4ms Company: MetaModule

This is an introduction to the MetaModule by 4ms Company, available at Takazudo Modular.

MetaModule is a groundbreaking Eurorack module that breaks down the boundary between hardware and software. It lets you operate VCV Rack’s virtual modules with physical knobs and jacks, combining the intuitiveness of hardware with the flexibility of software.

This product is available for purchase below.

Takazudo Modular has translated the MetaModule user manual and other materials into Japanese and compiled them into the following documentation. Please refer to it when using the product.

• 4ms MetaModule Support Documentation

• Product Photos
• MetaModule Features
• Specifications
• Included Accessories
• Product Warranty
• Demo Videos
• MetaModule + Expanders

Product Photos#

MetaModule Features#

MetaModule is a module that takes the new approach of controlling virtual modules with physical controls. It packs a powerful dual-core processor and extensive I/O into a compact 26HP size.

Fusion of Hardware and Software#

MetaModule’s standout feature is its ability to leverage VCV Rack’s plugin ecosystem. In addition to 160+ built-in modules from 4ms Company, Befaco, HetrickCV and more, it supports 1,500+ third-party plugins.

Through physical hardware interfaces, you can access the infinite possibilities of software synthesis. This achieves an ideal workflow that combines digital flexibility with the tactile operability of analog hardware.

Physical Controls#

MetaModule features the following physical interfaces:

• 12 knobs - Each knob can be mapped to up to 8 virtual parameters
• 6 CV/Audio inputs - 24bit/48kHz, DC-coupled, +/-10V
• 8 CV/Audio outputs - 24bit/48kHz, DC-coupled, +/-10V
• 2 gate inputs
• USB-C port - For connecting MIDI devices and external drives
• microSD card slot - For saving and loading patches

Powerful Processing#

Inside, it features a dual-core 800MHz Cortex-A7 processor and a Cortex-M4 coprocessor. With 512MB DDR3 RAM, complex patches run smoothly.

Interface Views#

MetaModule provides four different view modes:

Patch View

An overview of the entire patch. Visually verify module placement and patch connections.

Knob Set View

Displays the currently selected knob set. Quickly switch between parameter mappings.

Module View

Focus on individual modules. Enables detailed parameter adjustment.

Mapping View

Configure knob-to-parameter mappings. Achieve flexible control through an intuitive interface.

Knob Sets Function#

Knob Sets is one of MetaModule’s powerful features. You can create multiple parameter mapping sets for the 12 physical knobs.

For example, the following usage is possible:

• Knob Set 1: VCO frequency, PWM, waveshape
• Knob Set 2: Filter cutoff, resonance, envelope amount
• Knob Set 3: Effect mix, delay time, feedback

Switch instantly with a single button press, enabling intuitive control even with complex patches.

VCV Rack Compatibility#

MetaModule can directly load patches created in VCV Rack. Patches created on a computer can be performed on the MetaModule.

Conversely, patches created on MetaModule can be edited in VCV Rack, making it ideal for workflows that move between desk and stage.

Specifications#

Basic Specifications

• Format: Eurorack
• Size: 26HP
• Depth: 25mm
• Power consumption: +12V 290mA (max), -12V 40mA (max)

Audio I/O

• CV/Audio inputs: 6 channels (24bit/48kHz, DC-coupled, +/-10V)
• CV/Audio outputs: 8 channels (24bit/48kHz, DC-coupled, +/-10V)
• Gate inputs: 2 channels

Processor

• CPU: Dual-core 800MHz Cortex-A7
• Coprocessor: Cortex-M4
• RAM: 512MB DDR3

Connection

• USB-C: MIDI/external drive host support
• microSD card: Patch storage

Included Accessories#

• Power ribbon cable (16-pin to 16-pin)
• USB-C to USB-A adapter
• Screws
• Manual (English)
• microSD card 16GB

Product Warranty#

こちらの商品はメーカー規定で、一般的な通常の使用環境を前提とした1年の保証を約束していただいており、販売させていただいています。商品の不具合等がございましたらお問い合わせ下さい。

Demo Videos#

Here are some useful reference videos about the MetaModule.

The first is a comprehensive video covering the hardware overview, patch creation, VCV Rack integration workflow, CPU management tips, and actual limitations. It’s packed with practical information including Auto Map usage and the impact of sample rate and block size settings on CPU load.

The second is a practical review video based on several days of patching experience with the actual unit. It provides detailed impressions of real-world use including MIDI setup, macro control usage, latency testing (approximately 3ms), and real examples of CPU limitations with complex patches. The drum machine and generative patch building examples are also informative.

MetaModule + Expanders#

MetaModuleには本体の他、拡張用の専用エキスパンダーモジュールが用意されています。

MetaModule

26HP hybrid module that lets you control VCV Rack plugins through physical knobs and jacks. Supports 160+ built-in modules and over 1,500 third-party plugins, with microSD and USB-C onboard for expansion.

MetaModule Audio Expander

Audio I/O expander for the MetaModule. Adds six 24bit/48kHz DC-coupled inputs and eight outputs—bringing the combined system up to 12 inputs and 16 outputs—and connects via a simple ribbon cable.

MetaModule Button Expander

6HP 8-button expander designed for the MetaModule. Each button can be assigned to up to 8 parameters simultaneously, with toggle/momentary modes and daisy-chain support for up to four units.

MetaModule Wi-Fi Expander

Wi-Fi expander for the MetaModule. Transfers patch files wirelessly over an existing network and lets you browse, delete, and organize patches from a browser interface.

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