Herbs and Stones Mousse

The Herbs and Stones Mousse is a dual hybrid groovebox designed for creating intricate soundscapes, evolving rhythms, and experimental basslines, integrating both digital and analogue elements to offer maximum versatility.

Design and Connectivity

Housed in a compact, powder-coated metal enclosure measuring 31x20x6 cm and weighing 2 kg, Mousse provides an intuitive interface with 40 patch points, enabling a seamless connection between internal components and external gear. It supports standard Eurorack 1/8" (3.5 mm) minijack connections for input and 1/4" mono jacks for output, ensuring compatibility with modular and standalone setups. Its power supply operates at 9V 500mA (centre-negative), the same standard used for most guitar pedals.

Modulation and Control Voltage

Mousse generates and responds to control voltages in the 0-5V range. Each CV input features an associated knob that functions as an attenuator, providing fine control over modulation depth. The patch points are clearly divided: inputs are arranged within a large white circle, while outputs are placed outside this area for intuitive navigation.

Clock and Timing

The groovebox features a flexible clock section that serves as the core timing engine, synchronising the sequencers and modulation sources. The clock rate is adjustable via a dedicated knob and can be externally controlled through a CV input. A clock input jack allows synchronisation with external devices, while the active clock output can transmit either the internal or external clock signal.

Dual LFO System

Mousse offers two interconnected LFOs, X and Y, each capable of producing complex modulation patterns. LFO X generates a random waveform, modulated dynamically via LFO Y. A "skip" button toggles between full-range and dynamically modulated amplitude. The "steps" control modifies waveform resolution, transforming white noise into stepped melodic variations.

LFO Y provides a variable waveform output, capable of evolving into a pattern-based sequencer. The "rate" knob controls speed, while the "shape" knob morphs a rising sawtooth wave into a sine-saw hybrid. The "steps" control transitions the LFO from a smooth waveform into a stepped sequence, ideal for looping melodies. A reset gate input ensures phase alignment when triggered externally.

Envelope Generators

Mousse includes two decay-only envelope generators, each with an independent output. A trigger or gate input activates the envelope, while the decay knob adjusts its length. A dedicated inversion input allows for reversing the envelope shape, providing dynamic control over amplitude and filter modulation.

Dual Sequencers

Mousse features two independent but interlinked sequencers, each with its own set of gate outputs and modulation capabilities. Sequencer A generates a four-step voltage sequence with independent pitch controls. A slew limiter smooths transitions between steps, with manual and gate-controlled activation. The sequencer’s rotation and step length can be adjusted manually or via CV input.

Sequencer B offers additional variation with a "div" mode that toggles between two-step and four-step patterns. A "form" control introduces semi-random sequencing for unpredictable rhythmic structures. Like Sequencer A, it allows rotation and step length modification via button presses or CV triggers.

Hybrid Synth Voices

Mousse includes two distinct synthesis engines. Voice A utilises "time manipulation synthesis," where a sine wave oscillator is processed through an audio-rate chorus effect, generating two-operator FM-like tones. The pitch, modulation rate, depth, feedback, and VCA level can all be modulated via CV. A multimode filter provides low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass options, with adjustable resonance.

Voice B follows a subtractive synthesis approach, featuring a multi-waveform digital oscillator. A "wave" control morphs between triangle, square, and sawtooth waves in a non-linear fashion, while a noise generator introduces organic texture. Like Voice A, it includes CV-controlled VCA, filter cutoff, and resonance, with a switchable filter mode.

Versatility and Integration

Designed for seamless integration with modular setups, drum machines, and external synthesisers, Mousse provides a wide range of sonic possibilities. Its extensive patching capabilities, flexible sequencing, and hybrid synthesis engine make it a powerful tool for experimental sound design, live performance, and studio production.