Magnetic Freak Gaussian 4U

The Magnetic Freak Gaussian is a high-precision random signal generator and advanced CV processor, designed to produce fully controllable Gaussian-distributed random voltages and pulse outputs for modular synthesiser systems.

Technical Overview

The Gaussian operates on a ±15V power supply with a consumption of +15V at 100mA, -15V at 50mA, and +5V at 100mA. It provides six CV outputs with a voltage range from 0V to 10V and synchronised 10V pulse outputs. Users can clock the module internally or externally via a clock input with a threshold of 0.8V, accepting pulses up to 12V and protected against negative voltages. The unit conforms to the 1U Buchla standard panel size with slotted 3.2mm mounting holes.

Gaussian Distribution and Sound Design

This module uses the principles of Gaussian distribution, where values cluster around a central mean with statistical variance defined by standard deviation (sigma). In sound design, this creates natural detuning effects similar to acoustic ensembles, broadening oscillator spectra or emulating the organic imperfections found in real instruments. The Gaussian generator utilises two separate Gaussian distributions: one governs control voltage output levels, and the other introduces precise time-domain jitter to pulse outputs. The Monte Carlo sampling method ensures every clock cycle generates both CV and timing variations, allowing for controlled, evolving randomness across all six channels.

Timing and Clocking Control

The Gaussian's lower section provides comprehensive timing controls. The internal clock period ranges from 2ms to 5s, adjustable via the Rate control and a three-way switch for LOW, EXT, and HIGH settings. When using an external clock source, the Rate knob functions as a divider with divisions from 1/32 to 1, offering extensive rhythmic flexibility. The Rate LED and Clk IN LED allow visual monitoring of timing relationships. Users can inject jitter, applying Gaussian-distributed time offsets to each pulse relative to the clock, from subtle humanisation to complete randomness.

Pulse and CV Output Characteristics

Six pulse outputs emit 10V signals with adjustable pulse width, defined as a percentage of the clock cycle, ranging from 1 percent to 99 percent. The jitter function provides either synchronised or independently offset pulses per channel, selectable via SYNC, SPLIT, or ORDER modes. The time jitter can be quantised to subdivisions of the clock cycle (1/4T or 1/8T) for rhythmic variation. Each pulse output updates its corresponding CV output simultaneously, generating voltage levels controlled by Gaussian parameters.

Control Voltage Manipulation and Quantisation

The Mean control sets the central voltage point of the Gaussian CV output, with an external CV input and attenuverter providing dynamic modulation. Sigma adjusts the spread of generated voltages, creating anything from tightly centred variations to wide, unpredictable ranges. The CV outputs can be quantised via Bins or musical Scales. In Bins mode, the number of possible CV levels ranges from two to 65,000, including standard musical intervals like tones, semitones, and quarter tones. In Scales mode, the output adheres to predefined musical scales in 1.2V/octave format, with the Mean control allowing users to shift across scale degrees, functioning similarly to an arpeggiator with probabilistic note selection.

Performance and Applications

The Gaussian excels in creating evolving rhythmic patterns, applying controlled randomness to timing and pitch, generating organic detuning, or functioning as a sophisticated clock divider. Its design accommodates advanced patching techniques, including probability-driven pitch shifts, time-divided pulses, and randomised sample and hold behaviours. Inspired by pioneering studies like Peter Zinovieff’s Tarantella, the Gaussian embodies precise, natural randomness suitable for contemporary modular synthesis environments.

• Six CV and pulse outputs with Gaussian-distributed randomness
• Independent time-domain jitter for each pulse with multiple sorting modes
• Internal or external clocking with division ratios from 1/32 to 1
• Synchronised CV updates linked to pulse timing
• Mean and Sigma controls for voltage offset and distribution width
• Selectable quantisation via Bins or musical Scales in 1.2V/octave format
• Jitter and pulse width CV modulation with attenuverters

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.