Make Noise Rene
A Eurorack sequencer that uses the Cartesian coordinate system to control musical patterns across multiple dimensions.
Overview
The Make Noise Rene is a Eurorack module, billed as the world's first Cartesian sequencer for music synthesizers. The original version came out in 2009. It goes by René (Classic), Rene V1 or mk1. It has one channel, two dimensions and a touch interface. The grid is 16 steps, and a clock input drives each axis. That gives you complex rhythmic and melodic sequencing. The newer version, called Rene2, Rene 2018 or mk2, is a big step up and not a simple update. It adds a third dimension, with three CV outputs, three gate outputs, and simultaneous access to both Snake and Cartesian patterns. The 2018 model is described as the world's only 3D music sequencer.
Specifications
| Exact product name | Make Noise Rene Cartesian Sequencer |
| Manufacturer | Make Noise |
| Product type | Eurorack module |
| Product type | the world's only Cartesian Sequencer for music synthesizers |
| Introduction year | 2009 |
| Version | Original René (V1/mk1), 2018 version (Rene2/mk2) |
| Sequencer type (original) | One-channel, two-dimensional Cartesian sequencer |
| Sequencer type (2018) | Three-channel, three-dimensional Cartesian sequencer |
| Step grid | 16 steps on a grid controlled by a clock input for each axis |
| Interface | Unique touch interface |
| Outputs (2018) | Three CV outputs, three gate outputs |
| Pattern access (2018) | Simultaneous access to Snake and Cartesian patterns |
| Width | 34hp |
| Max depth (original) | 24mm (including power cable) |
| Power (original) | 80mA @ +12V, 0mA @ -12V |
| Power (2018) | 235mA @ +12V, 0mA @ -12V |
| MSRP (2018) | $525 |
Design
The Rene maps sequences across multiple dimensions using the Cartesian coordinate system, which is based on the work of mathematician René Descartes. The original is a two-dimensional sequencer with a 16-step grid and a touch-sensitive interface. The 2018 version goes to three dimensions and adds more CV and gate outputs, but keeps the core Cartesian logic. Both use a grid layout where each axis responds to clock inputs. That allows non-linear sequencing.
Context
The original René appeared in 2009 as the first Cartesian sequencer for music synthesizers, and it offered a different approach from traditional step sequencers. The 2018 version is not merely an update. It is a dimensional expansion into 3D sequencing, with a lot of new functionality. It builds on the original's concept and adds complexity and pattern flexibility.
Market
The 2018 version of Rene has an MSRP of $525. Used units of the original Rene V1 have shown up on eBay, and current best prices for the 2018 version are listed from $292.92. Specific market trends and common issues are not documented.
eBay Listings
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