The Metropolix is Intellijel's performance-oriented and expandable multitrack sequencer with a focus on intuitive operation and the official successor to the popular Metropolis sequencer. The two tracks, TRK1 and TRK2, are variants of a master Pitch/Gate sequence and can be controlled using the pitch faders, Pulse-Counter and Gate Type switches. Each track can interpret the master sequence in different ways, thereby producing variations ranging from subtle to extreme; these may contrast with the master sequence, but also allow for polyrhythms and other sonic alterations within the sequence. If required, the tracks can be individually adjusted in terms of playback order, sequence length, time signature, swing amount (Shuffle), slide time and ‘Gate ’ length. Furthermore, via the track menu, additional variables such as inversion of the Pitch Sliders, Gate Override, Pitch Override, Ratcheting, probability, accumulation and transposition.
A total of eight modulation tracks are available, all of which can modulate playback or sequencing parameters. With skilful combination, even sophisticated self-modulation can be achieved. Three aux inputs with bipolar attenuators can be assigned to any Metropolix parameter. For example, an LFO could constantly modulate the swing factor of TRK2, whilst an envelope with negative voltage could proportionally reduce the Gate time of TRK1. The two CTRL controls can also be freely assigned; here, it makes sense to assign the parameters you need most frequently. The Loopy-Mode as it allows you to trigger short sub-sequences at the touch of a key or to play the individual stages much like you would on a keyboard. Sequence configurations can be stored in 64 memory slots. The module recalls the last-used setting when switched on, so you can pick up where you left off.
Metropolix can be expanded with eight additional outputs using the Gx Expander. The module is connected to the sequencer at the rear and is also configured via the sequencer. Each output can be individually set as Gate, Trigger, Clock or Logic output. If an additional Clock at, say, half tempo, a few trigger outputs for drum modules, or gate combinations of the two Pitch/Gatetracks, or a End-Of-Sequence Trigger; Gx is the ideal assistant and problem-solver here.
Intellijel Metropolix