Download Shakmat Time Wizard Manual (PDF)
The Shakmat Time Wizard is a highly flexible 6-channel clock divider/multiplier with advanced routing and logic capabilities. It can form the rhythmic and temporal backbone of your modular system. Here are some creative and advanced patch ideas to inspire novel uses in your rack:
Module Combo:
- Sequencer (e.g., Make Noise Rene, Intellijel Metropolix, or any simple step sequencer)
- Drum/Percussion Voices (e.g., Mutable Instruments Peaks, TipTop Audio ONE)
Patch Idea:
Use two or more divider outputs (A and B columns with different division factors like 5 and 7) to clock multiple sequencers or drum triggers. Use the Multiply A switch to generate triplets or other nonstandard divisions, resulting in complex polyrhythms that evolve as the dividers drift in and out of phase.
Try resetting all dividers from a master clock at key musical phrases for temporal alignment.
Module Combo:
- Quantizer (e.g., Intellijel Scales, Doepfer A-156)
- Random/Chaos Source (e.g., Make Noise Wogglebug, Mutable Instruments Marbles)
Patch Idea:
Patch several Time Wizard outputs at different divisions into a quantizer’s trigger input and into a sample & hold. Use these periodic but offset triggers to pull new random values from your random module, producing arpeggios or basslines that are rhythmically interlocked but non-repetitive.
Module Combo:
- VCAs or LPGs (e.g., Dynamic Destiny Natural Gate, Intellijel Quad VCA)
- Envelope Generators (e.g., ALM Pip Slope, Intellijel Dual ADSR)
Patch Idea:
Drive envelopes or even direct VCA/LPG modulation with the Time Wizard’s outputs at various rates, animating different timbral or amplitude contours in your patch. The module’s logic switches can make for interesting cross-rhythms (e.g., AND/OR of divisions), opening up unique opportunities for animated modular performances.
Module Combo:
- Euclidean Sequencers (e.g., vpme.de QD, ALM Pamela’s New Workout)
- Tap Tempo Effects (e.g., Mutable Instruments Clouds, Make Noise Mimeophon)
Patch Idea:
Use the Multiply A feature to create triplet or "3/4" feel pulses from basic 4/4 clocks, and drive Euclidean sequencers for shifting grooves or spatial effects synchronization. For example, modulate delay time or reverb on triplets while keeping main sequence in 4/4.
Module Combo:
- Switchers or Sequential Switches (e.g., Doepfer A-151)
- Multiple modulation or drum channels
Patch Idea:
Use the Reset B6 switch to periodically re-sync one or both groups of dividers, creating dramatic "lock-in" rhythmic moments in a patch that otherwise behaves poly-rhythmically. Sequence the Reset input from another sequence or manually punch it in for performance control.
Module Combo:
- Logic Modules (e.g., Doepfer A-166, Intellijel Plog)
- Arpeggiators, Turing Machine, or Drum Modules
Patch Idea:
Exploit the Time Wizard’s onboard logic (e.g., combining A2 & B5 or A2 OR A3) for conditional triggering. This can create fills, conditional melody lines, or complex drum patterns that only happen at specific intersections of divided clocks.
Module Combo:
- VC-LFO (e.g., Batumi, Strokes)
- Wavefolders, Filters
Patch Idea:
Use slow clock divisions (or their logic combinations) to reset cycling LFOs or envelopes, syncing periodic waves to evolving, unusual rates for evolving modulation of timbre or spatial parameters.
Module Combo:
- Manual Gate/Reset Input (from pressure points or external controller)
- Effects (delays, reverbs, samplers)
Performance Trick:
Use Time Wizard’s reset and switch states live, dramatically altering the rhythmic structure of your entire patch at a moment’s notice for fills, breakdowns, or tempo/feel shifts. Use the half-period gate mode for longer, sustained modulations that affect effects or voices in your patch.