# Intellijel — Atlantix - [Manual PDF](../../manuals/atlantix_manual_2024.09.12.pdf) --- [Download the Intellijel Atlantix Manual (PDF)](attachment:Atlantix_Manual_2024.09.12.pdf) --- # Modulating the Intellijel Atlantix for Unique, Interesting Sounds Below are tailored patching/modulation strategies for three styles: **distorted percussive sounds**, **crazy basslines (dubstep/drum & bass)**, and **haunting pads and atmospheres**. Each approach is based on details and creative routings described in the [Intellijel Atlantix Manual](attachment:Atlantix_Manual_2024.09.12.pdf). --- ## 1. Distorted Percussive Sounds **Characteristics:** Fast attacks, clicky envelopes, overdrive, heavy filter resonance, sync, ring-mod, glitchy S&H, and use of noise. ### Patch Ideas & Modulation Strategies - **Envelope for Percussive Shapes:** - Use the [ENVELOPE RATE] switch to `FAST`. - Set `ATTACK` and `RELEASE` sliders low for very fast transient. - In ENV/GATE mode, try both for snappy/organ-like contours. - **VCA Distortion:** - Engage the [DRIVE] switch in either `SYM` (symmetrical) or `ASYM` (asymmetrical) positions for clipping; `ASYM` sounds raw and glitchy. - **Filter Excitation/Resonance:** - High [Q] setting on VCF for ringing/peaky attack. - Modulate [VCF cutoff] with both envelope (hardwired) and/or S&H from MOD section for random filtering effects. - Try **inverted** ENV polarity for aggressive "sucking" percussive attacks. - **Oscillator Hard Sync:** - Set VCO A [SYNC TYPE] to `HARD` for classic punchy transients. - Sync VCO A to VCO B (use GATE or VCO B SAW as source). - **Noise + S&H for Snap:** - In the MIXER, ride the [NOISE] slider. - Patch [NOISE OUT] from MOD section to modulate VCF cutoff or PWM for glitch. - S&H: Modulate VCO A’s frequency or VCA level with stepped/random voltages for digital-glitch percussion. - **Ring Mod for Metal/Noise:** - Use ATLX expander's RING MOD output (sum/difference of two VCOs or VCO + noise). - Patch this back into the VCA or directly to output. - **Pulse Width/Amplitude Tricks:** - Modulate VCO A PWM deeply for clicky, silenced pulses (100% pulse width kills oscillator). - **AUX Routing for Parallel Processing:** - AUX 2 set to `VCA` position for layering external/processed sounds. **Bonus Patch:** - Patch ENV INVERTED ([5.E]) to VCA LEVEL IN [5.C] for unusual dynamic response (transient ducking). --- ## 2. Crazy Basslines (Dubstep, DnB) **Characteristics:** Aggressive filter movement, FM growls, sync, metallic/talking timbres, harmonically rich bass, stepped/chaotic modulation. ### Patch Ideas & Modulation Strategies - **FM Bass Growl:** - Set VCO A FM 1 to `TZFM` mode (`AC` for pitch tracking, `DC` for wild modulations). - Use VCO B in audio-rate, patch its output to VCO A FM 1 IN or FM 2 IN. - Modulate FM INDEX slider with envelope or S&H for movement. - **VCF Movement:** - Run envelope and MOD Y into both FM 1/2 of VCF; invert polarity for "wub-wub" effects. - Patch S&H OUT to one of VCF FM inputs for stepped/random wobbles. - Ride the [Q] slider for “scream” effects; high resonance, maybe self-oscillating. - **Pulse/Sync Tricks:** - Sync VCO A to VCO B and detune for aggressive harmonics. - Modulate pulse width deeply (envelope, MOD X/Y, S&H, noise). - **Parallel Processing / Sub Layer:** - Use SUB oscillator set to `-2` for deep bass foundation. - Send part of the sound post-filter (AUX 2 to VCA), and use another version pre-filter (main mix), for clean sub + distorted top. - **Distortion/Drive:** - Use VCA DRIVE in `ASYM` for extra filth. - **VCO B as LFO:** - Modulate VCF or VCO A FM for slow/fast rhythmic bass movement. - **MOD Source Cross-Patching:** - MOD X: Use VCO B Square/Saw or S&H as FM input to VCO A. - MOD Y: Use NOISE or S&H as filter modulation for randomness. - **Use of S&H / T&H:** - Switch to T&H for looser, drifting “talking” bass modulation; S&H for clean stepped changes. **Bonus Patch:** - Patch audio from ATLX outputs (SAW, TRI, PULSE) through VCA, modulate amplitude with MOD X/Y or ENV for timbral bass shaping. --- ## 3. Haunting Pads & Atmospheric Sounds **Characteristics:** Long evolving envelopes, smooth modulation, lush timbres, slow movement, stereo/parallel layers, shimmer, phase, subtle randomization. ### Patch Ideas & Modulation Strategies - **Slow Envelopes:** - Set [ENVELOPE RATE] to `SLOW`. - Use long ATTACK and RELEASE for evolving textures. - **VCF:** - Use BP (bandpass) or PHZ modes with modest [Q] for airy/washed pads. - Modulate filter cutoff with slow LFO (VCO B in LFO mode), or MOD X/Y set to Sine/Triangle. - Slight randomization: modulate ENV amount with S&H at low rate, or noise at low amplitude. - **Oscillator FM & Sync:** - Soft sync for organic instability; modulate FM at slow rates for subtle shimmer. - Set VCO B as LFO and patch to VCO A FM for subtle drifting pitch/timbre changes. - **Parallel Harmonics/Aux Layers:** - Mix in TRI, SINE, or noise at low levels in MIXER section. - Use AUX 2 routed to VCA for an ethereal layer bypassing the filter. - **Pulse Width Animation:** - Modulate VCO A PWM with slow LFO, envelope, or S&H for gentle undulating movement. - **VCF/Phaser:** - Switch to PHZ mode for phasey, haunting textures. - Sweep filter cutoff (manual or CV) for moving notches. - **Self-Patching Feedback:** - Patch filtered output (ATLX BP/PHZ OUT) to external delay/reverb, return to AUX 1/2 for feedback. - **S&H for Subtle Unpredictability:** - At slow rate, use S&H OUT to gently modulate mixer levels or VCA envelope level. **Bonus Patch:** - Use MOD X and MOD Y both set to LFOs with phase offset (one SINE, one TRIANGLE) to crossfade/filter and FM for stereo/animated pad-like morphs. --- ## Additional Tips - **Utilize MOD X/Y Unipolar/Bipolar/Polarity switches** for nuanced control over modulation destinations. - **Leverage ATLX Expander** for dedicated outputs, easy parallel/processing, or external re-injection. - For all patches: experiment with cutting normalled signals and repatching for self-patching feedback and unique cross-modulation. --- [Generated With Eurorack Processor](https://github.com/nstarke/eurorack-processor)