“The range of tones you can find is enormous”: RYK Algo review

RYK Algo: What is it?

The Algo is one of those modules that pops up every now and then that seems to do everything just right. Like the vector wave before it, Algo is a pretty module, as well as a sound source of huge versatility. It’s on the larger size at 18hp but it’s only 25mm deep, so will fit into most skiffs and the layout does lend itself to the hands-on nature of the module, part of its genius. Unlike other FM devices, which have lots of menus and complexity to master, Algo is a really intuitive interface, which takes no time at all to master.

The familiar RYK design is here, with a black face plate and clear labelling. The patch points sit across the bottom, making it easy to access the lovely-feeling encoders and pots.

We really like how Algo displays the relationship between the four oscillators here, with a visual matrix of LEDs that connect the frequency knobs. This is a really clear way to identify what you’re doing, useful as there is no saving of presets offered.

RYK Algo: Performance and verdict

Algo’s four oscillators all produce sine waves but these can be warped from triangle to pulse, either manually or by CV. With no algorithm selected not much happens, but once you choose one (using the red button to cycle through) you start to hear the magic on offer. A little increase in the XM level highlights the changes and you can start to adjust the pitch and level of the four oscillators. The variation here is vast, from soft and pretty to mangled and metallic. That said, be wary of cranking things too high, as at the upper reaches things become a little samey. The sweet spots can be found with subtle changes. 

Modulation is key to FM for a lot of use cases and RYK has delivered here, with mod patch points for each oscillator, one for cross modulation, another for wave folding, as well as the standard output and volts per octave ports.

Learning the effect the different algorithms have takes a little while but once you have that fixed it’s easy to dial in a tone. The octave range button is useful too, saving the need to do that elsewhere.

What’s more is that Algo is stereo, bringing a whole new level of possibility to your patches. The oscillators can be spread over the stereo field and there’s a gorgeous stereo chorus built in as well. The chorus adds some sparkle and extra width and, while not sounding exactly like a Juno, it is reminiscent of that kind of effect. A simple button combo activates the chorus but you get a nice, green LED to remind you it’s on, so you never get lost. This is the same for everything about Algo. The combo of LEDs make it really hands-on and user-friendly. That, along with the sounds on offer make this a fantastic sound source, and one that could easily be at home in any rig.

There are some more advanced options too, accessed by button combos, which the more experimental users may want to explore. But many will be more than happy without touching these.

MusicRadar verdict: For all the FM lovers (and wave folders) out there, Algo is a joy. It doesn’t take long to learn and once you do the range of tones you can find is enormous.

RYK Algo: Hands-on demos

RYK Modular

RYK ALGO Demo - eurorack Complex Oscillator module - YouTube

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The Unperson

Exploring RYK Modular's ALGO FM Oscillator! - YouTube

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Cinematic Laboratory

ALGO Quad Complex VCO by RYK Modular - YouTube

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mylarmelodies

FM synths can be easy and fun: RYK ALGO Eurorack VCO Module Demo - YouTube

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RYK Algo: Specifications

• KEY FEATURES: Four through zero oscillators. Harmonic intervals. Fine tune, or fixed frequency options for each oscillator. Amplitude OR frequency/V/OCT CV inputs for each oscillator. 9 FM algorithm combinations. Wave Shaping and three types of Wave folding. Multi Stage vari-speed high quality chorus effect. Stereo output, with pan control for each oscillator in the stereo field.
• CONTACT: RYK