2hp — Switch

Manual PDF

Creative Modulation Techniques with the 2hp Switch

The 2hp Switch is a compact, voltage-controlled signal router with four inputs and one output—an excellent utility for experimental signal processing in Eurorack setups. Below are detailed strategies for using this module to achieve:

Distorted percussive sounds
Crazy, modulated basslines (dubstep/DnB style)
Haunting, evolving atmospheric pads

1. Distorted Percussive Sounds

Patch Idea: Channel-Hop Drum Layering

Inputs: Patch 4 different percussive sources (e.g., Kick, Snare, Hi-Hat, Digitally-distorted Noise Burst) to the four Switch inputs.
SEL CV Input: Send a fast, stepped random voltage (e.g., from a Turing Machine, Sample & Hold, or sequencer set to gate mode) into the SEL CV input.
SEL Knob: Use this to offset or "window" which drum types are being accessed in each phrase.
Processing: Route Switch’s output through a distortion, wavefolder, bitcrusher, or even just heavy VCA gain for further smash-and-glitch artifacts.

Outcome:
The Switch will instantly jump between percussive sounds on each step, creating highly unpredictable, glitchy drum lines perfect for breakcore or industrial genres.

Variation:
- Patch only varied distorted sources, and CV-sequence the selection for unpredictable, ever-morphing percussion. - Use audio-rate CVs (fast LFOs or oscillators) into SEL CV for rapid aliasing/granular chopping, creating digital artifacts.

2. Crazy Dubstep/Drum & Bass Basslines

Patch Idea: Bassline Chopper

Inputs: Patch four different bass sound generators (e.g., classic sub, FM bass, formant oscillator, filtered noise bass) into the Switch.
SEL CV Input: Use a complex modulation source, such as:
A quantized random sequence synced to your clock
An LFO multiplied and phase-shifted for wobbles
Envelope follower from a drum track to "key" bass selection to drum hits
SEL Knob: Manually sweep during recording/jamming for live glitch effects.

Outcome:
Generate "mutating" bass lines that rapidly morph character, reminiscent of chopped, re-sampled modern DnB/Dubstep bass sound. Audio-rate SEL CV modulation transforms the Switch into a digital waveshaper, causing wild, stuttering, bit-crushed edges!

Variation:
- Use the SEL CV input with stepped voltages that align with your musical phrases for rhythmic precision. - Modulate SEL CV with sidechained pumping for creative movement.

3. Haunting, Atmospheric Pads

Patch Idea: Textural Morphing

Inputs: Patch four evolving drones or pad textures (sample playback, slowly modulated oscillators, granular clouds, etc.) to Switch inputs.
SEL CV Input: Slowly modulate with an LFO, envelope, or manually-played voltage source (e.g., joystick, ribbon controller), or a super-slow random source.
SEL Knob: Set the offset to bias certain textures.

Outcome:
As the SEL CV sweeps, the module cross-switches between different pad sources abruptly (as opposed to crossfading), resulting in a textural, cinematic soundscape with haunting jumps—great for ambient, experimental, or horror sound design.

Variation:
- Use the input LEDs for visual feedback, syncing texture changes to stage lighting/visuals. - Modulate SEL CV with envelopes triggered alongside filter sweeps for synchronized movement.

Additional Creative Tips

Use gates or triggers to the SEL CV for instant, precise switching: great for live fills or breakdowns.
Run CV signals themselves through the Switch (as opposed to audio). Use separate CV sequences for each input—modulate the selection for complex, algorithmic, generative modulation sources.
Stack the output with a VCA and reverb for further dynamic and spatial manipulation.

Generated With Eurorack Processor