Gemini’s Path from Shakmat Modular is a stereo dynamics manager. What’s that?
Gemini’s Path consists of two VCAs that are internally controlled. It offers quite a few ways of doing automated spatial movement in the stereo field. You have manual and CV control over the parameters Time and Depth. You also have a manual Threshold pot to get control over trigger generation. In all eight modes there’s the option of applying a trigger, which is extracted from a mix of the two inputs or an External input. But you can usually prevent triggers by turning the threshold to the highest setting.
The eight modes are:
- Expander
- Hold Expander
- Pump
- Animated Pump
- LFO Pan
- Auto Pan
- Random Pan
- Granulizer
In addition to the modes, there is control assignment and even more options.
Assembly
The DIY assembly manual from Shakmat is very detailed, with plenty of photos. Parts are divided into four paper packages. There are lots of LEDs, in three different colors, but the appearance of them all is the same. I separated the Green, Amber, and White LEDs when taking them out of their packets. I had no trouble at all with the build.
The two PCBs, one with pre-soldered SMD parts and the other for panel parts, are connected by four pin-and-socket headers.
Below is a picture of the panel PCB
Here’s a picture of the assembled module. The SMD component board is shorter than the panel board. They’re held together by only the four headers.
And the final module front view.
