Mia Khoirunisa
Sweden’s own Erik Karl Stephan Söderberg built EKSS as a one-man passion project, building Rack Extensions that ooze personality—that boutique hardware feeling, but all in the box. Come with me down the rabbit hole, including Erik’s fantastic new FreakShift effect and drum step-sequencer. Back story: all of this started with seeing a post on a Facebook page and… I’ve been lost making Reason patches with this stuff for the past weeks since that happened. Let me explain.
The Genesis of Ekssperimental Sound Studios: A Deep Dive into Reason’s Boutique Hardware Emulation
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital audio workstations, Propellerhead’s Reason has carved out a unique niche, celebrated for its virtual rack system that mimics the tactile experience of hardware studios. Within this ecosystem, one developer has consistently delivered instruments and effects that not only emulate classic hardware but imbue them with a distinct character: Ekssperimental Sound Studios (EKSS), the brainchild of Swedish producer Erik Karl Stephan Söderberg. What began as a personal endeavor has blossomed into a substantial catalog of Rack Extensions, offering Reason users a portal into a wonderland of retro-inspired sonic tools.
The journey of EKSS is deeply intertwined with the evolution of Reason itself. Söderberg’s roots in music production trace back to the early days of Reason, even predating it with Propellerhead’s iconic ReBirth, a groundbreaking software emulation of Roland’s TB-303 and TR-808. This early immersion in the world of software-based synthesis and drum machines laid the foundation for his later work with Reason’s Rack Extensions, a platform that allows third-party developers to create virtual instruments and effects that integrate seamlessly into the Reason environment.
Since 2017, EKSS has been a prolific contributor to the Reason Rack Extension store. Söderberg’s creations are not mere digital replicas; they possess a palpable personality, a testament to his deep understanding of both the source hardware and the nuances of sound design. Users consistently describe the EKSS experience as akin to working with boutique hardware, where every knob turn and every patch cable connection feels deliberate and inspiring. This approach stands in stark contrast to the often-impersonal nature of AI-generated presets or generic software instruments. With EKSS, the "ghost in the machine" is unmistakably Erik Karl Stephan Söderberg himself, a seasoned producer whose passion for vintage gear and sonic exploration shines through in every module.
The author’s personal encounter with EKSS began serendipitously, sparked by a Facebook post. This chance discovery led to weeks of immersive sound design, finding it difficult to pull away from exploring the creative possibilities offered by Söderberg’s creations. This deep dive into the EKSS catalog, particularly the newer offerings like the FreakShift effect and the RDS-16 drum step-sequencer, highlights the profound impact these tools can have on a producer’s workflow, often leading to creative distractions that ultimately yield rewarding musical results.
Unveiling the Latest Innovations: FreakShift and the RDS-16 Sequencer
At the forefront of EKSS’s recent output are two compelling new additions: the FreakShift spectral modulation effect and the RDS-16 Rack Drum Sequencer. These instruments showcase Söderberg’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the Reason Rack, offering sophisticated functionality wrapped in an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing design.
FreakShift: A Spectral Modulation Powerhouse
The FreakShift effect is described as a "dream" device, a testament to its multifaceted design. It masterfully combines a ring modulator, a Bode-style frequency shifter, and an envelope follower with a built-in LFO. What sets FreakShift apart is the remarkable flexibility offered in its signal routing and modulation capabilities. Users can place the drive effect either before or after the core modulation engines, allowing for a wide spectrum of tonal shaping.
Delving deeper into the FreakShift’s architecture reveals an even greater level of control. The inclusion of an optional external carrier input allows for external audio sources to drive the modulation, opening up experimental avenues. Furthermore, an insert effect can be placed between the ring modulator and frequency shifter stages, enabling intricate signal chain manipulation. The integrated, routable LFO provides dynamic movement and evolution to the processed sound, while the envelope follower translates incoming audio dynamics into modulation, creating responsive and expressive effects.
The true depth of FreakShift becomes apparent when exploring its rear panel, a hallmark of well-designed modular and semi-modular hardware. This area reveals a comprehensive array of CV (Control Voltage) inputs, offering extensive patching possibilities. Users can utilize CV inputs for the envelope follower and LFO, with independent depth destinations for each. The frequency shifter section also features dedicated CV inputs, allowing for precise control over its parameters. Perhaps most intriguingly, FreakShift includes a separate "shift frequency audio" input, suggesting the potential for audio-rate modulation of the shift frequency itself, a feature rarely found in such accessible forms.
To illustrate the sonic capabilities of FreakShift, the author provides audio examples. One demonstration pairs FreakShift with two other popular EKSS devices: the RDS-16 sequencer and the DRUMSYN drum synthesizer. The DRUMSYN itself is an homage to the legendary Pearl Syncussion SY-1, a vintage drum machine known for its distinctive, often aggressive, analog sound. The combination of these tools, the author notes, is "just perfect," hinting at the seamless integration and sonic synergy within the EKSS product line. The potential for further sonic exploration through additional routing and CV control is emphasized, suggesting that FreakShift is a tool that can grow with the user’s creativity.
Another audio example showcases FreakShift in conjunction with the EKSS Amalgam synthesizer. The Amalgam is lauded for its hybrid synthesis capabilities, blending FM, subtractive, and other synthesis techniques into a compact and versatile instrument. The interplay between Amalgam’s rich sonic palette and FreakShift’s spectral manipulation capabilities demonstrates the power of EKSS tools to create complex and evolving textures. These examples serve as potent teasers for the extensive creative potential that lies within the EKSS catalog.
RDS-16: Intuitive Drum Sequencing
Complementing the FreakShift effect is the RDS-16 Rack Drum Sequencer. This device is characterized by its simplicity and effectiveness, offering an intuitive user interface that might lead one to question why such a tool isn’t a native part of Reason’s core offerings. The RDS-16 provides a streamlined approach to pattern creation for drum machines and other percussive instruments.
Key features of the RDS-16 include:
- Individual Step Controls: Each step on the sequencer can be individually configured, allowing for fine-grained control over rhythmic patterns.
- Note Probability: The ability to set note probability for each step introduces generative and evolving rhythmic elements, preventing patterns from becoming too static.
- Gate and Trigger Outputs: Steps can function as either gates or triggers, offering flexibility for triggering various sound modules and samplers.
- CV and Trigger Outputs: The rear panel provides separate trigger and CV outputs, facilitating integration with other modular elements within the Reason Rack.
- Preset Patches: The sequencer is adaptable to different sonic contexts, with preset patches available for General MIDI, various Rack Extension drum machines, native Reason instruments, and even melodic applications using note scales.
The RDS-16 is designed to be placed above a target device, enabling it to play that device. However, its versatility extends to being combined with other Players, further expanding its rhythmic and melodic sequencing capabilities. The author highlights its immediate value, stating it has become their "go-to" sequencer.
Looking ahead, the RDS-16 is poised for further enhancement with upcoming features designed to leverage improvements in Reason 14’s SDK (Software Development Kit). Anticipated additions include more sophisticated control options, fill capabilities, and advanced step conditions, suggesting that the investment in the RDS-16 will continue to yield creative dividends for users.
A Rich Tapestry of Sound Design Tools: Favorites from the EKSS Catalog
Beyond the latest releases, Erik Karl Stephan Söderberg’s EKSS catalog is a treasure trove of sonic tools that consistently inspire creative output. The author likens it to a "candy store," where the temptation to dive into sound design and music creation is irresistible. An example track is provided, showcasing the RDS-16 as a sequence source, inviting listeners to "gearspot" the other EKSS weapons employed in its creation. This demonstrates the cohesive and potent nature of Söderberg’s offerings.
The CV Tool Kit: Expanding Reason’s Modular Capabilities
A significant highlight of the EKSS catalog is the comprehensive CV Tool Kit. While acknowledged as a pricier investment, its value is undeniable, particularly for users who wish Reason itself would embrace CV (Control Voltage) more deeply. The author asserts that each individual module within this toolkit "individually bests a lot of what is available from Reason Studios or third parties." This bold statement underscores the quality and depth of EKSS’s CV processing tools.
Among the most frequently used modules from the CV Tool Kit, the author singles out the CV LFO Tool. This particular module, with its extensive patching capabilities visible on its rear panel, offers a profound level of control over modulation, making it an indispensable asset for adding dynamic movement and evolving characteristics to any sound. The accompanying images of the CV LFO Tool’s front and back panels showcase the intricate routing and parameter control that are characteristic of EKSS’s detailed approach to design. The broader CV Tool Kit, as a whole, provides a robust suite of utilities that bridge the gap between Reason’s software environment and the principles of modular synthesis.
Drum Synths and Classic Emulations
The DRUMSYN drum synthesizer is unequivocally lauded as a "must-have." Its ability to emulate the sonic character of vintage drum machines, particularly the Pearl Syncussion SY-1, is a significant draw. The inclusion of trimmable tweaking options, along with syncable CV and LFO outputs, further solidifies its status as a powerful and flexible drum synthesis tool within the Reason Rack.
Synthesizers with Vintage Flair and Modern Ingenuity
EKSS also excels in providing synthesizers that capture the essence of classic hardware. The ES10 Analog Synthesizer is described as a "pint-sized SH-101-ish synth," effectively evoking the iconic Roland sound in a compact and accessible package. This emulation allows Reason users to tap into the sought-after tones of vintage analog synthesizers without the need for expensive hardware.
For users seeking more complex and multifaceted synthesis, the Amalgam FM Subtractive Synthesizer stands out as an exceptional offering. It is characterized as providing "about the most synthesis fun as you can fit into a compact space, full stop." The Amalgam ingeniously blends multiple synthesis paradigms, including FM, subtractive, granular, and ring modulation, drawing inspiration from classic synths like the Roland CS series. This hybrid approach allows for an expansive range of sonic textures, from warm analog basses to crystalline digital leads.
The ES400 FM Synthesizer is another noteworthy instrument, drawing inspiration from the legendary Yamaha DX series. The author expresses particular appreciation for its user interface, highlighting the "easy-access sound design approach that is throughout the whole set here." This consistent design philosophy across EKSS products makes them approachable for both beginners and seasoned sound designers.
Effects Units: From Gritty Delights to Sonic Landscapes
The EKSS effect modules are equally impressive, offering a wide array of sonic manipulation tools. The Ouroboros is described as a "wonderful, grimy multi-effect." Its capabilities span delay, distortion, filtering, reverb, LFO modulation, and noise generation, all with highly flexible routing options. This makes Ouroboros a potent tool for crafting dark, atmospheric, and potentially dubby sonic landscapes. The Anoma LoFi Effect is also recommended as a worthy addition for those seeking vintage character and degradation.
Further examples of EKSS’s powerful effect processing include the Filter Chain X8187, a superb filter module that offers extensive sonic sculpting possibilities. The TransFluxer LoFi Soundscaping Multi FX is presented as a remarkably comprehensive device, capable of transforming sounds into intricate sonic textures and environments, almost acting as "a whole album in a Rack Extension." The author also briefly mentions the TURN2ON FLANGERDBL, a third-party module that emulates classic MXR effects, as a worthy mention for its integration within the Reason Rack.
The sheer breadth and depth of the EKSS effect offerings, combined with Reason’s inherent patchability, provide users with a level of sonic control that often surpasses that found in competing plugin ecosystems. The strategic advantage of the Reason Rack, with its integrated CV patching and modular design, allows these EKSS effects to function with a level of interconnectedness rarely seen in traditional plugin formats.
The Enduring Appeal of the Reason Rack Extension Ecosystem
Revisiting the Rack Extensions ecosystem within Reason at this juncture is particularly poignant. Reason’s recent acquisition by LANDR and the ongoing shifts in its business model, including the introduction of subscriptions and various add-ons, have undoubtedly impacted the landscape for third-party developers. The Rack Extension scene, while perhaps not as vibrant as its peak, continues to harbor invaluable gems that are unique to the Reason platform.
The author notes that developers now face increased competition from Reason’s robust VST support and Reason Studios’ own expanding range of native tools and subscriptions. However, the unique integration and workflow offered by Rack Extensions remain a significant draw for many users. Tools like those from EKSS, while potentially available in other formats, often function with a particular synergy within the Reason environment. This is especially true for developers who also produce hardware, such as Eurorack modules, where the digital emulation in Reason provides a complementary and often more accessible creative outlet.
A significant point of anticipation for the future of Rack Extensions is the potential impact of an upcoming SDK update. The author expresses cautious optimism, noting that new GUI features are already appearing in modules like the RV-9 Reverb Station within Reason 14. This suggests a continued commitment from Reason Studios to evolve the platform and empower its developer community.
The inherent design of Rack Extensions, with their deep integration into the Reason Rack and extensive CV I/O, places them in a unique position. They occupy a space between traditional modular synthesizers and software-based studios, offering a tangible connection to the modular world while retaining the convenience and power of a digital environment. This "plug-and-play, instant-on inspiration," as described by the author, is a hallmark of the Reason experience and a key differentiator for developers like EKSS.
The author expresses keen interest in the capabilities of SDK5, hoping it will provide developers with new avenues for innovation and success. In the interim, the focus remains on the current wealth of creative possibilities.
For those eager to explore the sonic universe crafted by Erik Karl Stephan Söderberg, the official EKSS website is the primary destination: https://ekss.se. The author concludes by admitting a desire to return to completing the techno tracks that were inspired by this exploration, a testament to the infectious creativity fostered by the EKSS product line. The journey into the EKSS wonderland is one that promises endless sonic discovery and artistic fulfillment for Reason users.
