Bastl Instruments Citadel Alchemist

Synthvoice for small systems and experimental patches

With the Citadel Alchemist, Bastl Instruments presents the Eurorack version of the experimental, patchable mini synthesizers Kastle Alchemist synthesizer. Instead of the thin pin connectors, the module has 24 inputs and outputs for audio, CV, gate, Clock and MIDI. At first glance, you will find all the typical synthesizer parameters you would expect to find on a full-blown device. The digital sound generation of the module has a lot to offer. These include the five synth modes Filter, FM, Supersaw, Hypersine and Glitchnoise, with special features such as 4 VCOs, Feedback FM, Raw Waveform, RingMod, Track & Hold, Noise + T&H, Stereo Filter, Transient Shaper. The oscillator has a pitch range of +/- 3 octaves and you can also use the integrated quantizer with definable scales, which can be edited via the web app. The internal modulation options include a macro envelope, a synchronizable LFO with two waveforms and a CV/gate pattern generator. The latter can also be edited via the free web app. The effects section adds the finishing touches to the Alchemist sounds: turning TIMBRE Mod to the left generates a delay; turning the control from the middle position to the right generates a smooth transition from chorus to Flanger to distortion. Citadel Alchemist produces a surprisingly wide sound spectrum, covering classic analog sounds, FM-like sounds, sounds from the waveshaper department and also atonal sounds. The module is equipped with a reversible front panel with Alchemist on one side and a blank label on the other. A suitable tool for the process is included. Current and future firmwares and updates for Citadel Alchemist can be loaded and tested via the USB port.