29. July 2025

JET

Metamyther’s Eurorack Filter Showdown: 303 Under Siege

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Prepare for a sonic rollercoaster as Metamyther throws the iconic 303 into the wild world of Eurorack filters. From acid squelch to industrial chaos, this video isn’t for the faint-hearted. Expect sounds that are rawer than a night out in Camden. With Metamyther at the helm, this one’s a proper ear-bender.

The Classic 303 Gets a Modular Makeover

Ah, the beloved 303 – an icon of acid and a sound that’s unmistakably squelchy. Metamyther introduces us to the Donner B1, a somewhat obscure 303 with its own modern twists like drive and delay. But in true purist fashion, none of these added frills get used in this experiment. It’s all about that raw, untamed acid sound, folks. For the purists, this section is an homage to the untouched tone of the classic acid machine. Metamyther makes it clear: buckle up for a wild ride through modular madness. We’re about to find out if these filters will enhance or annihilate what we love about the 303.

"But what happens when we take that raw sound and run it through a wall of modular filters?"

Mosaic 1U: The Safe Bet?

"With this sound, for whatever reason, you really can't go past the halfway point on the resonance without freaking blowing your ears out."

First in the ring is the Mosaic 1U filter, a module described as the ‘control group’ of our little sonic experiment. Metamyther critiques it for being rather characterless, which isn’t ideal when you’re on the hunt for something with a bit of sass. The Mosaic brings some resonance to the table, but as Metamyther warns, pushing it past halfway can leave you with ears feeling like they’ve been assaulted by an out-of-tune bagpipe. Yet, it sets the stage, serving as a baseline for the outrageous antics to follow. Think of it as the safe bet, the bread and butter before the full English breakfast that’s about to hit the plate.

Ikarie: Bringing the Quack to the Attack

Now the Ikarie enters the scene, and it’s a game changer with its DJ-style cutoff. With an envelope follower boasting three speeds, the playfulness just doesn’t stop. Metamyther’s enthusiasm shines through as they explore the filter’s capabilities from the slowest to the fastest envelope speeds. Things get quirky as the 303 starts ‘quacking’ – a rather delightful but unexpected tweak on the acid sound. In typical Metamyther style, they savour the quirks, embracing the chaotic and bubbled texture. The overdrive and multiple envelope options add layers of fun, deviating from the piercing squeal that some filters can unleash. Truly a filter for crafting those atypical 303 sounds, Metamyther shows Ikarie’s potential to lead the charge against predictability.


Viol Ruina: Small But Mighty

When the Viol Ruina steps up, size really doesn’t matter. This 4HP wonder is packed with surprises, from regular filtering to a touch of distortion. Metamyther dives into its features with palpable excitement, revealing tricks like ‘laser’ modes that sound uncannily chirpy, almost like a synth having a good chortle. It’s not just about size, but about versatility – the ability to switch between filter and distortion effortlessly. Metamyther lauds its compact form, affordability, and the sheer sonic force it can unleash. This is where industrial meets whimsy, a testament to the idea that good things come in small packages. Even in this diminutive frame, it packs a punch that makes it a proper tool in the 303 arsenal. Metamyther’s affection for the Ruina is clear – this one’s a keeper.

"So this is a small 4HP filter, but it does have some tricks up its sleeve."

Lacrima Versio: A True Sonic Contortionist

Bringing to the forefront is the Lacrima Versio, a versatile beast that can switch gears like a concept car. Metamyther shows off its low-pass mode, envelope follower, and the wicked modulation rate which whips the sound into a frenzy. The filter allows for saturation positioning – before, after, or smack in the middle of filtering – making it as flexible as a synth gymnast. And Mon Dieu, does it scream pleasant tunes with its resonance, an asset rather than a hindrance. Metamyther notes how it holds a sweet spot that screams class. The Lacrima might just be the darling of this chaotic assembly, with its ability to adjust and embrace various sonic contours. It’s the sound designer’s dream that keeps on giving, punkishly taking the 303 into uncharted territory.


Concluding Chaos with Vult Freak

"This has a ton of models on it, but let's start with the one that makes sense for our demo, which is the nitrous acid filter."

Last but far from least is the Vult Freak with a plethora of filter models stuffed inside. Metamyther leads with the nitrous acid filter – a nod to classic acid lovers everywhere. But they’re far from done; this is no one-trick pony. We’re treated to an array of filters, from pulse wave shaping to ladder filters and beyond. The Vult Freak is like a buffet of tasty sonic treats, each offering a distinct flavour to feast on. Its MS-20 style VORG rounds off the session with a grin-inducing finale, less chirpy but all the more delightful. Metamyther makes it clear: the Vult Freak is for the modern sound adventurers who refuse to be boxed in by convention. After seven filters, you’d think the 303 would be exhausted, but instead, it’s more alive than ever, a testament to the power of modular evolution in shaking up old favourites.

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Donner B1
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Mosaic 1U
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