Robaux releases SLØP1, a MIDI processor with innovative circular keyboard interface
Robaux has released the SLØP1, also known as "Slice of Pie," a MIDI processing module that brings intelligent note manipulation to Eurorack systems through an innovative circular interface design. The module operates as a comprehensive MIDI tool for processing, filtering, and shaping incoming MIDI notes across three distinct operational modes.
Circular keyboard wheel redefines note selection
The centerpiece of SLØP1 is its distinctive keyboard wheel interface, which reimagines the traditional linear keyboard as a circular arrangement. Each "slice" of the pie represents a different note, providing an intuitive visual and tactile method for selecting and programming notes directly on the device. This circular design makes chord building and scale selection more immediate and visually logical than traditional button matrices.
Chord mode transforms single notes into complex harmonies
In Chord Mode, users can assign up to eight notes to any MIDI key from C1 to C9, enabling complex chord progressions to be triggered with single key presses. The module supports both manual chord building using the keyboard wheel and a learn function that captures chords played on an external MIDI keyboard. Musicians can program different chord voicings across the keyboard range, effectively turning a monophonic controller into a polyphonic powerhouse. The manual specifically highlights creative applications beyond traditional pad sounds, including triggering layered drum patterns and driving arpeggiators.
Three scale modes offer flexible note quantization
Scale Mode offers three distinct mapping behaviors for custom scale creation. Users can map selected notes sequentially across white keys for glissando effects, enable automatic quantization that shifts incoming notes to the nearest scale degree, or filter out non-scale notes while maintaining standard keyboard positions. The module's polyphonic MIDI support ensures that chord inputs are properly quantized, maintaining harmonic relationships within the selected scale.
Additional features enhance studio and live performance
A straightforward Thru Mode allows unprocessed MIDI pass-through, enabling musicians to bypass the module's processing without reconfiguring their setup. Additional features include configurable MIDI input and output channels (supporting all 16 channels), a MIDI panic function for clearing stuck notes, and a debug mode for system diagnostics.
Technical specifications and connectivity
The module ships with factory chord presets stored in internal memory, with two reset options available: standard factory reset restores the original chord library, while an alternative reset assigns single notes to each slot for building custom configurations from scratch. The compact design requires minimal rack space while drawing approximately 30mA from the +12V rail.
SLØP1 connects via MIDI TRS Type A connections and includes clear warnings about cable compatibility, standard Eurorack mono cables carrying ±12V can damage the module, requiring proper MIDI TRS stereo cables instead. This attention to connectivity ensures safe integration with both modern Eurorack sequencers and vintage MIDI equipment.
The release represents Robaux's continued focus on performance-oriented tools that simplify complex musical tasks, joining their established lineup of sequencers and control modules designed for live performance and studio composition.