DivKid Rocks the Modular World with a Headbanger

Head Banger by Setonix Synth & Robots Are Red

Get ready to dive into the sonic chaos as DivKid brings us the Head Banger from Setonix Synth & Robots Are Red. In classic DivKid fashion, he pushes the limits of modular distortion, unleashing a wild array of sounds from Swedish death metal chaos to atmospheric tape grunge. With irreverent style and technical precision, this video is a must-watch for anyone who craves the raw, untamed side of modular synthesis.

Revitalising the Heavy Metal Thud

DivKid kicks off the video by introducing the Head Banger module from Setonix Synth & Robots Are Red. This fiery piece of gear is all about capturing that classic Swedish death metal distortion but taking it to new modular heights. The Head Banger isn’t content with just cloning the famed Boss Heavy Metal pedal – it adds CV control and an expanded sound palette to take your synth rhythms to the next level. DivKid walks us through its basic signal flow, highlighting features like the Doom switch for bass enhancement, a three-band EQ, and a creative feedback loop. The detailed description lays the groundwork for the wild explorations to come, all with DivKid’s signature enthusiasm and technical depth.

This tonal monster conjures an unholy union between high quality VCA circuitry and the most legendary distortion circuit in heavy metal.

"This tonal monster conjures an unholy union between high quality VCA circuitry and the most legendary distortion circuit in heavy metal."
© Screenshot/Quote: Divkid (YouTube)

A Symphony of Distortion

It's so hard to resist just cranking the thing.

"It's so hard to resist just cranking the thing."
© Screenshot/Quote: Divkid (YouTube)

The heart of the Head Banger module is its ability to reinvent your sound through intense and unholy distortion. DivKid showcases this with a patch that turns synth lines into guitar-like riffs, throwing in some French punk fuzz for good measure. With a deft hand, he manipulates the parameters to create sounds that are raw and thrilling, ranging from crushing beat layers to random stepped bass riffs. As DivKid demonstrates, the module’s flexibility shines through as it shifts from subtle overtones to gut-wrenching noise walls with ease. Whether it’s the lead burst in a solo or a backing texture in a mix, the Head Banger molds audio into something both chaotic and beautiful. This section of the video is a testament to the module’s versatility, and DivKid keeps the viewer hooked with his dynamic and engaging presentation style.

Tape Grime and Ambient Dreams

In a surprising twist, DivKid explores the Head Banger’s softer side, delving into ambient territories. By processing audio from artist Skylid, he crafts a subtle, warm tone that morphs into a blown-out tape-like grunge. The process involves combining modulation with feedback and injecting noise into the feedback loop to synthesize a unique sonic texture. Even at low gain, the Head Banger shows its ability to add depth and character, transforming plain sounds into something rich and exploratory. This unexpected exploration highlights the module’s dual nature – both powerful enough for metal chugs and nuanced enough for ambient soundscapes.

Coaxing Hidden Harmonies

In this segment, DivKid leverages the Head Banger to enhance basic synth voices, offering a collection of tips to bring new life to familiar tones. By utilising gain CV for accent patterns, feedback modulation, and creative wet FX processing with the module’s VCA-like operation, he showcases how even straightforward patches can evolve into intricate soundscapes. DivKid’s clever use of the module’s capabilities injects vibrance and unpredictability into otherwise standard synth voices. As he piles layers of sound with driven gain and feedback, the module emerges not just as a tool for destruction but as a powerful ally for detailed sound design. His approach highlights how the Head Banger can be a dual dirty VCA, enabling dynamic modulation that teases out hidden harmonics and sparks creativity.

Feedback continues to just be this thing I'm fascinated with.

"Feedback continues to just be this thing I'm fascinated with."
© Screenshot/Quote: Divkid (YouTube)

Rhythm in Ruin

Heading towards the video’s climax, DivKid demonstrates the Head Banger’s prowess as a dual dirty VCA. With an almost rebellious twist, he sets up counter basslines driven by feedback, creating rhythms that move with a punk spirit. This setup lets basslines breath with a life of their own and gives them a dynamic presence in any mix. He wraps up by venturing into the realm of audio rate modulation, showing how the Head Banger can handle even the most intense sonic challenges. The use of a modulated signal at audio rates adds a rich texture that can be both intense and musical. DivKid’s exploration of dynamic audio rate modulation leaves viewers pondering the endless possibilities of this gritty module. The closing showcases not only the raw power of the Head Banger but also the engaging talent of DivKid in pushing modular boundaries.