Download the 2hp 3:1 Manual (PDF)
The 2hp 3:1 is a compact, voltage-controllable gate/trigger switch and summer. It can function as both a selective switch (routing one of three gates to a destination) and a gate summer (outputting triggers for all active channels). Below are some ideas for creative use in your Eurorack system.
Concept: Use 3:1 to select between multiple gate/trigger sources, creating evolving rhythmic patterns.
How-To: - Connect three different gate sources (e.g., from a sequencer like Intellijel Metropolix, Make Noise Tempi, or Pamela’s New Workout) to the inputs of 3:1. - Use the SEL CV with an LFO, random voltage, or stepped voltage (e.g., from Mutable Instruments Marbles or ALM Busy Circuits Pamela’s New Workout) to automate which input is currently active. - Send the output to an envelope generator or percussion module for shifting rhythmic variations.
Concept: Automatically layer and rearrange multiple drum triggers for fills or rolls.
How-To: - Patch kick, snare, and hat triggers into the three inputs. - Use the SUM mode (MODE switch right) to create complex layered patterns—when multiple inputs are "selected," short triggers will be output for each pulse. - Sequence the SEL CV input to periodically "open up" the switch for all drums at once, then return to selecting just one or two for fills/breakdowns.
Concept: Fuse multiple clock sources at different time divisions for unique polyrhythms.
How-To: - Send gates from multiple clock dividers (like 4ms Rotating Clock Divider or Doepfer A-160) to the 3:1. - Use the SUM mode; each input adds a trigger to the output. - Send the result to a sequencer clock input, randomizer, or trigger an entire drum voice, generating evolving, non-repetitive patterns.
Concept: Live-swapping controller inputs for expressive performance.
How-To: - Patch gates/triggers from something like Make Noise Pressure Points, a midi-to-gate converter, or manual gate buttons to 3:1. - Use the SEL knob by hand during a performance to instantly reroute which input controls a target (like a VCA, effect trigger, or sample player). - Automate changes for surprise drops or shifts during the set.
Concept: Toggle between modulation sources or "punch in" effects at precise times.
How-To: - Gate/trigger outputs from different modulation sequencers or function generators (e.g., Maths, Zadar, Batumi) to 3:1 inputs. - Output goes to an effect module’s gate or trigger input (e.g., a burst generator, delay tap, or reverb freeze). - Use SEL CV to let a sequencer or random source pick which modulation gets through.
Concept: Use random sources to automate selection for organic, never-repeating rhythms.
How-To: - Patch outputs from games of chance/random modules (Mutable Instruments Turing Machine, Wogglebug) to SEL CV. - Each time a random gate is sent, a different trigger sequence or cross-rhythm is produced.
Concept: Sequence access to multiple envelope shapes for a single destination.
How-To: - Patch different function generator end-of-cycle/gate outputs (or use varied length trigger sources) into 3:1 inputs. - The output can sequence different envelope shapes to a single VCA or filter, providing unique modulation movement tailored by how you control the SEL position.