Ratcheting Gate Sequencers

[Felnyrii]

So, I've decided I need ratcheting in my sequence toolbox. From my understanding, this works by being able to multiply a gate or clock with CV. I'm looking to decide on a module to utilize for this. I've been looking at the Doepfer A-160-5 and the 4ms QCD as my primary options. Clearly, there is space allowance as a deciding factor between the two, but also I'm looking to hear how anyone uses these two for this style, I guess, of sequencing.

I am also interested in hear other options that people use.

And for reference, here is a link to a modulargrid with my plan (I have 6U looking to expand to 9U).

https://www.modulargrid.net/e/racks/view/279752

[bendedavis]

Get a Malekko Varigate 4. 4 gate sequences, 8 steps, up to 8 repeats per step.

[Felnyrii]

I remember seeing that when it came out. Very impressive, but I'm not super keen on menus. Though, DivKid's video make them seem pretty simple and comfortable to use.

Plus, having it free from my other sequencers would be nice. Thanks!

[basicbasic]

My personal suggestion (as an A-160-5 owner) is to pair it with a sequential or VC switch of some kind as it will allow for finer control over when you want the ratchet/multiplication to happen. Also, if you do decide on the Doepfer make sure you have a spare attenuator for the VC input as it's the key to taming it's sometimes extreme reactions.

[Felnyrii]

basicbasic, thanks for the suggestions, I recently decided to grab the Doepfer A-150 dual switch for primarily gate uses to go with a RYO Paths. Additionally, is the knob on the A-160-5 not an attenuator at all? Or is that an offset for the CV in?

Frankly, I've pumped myself up about the Varigate 4, but I think I am going to grab that and the Doepfer for different uses.


Thanks guys!

[basicbasic]

Additionally, is the knob on the A-160-5 not an attenuator at all? Or is that an offset for the CV in?

Surprisingly not. Once a cable in plugged into the CV input it appears to have no purpose.

[Felnyrii]

Huh, I just read that as well after some more manual reading about the A-160-5. Seems a little odd.

[Radical Ans]

Not to derail the thread, but I've seen the term "ratcheting sequencer" several times around the interwebs, but I am not 100% on what it means. Would anyone like to clarify?

[Felnyrii]

Not to derail the thread, but I've seen the term "ratcheting sequencer" several times around the interwebs, but I am not 100% on what it means. Would anyone like to clarify?

I too was confused for a while about the term. So finally I did a bit of research after seeing the A-160-5 (retro version) pop up on Modular Grid.

I found a few videos referring to Tangerine Dream and the repeated steps / multiplications in the patterns. Those repeats being the "ratchets".

Youtube Link 1

Youtube Link 2

[evileye0702]

If you want to think outside the box the Komplex sequencer is great for ratcheting sequences.

[vedicspaceprogram]

The Stillson Hammer MK 2 does "bursts", which is their name for ratcheting. It is very controllable and sounds organic and musical.

[Felnyrii]

If you want to think outside the box the Komplex sequencer is great for ratcheting sequences.

Saw the Komplex at Knobcon last year, that thing looks awesome, but a bit above my price and space availability.

The Stillson Hammer Mk 2 is very cool too. I'll have to look at the bursts that it does.

Thanks guys!