Discrete Map, the latest Eurorack module from New Systems Instruments, is now available, bringing a different take on sequencing that integrates fluidly into modular setups. Rather than relying on traditional clock-driven steps, Discrete Map sequences events based on continuous signal interactions, offering musicians more dynamic rhythmic possibilities.
Discrete Map and the associated A / B / C Expander, the latest modules from New Systems, are both shipping and available as of today, June 10.
Discrete Map reimagines sequencing as the creation of events in continuous time, tightly integrated with the other signals in your modular system. Instead of a conventional pulse clock, Discrete Map responds to any smoothly varying signal, including the internal ramp clock, to precisely place an event anywhere in time.
Discrete Map is designed to interface with modular time, where rhythms are often created organically from beat frequencies, stacked LFOs, interacting envelopes, etc. Taking inspiration from Hegelian philosophy, Discrete Map introduces dialectical sequencing. While conventional sequencers are based on a hierarchical model where the idea determines the performance, dialectical sequencing imagines the sequencer as a tool for placing compositional elements between interacting signals.
Discrete Map is controlled with 8 lower sliders that position the steps in time, and 8 upper sliders that control the value (pitch) of those steps. The lower sliders set 8 rising or falling thresholds, and as the X signal rises or falls past these thresholds, the corresponding stage is activated. A second mode lets you control these thresholds by setting the relative length of each step instead of its position. Additionally, Discrete Map is packed with features to interface with other modules, such as an external input, a one-shot mode, and a sync every nth pulse input. The A / B / C expander adds grouped gate outputs, CV control over the X thresholds, and a 3:1 sequenceable bidirectional switch inspired by the switch mode on the MARF. Discrete Map also runs at audio rates, with uses including a waveshaper/bitcrusher, a temporal mixer, and a graphic VCO tracking 7 octaves with temperature compensation.
Operating on discrete logic and analog switches, Discrete Map responds in microseconds and doesn’t alias. With over 800 components, Discrete Map might be the most complex Eurorack module ever created, at least according to this metric, which New Systems acknowledges is probably meaningless.
Discrete map retails for $479, and A / B / C for $199. They can be purchased directly on nsinstruments.com, or through many popular retailers.