The Distrans AR-1 is a high-performance 6HP bridge designed to seamlessly integrate Eurorack systems with studio environments. It functions as a simultaneous 48kHz/24-bit standalone MicroSD recorder, a class-compliant USB audio interface, and a balanced I/O hub for professional studio gear.

No more “lost” patches

The AR-1 records at 48kHz/24-bit resolution directly to MicroSD. A dual-core architecture ensures the audio process remains isolated from file system operations, maintaining signal integrity even with slow or volatile media. It is designed to capture improvisations and studio takes before a patch is lost.

Routing

The AR-1 serves as a high-fidelity hub between the rack and the studio.

• Eurorack Out: Eurorack signals are routed to balanced XLR/TRS (zero-latency analog path), the USB-C interface, and the SD card simultaneously.
• Studio In: Signals from balanced XLR/TRS inputs or the USB-C interface can be routed into the rack for processing vocals, DAW tracks, or external instruments.
• Mixing: USB audio and balanced inputs are mixed with automatic headroom management (-6dB) to prevent clipping in complex routing scenarios.

Zero Menu-Diving

The AR-1 is designed for immediate, tactile operation with zero menu-diving. Every primary function is mapped to a single multi-function button, eliminating the need for screens or complex navigation. The interface is optimized for speed and muscle memory:

• Short press: Toggles the mute (panic) switch.
• Long press: Starts or stops recording.
• Double-click: Mounts the device as a USB disk for file retrieval.

The high-visibility RGB indicator provides immediate status feedback. White indicates power-on, amber indicates mute, and pulsing red indicates an active recording. Integrated LEDs provide VU metering with RMS and peak level feedback.

Stability & Protection

Engineered for field and studio reliability, the AR-1 handles unexpected power loss and card removal gracefully. Files are safely terminated if media is disconnected mid-recording, and a pre-allocated header system protects data during power interruptions.

The module is fully class-compliant, requiring no drivers. It functions as a 2-in/2-out interface across Windows, macOS, Linux, and iOS via USB-C.

Technical specifications

Audio

• Resolution: 48kHz / 24-bit PCM (all paths)
• Format: Stereo WAV (RIFF)
• Eurorack I/O: AC coupled, ±10V signal range
• Balanced I/O: +4dBu nominal

Recording

• Media: MicroSD/SDHC (FAT32)
• Capacity: Up to 32GB
• File format: 24-bit WAV with BWF timestamps
• Protection: Power-loss safe recording
• Hot-swap: Supported

USB audio

• Class: UAC 1.0 (class compliant)
• Streams: 2ch in + 2ch out, 24-bit, 48kHz
• Compatibility: Windows/macOS/Linux/iOS
• Power: Eurorack or USB-C bus powered

Physical

• Width: 6 HP
• Power: Eurorack or USB-C

Status

Currently in firmware development. Expected release: TBD 2026.

What’s included

• Distrans AR-1 module (fully assembled and tested)
• Mounting hardware
• Quick start guide

Note: USB-C cable and MicroSD card not included.