Shakmat Modular - Banshee Reach

Precision analog VCO with thru-zero modulation and performance-aware control

Banshee Reach is a compact analog VCO built around a triangle core with digital control for tuning accuracy and repeatability. It targets musicians who want deep modulation options without sacrificing stability, especially in performance-focused systems.

The oscillator delivers the expected core waveforms alongside a VARI output that continuously crossfades wave shapes while blending in a sub octave. This output alone covers a wide range of tones, from clean fundamentals to dense, animated spectra. The digitally controlled architecture keeps pitch solid across octaves and sessions, which makes detailed studio work faster and live use less risky.

Thru-zero phase and frequency modulation sit at the heart of the design. An onboard VCA controls modulation depth, allowing precise voltage control over how far modulation pushes the core. This makes complex FM and PM patches easier to dial in and easier to play. Modulation stays musical even at extreme settings.

Performance features shape how the module behaves on stage. The Octaver mode locks the coarse tuning and repurposes the knob as an octave switch, so you can jump registers without drifting out of tune. Hard and soft sync offer different responses when locking to external sources, while LFO mode expands the module into a stable modulation oscillator when audio rates are not needed.

Banshee Reach also leans into controlled unpredictability. The Disorder function shifts the oscillator into a flexible noise source, while digital noise modulation and PWM add motion and edge. These features integrate cleanly into larger systems, whether the module acts as a primary voice or a modulation-heavy supporting oscillator.