When Jamar Ali (aka Ali The Architect) from Ali Modular stopped by Chuck Levin's, he showed exactly what makes Esu's Trifecta such a unique Eurorack multi-effects module. Even the simplest sequences turned into rich, animated, mix-ready textures once they passed through Esu's triple-slot FX engine.
Grab Esu's Trifecta at Chuck Levin's!
What Esu's Trifecta Does
Esu's Trifecta is a stereo multi-effects processor with three FX slots per preset. It lets you build chains of delays, reverbs, filters, modulation, granular FX, EQ, compression, and many other tools. With eight CV inputs, Main and Alt parameter pages, and an easy preset system, it can act as:
- A full end-of-chain processor
- A sound-design workstation
- A live performance FX unit
- A compact mastering chain inside your rack
The design is inspired by the African orisha Esu, who represents the balance between unpredictability and harmony. The module encourages creative exploration while still giving you the controls to shape it into musical order.
Turning Simple Sequences Into Big, Lush Sound
Jamar works with very simple Oxi stabs and Osiris wavetables, then transforms them using FX chains that include:
- CERN for granular movement and shimmer
- Shimmer Storm for spacious reverb
- Ridim Delay for dub-style repeats
- Chorus for width and animation
- Four-band EQ for final tone shaping
The dry sequences are intentionally plain. Once processed through Esu, they become wide, textured, and much more expressive, especially with modulation from a Voltage Block.
Presets for Live Performance
Saving and loading presets is quick and simple. Press the Preset button once to load and twice to save. Jamar loads his custom preset named "Chuck One" and moves between different FX combinations instantly. The preset uses tape delay with degradation, granular sparkle, and a smooth reverb to bring the sequence to life.
A Complete Mastering Chain in Your Rack
Esu also works as a compact mastering strip. Jamar builds a full chain that includes:
- Four-band EQ
- Compressor
- Limiter
This setup is ideal for polishing a full mix or a small live performance system.
Experimental Tools for Creative Sound Design
Jamar later moves into the more unusual effects in the module, such as:
- Professor X, a four-head stereo rhythmic tape delay
- Micro Looper, an upcoming effect that rearranges micro slices of the incoming signal
- Storm Verb to smooth the sound
- Ladder filter with multiple slope options and Q-compensation
With CV routable to nearly every parameter, Esu becomes a powerful environment for evolving and expressive textures.
Available Now at Chuck Levin's
Esu's Trifecta combines creative effects, precise tone shaping, and an intuitive workflow. Whether you want subtle polish, huge cinematic spaces, or experimental sound design tools, this module gives you an enormous range of possibilities.
Visit Chuck Levin's Washington Music Center to try it in person, or order one online today.