Mutable Instruments Marbles

The Mutable Instruments Marbles Random Sampler is a module that generates random gates and voltages whilst providing extensive control over the probability, range and repetition on the signals it produces.
Marbles is an incredible tool for generating sequences quickly, with a few knob turns you’re able to shift from a simple 16-step bass line into a complex evolving sequence with plenty of random diversity. To understand Marbles it’s probably best to break it down into two parts, which coincidentally the module is made up of.
The left section dubbed T is where the random gates are produced and controlled. Here you can either let Marbles run at its own tempo or apply an external clock; if you apply an external clock you can apply divisions and create interesting polymeters derived from said master clock.
The clock follow algorithm emulates a loosely humanized means of producing gates, the algorithm is programmed to play “catch up” with the master clock with full control over its ability to synchronize to the clock, so anything from super tight to very loose and chaotic results can be produced.
The T section provides two gate outputs which are treated using some familiar logic based patterns, like the random coin toss (derived from BRANCHES), random ratcheting to random pattern generation akin to a heavily modulated GRIDS. So complex patterns, loops can be created very quickly and efficiently…great for improvisation.
The T section can be used to trigger anything from envelopes, to drum voices to complex event based sequences and more.
The X section is where the random voltages are produced, there are three random voltage generators which are either clocked by the T sections results or by a single common clock source. Each of the voltages can be quantized to form more musical results, or they can be left to their own devices to create random chaos. They can be smoothed, stepped and even biased to a central voltage.
Now you have an idea of the sections, you can begin to understand the front panel controls.
Déjà vu knob, many of you may know this as an “LSFR probability”. This single knob defines the probability that reoccurring voltages and gates will be produced by the module. Put simply, if you like the last 10 second of what Marbles just played to you, dial that knob back to 0 to begin a loop of the recent material it produced.
Rate, this controls the speed at which the sections operate. Here you can dial in the tempo or the divisions of the main clock.
Length, quite simply controls the length of the random loops Marbles produces. Anything from 1 step to 16 step sequences can be produced.
Bias control, this parameter increases the density of notes on one channel or the other: Random routing of each clock pulse to either outputs, following a coin toss.
Selection of a random division factor for one output, and the reciprocal factor for the other.
Generation of random kick/snare patterns using a process similar to grids
SPREAD control, scanning between constant, bell-shaped, uniform or discrete distributions; and BIAS control biasing the generated voltage towards the bottom or top of the voltage range.
Marbles is the THE tool for building interesting, complex sequences on the fly. A must for any system, especially those who are more inclined to play live.
The main features of Mutable Instruments Marbles include
Random CV and gate generator
Able to generate a wide variety of probability based events on the fly
Create everything from simplistic to complex sequences easily
A must for any live system
18Hp wide