Verbos Electronics Voltage Multistage 16: The Patch Brain of Modular Control

The Voltage Multistage 16 is positioned as the control voltage core of the patch, immediately establishing its role as the central hub for modulation and sequencing. The approach is methodical: audio and control voltage paths are kept distinct, with the sawtooth wave from the Harmonic Oscillator routed through the Amp & Tone and into the Scan & Pan, while the Voltage Multistage 16 takes charge of all the control voltages.

This separation of duties not only keeps the patch clean but also highlights the Multistage 16’s versatility. By dedicating its outputs to envelope generation, pitch control, and more, the module becomes the beating heart of the system—an essential tool for any modular setup that values precision and flexibility.

The video demonstrates the Multistage 16’s ability to generate envelopes using its Ref output, which is patched to simultaneously open the VCA and the filter. This dual action ensures that each step not only triggers a note but also shapes its dynamics and timbre in tandem.

Pitch modulation is handled by the CVA Row, which brings in the option for slides between notes—a subtle but powerful feature for expressive sequencing. Meanwhile, the B Row is assigned to modulate the Harmonic Oscillator’s center control, allowing for real-time movement across the harmonic spectrum and making the most of the module’s multiple outputs.

Beyond basic sequencing, the workflow expands with the creation of a three-step loop, introducing variation and breaking up the rigidity of a straight 16-step sequence. This looping technique allows for focused exploration of specific harmonic zones, with the B Row continuing to animate the harmonic content.

To add further unpredictability, the strobe button is introduced as a manual way to jump to any step, dictated by the analog address knob. This hands-on control is then automated by patching in a random voltage trigger, which periodically advances the sequence to new territory, keeping the modulation lively and the soundscape evolving.