Mutable Instruments Braids
Digital macro-oscillator with 40+ synthesis models
16 HP Eurorack module
Braids by Mutable Instruments is a digital macro-oscillator offering over 40 synthesis models spanning virtually every digital synthesis technique. As the predecessor to Plaits, Braids established the concept of a single oscillator module that could morph between radically different sound engines. Each model is selected via an OLED display and controlled through two macro parameters (Timbre and Color) that map to musically meaningful aspects of each algorithm. Braids includes a built-in quantizer for the V/Oct input and an internal VCA/envelope that can be toggled on, making it a self-contained voice in minimal patches.
Features
- 40+ synthesis models
- OLED display for model selection
- Built-in quantizer
- Internal VCA with decay envelope
- Timbre and Color macro parameters
- 1V/Oct tracking
- FM input
Controls & Jacks (13)
- COARSE — Main pitch control. Sets the fundamental frequency across a wide range.
- TIMBRE CV In — CV input for the TIMBRE parameter. Adds to the knob position for voltage control of the primary timbre dimension.
- COLOR — Secondary sound-shaping parameter. Function varies by synthesis model — controls filter cutoff, harmonics balance, noise color, or spectral
- FINE — Fine pitch adjustment. ±1 semitone range for precise tuning.
- TIMBRE — Primary sound-shaping parameter. Function varies by synthesis model — controls pulse width, FM index, waveshape, formant position, or grain
- V/OCT — 1V/octave pitch tracking input for melodic control. Tracks accurately across multiple octaves.
- COLOR CV In — CV input for the COLOR parameter. Adds to the knob position for voltage control of the secondary timbre dimension.
- FM CV In — Frequency modulation CV input. Accepts external CV for pitch modulation, scaled by the FM knob.
- OUT — Main audio output.
- EDIT — Rotary encoder for selecting among 45 synthesis models and accessing settings. Turn to browse models (shown on LED display). Click to enter
- FM — FM attenuverter. Controls the amount and polarity of frequency modulation from the FM CV input. Center position = no modulation, CW = positi
- TRIG — Trigger input. Strikes/excites physical models, resets phase, or triggers the internal envelope depending on the synthesis model.
- MODULATION — Controls the modulation amount applied to the COLOR parameter from internal or external sources.
Explore the interactive Braids panel on BleepDex — tap any control to learn what it does.
