2hp — Brst

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Brst Manual PDF

Using the 2hp Brst for Complex Rhythmic Percussion & Polyrhythms

The 2hp Brst is not a sound source or effect itself—it's a voltage controlled burst generator and trigger delay. Its power lies in creating trigger streams in rapid, customizable, and controlled bursts, making it an exceptional utility for advanced rhythmic creation. Here's how you can leverage it to construct hyper complex percussion and polyrhythms:

Core Techniques for Dense Rhythmic Patterns

1. Polyrhythmic Trigger Layers

• Patch one or more Brst units to drum or percussive modules' trigger inputs (e.g. kick, snare, hats, metallic noise, etc.).
• Use different PULSES and RATE settings per Brst, so that each drum voice gets a different burst rhythm. This naturally generates superimposed, interlocking rhythms (polyrhythms), especially when you send them triggers divided or multiplied from your main clock.

2. Complex Time Signatures & Ratcheting

• Use an external sequencer or clock divider as the source for TRIG input.
• Manipulate the PULSES knob/CV for odd numbers (e.g. 5, 7, 11) to inject bursts corresponding to tuplets and unusual subdivisions.
• Vary the RATE knob/CV, especially using CV modulation via step sequencers or random sources, so each burst can have evolving speed and feel (ratcheting).

3. Hyper-Percussive Pattern Generation

• Combine Brst bursts with other rhythmic modules (Euclidean sequencers, logic modules, clocked LFOs).
• Use envelope followers or random stepped voltages patched to RATE CV or PULSES CV for organic, shifting percussive patterns.
• Stack Brst outputs via logic OR combiners to make composite triggers for layered sounds.

Advanced Usage: Manipulation & Sonic Tips

Uniqueness & Punch

• Since Brst only creates triggers, combine with envelopes and VCAs to sculpt the attack and decay of percussive sources for extra punch.
• Alternate PULSES and RATE ranges between very short bursts (staccato blips) and slower flurries for rhythmic contrast and dynamic buildup.
• Use the TRIG TOGGLE creatively:
• Include the initial trigger for tight "ratchet-like" sounds.
• Omit to shift the burst onset for syncopated, more humanizing feel.

Humanizing Rhythms

• Slightly modulate the RATE CV input with slow LFOs or sample & hold modules to add micro-timing fluctuations.
• Use attenuated random sources (e.g. Wogglebug, Turing Machine) for "groove" or swing in trigger timing, making machine rhythms feel more "played."

Percussion Not Possible with a Plain Clock

• Brst excels at molding generic clock triggers into rolling bursts—perfect for simulating realistic drum rudiments (rolls, flams, ghost notes) with only simple trigger outputs.
• Insert Brst into hi-hat or snare lines to add "machine gun" effects or detailed ghost note patterns impossible by hand or with plain clocking.

Chaining & Layering

• Chain two Brst modules: feed output of one into the TRIG input of another for nested bursts and even more complex cascades.
• Interleave Brst outputs with probabilistic gates (Mutable Branches, Doepfer A-150, etc.) to enhance randomness and variation.

Example Patch

Goal: IDM/Glitch Drums With Dense Polyrhythms
- Clock source → Brst TRIG
- Brst OUT → Snare drum's trigger
- Modulate Brst's PULSES CV with stepped random
- Modulate Brst's RATE CV with clock-synced LFO
- Main clock / 2 → Hi-hat
- Second Brst with different settings for rimshot/woodblock
Result: Polyrhythms and glitchy rolls interplay with regular patterns.

Further Expansion

• Mult Brst OUT to trigger multiple percussion modules at once for dense, coordinated bursts.
• Sequence RATE and PULSES CVs for evolving, morphing percussive textures through a performance.

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