In 2022, the modular synthesis world witnessed the closure of Hexinverter Électronique, marking the end of an era for one of Eurorack’s most iconic drum lines. Their Mutant series had carved a reputation for pushing classic analog drum concepts — such as those of the legendary TR-808 and 909 — into new and daring sonic territory. With a cult following and widespread acclaim, the series’ future seemed uncertain. However, the story took an inspiring turn when Erica Synths, a company known for engineering precision and sonic innovation, stepped in to continue the legacy.
Rather than simply reissue the original designs, Erica Synths took the opportunity to revive and reengineer each module, ensuring the essence of Hexinverter’s vision remained intact while enhancing the hardware for reliability, performance, and broader creative potential in modern modular setups. This new lineup not only preserves the core identity of the Mutant Drum series but, in many respects, reinvents it for a new generation of performers and sound designers.
One of the standout modules in the reborn line is the Mutant Bassdrum. More than just a homage to the classic 808 kick, this unit is a complete analog powerhouse. Erica Synths integrated their signature batteryACID distortion circuit, opening up a realm of sonic chaos for those who want to push the boundaries. With options to feed external signals through the distortion input and shape the decay and pitch via voltage-controlled paths, it offers aggressive tonal depth while preserving a fully analog signal route. By replacing transistor amps with low-noise opamps, Erica Synths tightened the sonic punch and reduced unwanted noise, giving the kick module modern polish while retaining its primal energy.
The Mutant Snare follows suit with equal intensity. Originally designed with dual bridged-T sinewave oscillators, it delivers the familiar 808-inspired crack with a host of flexible enhancements. A Tone control blends between oscillators, while Shell Pitch and a voltage-controllable noise section add rich, unpredictable textures. This section runs through a resonant filter with selectable modes, enabling sound sculpting from classic to experimental. Users can manipulate the cutoff with a jumper-controlled source and fine-tune results using onboard attenuverters. The module even supports external audio input, effectively turning the snare into a hybrid percussion-synth voice.
Versatility continues with the Mutant Rimshot, a module built around three bridged-T oscillators and a state-variable filter. With switchable modes for classic rimshot, deeper tom-style hits, or clave pops, it offers a broad tonal palette. A dedicated envelope controls the VCA and filter cutoff, while an optional routing allows for FM-like effects. Users can sweep through extended pitch ranges or route external sources into the filter, making this rimshot module a dynamic sound design tool. Erica Synths maintained the sonic attitude of Hexinverter’s design while refining the internals for stability and extended usability.
The Mutant Clap is another reimagined classic that merges tradition with innovation. It brings the 909-style clap into Eurorack but adds a voltage-controlled LFSR noise oscillator for extra tonal variety, enabling anything from classic percussion to chiptune-inspired digital noise. With controls for Drive, Sustain, and a bandpass filter, the module offers deep sound shaping, while a unique analog reverb circuit adds character-rich tails. The input can also process external sources, turning the clap module into a sound manipulation hub that extends far beyond its initial purpose.
For high-frequency textures, the Mutant Hihats provide a dual-voice system offering both open and closed hat configurations. Inspired by the 808 but thoroughly modernized, the hi-hats feature smooth OTA-based gain stages in place of traditional VCAs, giving users access to cleaner and more precise dynamics. A choke switch governs interaction between the two voices, while a resonant bandpass filter, complete with modulation controls, allows users to mold tones to their preference. By allowing external noise sources to replace the internal engine, Erica Synths created a module that’s both flexible and forward-thinking.
To complete the setup, Erica Synths introduced the Drum Mixer Lite, a six-channel summing mixer purpose-built for modular percussion. Each input channel includes visual feedback through signal LEDs, and the first three can be routed to an auxiliary output for additional effects processing. A standout feature is the vactrol-based compressor, optimized for drum transients and equipped with Amount and Decay controls to tailor the mix’s cohesiveness. With clean, high-headroom outputs, it serves as a reliable bridge to external audio systems or interfaces, offering compact utility without sacrificing creative options.
This revitalized Mutant Drum line reflects more than just a brand revival. It’s a meticulous, artist-driven resurrection that respects the creative spirit of Hexinverter while building on its legacy. Each module balances precision engineering with the unpredictable charm that modular musicians crave, ensuring that the character and edge of the original Mutants remain alive and well — now in a sturdier, more performant package.
For artists looking to infuse their racks with expressive percussive tools, this collaboration between Erica Synths and the legacy of Hexinverter offers not just a drum suite but a playground for sonic experimentation. As the modular world evolves, the reborn Mutant Drum line stands as proof that true innovation never dies — it simply evolves in the right hands.
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