Tag: Neutral Labs

Neutral Labs PIP – DIY Build

Neutral Labs PIP - DIY Build

Neutral Labs PIP is two morph-able CV generators/complex LFOs in 8 HP that can be synced to each other in predefined ratios, unsynced or phase-shifted between each other. The module also allows you to record, morph and time-stretch your own external CV or knob movements. Like the NIJEL, PIP is an easy kit to build: It comes with most of the components pre-soldered. You will only have to solder pots, LEDs, buttons, as well as some jacks and sockets, so there is very little room for error with this build. Let’s get on with it … 

To start off, you will want to place the IC socket as well as the power header. You can place these parts and then flip the board over to tack down one pin. Adjust and reheat if needed. Once you have these in place, solder the rest of the pins into place. After completing this, mount the 4 switches on the front of the PCB. Do not solder them yet though. 

PIP - Completed Front

Neutral Labs NIJEL – DIY Build

Neutral Labs NIJEL - DIY Build

When it comes to distortion, Neutral Labs understands it, and harnesses it. They have done that again with their new module, NIJEL which uses the “nut” cards or other components to change the sound of the waveforms ran through the module.

NIJEL is an extremely easy kit to build: It comes with most of the components pre-soldered. You will only have to solder a pot, a spacer, some sockets and headers, so there is very little room for error. Enough with all of that though, let’s get on with the build. 

Completed Nijel

Neutral Labs Scrat – DIY Build

Neutral Labs Scrat - DIY Build

Hot off the release of the MEG module, Neutral Labs is at it again with their new Scrat module. The Scrat is an aggressive sounding multimode Steiner-Parker filter with a twist: You can change the resonance flavor by plugging in components like diodes, capacitors or resistors (even LEDs and/or light-dependent resistors) directly to the front panel.

When we heard that there was a new module released, we couldn’t wait to get it on our build table. Upon its arrival, we fired up the trusty iron and got to building the new Neutral Labs Scrat!

  • Note: Do not open all of the component bags right away. They are grouped in bags to help identify parts and keep the build organized. (A big thanks goes to Neutral Labs for taking the time to do this for DIYers).
Completed SCRAT

Neutral Labs MEG – DIY Build

Neutral Labs MEG - DIY Build

As many of  you know, we have a thing for unusual musical equipment or modular gear. There are a few manufacturers out there that really turn our heads and open our wallets. It easily goes without a doubt that Neutral Labs is one of these manufacturers. As you may recall, Neutral Labs created the Elmyra, a small desktop synth inspired by the Lyra-8. They also created the NERMAL eurorack module which quite literally mangled anything we threw at it.

Their latest module, the MEG is a waveshaper like no other that we have in our racks. It was a definite must have kit to get as soon as it was announced. 

What is the MEG?

The MEG is a waveshaper plain and simple, but it is very unique. Unlike normal waveshapers, that fold the wave back in on itself, the MEG shifts parts of the wave up or down. This shift is also adjustable and pulse-width modulation (and more) is also inherently added. Now, this sounds really confusing and trust us… it was when we heard it too. Thankfully Neutral Labs sent over this diagram to show how this folding occurs. (see below).