Radio Music MK2: Hackable Eurorack Sample Player is Back

Music Thing Modular has brought back its popular Radio Music module as a fully redesigned MK2 version. The new 2026 model is a 4HP Eurorack sample player that behaves like a virtual radio. It is now available as an assembled module from Thonk, with a limited pre-order that has already sold out.

A Classic Returns with Upgrades

The original Radio Music first appeared in 2014 and was retired in 2021 due to chip shortages. The MK2 keeps the compact size and simple interface while adding more depth and playback options. The hardware and software have been completely redesigned. As a result, the noise floor now measures better than -86dB, which is a significant improvement.

Playback quality is hi-fi, and speed changes are smooth and tape-like. However, you can still choose the gnarly 90’s sampler mode for a more lo-fi character. The module supports WAV, AIFF, and RAW files up to 24-bit/96kHz. Latency is extremely low, at under 2ms. Multi-hour file playback is possible, and microSD cards up to 2TB are supported.

Playable Controls and Performance Options

The Station knob browses samples stored on the SD card, just like tuning a radio. The Reset button retriggers the sample from the start, while the Start knob sets the sample start point. Tapping the Start knob enters pitch mode, where it controls playback speed and direction. Tapping again returns to Start mode.

There are now more modes for tuner control, speed, and looping. These can be performed on-the-fly with the optional Radio Remote. The remote is an alternative firmware for the 8mu USB MIDI controller. It connects via the module’s USB socket and gives tactile access to parameters without editing files on the SD card. Note that other MIDI controllers will not work with Radio Music.

The module also includes a calibrated V/Oct chromatic pitch mode. Speed modes include Tape, Chromatic, and ’90s. Tuner modes offer Sharp, Soft, and Radio options. Loop modes are Off, Forward, and Ping-pong. Additionally, the Pulse In becomes a pulse out in clock divider mode.

Hackable and Open

Like the MK1, the MK2 is designed to be hackable. Alternative firmware development is actively encouraged. It runs on the RP2040 processor, the same as Workshop Computer and 8mu. Documentation and ‘Hello World’ files will be shared. However, it is not possible to update an MK1 Radio Music to MK2 features.

The module is 4HP wide and 25mm deep. It is available in aluminium or black panels. The price for the module is £149 to £156 excluding VAT. The optional Radio Remote costs £130. An SD card is not included.

The Radio Music MK2 is a versatile and practical addition to any Eurorack system. Its low latency and high-quality playback make it suitable for both studio and live use. The hackable nature opens up endless possibilities for custom firmware.

Features

Extremely low latency (<2ms) playback of WAV, AIFF, and RAW files up to 24-bit/96kHz
Better than -86dB measured noise floor
Multi-hour file playback
Fluid forward and reverse playback from +2 oct to -2 oct
Supports microSD cards up to 2TB, up to 800 files on each
Calibrated V/Oct chromatic pitch mode
Speed modes: Tape, Chromatic, ’90s
Tuner modes: Sharp, Soft, Radio
Loop modes: Off, Forward, Ping-pong
Pulse In becomes pulse out in clock divider mode
Width 4HP, Depth 25mm