Synthesist John L Rice shared this in-depth guide to the latest Synthetic Sound Labs module, The Matrix Algorithmic Composer model 1660.

The Matrix is a deterministic algorithmic sequencer, inspired by the rare Triadex Muse from 1969.

The SSL module was designed by Doug Slocum and programed by Harold Screven, and is based on the Triadex Muse, which was created around 1969 by Edward Fredkin and Marvin Minsky at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.). The Triadex Muse was designed to be a part of a generative music & visualization system, and was one of the earliest digital music sequencers.

Topics covered:

0:00 – Beginning/Introduction Reel
1:48 – Brief Layout Overview
3:12 – Interval Controls and Binary Basics
5:33 – Normal vs Rest
6:10 – Scale Quantizer
6:45 – The C3 and C6 Difference
8:00 – Distraction and Audio Out Processing
9:00 – Back To Rests Plus Resets
10:41 – Partial Review Before Moving On
13:56 – Theme Controls and Shift Register Basics
17:42 – The Linear Feed Back Shift Register
20:42 – LFSR Pattern Watching
22:15 – Patch Example 1 – Clock Dividers and Quantizers
24:31 – Patch Example 2 – Audio Out as Modulation Source
27:51 – Patch Example 3 – External Shift Register and Quantizers
31:53 – End

Pricing and Availability

The Matrix is available now for $425 USD.