bien jolie !
BIEN JOLIE !
is inspired by the cult Benjolin. Built around interacting analog VCOs, XOR logic, the Rungler shift register, and a resonant filter, it draws from a tradition of chaotic, unpredictable synthesis.
Bien Jolie! carries that spirit further as a desktop-friendly hybrid effects pedal / standalone experimental synth whose semi-modular architecture unlocks an endless range of patchable routings, interactions, and sonic possibilities.
PRE-ORDERS ARE OPEN !
Pre-orders for Bien Jolie! will run throughout April 2026. Ordering during this pre-order window gives you 15% off the final price.
Shipping starts in early May 2026, and orders will be shipped in the order they’re received.
Thanks for supporting the launch !
- 9V DC 200mA PSU (not included)
- Relay-bypass available via external footswitch (no built-in bypass switch)
- Passive expression pedal input for direct performance control of parameters
- Analog signal path: Filter → VCA → Output
- 6-mode rotary switch: Banjo, SuperTri, Audio In, Fuzz, Octave −1, Octave −2
- Banjo + SuperTri modes generate sound internally (audio input not used)
- Audio In / Fuzz / Octave modes use the audio input with adjustable input Gain
- 3 analog VCOs (triangle + square outputs, 2 modulation inputs each)
- Resonant low-pass filter with PEAK control up to near self-oscillation
- Rungler shift-register modulation with patchable inputs: Rung Clock and Rung Data
- Semi-modular patch system with default internal routings (overridden by patch cables)
- Patch-point signals normalized to ±5V (external CV should not exceed 5V)
- Envelope follower outputs from audio input: Envelope + Envelope Invert
- Octave down generator from audio input: −1 and −2 (best with monophonic sources)
- 3 MIDI Squares (clockable square oscillators) sync to incoming MIDI Clock
- MIDI Squares also work without MIDI Clock via internal tempo setting, plus Random mode
- Optional Desk-Sides for vertical station
MODULAR EFFECT
Bypass is handled via an external footswitch. Classic effects like fuzz, tremolo, envelope filter, octave down, and compressor can be dialed in easily, as well as more adventurous ones like ring modulation, step sequencer and vowel filter.
EXPERIMENTAL SYNTH
With its 3 VCOs (with a frequency range from 13 seconds up to 4000 Hz), its resonant filter, and its shift register (rungler), the possibilities for synthesis are vast. Although its VCOs do not respond to a precise V/Oct scale, it is possible to obtain a satisfactory response over several octaves.
Download User's Guide
DESK SIDES
Since the bypass is external (via an external footswitch), it may be more desirable to have Bien Jolie ! installed vertically on a desk. Desk sides are available as an option (+$35) and are the same as those available for the FL5D.
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