Bastl Aikido Quad VCA Mixer

Full Description

Unlock the potential of Aikido

Aikido is a dynamic quad VCA mixer that boasts outstanding performance through its adaptable submix routing and dual integrated envelope followers. The clever normalization allows for sidechain compression, expansion, and effortless routing exploration. Equipped with click-free mute switches, level faders, and dedicated attenuverters on each channel, Aikido provides immediate playability and functions as a robust, adjustable quad VCA. The primary mix output is supplemented by individual VCA outputs that feature patch-programmable cascading mix routing. Discover the distinctive fusion of the Side Chain envelope follower's trio of response curves and the Spectral Follower's emphasis on treble, mid, or bass frequencies.

Versatile mixing capabilities

Turn your modular system into an all-in-one mixing centre or a versatile utility with Aikido. Its envelope followers facilitate inventive signal interactions and mixing options. The DC-coupled VCAs also offer flexible modulation routing possibilities. Drawing inspiration from the martial art, Aikido enables you to tap into the capabilities of your modular system, transforming it into a realm of infinite potential where minor signals can take on larger ones.

Side chain and spectral follower

The Side Chain envelope follower input is normalized to Channel A's input but can be overridden by connecting an external signal. Its output is normalized to the CV paths, enabling instant compression. Connect a kick drum to Channel A and use the attenuverters to compress (CCW) or expand (CW) other signals, adjusting the envelope follower response time with the switch. The Spectral Follower monitors Channel D's output and offers selectable focus on high, mid, or low frequencies, allowing for spectral compression when patched anywhere in your configuration.

Scalable with hands-on controls

Link multiple Aikido units to build larger cascading mixers. Each of the four VCA channels comes with click-free mute and light indicator, a level fader offering a 6dB boost, a CV input with attenuverter, and DC-coupled input and output for cascaded mixing. The AC-coupled mix output is paired with a Side Chain envelope follower featuring selectable response time and a Spectral envelope follower with switchable frequency emphasis. Rear jumpers let you choose pre/post Mute direct VCA outputs, cascaded mixing input/output, and chainable main mix input/output, making Aikido a formidable addition to any modular system.

Features

• Quad VCA mixer with flexible submix routing for versatile audio manipulation
• Integrated envelope followers in two styles for dynamic signal interaction
• Clever normalization for easy sidechain compression, expansion, and routing experiments
• Clickless mute switches and level faders for seamless live performances
• Dedicated attenuverters on each channel for powerful, adjustable VCAs
• Patch-programmable cascading mix routing with individual VCA outputs
• Side Chain envelope follower with three response curves for tailored compression
• Spectral Follower with focus options for treble, mid, or bass frequencies

Specifications

• Depth: 24mm
• HP: 11
• Weight: 0.1kg
• Product code: BASTL-AIKIDO