This video, via PEFF, offers a sneak preview of the upcoming Tiptop Audio & Buchla 248t Multiple Arbitrary Function Generator (MARF).
The new module is a reissue of the ’70s Buchla 248 MARF module, adapted to Eurorack format. The MARF is a powerful voltage generator that can be used for a wide range of purposes, including sequencing, modulating, envelopes and more.
Features:
- Flexible control voltage generator and processor
- A modern recreation of the rare Model 248 from vintage Buchla 200 Systems
- 16 stages with two independently addressable output sections
- Many definable behaviors available on a per-stage basis
- Produces anything from step sequences to complex envelope shapes and beyond
- Non-volatile memory—presets can be recalled after powering the module off
- Compatible with Tiptop’s ART protocol for tuning and polyphony
Pricing and Availability:
Details on pricing and availability for the 248t Multiple Arbitrary Function Generator are still to be announced.
Behringer needs to hurry up with their Enigma clone. Might be my entrance into the Buchla world 🙁
Goddamnit I thought this was the Behringer Enigma for a second and got all excited
It’s great to see one of these finally out in the wild! It would be even better to have some more information about it though.
The need to find a 3/4 sized Suzanne Ciani lookalike with a banana allergy to do the demos for it to ensure authenticity.
I saw her do a set at Berklee and it was fantastic.
The MARF doesn’t live up to the hype, even in its original form. There are dozens of Eurorack sequencers now that are more innovative and powerful. If not for the vintage unobtainium “Buchla” halo effect these uninspired and slavish clones wouldn’t be nearly as popular. The used gear forums are flooded with dirt cheap Buchla/TTA clones because people got excited about getting “Buchla” for low prices but then realized how basic the 50 year old concepts are in the context of modern Eurorack.
– There are currently NO eurorack sequencers that cover all the functionality of the MARF, as far as I am aware. Please enlighten us and name these *dozens* of sequencers, if indeed they do exist!
– There is currently ONE used 200t module for sale on Reverb. Looking through modular grid marketplace I had to go through a few pages, but found 3 or 4. Just quickly comparing this to Intellijel and Make Noise, this is about 60-70% fewer than those brands on modular grid, and about 10% of what is up on Reverb. Hardly “flooding the market” !
Don Buchla’s designs are integral in shaping the modern eurorack landscape, and continue to do so; even outshining many modern offerings.
100% this. So far I have only seen two people decide to sell up on their 200t investment
My 200t modules are in their own system now, but I miss the 245t, 258t and 281t, in my main rack, as these had become my go to modules for their respective functionality when patching, over and above more modern and ‘sophisticated’ modules.