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Average Price: $455
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Description
The Expert Sleepers ES-8 is a versatile Eurorack module that bridges the gap between your modular synthesizer setup and your computer, opening up a world of creative possibilities. Designed to be an integral part of your music production workflow, this USB 2.0 audio interface allows seamless integration with a range of computer-based CV generation software, including Max/MSP, Reaktor, and Bitwig Studio. Whether you’re a seasoned modular enthusiast or just starting your journey, the ES-8’s class-compliant design ensures hassle-free operation across macOS, iOS, and Windows platforms.
With its DC-coupled inputs and outputs, the ES-8 handles both Control Voltage (CV) and audio, making it perfect for those who want to explore the boundaries of sound design. The module offers 4x 3.5 mm mini jack line inputs and 8x 3.5 mm mini jack line outputs, providing ample connectivity for even the most complex setups. Additionally, the inclusion of ADAT input and output allows for expanding your system further, making it a future-proof choice for any serious musician or producer.
What sets the ES-8 apart is its ability to function without the need for additional drivers on macOS and iOS, ensuring that you spend more time creating and less time troubleshooting. Windows users are not left behind, with drivers available for Windows 7, 8, and 10. Compact and efficient in its power requirements, the ES-8 is the perfect addition to any Eurorack setup aiming for enhanced digital interaction.
Key Features:
- USB 2.0 Audio Interface
- Sample support rates: 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 kHz at 24-bit
- DC-coupled inputs and outputs for CVs and audio
- Compatible with Max/MSP, Reaktor, Bitwig Studio, etc.
- 4x 3.5 mm Mini jack line input
- 8x 3.5 mm Mini jack line output
- ADAT input and output
- Class-compliant for macOS and iOS
- Windows drivers for Windows 7, 8, and 10
- Power requirement: 198 mA at +12 V, 52 mA at -12 V (at 96 kHz)
Product specs
| Available since | September 2018 |
| Width | 8 TE / HP |
FAQs
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What is the Expert Sleepers ES-8 used for in a modular synthesizer setup?
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The Expert Sleepers ES-8 functions as a USB audio interface with DC-coupled inputs and outputs, allowing it to interface with computer-based CV generation software and audio processing apps, making it ideal for integrating modular synths with digital audio workstations.
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How many inputs and outputs does the Expert Sleepers ES-8 have?
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The Expert Sleepers ES-8 features four DC-coupled inputs and eight DC-coupled outputs, providing flexibility for both audio and control voltage signals in your modular setup.
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Is the Expert Sleepers ES-8 compatible with all DAWs?
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The Expert Sleepers ES-8 is a class-compliant USB 2.0 audio interface, making it compatible with most DAWs that support USB audio interfaces, including popular options like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and more.
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Can the Expert Sleepers ES-8 be used with iOS devices?
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Yes, the Expert Sleepers ES-8 is compatible with iOS devices, allowing you to use it with various audio and CV processing apps, enhancing your modular synthesizer's capabilities.
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What makes the Expert Sleepers ES-8 unique compared to other modular interfaces?
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The unique feature of the Expert Sleepers ES-8 is its ability to handle both audio and control voltage signals through its DC-coupled inputs and outputs, providing seamless integration between modular synths and computer-based systems.
Videos
loopop
Hybrid modular - The one must-have module: bridging Eurorack and VCV Rack, Softube (ES-8 and MOTU)
Reviews
PROS
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Seamlessly bridges DAW and modular synth environments
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High resolution unmatched by competitors
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Compact size saves space compared to ES-9
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Functions well under Linux with low latency
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Dual functionality as an audio and CV interface
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Enables CV generation with software like Bitwig or Supercollider
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Illuminated jacks indicate signal levels visually
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Integrates effortlessly with ADAT for expanded connectivity
CONS
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Occasional audio interface dropouts
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Illumination may cause slight visual confusion between jacks
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Expert Sleepers ES-8.
Features and functionality
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The ES-8 supports ADAT but not S/PDIF, making it crucial to ensure compatibility with your existing audio interface's inputs.
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The OPTX provides 8 inputs and outputs over ADAT in an 8HP footprint, suitable for tracking four stereo or eight mono voices.
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The ES-8 works seamlessly with VCV Rack and can function as a virtual mixer, allowing control over DC voltage and oscillators through a command line interface.
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Software and compatibility
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On Windows, using multiple interfaces like the ES-8 can be complicated due to ASIO limitations, whereas Mac users can easily create an aggregate device.
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ES-9 lacks ADAT support, using TOSlink for 1 in/1 out SPDIF, potentially limiting integration with certain setups.
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It's confirmed that the ES-8 is immediately recognized by PYO, a Python sound manipulation library, facilitating advanced sound control from the command line.
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Use cases and applications
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The ES-8 can extend I/O on interfaces like the Scarlett 18i20 via ADAT, using inputs 11-14 and outputs 11-18 when properly configured.
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Owners successfully use the ES-8 with the Doepfer external input module to record instruments like bass and violin, suggesting the need for a preamp for non-Eurorack gear.
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Comparisons
User experience
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Some users have reported difficulty finding documentation on mixing older and newer ES models, though it is possible with the ES-3 and ES-6.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
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Genre Usage
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Community setups
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