Metamyther’s Umbra: The Sonic Feedback Beast

Isobar’s Umbra is the unsung hero of feedback, transforming subtle whispers into chaotic soundscapes. Metamyther dives deep into its unique capabilities, blending humor and insight in this captivating exploration. If you’re looking to push your modular setup to new realms, this video is your blueprint.

The Aesthetic Mystic of Isobar

Isobar’s modules are like those mixtapes you find at underground gigs—exuding style and mystery. Metamyther gives us the lowdown on their latest treasure, the Umbra, wrapped in a cool, occult medieval design that’s as easy on the eyes as a cold beer on a hot day. The aesthetics are more than skin deep; Isobar has been expanding from their visual prowess to crafting modules that don’t just look good but also sound killer. The Umbra, a stereo feedback accumulator, is the latest in their lineup, promising to transform sound in ways you’ve only dreamed of.

Umbra: The Feedback Whisperer

Diving into the nitty-gritty, Metamyther opens up Umbra’s box of wonders. This bad boy features two inputs, sends and returns, and a stereo output—all lined up and ready to rock. The routing switch lets you choose your own adventure, whether in serial or parallel, akin to mixing cocktails that could either tickle your taste buds or knock you out. What makes Umbra dance to its own beat is the feedback control, and input-output level knobs—”imbue” and “drain.” Metamyther, no stranger to the modular scene, shows us how sending signals through Umbra invites it to gently color the sound or turn it into a whirlwind of chaos, all while maintaining that straightforward workflow that modular enthusiasts crave.

Umbra contains two inputs at the top for your signal, a pair of sends and returns, and a stereo output.

"Umbra contains two inputs at the top for your signal, a pair of sends and returns, and a stereo output."
© Screenshot/Quote: Metamyther (YouTube)

Rhythm Meets Texture

I'm taking the two-voice module metalloid as my sound source, but I'm splitting up the left and right channels into two different effects.

"I'm taking the two-voice module metalloid as my sound source, but I'm splitting up the left and right channels into two different effects."
© Screenshot/Quote: Metamyther (YouTube)

In true Metamyther fashion, we see Umbra put through its paces with a percussion example that rocks the modular boat. Taking the metalloid module, Metamyther channels the left channel through Yester Versio and the right through the Volt Freak filter. It’s like when you’re jamming with friends, and each one has a different rhythm but together it creates a symphony. The sonic textures here are deliciously layered, showing just how versatile Umbra’s feedback loop can be. Moments like this are why modular synths are the street food of the music world – a mix of unexpected ingredients coming together to make something uniquely delicious.

Saturation Station: Pure Feedback Joy

Metamyther demonstrates Umbra’s ability to saturate sound without breaking a sweat. Umbra shows off its chops by adding just the right amount of grit to the signal, no fancy patching required. It’s like effortlessly tossing spice into your favorite dish. The multi-grain example takes it to the next level, with Metamyther navigating through sonic landscapes like a pro chef with a newfound seasoning. This ability to add depth and texture makes it a must-have for anyone looking to enrich their sound. The Umbra proves once again that it’s not about having a crowded pedalboard or a ton of gear, it’s about knowing what to do with the tools in front of you.

Cursus Melody and the Feedback Adventure

Ending this sound journey, Metamyther introduces us to a melodic exploration using the Cursus. With the trusted yester-versio and dismotus-versio as companions, the Umbra fosters an environment where melodies can sprout and bloom, even in feedback loops. This closing patch is like finding a dollar in your pocket-only instead of cash, it’s rich musical texture. Metamyther’s love for experimentation shines through, leaving us with a sense of awe and inspiration. If tossing a bunch of ideas into a feedback loop and coming away with musical gold sounds like your kind of adventure, the Umbra is ready and waiting.