Mutable Instruments Grids User Manual

Mutable Instruments | Grids

Grids is a 3-channel trigger generator specialized in the creation and sculpting of rhythmic patterns.

At the core of Grids is a map, that has been obtained through machine learning techniques, of the drum
patterns used in a large collection of electronic music tracks and drum loops. The skeleton and structure
of the rhythm is programmed by selecting its X and Y coordinates on the map - with smooth
interpolation/morphing between points.

Once this skeleton is in place, variations can be generated by controlling the “event density” of each of the
three channels - gradually morphing from a sparse backbone to a frantic pattern. X / Y map position, and
the density of the 3 channels are all CV-controllable, allowing rhythmic variations to be created by any
modulation source. In contrast to Euclidean sequencers which are purely algorithmic, Grids’ has “learned”
patterns from actual data and with the right settings might generate a breakbeat or an influential
Kraftwerkian beat.

Most patterns are best played with channel 1 = BD ; channel 2 = SD ; channel 3 = HH, but
experimentation with other sound sources is of course encouraged.

Grids has a built-in clock, or it can accept external clock signals of variable resolution.

Grids is designed for Eurorack synthesizer systems and occupies 16 HP of space. It requires a -12V /
+12V supply (2x5 connector), consuming 1mA from the -12V rail and 25mA from the +12V rail. The red
stripe of the ribbon cable must be oriented on the same side as the “Red stripe” marking on the printed
circuit board.

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

This device meets the requirements of the following standards: EN55032, EN55103-2,
EN61000-3-2, EN61000-3-3, EN62311.

Grids is a 3-channel, algorithmic, rhythmic pattern generator based on data and models extracted from
actual BD drum loops. Two steps are involved in the generation of the drum patterns:

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Mutable Instruments | Grids

A collection of drum loops has been spatially organized and compressed into a 2-dimensional map. Using
interpolation techniques, any pair of X/Y coordinates can be translated into a rhythm, with smooth
morphing from one rhythm into the other.

Once a rhythmic skeleton is read from the map, variations can be generated by controlling the note
density of each of the three channels - gradually morphing the pattern from a sparse backbone to a frantic
pattern.

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