4ms Meta Module - SonicLAB Review

Many have tried to create this kind of platform taking software Eurorack or DSP synthesis from the desktop such as VCV Rack and running that code in a Eurorack hardware module. 4ms are up for the challenge - essentially you get a DSP module able to run *some VCV rack* modules (160 and counting) - the list is growing - but be sure to check the latest one.
Meta has 2x gate inputs, 6 audio/CV inputs, 8 audio/cv outputs and 12 assignable knobs to freely control the modules you built in it. With USB-C and SD Card storage, you can edit the setups adding modules and control until you run out of DSP, which will happen eventually - thats just the way it it.

You can create patches on the unit itself, with a well thought out UI for adding modules, routing and knob and connection assignments - though inevitably it can get a little clicky, its impressively well done.
Paulee Bow aka @magicalsynthadventure3216 takes a look for SonicLAB and finds it can do quite a lot...
Available now priced at $649/£569 street

*Key Moments:*
00:00:00 Introduction to the 4MS Meta Module
00:02:38 Adding and configuring modules
00:03:50 Sound examples and patching
00:05:18 Navigation challenges on the Meta Module
00:06:45 Connectivity & integration with VCV
00:08:10 The Pod case
00:09:00 FM Sound examples
00:10:48 A patch with Mutable Warps
00:11:34 More patch examples
00:13:36 Processing Guitar input
00:14:25 Thoughts and conclusions

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[FilipDreger]

I'll wait for the VCV Rack version.

[erikribeiro]

I saw it in 2023 as a prototype at Knobcon and again this year at Knobcon as a shipping product. At first I was really kind of dreading using it thinking it's too much in one, but I began to see a ton of use cases for it, and given the price, it's absolutely a no brainer. And yes, expander modules are coming for additional controls, ins/outs. 4ms had prototypes ate Knobcon this year. Some use cases for me would be: Meta as access to Mutable Instruments modules I don't already have or a second or third ones. Using Meta pre-patched as a complete patch for a live gig. Using Meta to fill in the gaps in a small eurorack system with other modules. Using Meta as a kind of macro of commonly patched modules as part of a patch, but not the whole patch. As an on-the-go module explorer when I don't want to use VCV to pull out a laptop. The list goes on.

[dg]

Great review plaits included in the stock unit ?

[Matthewsavant]

It’s a super useful module but it can be a total pain in the ass to work with. I really dislike how slow the screen refreshes and that it’s not a touch screen. Having it right next to the 1010 music bitbox and seeing how fast and nice that screen is, not to mention how much larger it is only makes me feel how weak the screen on the meta module is more. That being said it’s too useful to ditch and together with the euroburo in a 15U rack it adds a lot

[guitdafunkadelik]

Nice review, ideas and sounds 🤙
Where can we hear your creation @ 14:47 ? It’s awesome 🎉

[petergraham]

I agree with your assessment! The interface is surprisingly good in spite of the small screen with no touch capability. I think the display resolution could be improved just for ease on the eyes, but otherwise I have few complaints. I use the module more for utilities and experimentation than for sound generation, as I prefer analog sources, but the sound quality is nonetheless very good in my opinion. It's not an immediate patch and play device for the most part, but on the other hand it allows any module configuration to be saved and used again later, which to me is really handy. Perhaps the real power of this module though is how it allows for a huge amount of utility and flexibility within a small or portable setup.

[erikribeiro]

Great review, Paulee! I didn't even think about changing algorithms per not on Braids. I used to look longingly at a Percussa SSP, but also didn't want to be so screen based. I think this has just enough screen use, but once it's set, you can just use the encoders and ins/outs. I agree with your assessment and am also super excited to get one. Just have to save up or sell some stuff to grab one. I also love the 4ms pods. Not the cheapest for what you get, but the daisy chained power socket is brilliant. They're lightweight. They work. I have 7 of them in various sizes for sequencers, effects, or utilities that I use with both modular and non-modular gear.

[jasoncorder]

nice fair review! ive had a blast with mine and they've fixed and updated it quite a lot since its release so its become way easier/more fun to experiment and play with. pro tip: if you use vcv mainly to build patches, get a KVM switch to quick and easily transfer patches between your laptop and the mm (with a thumb drive in between on the kvm)- that has made experimenting and perfecting the patches go so much quicker! obviously this module isn't for screen-phobes or instant gratification junkies, but its so much fun to perform with and the rewards of it far far outweigh any work that needs to be done up front with building patches, imho. its much more fun to play with on stage than a laptop(and i mean who really likes to look at a laptop on stage anymore?). ive definitely 'taken this module to bed' as she said ;]

[gkillmaster]

Such an excellent overview and pretty much answered all my questions. I did order one. Can't wait! Thank you!

[okeribok]

How does it compare to Expert Sleepers Disting NT? That seems about the same price, size and principle, aside from the openness of 4ms meta.

[dillipphunbar]

For a headphone out: why don't you route (say 5/6 outs) via a (hp) output module within Meta, and connect hphones via a Y-splitter connector?

[Sammysixex]

Thanks for the review. Too much menu diving for me... I would rather use my VCV Rack/Midimix combo for ergonomics (although they are somewhat lacking)... just from the perspective of screen size/resolution and use of a mouse/keyboard for data entry.

[MrEjbass]

Brilliant in that it actually actually brilliant and the 4ms have worked hard on making it so, and continue to do so.

And also because it winds up so many short sighted hipster modular purists😂

[TheBlessedLion]

I like this videos, but I understand nothing what you are configuring…😅