Understanding The Unique Make Noise René Cartesian Sequencer

Make Noise has a reputation for building some truly unique modules and they don't come much more interesting than René. The world's first and so far only Cartesian sequencer, it can seem a little daunting at the start. So what better than synth expert Rishabh Rajan showing you the ropes? In this short video from the course Make Noise 102: René, he does just that.

You'll see how it uses a series of touch plates and also features numerous CV and modulation inputs, as well as being unusual in not featuring its own internal clock. By checking out this short video you will get a head start on finding your way round the interface, and then by watching the other videos in the course, learn everything else you need to know about this powerful sequencer!

Make Noise 102: René

Named after René Descartes, Make Noise René is the world's first and only Cartesian sequencer. As the famous French philosopher & mathematician once said, “It is not enough to have a Cartesian Sequencer; the main thing is to use it well.” Well, that’s not the exact quote, but you get the idea… If you feel lost in front of this deep coordinate-based sequencer, the first step to using it well is to watch this course by Rishabh Rajan!

The course starts with an overview of the hardware, showing how the sequencer is based on an X and Y axis. Rishabh demonstrates how to connect the sequencer to other modules, how to program a basic sequence using a single axis, and how to control the sequencer in realtime using the touch grid. Next, he explains how to take this a step further by introducing movement in the Y axis and reveals how to turn a chaotic sequence into something more musical by limiting notes to a specific scale. Continuing with the course, you learn how to reverse playback direction, you discover Snake mode, Clock Reset, Glide, and a lot more…

So don’t wait! Take out your patch cables and demystify the Make Noise René sequencer by watching this course. A world of new sequencing possibilities awaits!