Modbap Modular Introduces CLRS: A New Stereo Effects Processor for DJs, Producers & Performers

This release from the US Eurorack module manufacturer delivers dynamic, expressive audio processing capabilities in a powerful, compact unit — now available to pre-order.

Los Angeles, CA, May 9, 2024 — California-based electronic musical instrument manufacturer Modbap Modular has announced a new addition to their line of performance-focused Eurorack modules.

CLRS (pronounced “colors”) is a dynamic reimagining of Modbap’s HUE audio color and textural processing effect module, designed to enhance and transform source audio in studio and live performance settings. In 10HP format and with full stereo sound output, CLRS is the perfect end-of-chain audio processing tool for artists looking to add character and depth to their sound.

Known in the electronic music community for developing innovative, performance-oriented instruments with beatmakers and DJs in mind, Modbap Modular packs the functionality of a full-format effects processor into a compact-yet-mighty module with CLRS.

Introducing the CLRS Stereo Color Effects Processor

CLRS, now available to pre-order, marks the seventh product introduced by the instrument maker since designer and technologist Corry Banks founded the company in 2020.

This flexible new module is equally suitable as an addition to any Eurorack case or as an effects processor for gear like drum machines and grooveboxes.

At the heart of CLRS lies Modbap’s performable DJ-style state variable filter, which features a high pass and low pass filter on one top-center large knob. With the low pass situated to the left and the high pass to the right, seamlessly shaping sound in the stereo field becomes intuitive. Users can achieve the perfect balance between frequencies, creating a harmonious blend that breathes new life into any audio creation.

From clean boost to edgy distortion, CLRS's Drive effect empowers players to sculpt the ideal sonic character to complement their creative vision. It adds warmth and texture, taking sound to harmonically rich territories.

For greater control over spatial audio aspects, the module’s stereo width control allows for precise adjustment of the width of the stereo field.

The Lo-fi effect on CLRS is a powerful feature that introduces a lo-fi or low-fidelity audio aesthetic. By reducing the sample rate, the "lo-fi" knob emulates the characteristics of lower-quality audio recordings or older digital devices. This reduction in sample rate produces a vintage, degraded, or "lo-fi" sound, perfect for creating a nostalgic or retro vibe in recordings.

The Bit Depth knob decreases the bit depth. This introduces an aliasing sound with distortion, adding to the lo-fi character of the audio. The result is a gritty, distorted, or "bitcrushed" sound reminiscent of older digital devices or low-quality audio formats.

The Lo-fi CV input affects the combination of sample rate reduction and bit depth, opening up a range of possibilities to explore vintage recordings and unique audio textures.

The "Mag" effect, short for "magnet," combines the characteristics of tape saturation and tape distortion into a single control knob. Adjusting the "Mag" knob introduces a magnetic-like effect to the audio signal, emulating the warmth, saturation, and subtle distortion associated with analog tape recordings. This feature allows the user to infuse their audio with vintage and analog-style tonal qualities, bringing warmth and depth to digital recordings or achieving a vintage vibe. The "Mag" effect can also introduce light tape distortion, adding a touch of grit, character, and a slight edge to the sound, imparting a vintage or lo-fi aesthetic.

CLRS offers an intuitive one-knob compressor, for effortless control of audio dynamics. This elevates the mix to a professional level with depth and balance. The newly integrated three-way switch for ratio control provides the freedom to choose among light, medium, and heavy compression settings. Also included in this expanded compressor is a “duck” input, which simulates side chain compressions allowing the player to send LFOs, envelopes, and the like to control the side chaining. Whether used for gentle leveling or impactful squashing, CLRS's compressor can adapt to any musical style or needs.

In addition, CLRS features CV inputs for modulation of the filter, drive, mag, and lo-fi effects. This allows for dynamic and expressive control over the artist’s sound, adding an extra layer of music production creativity.

Expressive, Transformative Processing for Any Eurorack or Audio Effects Processing Setup

Whether using CLRS in a Eurorack modular system or in a groovebox signal chain, this module seamlessly integrates into any interconnected setup, providing a versatile and powerful tool for end-of-chain audio processing.

Its CV inputs for modulation of the filter, drive, mag, and lo-fi effects add an extra layer of expressiveness and creativity to any user’s music production workflow, allowing for dynamic sound-shaping and audio transformation.

CLRS encourages music-makers with existing Eurorack and groovebox setups to experience another level of audio processing flexibility and unlock a world of new sonic possibilities. From side chain compression and frequency control to the discovery of unexplored character, textures, and vintage tones, CLRS is the ultimate companion for taking modern music production to new heights.

CLRS is now available to pre-order at modbap.com and with select retailers worldwide.

Key Features of Modbap Modular CLRS Effects Processor

Audio processing effect
DJ-style filter (HP and LP)
Tape (Mag), Drive, and Lo-fi effects
One knob compressor with switchable ratio
Ducking input
CV inputs for Filter, Mag, Drive, Lo-fi
Stereo input and output
10HP format

Explore CLRS & More Modbap Gear at Superbooth ‘24

Modbap Modular will debut the new CLRS module at this year’s Superbooth trade fair and electronic musical instruments festival in Berlin, Germany.

Superbooth attendees will have the opportunity to explore the instrument’s sound and functionality by visiting booth W212 at the event located at FEZ-Berlin from Thursday, May 16th, through Saturday, May 18th, 2024.

In addition to the new CLRS stereo effects processor, Superbooth attendees will be able to demo Modbap's full product line: HUE, Meridian, Osiris, Per4mer, Transit, and Trinity.

More information about the event can be found here.

About Modbap Modular
Modbap Modular, founded by Corry Banks, is a black-owned electronic music instrument manufacturer. The company’s instruments are made and designed in Southern California, USA, with the goal and mission to develop fun, forward-thinking, performance-oriented tools with the DJ and beatmaker’s perspective in mind. 

Launched in 2020, Modbap Modular's products are distributed by Electro-Distro and sold in 40+ electronic musical instrument stores across the globe: North America, Europe, and Asia. Learn more about Modbap Modular here.