Description

Blue Lantern Barton Duo Eurorack Quantizer – Dual-Mode CV Scale Processor

The Eurorack quantizer has never been so versatile. The Blue Lantern Barton Duo brings pro-grade pitch accuracy and creative scale selection to your modular synth in just 4HP. Running Michael Barton’s simple quantizer firmware on dual identical circuits, this quantizer module offers 16 musical scales across two banks: STANDARD and OCTAVE modes. With a compact depth of 1.5″ and a current draw of +30/-26 mA, the Barton Duo is ready to refine your control voltage (CV) for melodic precision, complex arpeggios, and inventive sequences.

Why Use a Quantizer in Your Modular Setup?

Quantizers are essential CV processors that map free-running voltages to defined musical notes. By locking incoming CV to precise semitone or scale intervals, a quantizer ensures every pitch lands on the intended note—eliminating tuning errors and enhancing musicality.

• Pitch Correction: Ensures analog drift or random voltages conform to musical scales.
• Creative Scales: Explore modes like blues, pentatonic, whole tone, and custom arpeggios.
• Melodic Sequencing: Generate harmonically rich patterns when paired with random or stepped CV sources.

Dual-Mode Operation: STANDARD & OCTAVE Banks

The Barton Duo’s toggle switch selects between two distinct banks of eight scales each. This flexibility turns your quantizer into both a scale mapper and an octave splitter for advanced performance workflows.

STANDARD Bank Scales

Position	Scale	Intervals
1. Bypass	No quantization	Direct CV pass-through
2. Major	I–VII	Root, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
3. Minor	Natural minor	Root, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
4. Major Pentatonic	I, II, III, V, VI	Root, 2, 3, 5, 6
5. Minor Pentatonic	I, ♭III, IV, V, ♭VII	Root, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭7
6. Blues	Blues scale	Root, ♭3, 4, ♭5, 5, ♭7
7. Whole Tone	Whole tone	Root, 2, 3, ♭5, ♭6, ♭7
8. Chromatic	12-tone	All semitones

OCTAVE Bank Modes

Position	Mode	Intervals
1. Bypass	No quantization	Direct CV
2. Octave	Root only	Root note repeated each octave
3. Octave & Fifth	Power chord	Root, 5th
4. Octave & ♭Fifth	Diminished fifth	Root, ♭5
5. Major Arpeggio	I–III–V	Root, 3, 5
6. Minor Arpeggio	I–♭III–V	Root, ♭3, 5
7. Dominant Arpeggio	I–III–V–♭VII	Root, 3, 5, ♭7
8. Chromatic	All semitones	Complete 12-note

Installation & Usage Tips

Module Parameters

• Width: 4 HP
• Depth: 1.5″
• Current Draw: +30 mA, -26 mA

Basic Patch Guide

• Patch your LFO or sequencer CV into the Barton Duo’s input jack.
• Select STANDARD or OCTAVE bank via the toggle.
• Choose desired scale position (1–8) with the encoder or switch.
• Route the quantized CV output to your VCO or filter cutoff for harmonized melodies.

People Also Ask

What is a quantizer module on a Eurorack?

A quantizer maps continuous control voltages to discrete musical notes, ensuring stable pitch on analog oscillators. It’s vital for sequencing melodies in tune with musical scales.

How do I calibrate a quantizer?

Calibrate by feeding a known CV (e.g., 1 V/octave standard) into the quantizer’s input and adjusting any trim settings until each octave aligns correctly. The Barton Duo runs firmware requiring no manual calibration.

Can you use a quantizer for chords?

Yes. In OCTAVE bank modes, you can output intervals like thirds, fifths, and sevenths simultaneously—perfect for chord voicings and arpeggiated patterns.

Creative Applications

Melodic Sequencing

Feed random voltages into the quantizer to generate unpredictable yet musically coherent patterns. Switch between scales to vary mood on the fly.

Harmonic Voicings

Use OCTAVE bank’s arpeggio modes to craft rich chord structures with a single CV source, freeing your hands for live tweaking.

Polyrhythmic Textures

Quantize multiple CV sources to complementary scales, then pan or route them across stereo voices for immersive soundscapes.

Why Choose the Barton Duo Quantizer?

Michael Barton’s simple quantizer firmware has become an industry standard for its accuracy and ease of use. The Barton Duo doubles this power, giving you two identically powerful engines in one compact module. At just 4HP, it’s a space-saving powerhouse delivering precise pitch correction, creative scale mapping, and chord generation—all essential for modern modular musicians.

The Blue Lantern Barton Duo quantizer is your ticket to polished melodic content. From classic major and minor scales to exotic whole-tone runs and dynamic arpeggios, this 4HP module elevates your Eurorack performance with professional-grade CV quantization. Unlock new creative horizons—integrate the Barton Duo into your system today and play every note with confidence. 🎹🎶