IDM / generative drum rack with Metron — learning probability, CV processing, and controlled chaos
Hello everyone,
I recently moved my main system into an Erica Synths Mega Case, which leaves me with a spare Pittsburgh Modular EP-270 that I’d like to turn into a dedicated drum rack.
I produce IDM / electronic / acid / techno, and I want this case to be a performance-focused drum instrument with probability, glitchy rhythms, and evolving patterns. I’m intentionally trying to learn how CV processing, logic, and generative systems work rather than just assembling a static drum machine.
My plan is to use Metron as the primary sequencer, handling core patterns and probabilities, but then heavily process its outputs to introduce variation, fills, density changes, and “controlled chaos.” I’m interested in both per-step probability and CV-driven probability/modulation.
Here’s the rack concept I’m currently sketching:

Drum voices I’m planning around so far:
• Battering Ram
• Jomox ModBase 09 MkII
• Trinity 2.0
• Plonk
• Tiptop Audio 808 Hats
• Tiptop Audio 909 Hats
• Tiptop Audio 808 Snare
• Tiptop Audio 909 Cymbal
Metron would be the main sequencer, and I want to process it with IDUM (and likely other modules), but I’m not yet sure what the right supporting ecosystem looks like.
Things I’m specifically hoping to learn / get advice on:
• What kinds of CV processors, logic, switches, random sources, and utilities pair best with Metron for IDM-style drums?
• Where do people typically introduce probability and variation:
at the sequencer, via trigger processing, via CV modulation, or all three?
• How do you add glitch, fills, and rhythmic mutation without the groove falling apart?
• What’s a good balance between drum voices vs. “plumbing” in a dedicated drum case?
• Any recommended patching concepts for steering generative drums live (macros, performance gestures, density control, etc.)?
This rack will usually be clocked externally, not the master.
I’m very open to being told I’m overthinking things or missing obvious fundamentals — the main goal here is to actually understand how generative / CV-driven drum systems work in practice.
Thanks in advance, and I really appreciate any guidance or patching philosophy you’re willing to share.