Mumdance unveils MUM M8, a low-pass filter

Mumdance has launched a new Eurorack module called MUM M8, low pass filter for use in modular synthesizers with UK Company ALM Busy Circuit. This module is inspired by the filter design from Akai’s iconic S950 sampler, though Mumdance, aka Jack Adams, have added a new resonance control as well as a saturator and dedicated VCA to the design.

It is a 12-bit sampler whose smooth, slurpy filter helped define the sound of hardcore and jungle. Built on an analogue core but digitally controlled, with aggressive resonance and attenuated CV control, while an on-board VCA allows saturating the signal. ALM Busy Circuits previously worked with Russel Haswell on his own custom module.

“The low pass filter gives the recognizable super-smooth vacuum-like tone sucking sound which works magic on complex sources,” explains Matthew Allum of Busy Circuits. “The addition of clipped overdrive and intentionally aggressive self oscillating resonance complement the smooth filter core by juxtaposing it into more wasps like territory with acidic squeals and a more gritty sound.” In other words, it has some of the same character of the S950, whose brutal filtering of Amen breaks can be heard across many drum ’n’ bass classics.

The motivation for the module came from discussing filters in classic samplers with Mumdance, aka Jack Adams. “Jack provided inspiration, help and feedback in the development of the filter,” says Allum.