Nano Modules’ OCTA Reviewed by DivKid: A Punk Take on the TR-808

In a quintessentially chaotic fashion, DivKid kicks off, dropping us into the raucous world of OCTA from Nano Modules. This isn’t a run-of-the-mill overview; it’s an exploration of the raw and untamed essence of the TR-808. Describing it as ‘fearfully expanded,’ DivKid introduces us to a module that channels the spirit of 808 soul with modern-day modular foul play. This video isn’t just sponsored content; it’s a dive into innovative chaos.

DivKid dives headfirst into the features of OCTA like a rockstar diving into a crowd. With the kick, snare, closed, and open hi-hats, this module screams authenticity—a proper geezer from the Roland TR-808 lineage. DivKid explores the kick, detailing the controls, from CV-driven volume and drive to the crucial tone and decay. The snare follows suit, boasting its own set of controls including tone crossfading and noise decay adjustments. Open and closed hi-hats continue this symphony of endless possibilities, complete with drive and tone controls. As DivKid unravels the output section, he introduces a one-knob compressor and a tilt EQ, leading us through a soundscape that accommodates both contemporary and classic frequencies with equal savage. Nothing’s left untouched as DivKid highlights the joys of parallel processing and modular patching. This isn’t just about tradition – it’s an evolution.

Here’s where the magic begins—a dive into compounding classics with contemporary chaos. DivKid pairs classic sounds with modular mixing, creating a Frankenstein’s monster of an audio experience. By employing parallel compression and modular setup, he crafts a symphony of psychedelic proportions. The sneaky sidechain outputs and envelope followers find their stride, turning basic beats into monstrous mutants. It all results in a stereo mix with layers that are both bone-rattling and delicate, a testament to the beauty of controlled mayhem.

For those who thought 808s were just for vintage vibes, here’s a rude awakening. DivKid demonstrates wild audio rate triggering, forcing the OCTA module into unexpected roles. Forget conventional drums; these 808s become the backbone for basslines that growl and resonate like a gnarly punk brawler. The notion of driving these sounds through audio rate oscillators and exploiting tone controls as filters turns expectations on their head. It’s an audio assault that redefines drum sound engineering, showing that with OCTA, the unexpected is always just a patch away.