This is an introduction to the 5MX Mixer by NoisyFruitsLab, available at Takazudo Modular. The 5MX Mixer is a simple 5-channel mixer.
This product is available for purchase below.
- What is the 5MX Mixer?
- Use Cases for the 5MX Mixer
- Reference Video
- Specifications
- Included Accessories
- About NoisyFruitsLab
What is the 5MX Mixer?
The 5MX Mixer is a simple 5-channel mixer. As you can see, it sums the voltages (CV/Audio) input through five jacks and outputs the result from the Out jack. The five knobs at the bottom function as attenuators for their corresponding inputs.
This mixer does not amplify the received signal. Turning the knobs only attenuates the input voltage — it never amplifies it.
The five jacks can handle mono inputs, but they can actually also handle stereo input via TRS cables. In that case, the L and R voltages are summed, and if you plug a TRS cable for headphones into the Out jack, you can get stereo output.
Behind the center panel, there are LEDs on each side that illuminate according to the voltage level output from the Out jack. When used in mono, only the left LED lights up.
Use Cases for the 5MX Mixer
Here's a brief explanation of how to use the 5MX Mixer, along with common use cases for mixer modules in general.
Combining Outputs in a Compact Way
One of the most common use cases for a small mixer module is combining several inputs together.
For example, you could combine drum sources like kick, hi-hat, snare, and clap with this mixer, then apply distortion or compression to the output, or run it through a filter to cut the highs collectively.
While you could argue that a single multi-input master mixer would suffice, the ability to group and combine outputs flexibly is one of the strengths of a modular system.
Combining Stereo Inputs
Most cables used for patching in modular systems are 3.5mm unbalanced TS cables. These carry a single signal, and stereo TRS cables that carry two signals — as described for the 5MX Mixer's input capability — are rarely used in modular patching.
However, such cables are used in other audio devices, so the stereo capability of this mixer can be useful when receiving output from such devices.
For example, the Wingie2 available at Takazudo Modular outputs via a 3.5mm TRS cable, which can be connected to this mixer's input.
If you want to pass the 5MX Mixer's output to other modules, you can use a splitter adapter that converts one stereo connection into two mono connections, allowing you to use regular patch cables to send the output to other modules.
Comparison with Other Mixer Modules
If there's a downside to this mixer, it's simply the flip side of its simplicity — it lacks features found in more full-featured mixer modules. For example, it doesn't have left/right panning adjustment, per-channel muting, or CV-controlled input/output level adjustment via a built-in VCA. If you need such features, you should consider a mixer module that has them.
However, for simply combining outputs from several modules as described above, there's no need to invest in an expensive, feature-rich mixer module. Its limited feature set means it's compact at just 4HP, and it's a handy module to have when you want to quickly combine a few signals.
Reference Video
In the video below, the same brand NoisyFruitsLab's Kick V2 and 808 Snare Drum are combined through the 5MX Mixer and passed to Sproom DSP.
Specifications
- Width: 4HP
- Depth: 35mm
- Power consumption: +12V 20mA / -12V 20mA
Included Accessories
- Power ribbon cable
- Screws
- Banana keychain
- Banana sticker
About NoisyFruitsLab
NoisyFruitsLab is a German synthesizer maker run by Samuel Biniaszczyk. Despite being a small operation, they release many high-quality modules, and many of their modules are also available as DIY panel & PCB kits.
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That concludes the introduction to the 5MX Mixer.
The 5MX Mixer was one of the first batch of modules we received from NoisyFruitsLab. The reason Takazudo chose to carry NoisyFruitsLab modules was to introduce modules that are easy to understand even for those new to modular synthesis — simply put, modules that are simple, user-friendly, and just the right size. The 5MX Mixer is a straightforward mixer module that's easy to understand for modular beginners, and it remains a frequently used module even as your collection grows.
As shown in the reference video, it's convenient for combining outputs from modules of the same brand like Kick V2 and 808 Snare Drum.
We hope you found this helpful.