Step into the raw, analog realm with Metamyther as he explores the Steady State Fate Tape-Op Distortion. This Eurorack gem promises not just subtle sound improvements but delivers all-out gritty, characterful saturation. Perfect for punk enthusiasts who love their sound rough around the edges.
30. May 2025
JET
Metamyther Dives into the Gritty World of the SSF Tape-Op Distortion
Welcome to the Grit Factory
Metamyther kicks things off by diving straight into the new Steady State Fate Tape-Op Distortion, a Eurorack module inspired by the illustrious sounds of tube-based analog tape machines. This kit promises to take your signals into a realm of warmth and richness, but in true punk fashion, it’s also ready to rough ’em up. According to the video, the Tape-Op Distortion can offer everything from gentle harmonic seasoning to all-out audio demolition. With a sponsorship from SteadyState Fade, Metamyther dares us to imagine going past subtle end-of-chain processing into a world brimming with gritty possibilities.
The Secrets of Saturation and EQ
The heart and guts of the Tape-Op lies in its potent combination of a saturation knob, tape bias, and Baxandall EQ. Metamyther takes us through the module’s features, focusing heavily on how the saturation knob can impact your signal—from a light brushstroke to a heavy splatter of paint. What’s more, the Tape Bias knob introduces a layer of crackling imperfections, much like overdriving your dad’s old tape deck. Add a 3-band Baxandall EQ, which Metamyther admits to initially misunderstanding (who doesn’t?), and you have a tool that can shape signals for maximum audial pummel. Metamyther deftly demonstrates how these features are not just for softening the edges but for crafting a sound with the bite of a punk’s first guitar riff.
"Tape Op Distortion's central feature is a saturation knob that can add light harmonics to your signal, or it can very much make itself present with heavier distortion."
Hands-On with Tape-Op's Versatility
"Listen to how it really starts to mess with the signal in an interesting way, like you're overdriving a tape deck or something."
As Metamyther dives deeper into the Tape-Op’s capabilities, he showcases a variety of sound examples that make good on the module’s promise of versatile distortion. Whether fiddling with sine waves, drums, or even passing the ominous-sounding Vhikk X through the Tape-Op, Metamyther manages to reveal how adaptable this module can be. Not to mention, he doubles the fun by using two Tape-Op modules simultaneously—fiddling with different settings to create a wide stereo effect. It’s the audio equivalent of a tag team match at the local pub, making sounds that could be gentle one moment and rowdy the next, much to the delight of any modular synth enthusiast.
Final Thoughts and Sonic Impressions
Metamyther concludes this jam-packed demo by reiterating the Tape-Op’s abilities as both a subtle sweetener and an aggressive tonal beast. He explains how features like modulating the saturation with the sub-output of the Zephyr enriches the overall sound. By the end, his explorations demonstrate that with just a few tweaks, the Tape-Op delivers exactly the kind of warm, analog grit that would excite any music producer looking to infuse their tracks with character. It’s not just about making it sound ‘pretty’; this is about adding the kind of tonal muscle that takes a track from the studio to your local underground venue. If you approach sound design like stepping into a crowded, lively gig, Metamyther’s video will resonate with you.
"It's somehow able to sort of straddle this line between saturating the signal without going totally overboard."