Tiptop Audio

Notes: Introducing the BD808, part of TipTop's new drum module series that brings the iconic analogue percussion of the Roland TR-808 into the modular synth world. This compact, minimalist module is cost-effective due to modern production methods, reviving the renowned bass drum sound.

The BD808 adapts the TR-808's Bass Drum circuit for Eurorack format, retaining the classic 80's sound while adding new features. These include an independent Accent level, a high-powered gain stage, dual input pulse-shaper, and extended decay. The integrated high-powered gain stage can produce signals up to 20Vpp, allowing for a range of harmonized bass drum sounds from sharp attacks to distorted tones. The dual pulse-shaper circuit ensures stable sound from various pulse sources, making integration into your modular setup seamless. These enhancements unleash the power of true analog drums, delivering impactful bass sounds.

TR-808 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 4HP
Depth: 14mm
Power: +12V 13ma / -12V 6ma

Notes: Reverse-engineered from the original machine, the BD909 is an identical recreation of the original all-analogue drum circuit of the TR-909. Tiptop have added additional controls and synthesis features that turn this classic circuit into a chest-pounding analog bass drum laboratory - all tightly packed into an 8HP module. The BD909 sound differs from the BD808 in that the main sonic energy is centered in the mid to low frequency range (as opposed to the low frequency range of the BD808). This frequency range gives the needed headroom allowing your bass lines to deeply fill up the low end while the kick drum rides on top - creating a clear and punchy mix.

The BD909 includes all the controls found in the original: Attack, Decay, Tune Decay, Accent, and Level. Tiptop have gone beyond that and added controls that further increase the palette of sound this circuit is capable of. First off, a tuning control knob has been added for the oscillator and included its own CV input and attenuator that let you tune the 909 kick with your bass lines. Next, control knobs have been added for the tuning attack and extending tuning decay. Each one affects the other, allowing for intuitive and interactive sound shaping, opening Z8000 up numerous "sweet spots" and provides the ability to center the energy peak at different parts of the sound. Finally, Tiptop have offered additional punch and distortion by giving complete control over the internal waveshaper, which allows you to overload the waveform manually or with voltage control.

Beginning with the classic and pure sound of the 909 kick, these additional functions greatly expand the BD909's flexibility and let it create powerful analogue bass drums that range from soft and smooth to punchy and aggressive - and everything in between.

TR-909 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 8HP
Depth: 36mm
Power: +12V 34ma / -12V 21ma

Notes: The CP909 is the TR-909's analogue clap sound generator in Eurorack format. This is yet another low-cost analogue drum generator from a legendary drum machine in your modular synthesizer, expanding your Tiptop Audio modular drum machine even further.

The CP909 is an exact reproduction of the original analogue circuit and with the addition of just one extra knob, "trashing" the frequency of the internal noise generator, Tiptop have added greatly to the spectrum of sounds that can be generated. All that without compromising the signature sound of the TR-909.

The CP909 clap effect is made by a special triple-saw envelope generator that controls the gain of a VCA. The sound source feeding into the VCA is made by a quasi-random logic- based noise generator. Some might call it "digital noise", though this term might be misleading in today's world of microcontrollers and sound samples. What really makes the noise generator is a ring of logic gates, so primitive, so 80s, and so much the sound of the 909 Clap!

The CP909 includes a high-powered output gain stage capable of producing hot signals. On the inputs, Tiptop have designed a pulse-shaper circuit so you can trigger the CP909 with trigger/gate signals from step sequencers, clocks, dividers, or any other pulse/clock sources. This eliminates the need to shape pulses sent to the module and ensures the same stable sound at peak power, regardless of your pulse source. Based on the architecture of the 909, the Accent input is versatile and able to take in both CV and Gate signals for continuously changing dynamics. All these unique features make integrating this legendary sound generator into your modular synth easy, unleashing the power of real analogue drums.

TR-909 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 4HP
Depth: 36mm
Power: +12V 6ma / -12V 10ma

Notes: Introducing the CYMBL909, part of Tiptop's new series of drum modules that brings those classic percussion sounds into the modular synth world, instantly turning your system into a self-contained music machine.

CYMBL909 is a dual voice module containing the TR-909's original Crash and Ride circuits adapted for use in Eurorack modular synthesizer format and was designed to sound like a fresh machine coming out of the assembly line back in the 80's. On top of the original, Tiptop have added some great new features that expand the sound palette of what can be produced with these two voice circuits.

The original circuits use a combination of low-fi 6-bit sound samples that pass through a series of analogue elements that provide envelope and filtering to the source sound. The CYMBL909 module adds manual and voltage control of the sample's analogue tuning section creating tones which range from heavy industrial at the low end, to the original crash/ride sound at the mid range, and bright hats-like sounds at the top end. Modulating the tune with an envelope, CV sequencer, or LFO makes interesting sound bending effects, which can be applied either in or out of sync with the triggering of the sounds.

Just like the other drums in this series, the CYMBL909 high-powered output gain stage allows you to further enhance the sound through distortion and clipping. Tiptop have designed a dual pulse-shaper circuit on each gate input so you can trigger your CYMBL909 with trigger/gate signals from step sequencers, clock dividers or any other pulse/clock.

TR-909 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 8HP
Depth: 46mm
Power: +12V 60ma / -12V 40ma

Notes: Introducing the HATS808, a drum module that brings the classic TR-808 closed and open hi-hat sounds to the Eurorack modular synth format. This module includes features like independent accent levels, a high-powered gain stage, dual input pulse-shaper, and adjustable Filter Q and VC-Q knobs for additional tuning.
The HATS808 uses six analogue square wave oscillators to create its signature sizzling sound, maintaining the unique metallic character of the original. The original "choke" circuitry is fully implemented but can be disabled if needed. The high-powered gain stage allows for further sound harmonization through distortion and clipping. The dual pulse-shaper circuit ensures consistent sound quality from any pulse source, making the HATS808 an easy and powerful addition to any modular synth setup.

TR-808 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 8HP
Depth: 14mm
Power: +12V 30ma / -12V 25ma

Notes: Introducing the HATS909, part of TipTop's new series of drum modules that brings those classic percussion sounds into the modular synth world, instantly turning your system into a self-contained music machine.

The HATS909 is the TR-909's original Closed and Open Hi-Hats circuits adapted for use in Eurorack modular synthesizer format and was designed to sound like a machine coming fresh off the assembly line back in the 80's. Improving on the original, TipTop have added some great new features that expand the sound palette that can be produced with this small, powerful module.

The original TR-909 circuit is made with a combination of low-fi sound samples that pass through a series of analogue elements to provide envelope and filtering to the source sound. The HATS909 module allows for manual and voltage control of the sample's tuning, which provides anything from crushed hats and short ticks to the original sound and anything between. Additional controls allow you to send a voltage control signal to either the tune input or the internal VCA for modulation with external control signals and, using a modulation switch, add AM or FM synthesis in the audio range from external oscillators, other drum sounds, or just about any other sound source. Lastly, HATS909 also offers a switch that allows you to tap directly into the raw output of the module for a unique sound source that can used throughout your system.

Just like the other drums in this series, the HATS909 high-powered output gain stage allows you to further harmonize the sound through distortion and clipping. On each gate input, Tiptop have designed a dual pulse-shaper circuit so you can trigger your HATS909 with trigger/gate signals from step sequencers, clock dividers, or any other pulse/clock sources.

TR-909 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 8HP
Depth: 36mm
Power: +12V 33ma / -12V 22ma

Notes: The M module is a 5-way Polytip signal multiplier. It takes a single polyphonic audio, CV, or gate signal set and routes it to up to five multiple outputs. The module is completely passive and requires no power. Like all Polytip jacks on Tiptop Audio modules, the jacks on the M module are top-quality components made in Japan.

Size: 4HP - Depth: 15mm

Power: no power required

Notes: The MA808 is a Eurorack module that recreates the TR-808's analogue Maracas drum voice and white noise generator at a low cost, expanding your Tiptop Audio modular drum machine. It features a fluffy, harmonically rich sound that enhances Hi-Hats dynamics. The Attack control knob allows adjustments from sharp Hi-Hat to slow-rise Maracas, with a marker for the original 808 setting.

The MA808 also includes the 808's continuous analogue white noise generator, ideal for creating custom drum sounds or general white noise use. It faithfully reproduces the original 1980s circuit and includes a high-powered gain stage for hot, distortable signals. The dual input pulse-shaper ensures stable triggering from various pulse sources, making the MA808 an easy and powerful addition to any modular synth setup.

TR-808 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 4HP
Depth: 14mm
Power: +12V 16ma / -12V 14ma

Notes: Octo I/O is a bi-directional passive Polytip to 3.5mm expander and a Polytip Mult. The expander section lets you break out to each individual voice from a polyphonic module. The mult section lets you mult Polytip polyphonic signals from one source to multiple destinations. For example patching the OCTOSTAGES envelopes to control both your OCTOPASS filters and HEXAGAIN VCAs.

Dimensions:

6HP - Depth: 15mm

Current Draw:

Module does not draw current

Notes: Octogain is a eight voice polyphonic analogue audio VCA plus a eight voice mixer with master level control and odd/even (Right and Left) channels for a stereo output and clipping indicator. All eight VCA ins and outs are simultaneously available through Polytip jacks and 3.5mm jacks so the module can be used in a variety of ways both polyphonic or multi-voice monophonic. The fully analogue audio path has exponential CV control. CV inputs are 0-5V, typical audio input is 10Vp.p. A global Offset knob allow to open all VCAs manually or apply positive offset to incoming CV. The design uses very low power consumption with excellent audio quality.

Size: 16HP - Depth: 40mm
Power: +12V 42mA / -12V 35mA

Notes: OCTOPASS is an eight voice 24db/octave low pass filter based on the classic 2044 filter. All eight filters are fully analogue with gain compensation of resonance and the lovely lush sound of classic synths. A global frequency modulation CV using a 3.5mm jack can be used to modulate all eight incoming CVs of the Polytip jack. The typical use is to patch polyphonic synthesisers with the use of only a few Polytip patch cables for its audio ins and outs and its cut-off frequency controls. To tap each filter I/O or CV using discrete modules the OCTO I/O module can be used as an expander. As there are eight filters in the module special attention has been given to power consumption efficiency.

Size: 20HP

Notes: Part of TipTop's polyphonic range, the Octostages is based on the envelope circuits from the legendary Oberheim OB-X. Eight fully analogue envelopes with shared ADSR controls.

Supplier's Notes:
Octostages is an eight voice fully analogue envelope generator made with the original envelopes of the 1979 OBX. Each of the eight envelopes feature a Gate in, Envelope OUT, Velocity CV in and Attack CV in control as well as an output led indicator. A master output level knob and CV using standard mono jack are provided to control or modulate all envelope output levels globally. As there are eight EGs in the module special attention has been given for power consumption efficiency.

Size: 20HP - Depth: 40mm
Power: +12V 185mA / -12V 165mA

Notes: The Octovert is a CV processor capable of scaling, inverting, and offsetting up to eight polyphonic signals. It can also be externally controlled via CV! Its most obvious applications include inverting envelopes, reversing the direction of CV, and scaling plus offsetting any CV source to precisely fine-tune the modulation sweet spot of the target module. With the added feature of external control, it takes things even further by modulating the modulation signal itself for even deeper modulation motion.

Size: 6HP - Depth: 40mm

Power: +12V 18mA / -12V 15mA

Notes: Polytip is Tiptop Audio's new type of modular synthesiser patch cable that can pass multiple audio channels using minimal panel space. This innovative design finally adds to modular the capability to patch more than one signal at a time and unleash the full potential of polyphonic patching between modules. Polytips uses the industry standard USB Type C connector although it is not a USB cable (and USB cables do not work with Polytip). Internally multiple lines of shielded analogue audio lines pass from end to end with excellent sound quality.

Notes: Polytip is Tiptop Audio's new type of modular synthesiser patch cable that can pass multiple audio channels using minimal panel space. This innovative design finally adds to modular the capability to patch more than one signal at a time and unleash the full potential of polyphonic patching between modules. Polytips uses the industry standard USB Type C connector although it is not a USB cable (and USB cables do not work with Polytip). Internally multiple lines of shielded analogue audio lines pass from end to end with excellent sound quality.

Notes: polytip is Tiptop Audio's new type of modular synthesiser patch cable that can pass multiple audio channels using minimal panel space. This innovative design finally adds to modular the capability to patch more than one signal at a time and unleash the full potential of polyphonic patching between modules. Polytips uses the industry standard USB Type C connector although it is not a USB cable (and USB cables do not work with Polytip). Internally multiple lines of shielded analog audio lines pass from end to end with excellent sound quality.

Notes: Polytip is Tiptop Audio's new type of modular synthesiser patch cable that can pass multiple audio channels using minimal panel space. This innovative design finally adds to modular the capability to patch more than one signal at a time and unleash the full potential of polyphonic patching between modules. Polytips uses the industry standard USB Type C connector although it is not a USB cable (and USB cables do not work with Polytip). Internally multiple lines of shielded analogue audio lines pass from end to end with excellent sound quality.

Notes: Polytip is Tiptop Audio's new type of modular synthesiser patch cable that can pass multiple audio channels using minimal panel space. This innovative design finally adds to modular the capability to patch more than one signal at a time and unleash the full potential of polyphonic patching between modules. Polytips uses the industry standard USB Type C connector although it is not a USB cable (and USB cables do not work with Polytip). Internally multiple lines of shielded analogue audio lines pass from end to end with excellent sound quality.

Notes: The RS808 is a Eurorack module that brings the TR-808's analogue Rimshot and Claves sounds to your modular drum machine at a low cost. It offers the classic sounds plus two unique snappy "click" variations. Two control knobs, labeled Pitch and Snap, adjust the oscillator frequency and envelope decay, providing greater sound variation and control.

The RS808 faithfully reproduces the original 1980s TR-808 circuit and includes a high-powered gain stage for hot, distortable signals. It features a dual input pulse-shaper for stable triggering from various pulse sources. These enhancements make the RS808 an easy and powerful addition to any modular synth setup, delivering authentic analogue drum sounds.

TR-808 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 4HP
Depth: 14mm
Power: +12V 14ma / -12V 13ma

Notes: The SD909 adapts the iconic TR-909 snare drum and noise generator for use in the Eurorack modular synthesizer format. Tiptop painstakingly tested the module in their lab to sound like a fresh machine coming off of the assembly line back in the 80s. On top of the original circuit, Tiptop have added new features that expand the palette of what can be produced with this analogue circuit.

The sound of the SD909 consists of two main sections: the binary noise generator and two modulated triangle oscillators. The oscillators provide the low end punch while the noise makes up the upper sonic spectrum, resulting in a combination that makes the 909 snare sound so rich. In the SD909 module, the noise generator and oscillators are variable and voltage-controllable, pushing the circuit beyond its original boundaries, offering new sounds and many variations of the original tone. The panel also has markings to guide setting the knobs to reproduce the vintage snare sound of the original machine.

Just like the other drums in this series, the SD909's high-powered output gain stage allows further enhancement of the sound through distortion and clipping. Tiptop have designed a dual pulse-shaper circuit on each gate input so you can trigger your SD909 with Trigger/Gate signals from step sequencers, clock dividers, or any other pulse/clock sources. Also, the SD909 is equipped with access to the MIXZ MixBus, matching the rest of the Tiptop line of percussive modules.

TR-909 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 8HP
Depth: 46mm
Power: +12V 35ma / -12V 30ma

Notes: Introducing the TOMS909, the warmth of the classic, all-analogue, punchy tom-toms from the TR-909 drum machine. The TOMS909 contains all three of the TR-909's original LOW, MID and HIGH tom-tom circuits adapted for use in the modular format. The module was designed to sound like a fresh machine coming off the assembly line back in the 80's. To add flavour to the beast, Tiptop have extended each tom's tuning range so it's easier to dial soft bass drums on the low end and high-pitched toms on the other.

The toms circuitry is made up of 9 triangle oscillators and a stack of filters, VCAs, and envelopes which, in total, took about half of the space on the original 909's circuit board. Utilizing the latest in electronic design technology, Tiptop have managed to squeeze this enormous circuit, consisting of more than 450 components, into an area only 16HP wide. It is a beautiful board with hundreds of tiny, shiny components: it's a little analogue jewel.

Each tom includes a trigger and accent input with accent level control, manual tune, voltage-control tune input with attenuator and independent audio out. In addition, a MIX out is available that sums all three toms together as well as access to the MIXZ MixBus on the back. On each gate input, Tiptop have designed a dual pulse-shaper circuit so you can trigger your TOMS909 with trigger/gate signals from sequencers or any other pulse/clock sources.

TR-909 is a Trademark of Roland Corp Japan

Size: 16HP
Depth: 51mm
Power: +12V 120ma / -12V 100ma