Of course, that sort of approach proved to be hugely attractive to synthesizer users: and because of its thorough options for internal control and even external MIDI control, many people use ZOIA as a full synthesizer as well as an effect processor. Naturally, we wondered from the start what a modular iteration of the ZOIA might look like…and now it seems that it is on the way. Euroburo sports four CV inputs, and an equivalent amount of control voltage outputs (that alone is a significant upgrade from the pedal). There is also a pair of stereo audio I/O, and a dedicated headphone output. To top it off, the module is equipped with MIDI input and output.

With such an amount of connectivity across different formats, the power of ZOIA Euroburo is immediately apparent. It is easy to imagine this module in a variety of setups, though there is still more to be said about the richness, depth, and expandability of its own inner world. Though already hugely impressive, the collection of virtual modules that ZOIA and Euroburo come with is far from complete. There are plans for new modules to be added. There is a sampler module on the way, and who knows what else is in development already. Actually, Empress Effects use a voting system on their website to determine which modules or features will be added to the pedal/module next—so as a user, you get to participate in shaping the evolution of the product. Euroburo has two additional assignable buttons that can change in functionality depending on user preferences, ensuring that some controls will always be there even when you jump to the next patch.

Speaking of which, the module can host up to 64 patches simultaneously, and switching between them is super easy and fast. It only takes a button-press to transform Euroburo from synth to drum machine to effects processor. This makes it an uncommonly powerful performance tool—as pointed out in the video chat, presets in the Zoia are much more than just presets on a synthesizer: presets in the Zoia can make it an entirely different type of instrument or processor altogether. So you can imagine just how powerful a cleverly-programmed Euroburo or two could be: especially since the stereo I/O can be treated completely independently, you could wrench an awful lot of functionality out of a very small setup.

As its name implies, the Stereo Talking Machine possesses true stereo outputs as well as an effects loop. An expression pedal Input provides realtime control over filter sweeps, while nine preset locations let you store and instantly recall favorite programs. The Stereo Talking Machine delivers compelling sound-shaping capability with advanced control.

Just a few years ago, Xotic updated the Robotalk to the dual channel Robotalk 2, which is voiced for a more musical envelope effect. Each side was voiced differently and could be played independent of each other. You could also engage both channels for some added depth and amusement.

Xotic’s dedicated fans keep persisting that they return the arpeggiator function, as they stated this was one of the original Robotalk’s best and most unique features.

After much R&D, the Xotic Effects Custom Shop has reengineered and revitalized the original Robotalk. Now in a compact size, they’ve improved its unique envelope filter tone. But they’ve also enhanced the arppegiator with more wonderfully strange and mesmerizing sounds. 

The reissue is available now, but due to the complexity of the new Custom Shop Robotalk (RT1-RI),initial builds will be limited to only 240 units.

Versatility is the name of the game here. While the Xotic  Robotalk 2 doesn’tpack in any real surprises, envelope filter fans of all stripes shouldfind something to like. For starters, the two channels are eachdistinctively voiced, giving players two different jumping-off points;the A Channel is more midrangey and a bit hotter, making it suitablefor lead lines and notes higher up on the neck, while the B Channeldials down the midrange and the gain for chord work. If you’re stillnot digging the sound, four internal dip-switches allow you to lowerthe envelope frequency.
Truly the very best envelope filter you can find today…