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For those venturing into the world of Eurorack modules, the Rample by Squarp Instruments (Hermod+ & Hapax) stands out as a versatile and powerful sample player and audio processor. From the moment you plug it in and start experimenting, its potential is evident. This article explores what makes Rample an essential addition to any Eurorack setup.
A Versatile Sample Machine to Redefining Eurorack Performance
Rample is a 4-voice sample player, offering an extensive range of functionalities. It can handle everything from percussive drum-machine kits to intricate synth samples, breakbeats, and even hour-long audio tracks. The provided SD card, preloaded with a plethora of samples, allows you to store up to 2600 banks of 4 voices, all organized as kits. The immediate and seamless loading of these kits makes it incredibly user-friendly, even for live performances.
One of the standout features is the ability to import and organize your own samples, transforming Rample into a highly personalized instrument. The DC coupled audio outputs even allow it to play CV waveforms like LFOs, adding another layer of versatility.
Multi-layer Sampling for Realistic Sound
What truly sets Rample apart is its multi-layer sampling capability. Each voice supports up to 12 samples, which can be played randomly or in a controlled manner. This feature is particularly useful for creating realistic, humanized percussion sounds. For example, a single channel dedicated to hi-hat samples can have up to 12 variations, played at random to simulate the nuances of a real drummer. This includes different velocities, accents, ghost notes, and beyond, resulting in a dynamic and organic performance.
Rample also excels in more than just percussion. It's equally adept at handling pads, drones, and other ambient voices, making it possible for Rample to serve as the sole voice in both small and large systems.
Real-time Audio Manipulation
Rample includes a comprehensive effects rack for each voice, enabling real-time audio manipulation. The available effects include:
Pitch: A 6-pole interpolator engine that ranges from -1 octave to +1 octave.
Bitcrushing: Two different algorithms for sample rate and resolution reduction, adding distortion and warmth.
Filter: A low resonance DJ-style filter for high or low-frequency cutoff.
Freeze: Samples and loops a fraction of the waveform, creating a glitch effect.
Levels: Adjusts the gain or drives the signal.
These effects can be enabled simultaneously or separately, and controlled in real-time using the high-quality potentiometers, the clickable encoder, and the assignable CV inputs. However, some users might find the encoder knob less responsive than ideal, especially when applying effects DJ-style. Improving the encoder's responsiveness would significantly enhance the user experience, although this is by no means an important issue.
Integration and Connectivity
Rample integrates seamlessly with other Eurorack modules and can function as a standalone MIDI machine. It features:
4 Gate Inputs: For triggering samples.
4 Assignable CV Inputs: To modulate effects parameters.
MIDI In: To control and sequence all sample parameters and effects.
4 Dedicated Audio Outputs: Mono and DC-coupled, capable of playing CV signals.
Audio Mix Output: Unplugged audio outputs are normalized to "mix" with volume control.
MIDI Thru: For chaining multiple Rample modules.
This level of connectivity ensures that Rample can be the rhythmic heart of your Eurorack system.
Perfect Pairing for Percussion With Flame Instruments Takt
To elevate your percussion setup to new heights, consider pairing the Rample with Flame Instruments Takt.
Takt is a compact 30HP Eurorack sequencer module with 8 tracks for trigger/gate/velocity rhythm sequences, 8 velocity/modulation CV outputs, and full MIDI functionality. It offers live sequencing in looper mode via SHOTS for "note repeats" or quantized triggering. Four external distance sensors can trigger tracks simultaneously, switching between sets of tracks. Takt also includes four syncable LFOs with various functions and can store up to 250 patterns. And it does much more.
It's evident that Rample combined with Takt is a great combo. I will demonstrate this synergy later this summer on YouTube. Stay tuned!
Final Thoughts
To redefining Eurorack Performance, Rample is an impressive and robust sample player that brings a wealth of creative possibilities to the table. Its multi-layer sampling and extensive effects options make it a powerful tool for creating complex, organic, and dynamic sounds. While the user interface could benefit from a more responsive encoder knob and clearer function navigation, these minor drawbacks do not diminish the module's overall capabilities.
In comparison to other modules like the ALM Squid Salmple, Rample stands out with its playability and depth. Although it only has 4 channels, it offers excellent value for money, making it a must-have for both beginners and experienced Eurorack enthusiasts. Whether used as a standalone voice or integrated into a larger setup, Rample is a module that will undoubtedly inspire creativity and enhance any modular system.
Note: Squarp Instruments are also behind the famous Hermod+ and Hapax, renowned for their innovative designs and robust functionality in the modular synthesis community.
Squarp Instruments sent me a Rample in exchange for an upcoming video about my performance system. However, this does not influence my opinion about the module. This article was written for the sole purpose of sharing my experience and was not requested by Squarp Instruments.
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