ALM TV’s Turismo: Iterative Drones and Tape Loops in a Modular Playground

MCF x2, Megamilton, Megatang, MFx, Squid Salmple, Turismo

ALM / Busy Circuits steps away from the groove box stereotype with their Turismo modular workstation, diving into the world of iterative drone composition. In this hands-on ALM TV video, the team demonstrates how Turismo’s stereo I/O and flexible module selection can be harnessed for evolving soundscapes, especially when paired with a trusty four-track cassette recorder. The patching is practical, the workflow is exploratory, and the results are anything but predictable—showcasing Turismo’s ability to morph from beat machine to ambient laboratory. If you’re curious about how a modern Eurorack system can blur the lines between structured sequencing and freeform sonic experimentation, this is a patch journey worth dissecting.

From Groovebox to Sonic Canvas

Turismo, ALM / Busy Circuits’ modular workstation, is introduced as a flexible Eurorack system that doesn’t pigeonhole itself into just one workflow. While it’s well suited for sequencing beats and groove box style patching, the video quickly points out that its true strength lies in adaptability. The system’s hybrid of analogue and digital modules means it can slot into both structured and more exploratory environments without skipping a beat.

This versatility is key for those who want a single system that can handle everything from tight rhythmic sequencing to open-ended sound design. ALM TV’s presentation style is direct and practical, focusing on how Turismo’s design encourages users to move beyond the obvious, whether you’re after clocked grooves or drifting drones.

The versatile system fits equally well into less structured environments.

"The versatile system fits equally well into less structured environments."
© Screenshot/Quote: Busycircuits (YouTube)

Iterative Drone Composition: Tape Meets Modular

We can reprocess our original patch back through the Turismo in a unique iterative compositional process.

"We can reprocess our original patch back through the Turismo in a unique iterative compositional process."
© Screenshot/Quote: Busycircuits (YouTube)

The video’s core demonstration is a patch that leverages Turismo’s stereo line input and output, paired with a four-track cassette recorder, to create evolving drone compositions. The patch begins with the Turismo’s output routed into the first two tracks of the tape machine, capturing a pre-patched ambient soundscape. This initial recording is shaped by subtle tweaks to the patch, allowing the drone to evolve organically as it’s laid down to tape.

Once the recording is complete, the workflow pivots: the tape is rewound, and its output is fed back into Turismo’s stereo input. This sets the stage for an iterative process—record, reprocess, and repeat—where each pass through the system introduces new sonic possibilities. It’s a workflow that blurs the line between composition and sound sculpture, with the cassette recorder acting as both archive and creative tool.

Flexible Patching and Modular Interplay

Turismo’s strength lies in its patching flexibility and the interplay between its modules. The video highlights how the system’s stereo routing, combined with modules like the Megamilton and Megatang, allows for creative signal flow. After the initial tape recording, the stereo output is patched into the Megamilton’s input, and then routed through the Megatang’s VCAs for further processing.

This modular approach means that every stage of the signal path can be tweaked, modulated, or rerouted on the fly. The demonstration shows how effects sends, returns, and stereo panning can be manipulated to shape the evolving drone, underscoring Turismo’s role as a hub for both generation and transformation of sound.

Recording, Reprocessing, and Evolving Soundscapes

A highlight of the patch is the use of the Squid Salmple not just as a sampler, but as a live processor and delay. By routing the Megatang’s FX send to the Squid’s record input and setting up overdub mode, the system creates a live playback buffer. Assigning playback channels and engaging looping transforms the Squid into a real-time pitch-shifting delay, with octave quantization and buffer length adjustments adding further complexity.

The process doesn’t stop there. By feeding the processed outputs back into the system and tweaking sample rates, the patch introduces lo-fi aliasing and asynchronous echoes, resulting in a blooming, evolving texture. This iterative approach—recording, reprocessing, and layering—encourages experimentation and often leads to unexpected sonic results.

The workflow is as much about discovery as it is about control. By embracing the quirks of tape and the flexibility of modular routing, the patch demonstrates how Turismo can facilitate a compositional process that’s both hands-on and open-ended, perfect for those who thrive on happy accidents and evolving soundscapes.

The flexible squid sample can be used like a live processor similar to a delay.

"The flexible squid sample can be used like a live processor similar to a delay."
© Screenshot/Quote: Busycircuits (YouTube)

A Modular Powerhouse for Sound Design

Turismo’s wide selection of modules, from stereo analog filters like the MCF x2 to the versatile MFX effects processor, provides a deep toolkit for electronic musicians. The system’s VCAs, modulation sources, and stereo processing options mean that every patch can be tailored to the user’s creative intent.

ALM TV wraps up by emphasizing Turismo’s suitability for all styles of electronic music and sound design. Whether you’re chasing intricate beats or immersive drones, the system’s flexibility and integration make it a powerful centrepiece for any Eurorack setup.