Mnemonic Devices MD‑003 MIKADO Review
The MIKADO MD‑003 is a groundbreaking Eurorack generative sequencer module from Berlin-based Mnemonic Devices. Designed for both live performance and studio composition, it blends deterministic sequencing with unique generative engines—Turing machines, collision simulations, cellular automata, and Lorenz attractors—via a 1.9″ RGB display and performance-focused controls.
🎛️ Key Features
- 8‑track step sequencer
- 128 steps per pattern
- Parameter locking & micro‑timing
- Generative engines
- Turing Machines
- Collision Simulations
- Cellular Automata
- Lorenz Attractors
- Performance tools
- Hold/staging
- Fills, solos, swap
- Tap‑to‑record
- Macro controls
- Modulation & LFOs
- Four LFO waveforms
- 8× 16‑bit modulation outputs
- Velocity‑sensitive outputs
- 8× 12‑bit trigger/gate outputs
- Robust I/O
- 8× 16‑bit CV inputs
- Clock/reset I/O
- Outputs via analog, MIDI TRS or USB
- Visual interface
- 1.9″ 320×170 RGB display @60 Hz
- Storage & construction
- microSD card for project recall
- 36HP anodized aluminum panel
- Designed and built in Germany
💰 Price & Availability
- RRP: €750 (approx. AUD 1,180) – currently discounted to €690
- Status: Sold out on official site; now available occasionally via resellers & used markets
- Release timing: Prototypes previewed early July 2025; full release expected Q3/Q4 2025
✅ Who It’s For
Ideal for modular enthusiasts and electronic musicians who:
- Seek generative and evolving rhythmic/melodic patterns
- Want tight performance control over experimental sequences
- Prefer hardware interfaces with visual feedback and expressive I/O
⚠️ Considerations
- Late‑stage prototype note: Some features like beat repeats are still in development; spec may change before full release
- Power specs: Current site lists “TBD”—await official power current details at launch
📋 Feature Highlights Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sequencer | 8‑track, 128‑step, param lock, micro‑timing |
| Generative Engines | Turing Machines, Cellular Automata, Lorenz, Collision Sim |
| Performance Controls | Hold, fills, solos, swap, tap‑record, macros |
| LFOs & Modulation | 4 LFOs; 8× 16‑bit mod outputs |
| Triggers & Gates | 8× 12‑bit velocity‑sensitive outputs |
| I/O | 8 CV inputs (16‑bit), clock/reset, MIDI (TRS + USB) |
| Display | 1.9″ RGB, 320×170 @60 Hz |
| Storage & Build | microSD; 36HP black anodized panel; German‑made |
🗓️ Release Summary
- Prototypes shown: 4 July 2025
- Expected shipping: Late 2025 (pre‑order already live on official site)
Final Verdict
The MD‑003 MIKADO is shaping up to be a landmark instrument—a hybrid of predictable sequencing and chaotic generative systems wrapped in a performance-first hardware design. With a premium price tag and high-end build quality, it’s tailored for serious modular artists and live performers who crave unpredictability and control in one elegant package.
Stay tuned: Full release and shipping dates are expected later in Q3 or Q4 2025. Bookmark the official site or modular retailers to spot the next batch.
