Verbos Electronics: Voltage Multistage 16 – Evolution of a Patchable Powerhouse

The Voltage Multistage is introduced as a module that transcends the boundaries of traditional sequencers, positioning itself as a versatile control voltage generator. Mark Verbos explains that the initial concept was to create a device capable of serving not only as a sequencer but as any type of control voltage source—whether that’s a multistage envelope, an LFO of variable shape, or something undefined and experimental.

This approach is rooted in the desire for dynamic musical expression and seamless integration into performance setups. Rather than being tied to a single function, the Voltage Multistage is designed to adapt to the needs of the patch, encouraging users to explore beyond conventional roles and discover new ways to shape their sound in real time.

Key to the Voltage Multistage’s appeal is its ability to morph between roles: it can act as a multistage envelope, an LFO, or a sequencer, with the added twist of switchable slides and gates. This flexibility is not just theoretical—Verbos highlights how the module’s design supports undefined control voltage processing, opening doors for creative patching.

By allowing users to switch between slides and gates, the module invites a hands-on approach to modulation and sequencing. The focus here is on providing a platform that adapts to the musician’s intent, whether that’s generating evolving envelopes, rhythmic patterns, or complex modulations, all within a single, panel-driven interface.

The evolution from the original eight-stage design to the new 16-stage format is a direct response to user feedback and the changing needs of modular musicians. Verbos recounts how users frequently asked for more stages, prompting a fundamental rethink rather than a simple doubling of length.

Instead of just extending the existing module, the design was revisited from the ground up. The result is not only a longer sequence but also expanded functionality that leverages the new format. Sixteen stages aren’t just about more steps—they unlock new creative possibilities, making the module more than just a sequencer and pushing it into unexplored territory for modulation and control.

User experience is at the heart of Verbos Electronics’ design philosophy, and this is evident in every aspect of the Voltage Multistage 16. The tactile quality of the controls, the feel of the panel, and the robustness of the hardware are all deliberate choices aimed at inspiring confidence and creativity in the user.

Verbos discusses the importance of material choices, such as thick powder-coated panels and enamel silkscreening, which contribute to a sense of substance and reliability. The layout is carefully considered: inputs at the bottom, controls in the middle, and outputs at the top, guiding the flow of music from the performer through the instrument and out into the world.

This attention to interface isn’t just about aesthetics or ergonomics—it’s about facilitating a musical flow that feels natural and intuitive. Every design decision, from the placement of jacks to the size of knobs, is made with the musician’s experience and inspiration in mind.