows users to activate the module from the front panel. Using the circuit’s Feel switch, it is possible to choose between different accentuations.
- Feel switch in left position: All notes are triggered with the same amplitude. (Given that there’s no signal present at the accent input.)
- Feel switch in middle position: The first of four notes is played with normal amplitude. The second and fourth note are played softly. The third note is given a random medium volume. Additionally, the attack times of second to fourth note are increased.
- Feel switch in right position: Chimera oscillates freely. With the potentiometer of the volume envelope turned completely clockwise, the amplitude control deactivates and the metallic textures flow to infinity.
Chimera’s firmware can be updated via USB.
HE: | 3 |
TE: | 8 |
Depth: | 30 |
Power consumption +12V: | 63 |
Power consumption -12V: | 17 |
Chimera @WMD
Manual
All weapons of mass destruction made by William Mathewson Devices are built in-house in Denver (Colorado).