ESX-8GT Gate Expander

ESX-8GT Gate Expander

Expert Sleepers

Regular price $620.00 HKD Sale

This page describes the ESX-8GT mk2 & mk3. For the original ESX-8GT aka the ES-4 Gate Expander please see the ES-4 page.

Introduction

 

The ESX-8GT is an expansion module for the ES-4, ES-40 or ES-5, adding 8 on/off outputs for use as gates, triggers, clocks etc. from one expansion header.

The ES-4/5 Controller software (part of Expert Sleepers Silent Way) also allows the ESX-8GT outputs to be used for DIN sync or MIDI output*(note - not just MIDI clock output, but as an actual MIDI port, capable of sending any MIDI messages). Since these outputs are driven from an audio connection, they have sample-accurate timing, which no USB MIDI interface can claim. See the accessories page for the necessary cables. Note there is also the ESX-8MD module, which is dedicated to MIDI and DINsync duties.

 

* Note - the MIDI out feature is only officially supported at sample rates of 48kHz and above, though some users report success with specific hardware when running at 44.1kHz. The ESX-8MD mk2 module works for MIDI output at all sample rates.

Specifications

The ESX-8GT's specifications are as follows:

  • Panel width: 4HP
  • Module depth: 24mm
  • Analogue outputs: 8x 3.5mm jacks, DC-coupled
  • Output voltages: 0V/5V
  • Indicators: illuminated jack sockets
  • Current draw: 20mA on the +12V rail, 0mA on the -12V rail

Power is supplied by the hosting ES-4/5/40 module, and is used for the LEDs only. I.e. with no LEDs lit, the current draw is 0mA.

The front panel is drilled for both Doepfer and Analogue Systems mounting holes (using a 'slot' rather than a single round hole).

For more detail, please see the user manual.

ESX-8GT mk3

February 2017 sees the launch of the "ESX-8GT mk3". Functionally equivalent to the ESX-8GT mk2, the mk3 adds illuminated jack sockets, and matches the look of the ES-8 and the other Feb'17 updates.