Moog Unleashes the Subharmonicon, a Subharmonic and Polyrhythmic Synthesizer

If you’re a big-time modular synth aficionado, you ought to check out the Moog Subharmonicon, a crazy, new stand-alone synthesizer that’s compatible with the Eurorack modular format, now available at B&H. This esoteric instrument gives you amazing tools to create experimental, avant-garde rhythmic patterns. Utilizing polyrhythms and subharmonic frequencies, you’ll be able to create tapestries of sound that will bewilder and engage the listener.
How’s this for a nerdy prospect? The Subharmonicon is based on Joseph Schillinger’s eccentric mathematical system, which system combines concepts from the Mixtur-Trautonium and the Rhythmicon, two crazy instruments in their own right. The Mixtur-Trautonium utilized subharmonic oscillators to generate electronic undertones. The Rhythmicon, on the other hand, comprised a polyrhythmic beat generator invented by none other than Leon Theremin—the man behind the Theremin! Blending these two instruments together, Joseph Schillinger created a method for feats of sound design that were quite strange indeed. Now, Moog has taken the method even further by putting it into this singular synth.

An updated design of a product in high demand after 2018 Moogfest, the Subharmonicon utilizes two 4-step sequencers that can each trigger polyrhythmic patterns, alongside a six-tone chord generator made possible by two oscillators and four subharmonic oscillators.
Each sequencer can be clocked by any or all four of the Rhythm Generators that output mathematical divisions of the master tempo. You can even layer multiple generators on top of each other for truly bizarre rhythmic patterns. Make use of dual envelope generators, as well as a Moog ladder filter and an analog VCA to create expressive articulations. Anything from blurry pads to percussive, staccato blasts of sound can be accomplished.