Rodec M-110 SideStepper

The SideStepper is a high-performance, stereo 100-series module designed to bridge the gap between classic analog dynamics and modern rhythmic sequencing.

1. General Specifications

• Module Type: Stereo 100-series Module

• Analog Core: Stereo Analog discrete FET-controlled and FET-based VCA amplifier.

• Compatibility: Designed for the Rodec ONE desktop workstation or the Rodec 500-to-100 Series Adapter.

2. Step Sequencer Section

The integrated digital sequencer provides the "brain" for the analog FET VCA, allowing for complex rhythmic patterns.

• Pattern Library: Intuitive "Ableton-style" pattern switching. Edit, adapt, and store patterns on the fly.

• Pattern Mode: * Global Controls: Adjust pattern length (1–16 steps), global step length, and Shuffle (swing).

  • Real-time Editing: Modify the entire sequence or individual steps during playback.

• Step Mode: * State: Set step to On (Center, Left, or Right panning/triggering) or Off.

  • Micro-Timing: Adjust Step Start Position (Nudge) and individual Step Length.

• Sync & Transport:

  • Standalone: Internal BPM clock.

  • External Sync: Supports MIDI Clock or Audio Pulse Sync (PPQN).

  • One-Shot Mode: Triggers a single sequence cycle only when the audio crosses the defined threshold.

3. Gater / Ducker Section (Analog)

Tactile control over the discrete FET response.

Control Interface

• Threshold: Sets the level at which the circuit engages (Gate opens or Ducker attenuates).

• Depth: Determines the maximum gain reduction—from subtle movement to total silence.

• Mix: Blends the dry audio with the sidechain trigger for monitoring or layering.

• Attack: Sets the speed of the initial envelope (snappy transients to slow swells).

• Decay: Controls the release time of the envelope after the trigger stops.

• Filter: A dedicated Band-pass filter (18Hz–22kHz) for the sidechain signal, ensuring the module reacts only to specific frequencies.

Logic & Routing (Pushbuttons)

• SC / INT: Toggle between external sidechain/sequencer response or internal audio-driven response.

• AUDIO / SEQ: Selects the trigger source: the physical Sidechain Audio Input or the internal Step Sequencer.

• DUCK / GATE: Switches the VCA behavior between gain reduction (Ducking) or signal opening (Gating).

• FILT ON / OFF: Engages or bypasses the sidechain Band-pass filter.

Pro Tips from the Makers: Mastering the SideStepper

The SideStepper is more than a utility; it’s a rhythmic instrument. Here are a few ways we’ve been using it in the Rodec lab to push the boundaries of the discrete FET VCA:

• The "Dazzling" Choir: Take a high-quality stereo recording of a real choir. Switch the SideStepper to Gate mode and use the internal sequencer to program a rapid, polyrhythmic Trance Gate. Because of the discrete FET circuit, you get a shimmering, surgical chop that feels alive and breathes with the samples.

• The Massive Pump: Want that iconic "wall of sound" to breathe? Place a synth through a massive reverb—wet mix at 100%—and run that signal into the SideStepper in Duck mode. By ducking the reverb tail on the downbeat, you create a vacuum-like effect that creates immense space for your kick drum.

• The "Suck & Duck" Effect: For earth-shaking transitions, crank the Depth and Decay controls. When the sidechain hits, it should feel like Godzilla just entered the room, sucking the air out of the mix before the audio slams back in.

• Live Culinary Chopping: Approach the sequencer like a Japanese chef. Don’t just set a 16-step loop and leave it. Shift the pattern lengths in real-time (try moving from 16 steps to 15, then 7) to create "slipping" polyrhythms that keep the dancefloor on edge.

• Tactile Performance: The SideStepper is meant to be played. Grab the Attack and Decay knobs simultaneously to morph your sound from a soft, organic swell into a sharp, percussive stutter in seconds.