Download the Vhikk X Manual (PDF)
(Focus: Distorted Percussion, Dubstep/DnB Basses, Haunting Pads)
The Vhikk X by Forge TME is a multi-algorithm stereo sound source and processor designed for hands-on exploration in modular synth setups. It offers 36 algorithms (9 per bank, 4 banks), extensive CV modulation, and stereo in/out for both creation and processing of wild, dense, or delicate sounds.
Below are recommended patching and modulation strategies tailored for distorted percussion, crazy basslines, and haunting atmospheric pads.
CV Routing Tips: - Any CV in VCA is normalled to all other param CVs (if unpatched). - MORPH CV normalled to remaining param CVs (if unpatched). - Attenuverters = on-the-panel fine-tuning.
Setup: - Choose an algorithm with sharp transients, granulation, or aggressive processing (experiment with different toggle/bank combos). - Feed short triggers, envelopes, or audio percussion samples into the stereo inputs.
Modulation Moves: - Patch fast, snappy envelopes (from Maths, Quadrax, etc.) into the VCA CV for sharply gated, drum-like attacks. - Modulate MORPH and BASIS with stepped/random voltages or fast LFOs — jump between different timbres, glitchy distortion, and pitch bursts. - Drive the Input Gain and Output Gain using the encoders to add internal clipping/distortion (Vhikk X soft-clips at each gain stage for punchy grit). - Patch a slow LFO into FIELD to create movement within the percussive shell, morphing the overtones or decay characteristics per hit. - Use the TIME CV to vary granulation or internal delay/reverb times, for metallic, ringing, or decaying echoes.
Creative Extreme: Randomize SEED/SCAN via manual press (both buttons), causing algorithmic chaos between hits.
Setup: - Select an algorithm that's synth-heavy—complex oscillators, wavefolders, or aggressive filters.
Modulation Moves: - Use a quantized pitch sequence into BASIS (V/Oct calibrated) for note control. - Route an audio-rate LFO or oscillator to MORPH or FORM for FM-style, gnarly transformer bass movement. - Patch a sync'ed envelope or stepped random into TIME, FIELD, and VCA for 'wobble'—tight amplitude shaping, filter sweeps, and formant morphing. - Push the Input and Output Gain encoders into saturation for crunchy, heavy distortion. - Manually 'scan' with the SCAN encoder during a sequence to morph bass 'characters' in real time. - Use stereo outputs to widen the bass via external mid-side, chorus, or direct patching for a massive effect.
Creative Extreme: Launch into extreme modulation depths, overdriving CV attenuverters for unpredictable, unstable timbres. Try flipping algorithms mid-bar ("toggle switch performance") for glitchy, aggressive phrases.
Setup: - Pick an algorithm focused on granular, shimmering, or filter-resonant sounds—often in true stereo.
Modulation Moves: - Feed slow, looping envelopes or random LFOs into MORPH, FIELD, FORM, TIME for continuous drifting soundscapes. - Use low amplitude/no CV in VCA for swelling, evolving pads. - Patch stereo field recordings, synth chords, or noise into Stereo Inputs; process these with Vhikk X's reverb, delay, or spectral algorithms. - Keep the Input/Output Gains moderate for headroom; overdrive only for distant, haunted saturation. - Slowly rotate SEED and SCAN encoders to drastically evolve algorithms, introducing spectral artifacts and spectral haloes. - Automate switching through banks/algorithms for scene changes without patch rewiring.
Creative Extreme: Use the internal randomisation (press both buttons) to inject spontaneous ghostly mutations.
Distorted Snare: - Envelope → VCA - Fast S&H → TIME, MORPH - Hot Input Signal + High Output Gain = Hard Digital Clipping - Tap both buttons for SEED-ful chaos
Wobble Bass: - Sequencer → BASIS (V/Oct) - Audio-rate Osc → FORM - S&H or Sequenced Envelope → FIELD, TIME - MOD Wheel → MORPH (performance filter sweeps) - Slow SCAN encoder movement for evolution
Haunted Pad: - Stereo Input (tape hiss/field) → Inputs - Two slow LFOs → FORM, FIELD - Envelope → VCA for slow fade ins/outs - Periodic manual SEED/SCAN movements or internal randomization
Let yourself get lost in the [tele]presence and dynamic algorithmic world of Vhikk X—the stranger and more interwoven your modulations, the more this module will reward creative exploration!