Mutator

The Mutator by Mutronics is a stereo analog filter and envelope follower with full control facilities. It contains two independent voltage-controlled filters, similar to those found in analog synthesizers, which can be used to treat any external sound source. Each filter can be controlled from its own associated low-frequency oscillator (LFO) and/or its own envelope follower section. The envelope follower essentially controls the filter and/or volume based on the amplitude of the incoming (internal) sound source or an external sound source fed into the unit’s sidechain. The Mutator has two channels, and the upper row of buttons control the left channel, while the second row controls the right channel. It is possible to synchronize the LFO of the left to the right channel, as well as to the DAW host’s song tempo. The Mutator also features extended controls, including tempo syncing to the DAW host and a mix button that allows the user to blend the original sound with the mutated sound.

The front panel controls for the Mutator are identical for both channels, with the exception of the Link switch, which is detailed below. The envelope follower section includes controls for Env Source, Sensitivity, Attack, Release, and Env/Gate, while the LFO section includes controls for Rate, Waveform, LFO Depth, Link Normal/Invert, VCA/Both/VCF, Env Sweep, Cut Off Frequency, Resonance, and VCA In/Out. The output section consists of controls for Tempo Sync, Width, Dry/Wet Mix, and Volume.

The Mutator plug-in version by Softube faithfully replicates the features and details of the original hardware version, with modern additions such as tempo syncing to the DAW host, automation, and a mix button that allows users to blend in the original sound source with the mutated sound and adjust the mix ratio.

The Mutator is a versatile tool that can create filter sweep effects on any sound source, and it has been used by artists such as Radiohead, U2, Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, Chemical Brothers, and Daft Punk. It is a highly regarded but short-lived analog filter that has made a comeback in plug-in form, offering all the benefits of the original hardware with modern enhancements.