Rodec M110 Sidestepper

The Rodec M110 SideStepper is a high‑performance analogue stereo gater/ducker that incorporates a built‑in step sequencer, delivering razor‑sharp gating and rhythmic pumping with fully analogue VCA circuitry and extensive CV control.

Classic Analogue Power Meets Modern Sequencing

The SideStepper retains the legendary analogue VCA design that provides warm headroom, while adding a digital‑style step sequencer capable of 1‑to‑16‑step patterns, per‑step length control, shuffle and randomisation. Users can programme intricate polyrhythmic textures that sit comfortably alongside traditional time signatures, merging vintage sound quality with contemporary workflow.

Integrated Stereo Pattern Sequencing

The module places total command of the stereo image in the hands of the user. The sequencer drives both the gater and ducker circuits, allowing independent control of left, centre and right channels. Pattern lengths adjust from a single step to sixteen, and the built‑in BPM, MIDI sync and audio‑PPQN sync keep the unit locked to any studio or live rig. One‑Shot mode triggers a single cycle when an incoming audio signal exceeds the defined threshold, perfect for reactive performances.

Fully Analogue VCA with Precise Control

Four dedicated knobs govern the analogue VCA:

• Threshold sets the level at which the gate opens or the ducker begins attenuation.
• Depth determines the maximum gain reduction, ranging from subtle movement to complete silence.
• Attack shapes how quickly the effect engages once the threshold is crossed.
• Decay defines the time required for the signal to return to its original level after the trigger ends.

A band‑pass filter, controllable via CV, cleans the side‑chain signal so the module reacts only to chosen frequencies such as a kick drum or snare.

Flexible Trigger Sources and Routing

Three push‑buttons dictate the source of the side‑chain trigger:

• SC/INT selects between the incoming audio itself or an external side‑chain input.
• AUDIO / SEQ chooses whether the side‑chain derives from the audio input or the internal sequencer pulse.
• DUCK / GATE switches the mode between ducking and gating.

An additional FILT ON / OFF button enables or bypasses the filter knob, granting instant tonal shaping.

Robust Connectivity and Physical Design

The SideStepper fits a 16 HP rack space (75.85 mm × 80.9 mm) and mounts in Rodec’s 500‑to‑100 series adapter or directly into the Rodec ONE. It accepts +4 dBu input and delivers +22 dBu output, with a dynamic range of 112 dB, SNR below 90 dB, THD of 0.002 % and THD+N of 0.005 %. Input impedance stands at 20 kΩ and output impedance at 50 Ω, ensuring clean interfacing with any studio chain.

Why Choose the Rodec SideStepper?

• Seamlessly blend classic analogue warmth with modern rhythmic sequencing.
• Gain total control of stereo imaging through independent left/right gating.
• Access flexible trigger options – audio, side‑chain or internal sequencer – for live‑performance agility.
• Benefit from high‑precision VCA parameters that respond instantly to musical nuance.
• Enjoy robust build quality and compatibility across Rodec’s 100‑series ecosystem.

• High‑performance analogue stereo gater/ducker with built‑in step sequencer
• Pattern lengths from 1 to 16 steps, per‑step length control, shuffle and randomiser
• Standalone BPM, MIDI sync and audio‑PPQN sync for tight timing
• One‑Shot mode triggered by audio threshold for reactive performance
• Fully analogue discrete VCA with Attack, Decay, Threshold and Depth knobs
• Mix knob blends dry input with side‑chain trigger for monitoring or layering
• CV‑controlled band‑pass filter isolates desired side‑chain frequencies
• Push‑buttons for SC/INT selection, AUDIO/SEQ source, DUCK/GATE mode, FILT ON/OFF
• 16 HP rack size (75.85 mm × 80.9 mm) compatible with Rodec 500‑to‑100 adapter and ONE
• Dynamic range 112 dB, SNR < 90 dB, THD 0.002 %, THD+N 0.005 %
• Frequency response 10 Hz – 40 kHz, input level +4 dBu, output level +22 dBu
• Input impedance 20 kΩ, output impedance 50 Ω

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.