Mutable Instruments Marbles is a random module for modular synthesizers in Eurorack format. The module offers many different ways to impress a structure on the random events created by the module: Synchronization with external clock signals, control of repetition or renewal of the generated material, quantization of voltages or randomization of gates or voltages generated by sequencers. Two parameters are available: t, a random gate generator and x, a random CV generator. As a special feature, Marbles remembers every new beat deviation of the rhythm or the tension it has generated. The Deja Vu button on the control panel controls the likelihood of reusing past material instead of collecting fresh random data.
Marbles either follows its internal clock or sets itself to an adjustable multiplication/division of an external clock (or a regular rhythmic pattern). This regular clock is disturbed by a process that simulates a musician playing with a click and trying to make up for his mistakes - from perfect accuracy to complete chaos. From this imperfect master clock, a 2-channel random rhythm is generated using one of the following processes: random coin toss, random ratcheting or random generation of drum patterns.
This generator generates three channels of random voltages, each of which is clocked by the individual outputs of the t-section or by a common external clock signal. Complete control over the distribution of the output voltages is provided as follows: concentrated or spread, quantized or unquantized, centered or prepared for a specific voltage. The same transformations can be performed on an external CV for the Sample & Hold or Shift register operation.
This module is great as one of your first modules. Great it you want to make more musical generative patches without having to shell out for quantizers straight away. Works great with a single semi modular synth or in a rig with other modules.
I would say an essential module (like most from mutable instruments).