Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router - DIY Build
As we approach the new year, the Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router kit for Eurorack landed on our workbench. The Bizmuth is purely what it states it is – a signal router for modular systems. What does this mean?
According to Bizmuth Modular, you can route switch or combine up to six signals, or generate up to six gates by turning three endless knobs with one hand.
The module has three identical switches with three IO Jacks each: A, B and C. All operate according to the same four step connection sequence: A B C, A-B C, A-B-C, A B-C, and so on. A dash (-) indicates a connection between the signals.
As you turn a knob, the connection sequence of the corresponding switch advances and new connections appear between the three IO jacks. The connection sequence repeats 24 times in one full 360 revolution. That means you have a different patch every 3.75 degrees.
All jacks are also bi-directional, which means you can use them as inputs and outputs. Read that again… you can use them as inputs and outputs. For example, you can route a signal from the B IO jack to A, A and C, or just C, just like you can route two signals from A and/or C to B.
Bizmuth Time Lapse Build Vid
Bizmuth has three preexisting connections also known as normalizations, which help you to realize more complex routing and to generate gates. All B IO jacks are normalized from top to bottom, and if a 16 pin power connector is plugged in, 5V is normalized to the top switches B IO jack. The actual gate out voltage is 4.8V. That means, that as long as you don’t plug a cable in a B IO jack, it will be connected to the B IO jack above, or 5V if it’s the top one.
Now, on with the build….
The limited edition beige kit we received was offered on Instagram on a very short basis. We had to PM them directly to order the kit. After that, the waiting period began; we had to wait a couple months before it arrived due to the lack of components, customs, etc. Upon receiving the Bizmuth, we immediately appreciated the enamel based panel. The limited editions beige was in deep contrast to the normal yellow, pink, purple and blue panel.
Bizmuth Build Gallery
Building the module was quick and easy. Bizmuth literally consisted of 1 resistor, 3 pots, 9 jacks, stand-offs and a header. Oh, and you had to make your own power/ribbon cable which was included in the kit. Double check polarity upon plugging in the module and firing it up for the first time or you will have a smokey room quicker than you thought.
As you can see from our build video, the build was quick. We suggest using other components and frog tape to help hold the PCB where it needs to be when you are soldering the boards via the stand-offs. Once this is complete, line up all of the 360 degree pots and then install the knobs, making sure to line them up as keenly as you can.
The price of the module varies but on the average, a fully assembled module retails for around 90 Euro or USD. The DIY kits range depending on where you find them and how “limited” they are.
Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router - Final Thoughts....
The ease of build and low price make this module a must have. Packaging on the other hand was lack luster for the DIY kit. It arrived in an envelope with the components just thrown in it, and while this isn’t a game breaker, it didn’t have a wow factor at all. Stickers are a staple of modules and this kit didn’t contain anything for us to write home to mom about. They could step up their game in this category. Aforementioned, this isn’t a game breaker but it would have been nice to see a little effort put into the “kit” for of the module.
As of today, the Bizmuth Chaotic Signal Router is a staple in our performance rack.. and we are realizing we need another just for our studio rack. It’s a great tool for on stage and in the studio, the Bizmuth is a must have if you are into noise, glitch, sound design, or chaos…
If you have questions about the build process or suggestions/feedback about this article, feel free to let us know by contacting us. We look forward to hearing from you!
Until the next build …
