OXI Instruments OXI One MKII: CV & Gate Wizardry for Modular Setups

OXI Instruments positions the OXI One MKII as a CV and gate powerhouse for modular synth users, offering eight fully configurable CV and gate outputs. The sequencer’s outputs can be accessed directly from the back panel or through the OXI Pipe, allowing users to keep their systems neatly patched and ready for action. This flexibility is clearly aimed at those who want a reliable, central control unit amidst the chaos of a Eurorack setup.

The video sets out to demonstrate three foundational scenarios: monophonic patching, drum sequencing, and polyphonic voice allocation. OXI’s approach is hands-on, prioritising practical examples over abstract theory. The initial walkthrough gives a quick visual of the CV/gate matrix, where sequencer tracks meet output assignments, making it easy to see how the OXI One can serve as the nerve centre in a modular rig.

The OXI One MKII’s CV outputs aren’t limited to pitch—each can be set to deliver velocity, envelope, LFO, or modulation lane signals. The video walks through these modes starting with velocity, which can add expressive dynamics when patched to a synth’s velocity input. One can toggle whether the output is gated or continuously active, adapting to the needs of different modules or patches.

Envelope mode generates an ADSR envelope on incoming steps, with adjustable attack, sustain, and amount. This is ideal for filter sweeps or sidechain-like effects, showing its value as a tool for shaping sonic movement. LFO mode lets users send out either of two internal LFOs, with adjustable rate and offset, perfect for everything from subtle vibrato to more complex modulation. The mod lane output mode is also highlighted, where custom modulation shapes can be drawn and sent via CV, opening the door to intricate, evolving patches.

The first practical use case is classic: patching a monophonic voice. CV and gate outputs are quickly assigned to sequencer tracks, and the video demonstrates duplicating pitch data across multiple outputs for layering or parallel voices. Visual feedback on the OXI One’s interface confirms what’s being sent, making troubleshooting and patching more straightforward. Physical patching is shown step by step, from CV and gate out to the target module’s inputs.

For drum sequencing, OXI One’s gate outputs are configured as triggers, each mapped to separate drum voices. The system automatically handles track allocation, but manual override is always possible for bespoke setups. CV outputs can be set to velocity mode, allowing dynamic drum patterns with varying hit strengths. The final segment takes things up a notch with a polyphonic patch: four oscillators (two from each of two modules) are assigned CV and gate outputs, routed through a backend filter and VCA. Voice allocation modes (last recently used, lowest note, unison) are discussed, showing how the sequencer can adapt to classic polyphony challenges in modular environments.

The tutorial closes by underscoring the OXI One MKII’s role as a flexible hub for integrating external modules and complex routing. With eight CV and gate outputs, users can construct elaborate modulation systems, tying together envelopes, LFOs, and mod lanes to animate even the most demanding patches. The workflow caters to both quick-start experimentation and methodical, deeply structured sound design. OXI hints at even more advanced techniques to come, positioning the One MKII as a sequencer that grows with a modularist’s ambitions.