Mutable Instruments Tides

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$144.74 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (6)

3 Critic Reviews

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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2 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jun 10, 2026

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5.0 (5)

$144.74 2 available Used

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Average Price: $145

Budget/Beginner

$149

$350+

Price Tier

In the Modular Synthesizers category, Mutable Instruments Tides is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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High-end

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Description

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Dive into the evolving world of sound with the Mutable Instruments Tides, a modular synth powerhouse that redefines versatility. This ingeniously designed module transcends traditional boundaries, serving as a digital VCO, LFO, and complex envelope generator all in one. Whether you're crafting intricate soundscapes or seeking the perfect modulation, Tides offers an expansive range of possibilities.

Experience the seamless transition from audio rate oscillations to minute-long cycles, providing you with a dynamic canvas for sonic exploration. With unique features like 'freeze' and FM options, Tides empowers you to sculpt sound with precision and creativity. Its ability to output high, low, uni-polar, and bi-polar signals ensures that your modular setup remains as flexible and expressive as your musical imagination.

Perfect for both novice and seasoned synth enthusiasts, Tides invites you to explore its remarkable adaptability. Its intuitive design and robust feature set make it an essential component for any modular rig, opening doors to new realms of sound creation and experimentation.

Key Features:

Digital VCO, LFO, and complex envelope generator
Audio rate oscillations to minute-long cycles
High, low, uni-polar, and bi-polar signal outputs
Unique 'freeze' and FM options
Seamless integration into any modular setup

Product specs

Brand	Mutable Instruments
Model	Tides
Finish	Silver
Year	2014 - 2018
Made In	France
Categories	Eurorack Modules and Cases, Synth Modules
Horizontal Pitch	14HP
Modular Synth Format	Eurorack
Polyphony	1 Voice
Synth Module Function	Clock, LFO, Oscillator

FAQs

What type of functions does the Mutable Instruments Tides module provide?: The Mutable Instruments Tides module functions as a clock, LFO, and oscillator, offering versatile waveform generation for modulation and audio synthesis in a Eurorack setup.
Is the Mutable Instruments Tides suitable for use as an audio oscillator?: Yes, Tides can be used as an audio oscillator, providing a range of waveforms and frequencies that can be shaped for various sound design applications.
How does the Mutable Instruments Tides integrate with other Eurorack modules?: Tides integrates seamlessly with other Eurorack modules, offering CV inputs and outputs for modulation and synchronization, making it a versatile addition to any modular setup.
Can the Mutable Instruments Tides be used for both modulation and audio rate applications?: Yes, Tides excels in both modulation and audio rate applications, allowing users to transition smoothly between slow LFO cycles and high-frequency audio oscillations.
What is the size of the Mutable Instruments Tides in a Eurorack setup?: The Mutable Instruments Tides occupies 14HP in a Eurorack system, making it a compact yet powerful module for various synthesis tasks.

Videos

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Perfect Circuit

Mutable Instruments Tides 2018 Version

Perfect Circuit

Mutable Instruments - Tides 2018 - Part I: Overview & Basic controls

in modular with love

Mutable Instruments Tides v2 Tutorial: Knob Basics (Part 1)

ferry collider

Mutable Instruments Tides v2 Tutorial: Shift Modes (Part 2)

ferry collider

Tides v2 as a Harmonic Oscillator (eurorack patch idea)

ferry collider

Mutable Instruments Tides eurorack signal guide

bigcitymusic

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mutable Instruments Tides.

Features and functionality

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Tides can be used for chords with modulation on the shift knob to create inversions, offering a unique approach to chordal synthesis in modular setups.
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Setting Tides to bipolar wave mode and adjusting the frequency to its highest setting (red mode) is recommended for achieving clearer, non-noise tones.
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When using Tides as an oscillator, ensure it's not clocked unnecessarily; frequency control should be used to manage the ratio between clock and signal output frequency.
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Tides requires external attenuators for its outputs when used as a modulator/envelope generator.
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Maths offers additional functionalities like envelope following and can simulate complex patch ideas, surpassing Tides in versatility for intricate patching.
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Use cases and applications

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Self-patching Tides in red mode for FM modulation yields a distinct steppy, aggressive sound, ideal for experimental music.
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Combining two Tides with Warps creates a "complex big oscillator," praised for its unique wave shaping and interaction with filters like Three Sisters.
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Cross-patching clocks between two Tides can produce interesting rhythmic patterns and noise textures, adding depth to sound design.
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Each output of Tides connected to separate VCA/envelope combos, triggered with modules like Zularic, can enhance rhythmic and dynamic sound variations.
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Tides can also function as an audio rate VCO that tracks volt/octave, providing versatility in a compact form.
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User experience

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Users report difficulty maintaining tuning across octaves, potentially requiring recalibration or alternative uses like envelope generation.
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Some users initially struggle with Tides due to its multifunctionality, but persistence with manual guidance often leads to eventual understanding and satisfaction.
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Software and compatibility

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Installing the Parasites firmware adds a quantizer and additional features, enhancing Tides' versatility.
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Setup and maintenance

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Calibration issues can cause unintended sounds; re-calibrating is suggested if Tides produces consistent low-end rumble or "fart" sounds at audio rate.
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Comparisons

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Tides is described as less flexible than Maths in controlling rise/fall times and speed of envelopes, lacking end of rise/fall gate outputs.
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Maths includes a built-in mixer section, eliminating the need for external attenuation, a feature not available in Tides.
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Critic Reviews

Mutable Instruments Tides module is back and better than before in new 2018 edition | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The 2018 edition of Mutable Instruments' Tides module makes a triumphant return, boasting enhanced output modes and a completely redesigned signal path for improved accuracy and audio quality. This digital asymmetric triangle function generator now offers greater versatility, whether used as an envelope generator or a VC-LFO. The inclusion of a wavetable waveshaper and a choice between a low-pass filter or wavefolder adds further depth to its sonic capabilities. While the updates are impressive, the module maintains its approachable price point, making it a strong contender for Eurorack enthusiasts seeking both innovation and reliability.

positive

Full Review

Mutable Instruments reboots Tides: the Tsunami of Modulation - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

Mutable Instruments' revamped Tides module surges with versatility, offering a wealth of modulation options beyond its LFO roots. The new version impresses with enhanced audio quality and additional output modes, making it a robust tool for any modular enthusiast. However, the complexity might overwhelm beginners, and the price tag could deter those on a budget. Overall, it's an exciting evolution for seasoned users seeking dynamic sound shaping.

positive

Full Review

Mutable Instruments Re-Launched Tides Tidal Modulator Eurorack Module

synthanatomy.com

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

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wavefold

106

over 11 years ago

one of the best modules ever

Just perfect in every function. Loving it as an audio source, the waveshaping is utterly good. Nice as a complex envelope too, and the internal digital VCA makes it a sweet little westcoast-ish voice

Artist usage

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Richard Devine

Keyboardist, Composer

Verified via Vimeo

In this video Richard Devine can be seen using the Mutable Instruments Tides module. This module is Mutable Instruments’ unique take on the looping AD envelope generator – pushing this well-known trope to unknown territories.

Pretty Lights

Bassist, Music Producer

Verified via Photo

Used during Episodic Tour and later in modular rack

Gh0stlyn

Music Producer

Verified via Photo

in this photo you can clearly see Ghostlyn uses Mutable Instruments Tides

Afterlife

Music Producer

Verified via Facebook

In a studio tour video posted on Facebook, Steve Miller, known as Afterlife, showcases his collection of instruments, including a Mutable Instruments Tides.