This is an introduction to the Night Rider by RYK Modular, available at Takazudo Modular. Night Rider is a digital module that combines a 4-channel filter bank with a 6-stage sequencer, enabling flexible modulation capabilities.

Please note that this product was built through a collaboration between Takazudo Modular and a domestic builder as a DIY project. After building, all functions have been tested and only units that pass inspection are listed for sale. This module is sold with permission from its manufacturer, RYK Modular.

This product is available for purchase below.

RYK Modular: Night Rider

¥61,000（税込／送料込）

• 4-Channel Filter Bank
• 6-Stage Sequencer
• Flexible Modulation via CV and Gate
• MIDI Control and Stereo I/O
• Intuitive Operation and Rich Features Leveraging Digital Technology
• Manual
• Reference Videos
• Other Notes
• Technical Specifications
• Included Accessories

4-Channel Filter Bank#

First, Night Rider is a module based on a 4-channel filter bank. For the filter, users can choose from the following types:

• 6dB band pass filter
• 12dB band pass filter
• Variable-width band pass filter
• Karplus Strong style comb filter
• All Pass Filter 1 [delay-line based]
• All Pass Filter 2 [IIR based]

Just being able to use these diverse filters across 4 channels is quite useful in itself. The center-top of the panel has numerous small holes, and behind the panel are many small red LEDs arranged in rows. Depending on the operation, information about the currently selected filter, filter applied frequency, and volume per filter are expressed through these LED illuminations, enabling intuitive operation that leverages its digital nature.

Since the available filters are centered around band-pass filters that emphasize specific frequencies, it may be most appropriate to describe the Night Rider module as a type of effect centered around a resonator.

Filter Type Selection#

Below is the display when selecting filter types.

This display shows the state with the variable-width band pass filter selected. Turning the knob in this state displays a different filter illustration, clearly showing which filter is currently selected.

Individual Filter Volumes#

Below is the display when changing filter volumes.

The volumes of the four filters can be controlled individually, with the four knobs at the top of the panel corresponding to each filter's volume.

Each horizontal row of LEDs represents one filter's volume, and as you turn the knob, the LED illumination ratio changes according to each volume level.

Individual Filter Frequencies#

Below is the display when changing the four filters' frequencies.

Similarly, each horizontal row represents one filter's frequency. This is the display when the variable-width band pass filter is selected, and the width of the frequency range changes according to the resonance (RES knob) amount, clearly indicating where the filter is being applied.

6-Stage Sequencer#

Behind the 6 holes below the red LED array, green LEDs illuminate.

These represent sequencer stages, and the green LED illumination indicates the currently selected stage. The PREV/NEXT buttons in the center of the panel switch between stages, allowing you to switch between 6 stages.

Each stage can store parameters such as the frequency and volume for each of the four filters. These filter states can also be saved to and loaded from memory. This allows you to instantly set up your preferred filter states or prepare them in advance for recall.

When stages switch, Night Rider changes the four filter parameters, and the parameter changes can be made to transition gradually according to the slew knob value. Using this, for example, if you've created different filter states for 6 stages and raise the slew to a certain level, holding down the PREV/NEXT button creates a sweep effect where resonance frequency and intensity change gradually over time. This means Night Rider can also be used as a phaser.

Flexible Modulation via CV and Gate#

Stage changes and slew behavior of the sequencer can also be controlled via CV and gate.

Stages switch when gate is sent to the CLK/MIDI jack, or when CV is sent to the POS jack, so the PREV/NEXT button behavior described above can be controlled externally. Since the slew value can also be controlled via CV input to the SLEW jack, you can create resonator-like effects with great flexibility — from hard, rapid resonance changes to slow sweeps.

MIDI Control and Stereo I/O#

Additionally, the CLK/MIDI jack can receive MIDI via TRS cable, enabling parameter control via CC and MIDI Note ON. This means that when combined with a digital multi-function sequencer like the OXI ONE carried by Takazudo Modular, the Night Rider's resonator can be played with pitch or controlled in more advanced ways.

Furthermore, the IN1/2 jacks accept mono input, but by using a TRS cable or the included TRS to TR-TR cable, stereo input is also accepted. Night Rider's output also supports stereo output via the OUT1/2 jacks, allowing rich stereo effects from this module alone.

Intuitive Operation and Rich Features Leveraging Digital Technology#

With digitally implemented modules, the abundance of capabilities often requires advanced knowledge and complex UI operations. However, Night Rider impressed me not only with its implemented features but also in its usability, which cleverly leverages digital technology. While feature-rich, the central LED array clearly expresses what is currently being operated, and many functions are designed to be performed via knobs or by holding buttons while turning knobs.

Manual#

A printed manual (in English) is included as a booklet with the module. Additionally, a PDF version of the manual can be downloaded from the RYK Modular website below.

• RYK Modular: User Manuals

Reference Videos#

Below is the official Night Rider demo video from the RYK Modular YouTube channel. It provides a comprehensive look at the module's functions, so please check it out.

Other Notes#

• The MIDI received via the CLK/MIDI jack is compatible with both Type A and B. You can switch between these two using the MIDI switch on the back.
• When receiving gate through the CLK/MIDI jack, please note that the MIDI switch on the back must be set to B for gate input to be recognized (this appears to be a design-related issue with this module, arising from the jack serving dual purposes for MIDI input and clock input).
• Built in January 2024, the installed firmware version is V1.02.

Technical Specifications#

• Width: 16HP
• Depth: 25mm
• Power consumption: 52mA +12V / 9mA -12V / 0mA 5V

Included Accessories#

• Power ribbon cable
• Screws
• Manual (English)
• TRS to TR-TR cable
• USB cable
• RYK Modular sticker

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• 電氣美術研究會

That concludes our introduction of the Night Rider.

In my impression, the Night Rider module is based on a filter bank, but by leveraging the integrated sequencer and slew, it elevates the filter — something typically not deeply controlled — into an instrument in its own right within a modular system.

With LEDs combined to create a display-like effect and a cool black finish, it's also a visually striking module.

RYK Modular: Night Rider

¥61,000（税込／送料込）

We hope you find this helpful.