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Description

Dive into the sonic landscape with the Folktek Mescaline, a unique synthesis system that blends art with sound. This instrument, a haven for experimentalists, combines three distinct Eurorack modules to offer an unparalleled journey into sound design. Whether you're crafting dense ambient textures or intricate rhythmic patterns, Mescaline provides a playground for your creativity, without sounding like just another piece of gear. Its ability to weave complex soundscapes makes it a must-have for musicians looking to push the boundaries of their sonic palette.

Key Features:

  • Contains three separate Eurorack modules: Mental, Channel, & Motion
  • Mental: Boasts a 16x4 patchbay for intricate patching possibilities
  • Motion: Features 2 independent 8 step sequencers for dynamic rhythm creation
  • Channel: Delivers a 10 note polyphonic synth for rich, layered melodies

Product specs

Brand Folktek
Model Mescaline
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Complete Modular Synth Systems, Eurorack Modules and Cases
Modular Synth Format Eurorack

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Folktek Mescaline use?

The Folktek Mescaline is a modular synthesizer system that utilizes a unique form of synthesis combining analog and digital elements, providing a vast range of sound design possibilities.

Is the Folktek Mescaline suitable for beginners?

The Folktek Mescaline is more suited for experienced users due to its complex modular setup, which can be challenging for beginners to navigate without prior knowledge of modular synthesis.

Can the Folktek Mescaline be integrated into an existing Eurorack setup?

Yes, the Folktek Mescaline is designed in the Eurorack format, making it compatible with other Eurorack modules and systems for expanded modular synthesis capabilities.

Does the Folktek Mescaline require any external power supply?

The Folktek Mescaline requires an external power supply typical for Eurorack systems, ensuring it fits seamlessly into a modular setup with the appropriate power specifications.

What kind of soundscapes can the Folktek Mescaline create?

The Folktek Mescaline is capable of producing a wide array of soundscapes, from ambient textures and drones to experimental and rhythmic sequences, thanks to its versatile modular design.

ANDREW HUANG

ANDREW HUANG

WEIRD GEAR: Folktek Mescaline

Video thumbnail for WEIRD GEAR: Folktek Mescaline by ANDREW HUANG

WEIRD GEAR: Folktek Mescaline

ANDREW HUANG

ANDREW HUANG

Video thumbnail for Folktek Mescaline Psychedelic Synthesizer System by Perfect Circuit

Folktek Mescaline Psychedelic Synthesizer System

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for Folktek Mescaline live play, live patch long sequence by Folktek

Folktek Mescaline live play, live patch long sequence

Folktek

Folktek

Video thumbnail for Folktek Mescaline synthesizer system Described by Folktek

Folktek Mescaline synthesizer system Described

Folktek

Folktek

Video thumbnail for Folktek Mescaline, first patch, live play edit * by Folktek

Folktek Mescaline, first patch, live play edit *

Folktek

Folktek

Video thumbnail for Folktek Mescaline - First experiments by rupertlally

Folktek Mescaline - First experiments

rupertlally

rupertlally

Reviews

PROS

  • Sequencer can run two simultaneously, offering complex rhythm creations

  • Unique touch-based interface enhances user interaction

  • Offers a wide range from ethereal to harsh, glitchy industrial sounds

  • Incredible patching capability for personalized sound exploration

  • Delivers uniquely weird sounds and sequences unmatched by other synthesizers

  • Encourages experimentation with repatchable tones and sequences

  • Drone and drum modules provide versatile and distinct soundscapes

CONS

  • Steep learning curve, especially for beginners without Eurorack experience

  • Distorts easily, challenging precise sound replication

  • Can be initially intimidating due to its unconventional design and functionality

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Folktek Mescaline.

Features and functionality

  • The Folktek Mescaline is known for creating "happy accidents" but suffers from being somewhat one-dimensional due to limited sound alteration options.

    Source
  • The onboard effects are a highlight, allowing for intriguing sound modulation, especially when using the trim pots on the back of the Mental module.

    Source
  • The synth responds to environmental changes and even body chemistry, making it nearly impossible to replicate patches exactly, adding to its unique character.

    Source
  • Some users struggle to understand patch points, particularly on the Mental module, highlighting the device's complex and arcane nature.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that the Mescaline can be frustrating yet rewarding, with unpredictable sound that varies even when replugged into the same setup.

    Source
  • Owners describe the Mescaline as fragile and recommend housing it in a protective case to safeguard the exposed PCBs on the back.

    Source
  • Owners who initially neglect the Mescaline often rediscover its potential when making space in their setups, finding it alien yet intriguing.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The synth has a significant noise issue with its included power supply, which can be reduced by using a Eurorack power supply, offering a slightly different response.

    Source
  • Adjusting trim pots on the back of the Channel module is crucial for managing output levels and preventing clipping.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the Soma Lyra-8, the Mescaline shares a similar sound character but offers more versatility, particularly in creating percussive sounds due to its sequencer and Mental module.

    Source
  • Compared to traditional modular setups, the Mescaline focuses on raw voltage manipulation, offering a unique sound design approach distinct from typical west coast synthesis.

    Source
  • Users who missed the Indiegogo project regret it, suggesting a strong initial interest and perceived value from early adopters.

    Source

Build quality

  • The breadboard connections on the Mental module may become loose due to poor soldering, leading to potential connectivity issues.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Mescaline can serve as a creative catalyst, prompting users to explore new synthesis methods and sound design approaches that may influence their existing setups.

    Source
  • The Mescaline can control pitch on external gear like the Moog DFAM and Noise Engineering Basimilus Iteritas Alter, enhancing its versatility in hybrid setups.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Folktek Mescaline | Moinsound's Blog

wordpress.com

The Folktek Mescaline dazzles with its visual appeal and experimental potential, but it stumbles with an impractical design and frustrating manual. While the Mental module shines with its unique sound creation, Channel disappoints as a weak synth. The device's unconventional module size and flimsy cables hinder usability, especially in live settings. It's a niche choice best suited for ambient or noise enthusiasts seeking fresh, unorthodox sounds, but its value compared to more conventional gear like the MPC One or MC-707 is questionable for most users. Approach with caution and a penchant for the avant-garde.

macProVideo.com

macprovideo.com

The Folktek Mescaline is a visually striking and sonically unique modular synth system, praised for its lush sounds and robust build quality. It's lauded for its artistic design and the depth of its sound capabilities, offering soothing pads to distorted noise. However, it's not beginner-friendly, with a steep learning curve and issues like power fluctuations and tuning difficulties. The Mescaline's unpredictable nature is both its charm and its challenge, likened to playing the lottery with its settings. While it offers a rich, characterful experience akin to a Buchla Music Easel, potential buyers should prepare for its idiosyncrasies and lack of repeatability in sound.

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
str8sounds

Freaky, challenging, but richly rewarding esoteric synth system!

Folktek is known to underground synthesizer players as unique for touch based, innovative synths, what they call "synth art". Mescaline is my favorite product from them and the first one I purchased. I'll be buying more. I got one of the last ones, a copper edition. It was shipped to me within several days of ordering directly from their website. Arius Blaze is a genius at making unusual, versatile, bizarre synthesizers for Eurorack and non-Eurorack format. This is a delightful, sometimes hard to figure out synth, but time spent working with it pays off in totally weird sounds and sequences that no other synthesizer can generate.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Virtual Riot uses Folktek Mescaline

Virtual Riot

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

at 1:44 a box with the Mescaline in it can be seen

See how Andrew Huang uses Folktek Mescaline

Andrew Huang

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

Featured in this video.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Folktek Mescaline, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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