Is Mutable Instruments still making modules?

Émilie Gillet (founder) discontinued Mutable Instruments in 2022. Original modules are sought after, and the open-source designs are cloned by others.

What synthesis types does it include?

Virtual analog, FM, wavetable, physical modeling (strings, bells), granular, noise, and more — 16 different engines total.

Why does it have two outputs?

The aux output provides complementary audio — inverted, filtered differently, or from a different synthesis element depending on the model.

Used Mutable Instruments Plaits Prices & Value Guide

Name: Mutable Instruments Plaits
Brand: Mutable Instruments

Mutable Instruments Plaits is a macro oscillator offering 16 distinct synthesis models in 12HP. From traditional virtual analog to physical modeling, wavetable, granular, and beyond, it provides a sound palette that would otherwise require multiple modules.

16 Models, Each Complete

Each synthesis model is a complete voice — not just a raw oscillator, but a self-contained instrument with internal low-pass gate/envelope. Pair one selects standard synthesis: virtual analog (saw, square, variable shape), waveshaping, two-operator FM, granular formant, harmonic additive, and wavetable. Pair two covers noise and percussion: filtered noise, particle noise, inharmonic string, and modal resonator (bells, bars, tubes). Additional models include chords (four-note polyphony from a single module), speech synthesis, and bass drum/snare drum/hi-hat physical models.

Immediate Playability

Timbre and Morph are the two macro controls that shape each model musically — turning Timbre might sweep brightness on one model and harmonic content on another, while Morph might adjust waveshape or decay. The internal decay envelope means Plaits produces complete sounds from just a trigger input, no external envelope or VCA needed. This makes it immediately playable in small systems where module count is limited.

Modulation and Integration

Two CV inputs for Timbre and Morph, plus FM and Level (which doubles as a VCA when using the internal envelope), allow external modulation from LFOs, sequencers, or random sources. The module responds well to expressive CV — subtle modulation brings models to life. With Mutable Instruments discontinued, original Plaits modules are increasingly sought after, though the open-source hardware design means quality clones are available.