Xaoc Devices has released Samarkanda, a quad-channel digital delay module with resampling and looping capabilities. Each of its four channels offers independently controllable delay lines with time ranges from 0.5 milliseconds to 15 seconds. Channels can operate independently or be combined into more complex delay structures using internal normalization and linking. The module supports both classic analog-style pitch-shifting delay behavior and digital granular-like crossfading.
Delay behavior switches between analog and digital styles
Samarkanda provides two fundamentally different responses to delay time changes. In analog mode, adjusting the delay time alters the playback rate, causing pitch shifts that resemble traditional tape delays or BBD circuits. This behavior is similar to Xaoc’s own Sarajewo, offering musically useful pitch ratios when delay times are set to integer divisions.
In digital mode, Samarkanda avoids pitch modulation by crossfading between buffer positions. This technique introduces a granular quality but avoids the glitches typical of pointer-based digital delays. Each channel can be set independently, allowing for a mix of analog and digital behaviors across the four delay lines.
Four delay lines with flexible signal routing
Each channel of Samarkanda features its own set of controls, including delay time, mix, and feedback, each with CV modulation inputs. The time parameter responds to 1V/oct signals, allowing pitch tracking or tuned delay effects. If no input is patched into a channel, the signal from the previous channel is routed internally via lossless digital normalization, enabling multi-stage stacking with no signal degradation.
Channels can be used in series for long or evolving echo patterns, or patched individually for parallel processing. The mix output and wet output are provided separately for each channel, and external feedback paths can be inserted using the dedicated fb input jack.
Reverse and hold functions support looping and creative effects
Each channel includes a reverse button and trigger input to activate a reverse delay mode, where segments of the buffer are played backwards. The effect is most pronounced at longer delay times and can be combined with stacking or feedback loops for more complex results.
The hold function freezes the buffer, turning the channel into a looped playback engine. When set to analog behavior, hold enables real-time time-stretch and pitch-shifting, effectively transforming the channel into a simple sampler. When set to digital behavior, the playback loop can be scrubbed without pitch modulation. These functions can be toggled manually or triggered via gate inputs.
Linking channels enables stereo, synced, and relative control
Channels can be linked so that controls and CV inputs on one channel (the master) affect the others relatively. For example, linking channels A and B turns B into a relative clone of A, delay time, mix, and feedback settings become offsets from the master channel’s values. Linking is useful for creating stereo delays, detuned echoes, or tightly synchronized polyrhythms.
The tap tempo button for each channel provides three timing modes: continuous, synced to an external clock, or set via manual tapping. When synced, Samarkanda supports clock multiplication and division factors ranging from 1:8 to 8:1. Channels in linked groups inherit timing behavior from their master channel.
CV control, purge function, and safety considerations
Control voltage inputs are available for key parameters, with the time input supporting bipolar modulation and pitch tracking. The feedback CV input is also bipolar and allows fine control over delay regeneration. A purge/shift button allows users to instantly clear all buffers or access secondary options like inverting feedback polarity or changing the 1V/oct response.
Samarkanda is internally protected against reversed power connection and includes multicolor LEDs for visualizing signal levels. When using external feedback loops or running high feedback settings, users are advised to monitor levels carefully to avoid signal buildup.
Compared to other Eurorack delays
While other Eurorack delays such as the 4ms Dual Looping Delay emphasize stereo looping and phrase sampling, and Intellijel Rainmaker focuses on comb filtering and rhythmic pattern generation, Samarkanda occupies a unique position by combining stackable clean delays, performative looping, and a modular approach to building delay networks. Unlike Mimeophon or Chronoblob, Samarkanda doesn’t color the sound or apply post-processing effects. Its strength lies in precision, flexibility, and real-time performance control.
Patch ideas and applications
The manual includes a variety of practical patch configurations, such as two stereo delay pairs (A+B and C+D), ping-pong delays with cross-coupled feedback, long single delays by stacking all channels, or granular resampling setups with random CV modulation. The hold function also supports loop “bouncing” between channels and using Samarkanda as a tuned resonator or feedback delay network reverb when combined with a matrix mixer.
