IO Labs — Flux Sequencer

Manual PDF

IOLabs FLUX Open Beta V1.07 User Manual (PDF)

Using IOLabs FLUX for Hyper-Complex, Densely Rhythmic Percussion in Eurorack

FLUX is one of the most advanced Eurorack rhythm sequencers available. Its Temporal Modulation Synthesis® (TMS) engine allows you to break away from conventional grid-based sequencers, creating dense, intricate, and organic percussion patterns. Here’s how you can exploit its features as a modular artist seeking the edge of rhythmic experimentation:

1. Temporal Modulation Synthesis®: Foundation for Polyrhythm and Complexity

Curvature Control (CURV, VAL): Manipulate the distribution of triggers within a step to create exponential (VAL > 0), linear (VAL = 0), or logarithmic (VAL < 0) placements. Combine with high density (DENS) settings to push into millisecond territories for glitchy micro-structure or fluid, rushing drum clusters.
- Tip: Negative VAL for log-compressed bursts, positive for stretched, crackling cascades.
Freeform Step Lengths and Densities: Each channel and step may have its own LENG (length) and DENS (density). Assign odd values (e.g., 7, 11, 13) on different channels—layering 5 against 7, or 13 against 8, unlocks cross-rhythms and polyrhythms not possible on standard grids.
- Example: Ch1: 11 steps, Ch2: 7 steps, Ch3: 16 steps, Ch4: 13 steps.
Phase (PHAS) and Compression (COMP): Phase-shift events within steps for offset grooves. Use compression/expansion to bunch or space triggers unpredictably for evolving, dynamic patterns.

2. Masking, Modulation, and Algorithmic Variation

Mute Masks (MASK, MSK>): Step-level logical masks (e.g., “1in2”, “2in3”) can stochastically/algorithmically drop or shift triggers, lending organic unpredictability reminiscent of human improvisation.
Auxiliary Outputs (AUX1, AUX2): Deploy logic-based outputs (Boolean AND/OR/XOR etc) to generate related rhythmic lines, complex clock divs, or sidechain triggers for punchy ducking FX.
- AGGRESSIVE HYPER EDIT: Use Boolean logic to create irregular, interlocking secondary percussion from main tracks.

3. Deep Modulation

Macro Pots & CV Inputs: Assign Macro Pots or external CV to virtually any parameter. Use attenuverters in the modulation matrix for extreme, dynamic modulation of density, curve, or mask parameters—twist, automate, or voltage-control your way into evolving, restless patterns.
Evolve LFO System: Up to 85 recallable LFOs per preset modulate any step/parameter. Use them to morph density, mask, probability, compression, etc., creating polyrhythmic evolving landscapes and generative structures.
Multi-Bus System: Assign up to three independent modulation buses per step for selective modulation—enables step-by-step algorithmic or performative variation; switch which mod sources are active at each position.

4. CV Outputs as Percussion Modulation

Step-based CV Envelopes, LFOs, Randoms: CV outputs can fire envelopes or voltages per step/trigger for unique dynamics—patch to VCA, filter, or modulation inputs on your voices for timbral or amplitude modulation that “breathes” with the groove.
Quantization Per Step: Quantize CV to scales, and even mask specific scale degrees per step for evolving pitch/sequenced percussion tone changes.
Random per Trigger (RANDT): Assign new random voltage on every trigger for wild micro-modulation of percussion synth voices.

5. Hyper Dense/Groove Tricks

Extreme Densities (DENS > 32): Go beyond drum machine possibilities. Experiment with how your percussion sound source responds to bursts at audio rates—filtered noise, analog drum modules, or even effect inputs can create 'crunchy grain' sounds.
- Caution: Watch for "dropped triggers" if connected voices can’t keep up. Use density and compression to tune for taste.
Humanize (HUMA): Range 1–127 for subtle to wild microtiming randomization—perfect for shifting between cybernetic precision and swinging, "drunk" rhythms.
Probability (PROB): Set per step or per trigger for controlled chaos.

6. Presets, Scenes, and Morphing

Rapid Preset Load/Save: Use µSD presets to swap between entire song structures, dense to sparse, glitch to groove.
Performance Use: Assign parameters to Macro Pots and morph them live, or sequence via external CV.

7. Integrative/Sync Capabilities

Polyrhythmic MIDI + Modular: Send MIDI for digital drums or DAW sync, while CV/gates pulse analog gear.
Burst Mode: For drum fills, ratchets, triggered outbursts, or generative staccato “clouds” of events.

8. Voice/Effector Manipulation (If FLUX is Part of Voice Chain)

While FLUX is a sequencer, these tricks apply: - Use output CV to modulate morph parameters on wavetable, FM, or physical modeling modules—extract pseudo-musical patterns from pure rhythm. - Gate density to trigger 'freeze'/'granule' functions in effects, or hard/soft clip modules for extra punch.

Practical Example Patches

Triplet Against 5/4 Bass Drum Polyrhythm:
CH1 (Kick): LENG = 5, DENS = 5, CURV = -0.8, PHAS = 0%
CH2 (Snare): LENG = 3, DENS = 3, CURV = 0.5, COMP = 20%
CH3 (HiHat): LENG = 8, DENS = 7, MASK = 2in3
CH4 (Perc): LENG = 13, DENS = 11, CURV = 0.2, Macro Pot mod on DENS
Evolving Percussion Cloud:
All channels: LENG = 16
DENS modulated by Evolve LFOs (different freq/waveform, out of phase)
CURV, VAL, and MASK modulated by separate Macro Pots
CV OUT: ENV mode to modulate VCA input on percussive voices for living amplitude movement
Boolean Logic Groove-Echos:
AUX1: DEL3 (delayed trigger)
AUX2: & (AND, triggers only if both main outs of CH1+CH3 active)
Use as side-trigger for FX or accent channel