Tiptop Audio & Buchla USA have released the 248t Multiple Arbitrary Function Generator (MARF), 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
Here’s an intro from Stazma:
Pricing and Availability:
The 248t Multiple Arbitrary Function Generator is available now for $999 USD.
This looks amazing, but it’s strange that Tiptop has spent a year creating this and their documentation is still missing in action.
Dead site
Can you elaborate? I checked the links and they all are working.
It would be much more interesting if there was some sort of meaningful reinterpretation of The Don’s original ideas instead of these slavish (but vertically smushed) clones of 50 year old tech. Commodity fetishism is an inescapable part of the synth scene but these Tiptop clones are not much different than Behringerized versions of the real thing, lacking both inspiration and innovation.
erik – there are endless variations on Don’s modules in Eurorack.
What’s never been available, though, is affordable high-quality reissues of the originals. These are that, and also incorporate some really interesting modern capabilities via ART.
Anyone confusing the build quality of these modules with Behringer’s, or thinking that they’re not innovative and still relevant, isn’t paying attention.
Who is actually using ART? Are you even using ART? Be honest.
Statistics on ModularGrid indicate that the much-hyped Triax8 polyphonic oscillator only shows up in 70 racks and Tiptop’s other non-200t ART modules barely crack 100 racks after years on the market.
These statistics, though imperfect, indicate that ART is a commercial failure that nobody actually wants, despite what was probably an expensive and challenging development effort. Adding this failed tech to a shrunken Buchla clone doesn’t provide anything of value for the vast majority of Eurorack users.
I have bought (and sold) several of these 200t modules and found the build quality to be inferior to most other Eurorack brands, even brands that are run by one guy building stuff in his garage. These modules are manufactured in Asia using the cheapest possible components, just like Behringer. They’re simply cashing in on the halo effect of a dead brand name.
So you’re saying that a niche product has a niche audience? Brilliant insight!
I’d have to disagree on the TA/Buchla build quality – these modules are built to a higher standard, IMHO, than Buchla traditionally achieved, and are on a par with my modules from companies like Mutable Instruments, which I see as on the higher end of quality for Eurorack. The build isn’t as good as Synth Tech, but what is?
My experience with Behringer modules is that they are decent for entry-level module, but anyone that’s used a wide range of Euro modules should be able to see where they’ve cut corners.
YMMV!
The real question that your comments raise, though, is why you’re spending time trashing Tiptop Buchla modules? You’re clearly an outlier and have an axe to grind, so it makes your comments suspect.