Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Doepfer A137-2 VC Wave Multiplier II Tutorials by Raul Pena

A-137-2 Wave Multiplier II
Back in August of this year Raul Pena published his series on the Doepfer A-137-1 Wave Multiplier module (11 parts!)

Now he's back with the first tutorial videos starring the follow-up to this module, the A-137-2.
The A-137-2 is another version of a wave multiplier.
In contrast to the A-137-1 Wavemultiplier I the A-137-2 generates four phase-shifted copies of a VCO signal applied to the audio input. The four shifted signals are added to the original signal to obtain a fat sound similar to five independent VCOs.

Doepfer A137-2 VC Wave Multiplier II (Playlist)

"A short overview of the basic features of the Doepfer A137-2 Voltage Controlled Wave Multiplier II. Includes a short demonstration of a few oscilloscope views. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Sunday, December 21, 2014

Doepfer A-139-2 Headphone Amplifier Announced

A-139-2 Headphone
Amplifier
Doepfer also announced a re-design of their (discontinued) A-139 headphone amplifier (find the original version HERE)

Main features:

- Two-channel headphone amplifier
- Two audio inputs with level controls
- Input 1 is normalled to Input 2
- Common loudness/master level control
- Headphone output (stereo 1/4" jack socket)
- Max. output power ~ 2 W per channel (@ 8 Ohm load)
- DC coupled inputs and outputs (i.e. also useful for other applications like small loudspeakers, lamps, LEDs, magnets, motors - provided that the power is sufficient)

6 HP wide - 40mm deep
Price: ~ Euro 50.00
Release date: spring 2015
All features, specifications, prices, date of delivery are still without obligation !

Source: Doepfer website http://www.doepfer.de/a1392.htm

Doepfer A-160-5 VC Clock Multiplier / Ratcheting Controller Announced

Doepfer A-106-5
Doepfer keeps on announcing interesting new modules;

" Module A-160-5 is a voltage controlled clock multiplier.
The incoming clock signal (socket Clock In) is multiplied by a factor that depends upon the control voltage on socket CV In (0...+5V) and the position of the Mode switch. 
The multiplied clock signal is available at the socket Clock Out. 
According to the position of the Mode switch different clock multiplying factors are assigned to the control voltage. 
With 0V CV no clock output is generated. 
With increasing CV integer factors (left position of the mode switch), power of two factors (middle position) or a mix of both (right position) are obtained. 
Nine LEDs are used to show the currently selected multiplying factor. 
In addition two LEDs are used to display the incoming and outgoing clock signal.

The module can be used for all kind of clock multiplying applications. 
One important example is the generation of so-called ratcheting sequences. 
The band Tangerine Dream is famous for this kind of sequences. 
A normal sequencer generates only one gate signal per step. 
A ratcheting sequence may have also more than one gate pulses per step. 

This function can be obtained by using the A-160-5: one CV output of the sequencer is used to define the number of gate pulses per step. 
If the control of the step in question is fully CCW the generated CV is 0V and no gate signal is generated (mute of the step). 
When the control of the step in question is turned clockwise one, two or more gate pulses are generated depending upon the position of the mode switch and the voltage generated by the CV at this step."

Price: ~ Euro 100.00
Release date:  ~ March 2015
Source: http://www.doepfer.de/a1605.htm (also a patch example there)

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

New Malekko Modules Are Now Shipping

Buffered
Multi
Mix 4
Unity
Mixer
The people at Malekko have been crafting a new series of Eurorack modules from affordable creative synthesis designs to performance tools

They are very happy to announce the first three in this series are now available through your favorite modular retailers!

MIX 4
This 3hp 4-channel mixer is the first to literally fill the odd hp gap - Harvestman users rejoice!
MIX 4 also features DC coupling for mixing low frequency as well as CV.

UNITY MIXER
The 2hp Unity Mixer is a little powerhouse of unity gain mixing capability. 2 sets of 3 inputs (1 out per set) offers up your basic configuration, then hit the SWITCH button to allow for 6 total inputs (1 out). Unity Mixer also supports CV so the SWITCH button makes this module a great option for rerouting combinations of signals on the fly and is perfect for live performance!

PERFORMANCE BUFFERED MULT
The 2hp Performance Buffered Mult features 2 sets of 3 outputs (1 audio or CV signal in with 3 buffered outs) and the SWITCH button allows for a total of 6 outputs without signal loss for on the fly multiplying.

Tuesday, December 09, 2014

Modular Wild Presents - Evaton Technologies RF Nomad Shortwave Radio Module

Raul Pena started a new Modular Wild series about the Evaton Technologies RF Nomad Shortwave Radio Eurorack Module.

Video 1: Modular Wild Presents Profile-Evaton Technologies RF Nomad

" A short overview of some of the basic features of the RF Nomad.Sound Demonstrations to follow. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 2: Modular Wild Presents SOUNDS-Evaton Technologies RF Nomad

" A short description and sound demonstration of the Evaton Technologies RF Nomad. includes shirt demonstration of modulation."

New episodes will be added here weekly

More info on the RF Nomad: http://www.evatontechnologies.com/rf-nomad

Can't wait to hear some noises out of this module?
MylarMelodies has also published an RF Nomad Tutorial video that you can find in an earlier blogpost HERE. (With even more info about this module...)
Check out Raul's latest survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/K3Z9PVF
Other places to find Raul's World of Synths on the Web:

Friday, November 28, 2014

Animodule V9A VC Sequencer / Waveshaper / Complex Envelope Demo by @DivKid

Animodule V9A
DivKid's latest Eurorack tutorial video is all about the Animodule V9A Voltage Controlled Sequencer / Waveshaper / Complex Envelope

" The V9A is a powerful animal to add to your sequencing arsenal.
Send your CV to the CV In. As the Voltage increases the sequence steps forward.
As the voltage decreases the sequence steps back.
Scale and adjust your input voltage to taste with the Onboard Attenuator and Offset.
Control the Output CV with an individual Potentiometer for each step.
When a step changes, a 10MS trigger is sent to it's corresponding switch. If the latching switch is depressed it allows the trigger to pass to the Trigger Out.
There is a switch per step for slew (portamento/slide).
and a Potentiometer to control the Slew Amount.
There is also an input to allow gated control of when the slew turns on and off which will work in conjunction with the switches."

Width: 14HP Depth: 39mm

Video: Animodule V9A

" A great module for some custom modulation even sequence, bendy LFO (through on board slew), gate trigger, CV sequencing. All sorts going on.
As always fire away with any questions and hit like and subscribe for more videos every week."

Video by Ben Wilson / DivKid - www.youtube.com/divkidvideo

Thursday, November 27, 2014

MakeNoise Richter Wogglebug Update

MakeNoise gave their Richter Wogglebug a nice update.
"The "WoggleBug" is a random voltage generator, originally designed by Grant Richter of Wiard Synthesizers.

Richter Wogglebug Re-design
It is a continuation of the "smooth" and "stepped" fluctuating random voltage sources pioneered by Don Buchla within the Model 265 "Source of Uncertainty," expanding it to include the other-worldly Woggle CVs (stepped voltages with decaying sinusoids edges). 
The Wogglebug is a very musical random voltage generator where it is possible to synchronize all random signal to a Master Clock. 
Guaranteed to unleash your synthesizer's ID MONSTER!

The Wogglebug features ( check out the new features below the video):
- Complete Complex Random Voltage system, no external modules necessary
- Two VCOs, Phase Lock Loop, Lag Processor, Clock, Burst Generator and Sample & Hold
- Generates 7 Random Signals simultaneously: Smooth VCO, Woggle VCO, Ring Mod, Stepped, Smooth, Woggle, Burst
- Generates ultra stable, voltage controlled Master Clock
- External inputs for S&H (Heart IN) and Ring-Mod (Influence)
- Disturb button adds performance element
- Wonderful for modulating the Phonogene and DPO

Video: Make Noise Richter Wogglebug

" The Wogglebug is a random voltage generator, originally designed by Grant Richter of Wiard Synthesizers. It is a continuation of the "smooth" and "stepped" fluctuating random voltage sources pioneered by Don Buchla within the Model 266 "Source of Uncertainty."
New features in the Richter Wogglebug:

- A much more stable clock output with the widest frequency range yet seen on a Wogglebug. The clock now goes up to about 200Hz, allowing the Control Voltage and Gate OUTputs to be heard directly as different flavors of analog and digital noise.
- In previous Wogglebugs, the clock had been locked to the internal Sample and Hold Circuit. Now, with the Richter Wogglebug, the clock can be freed by the independent External Clock INput or the Disturb Button. Regardless of what is happening at these control points, the Internal Clock OUTput will continue to run at the specified rate, keeping it open for use as a Master Clock at all times.
- The Disturb Button allows the Sample and Hold Circuit to be clocked manually: press to sample, release to hold. When the Wogglebug is running fast, this can slow it down. When running slow or not at all, this kicks it in the ass and delivers the next set of random values.
- The Smooth VCO is a brand new waveform, Sharktooth.
- The Influence input has a greater effect on all parts of the Wogglebug's psyche than the previous Ring Mod input.
- The Burst output is more active and ALL portions of the Wogglebug are more responsive to control and touch." 

Video uploaded by MAKEN0ISE

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Doepfer Thru-Zero Modules

New A-110-2, A-110-3 and A-110-4 Modules
At a workshop in Musikhaus Hieber-Lindberg / Munich/ Germany Dieter Doepfer also presented the first prototypes of the new Thru-Zero VCOs.
I did mention the A-110-4 Quad Thru Zero in an earllier blogpost, the A-110-3 Triangle Thru-Zero was new to me.

After some questions in the Yahoo Doepfer A-100 Usergroup, Dieter had a bit more info about the new modules:

" Currently we have prototypes of three totally different types of thru-zero VCOs to be in the starting blocks:

A quadrature version with sine/cosine outputs (prefect sine/cosine outputs, much better than sine waveshapers): A-110-4
A triangle core version (with waveshapers for saw, rectangle and sine): A-110-3
A trapezoid core version (with waveshapers, based on Don Tillman's idea and with his permission): A-110-5 (?)

The A-110-4 will be manufactured early in 2015. We still have some problems with the A-110-3 and A-110-5 because the prototypes produced so far behave a bit different and we still have to find out the reason and fix the problems.

A-110-2 (final version), A-110-3 and A-110-4 will be introduced at NAMM in January (as well as A-147-2, A-138u, A-160-2, final versions of A-101-6, A-190-5 and A-157, and maybe some more). "


Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Evaton Technologies RF Nomad Shortwave Radio Eurorack Module Demo by @MylarMelodies

MylarMelodies is known for his excellent Eurorack demos, you'll probably know him as the man behind the memorable Intellijel Metropolis demo (which is going towards 50.000 views already),the Vines that he posts from his Twitter account, and more recent, his writings for FutureMusic Magazine.

His latest demo is all about the Evaton Technologies RF Nomad Shortwave Radio, read all the info in the description below the video.

Video: RF Nomad Shortwave Radio Eurorack Module Demo

" Being a demo of the considerably bonkers shortwave radio eurorack module that is the Evaton Technologies RF Nomad. LOADS of additional information below!
http://www.evatontechnologies.com/rf-...

GETTING MORE STATIONS ON RF NOMAD

"Get your antenna as high up as possible, and away from metal as much as possible. If you can clip a longer wire onto the end of it, to make the antenna longer, that will help too. I sometimes put a long wire on mine, and tape the wire up to the ceiling.

If you just can't pick up any signals with it, the tuning range is adjustable internally via tweaking the L5 inductor slug with a non-conductive screwdriver. If you are brave, power up your modular, with the Nomad hanging out of the case so you can get to the L5 inductor with a screwdriver. (Be careful not to let the module short against anything!) Set the Tuning knob to the center position, then tweak L5 until you hear stuff. Don't apply much force, and be aware that you can only turn the slug about 1 full rotation. Also, once you've done this, it's going to take a few hours (yes hours) for the tuning to quit drifting, because you've mechanically disturbed the inductor and it takes a while for it to stop creeping from the mechanical stress.

THE STORY BEHIND THE MODULE

The RF Nomad started out as a germ of an idea between myself and my friend, DSP guru Michael Mecca of Pittsburgh Digital -- we frequently meet for lunch to discuss all things synth. About a year or so ago, he mentioned how much fun he used to have as a kid, playing with his dad's shortwave radio, making crazy squealy noises, listening to the haunting sounds that come over the airwaves. I said I had the same experience as a kid, too. Wouldn't it be cool to make a module that lets you bring that experience into the modular world?

I actually had plenty of experience with radio circuits, and a rudimentary design for a shortwave receiver with voltage-controlled tuning immediately sprang to mind.

Most off the shelf shortwave receivers are AM (amplitude modulation) receivers, which suppress the carrier signal. From my ham radio experience, though, I know that if you listen to shortwave frequencies with a sideband decoder instead of an AM decoder, you hear the carrier signal as well as the audio signal, which I feel is far more interesting as a sound source for a synth than just the plain audio alone. It's the bit that gives you those searing heterodyne squeals.

So, it was decided to go with a "direct-conversion" receiver design, which receives both sidebands. Normally, one doesn't think of a direct conversion receiver when trying to design a modern receiver, because they are very crude. But, in the case of the RF Nomad, crude is exactly what we want! It's gives more squeals, more hiss, more heterodynes, more brutal nasty sonic goodness!

You can alter the tuning with the CV input, like it's a remote control for the tuning knob. Apply an LFO, and the tuning slowly increases and decreases. Attach it to a sequencer, and you can cycle thru stations, or just cycle thru different pitches of squealy heterodynes. Hook it to an envelope generator and get on-demand heterodyne swoops. Hook it to an audio-rate LFO, and now you get freaky FM effects. Really cool if you happen to be receiving a strong broadcast station.

The Nomad tunes roughly 9.6 to 10.0 MHz, which is most active late afternoon to early evening, though YMMV. If you can't get a strong station, you can try extending the antenna (just clip another length of wire onto the end of the supplied antenna). Or, find some old electronics, and drape the antenna over it. Stuff from the 80s/90s era -- Commodore 64's, PC AT's, game consoles, etc. The EMI generated by these devices makes for some interesting sonic material.

If you do want to simply "listen" to shortwave on the Nomad, you'll want a bandpass filter after it. The output is 100% UN-filtered, to allow you to have plenty of material to feed your favorite filters with.

The output of the Nomad can be fed back into it's CV input for some self-modulation fun. Patch the output to a multiple, and then feed one signal from the multiple back into the CV input.

Because the Nomad is a direct-conversion receiver, warts and all, one of those warts is that it is somewhat drifty with temperature. I've done about as much as I can to reduce the driftiness, but you will notice that over several minutes it will wander around a little bit. I felt this was an acceptable trade-off, as the true talent of the Nomad is how well it responds to a quickly changing CV input to generate quirky sounds.

I think that covers the basics. It's pretty versatile for a module that only has one input."

Monday, November 24, 2014

Suzanne Ciani "A Life in Waves" Documentary KickStarter Project

Xenon pinball machine backglass
In the early 80s, i spend many hours behind a Bally Xenon pinball machine at the camping-site in Maria Laach, Germany that we visited every year.
The Xenon is a beautiful machine with amazing futuristic graphics on the backglass and the playfield, and besides that... those amazing hypnotizing sounds and that sexy, female voice...*

More than 15 years later i found out that the music and sounds were created by Suzanne Ciani, and slowly i got to know more about her music and life as a female electronic music pioneer...

Brett Whitcomb, a documentary filmmaker from Houston, Texas. has started a new film project called, "A Life in Waves" about Suzanne Ciani.
"The documentary, co-produced by long-time Beastie Boys keyboardist Money Mark, chronicles Suzanne Ciani's life and work. 
Utilizing a wealth of Suzanne's archival footage, the film will be a nostalgic, visually-compelling look at one woman's journey, and the trials she had to overcome to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated art form."

You can donate/find more info about this KickStarter project at 
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2100662212/suzanne-ciani-a-life-in-waves

I am really looking forward to this documentary, and i hope they will get the funds together...
The campaign ends on Wednesday, Dec 10th 2014 10:07 PM CET.

Suzanne Ciani's official website: http://www.sevwave.com/
Suzanne Cianni on Twitter https://twitter.com/sevwave
Check her out on Facebook (with some awesome classic gear-pictures)
,or read her blog HERE (although she hasn't updated in a while)

* You can learn more about Ciani's involvement in the Xenon pinnball machine at her official website, which has a lot of information about this game.
(including this amazing 'making of Xenon' video and soundpacks)


Sunday, November 23, 2014

Random Video: Benjolin DPO by Severence

...and another one from YouTube, by Severence

Video: severence // benjolin dpo

" // experimenting with the epoch modular eurorack version of rob hordijk's benjolin and the make noise dual prismatic oscillator.
patch notes:
// benjolin high and band pass outs into schippmann vcf-02 filter
// dpo saw tooth and sine wave outs into make noise mmg
// steady state fate ultra random clock out striking dpo, cycling maths and brain seed, triggering quantimator, gating modcan quad lfo and wmd sequential switch matrix. Self patched clock fm from sample out a.
// mmg freq 1 modulated by ssf ultra random sample out b
// dpo osc 1 expo fm from wmd ssm expand 1-3 out
// dpo osc 2 expo fm from wmd ssm expand 1-4 out
// modcan quad lfo 4 to quantimator in
// ssf quantum rainbow 2 patched into intellijel planar, cv from modcan quad lfo 4 and maths eoc
// brain seed seed out modulating vca with ssf quantum rainbow 2
// schippmann filter modulated by quantimator out 3 and modcan quad lfo 4
// desk effects: space, el capistan & moogerfoogers"

Video uploaded by severence

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Random Video: Techno Witch - August Modular (stereo acid)

Found on YouTube...

Video: Techno Witch - August Modular (stereo acid)

" Created using the modular 303 and the Doepfer modular system. Kick thumps from the TipTop Audio 909/808 modules. MFB drums. Some mini-brute, some rocket. A touch of Metavox as finish."

Uploaded by technowitch0031
More info at http://technowitch.nl/

Friday, November 21, 2014

Doepfer A-116 Voltage Controlled Waveform Processor Video Tutorials by Raul Pena

Raul Pena just started a new series on the Doepfer A-116 VC Waveform Processor.

Video 1: Doepfer A-116 VC Waveform Processor Basic Features

" A short introduction to the features of the Doepfer A116 Voltage Controlled Waveform Processor. A short demonstration with audio is included. Video one of three.Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 2: Doepfer A116 VC Waveform processor-Audio/Oscilloscope Views Pt.1
" Continuing the Doepfer A116 VC Waveform Processor series. This time we look at oscilloscope views of the effects of the A116 on a basic Sine and Triangle Wave. Video Two of Four in series..Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 3: Doepfer A116 VC Waveform processor-Audio/Oscilloscope Views Pt.2

"Continuing the Doepfer A116 VC Waveform Processor-Audio Oscilloscope segment. This time we look at more oscilloscope views of the effects of the A116. Video Two of Four in series..Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 4: Doepfer A116 VC Waveform Processor- Modulation Effects Pt. 1

Continued exploration of the Doepfer A116 Waveform Processor. In this video we look at a few modulation patches with simple waveforms. Sound and Video by Raul Pena.

Video 5: Doepfer A116 VC Waveform Processor- Modulation Effects Pt. 2

Continued exploration of the Doepfer A116 Waveform Processor. In this video we look at a few modulation patches with simple waveforms. Sound and Video by Raul Pena.

Check out Raul's latest survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/K3Z9PVF

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Transistor Sounds Labs Stepper Acid Digitally Controlled Step Sequencer

Like most of you, i have been following this next project for a long time... but it's finally out now and the first ones have been shipped.

The Transistor Sounds Labs Stepper Acid is a 16-step Eurorack sequencer module designed by Nina Richards & Zoë Blade with live performance in mind.
The Stepper Acid was born out of our need for a modern step-sequencer.
The dual micro-controller design ensures tight timing: one runs the sequencer, the other the front panel interface.

It looks and sounds very impressive, and very easy to program... especially compared to a 303 ;-) ...

Transistor Sounds Labs Stepper Acid Digitally Controlled Step Sequencer
Features:
-16-step sequencer
- With adjustable pattern length
- Adjustable analogue slide
- Song mode for pattern chaining
- Stores up to 40 patterns
- Detach mode for playing one pattern while entering another
- 0-5V range CV (5 octaves)
- Gate and accent output
- 5V or 12V selectable
- Variable swing function
- Dual microcontroller design
- Adjustable clock sync input and output
- Includes: 24PPQN (Sync24), 48PPQN, 96PPQN and 4PPQN (one note per pulse)
- Assembled in the UK
- Dimensions
- Width: 32HP Eurorack module
- Depth (excluding faceplate): 31.5mm

Video 1: Stepper Acid Guide

"A guide to the various features of Stepper Acid."

Video 2: Stepper Acid Extended Demo

"We were making some demos of Stepper Acid's features, and Nina got carried away making a track. Enjoy!"

All info at http://www.transistorsoundslabs.com/stepper-acid/
and on MuffWiggler: http://www.muffwiggler.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=118964&highlight=stepper+acid

Stepper Acid is available for £295.00
For more information e-mail info@transistorsoundslabs.com

Latest Updates on Twitter: @TSLNow

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Doepfer A-147-2 Voltage Controlled Delayed LFO Announced

Doepfer recently announced the A-147-2, the successor of the VCLFO A-147.
This module but offers more features than the predecessor and is made of the following sub-units:

VCLFO: voltage controlled low frequency oscillator
VCA: voltage controlled amplifier, switchable to voltage controlled polarizer
VC delay unit: voltage controlled linear attack envelope (only one parameter: attack) for delayed LFO operation in combination with the VCA (e.g. delayed vibrato/tremolo)

"LFO: The voltage controlled LFO has the waveforms Triangle, Sine, Sawtooth and Rectangle available and features a Reset/Sync input. Triangle/Sine and Rectangle are displayed by means of dual-color LEDs (probably red/green), Sawtooth has a unicolor LED available (probably blue). 
The output levels are about -4V...+4V for Triangle, Sine and Rectangle. 
The Sawtooth level is about 0...+8V.
The CV control can be switched to attenuator or polarizer ("CV Mode" switch). 
In polarizer mode the CV inputs affects the frequency in the reverse manner when the CV control is left from the center position. In the center position CV has no effect and right from the center the control works like a normal attenuator. 
The frequency range (without external CV) is from about 0,005 Hz (i.e. about 3 minutes per periode) to 200 Hz. In addition a ultra-low mode can be activated by means of an internal jumper. 
When the ultra-low jumper is set a fixed voltage is connected to the switching contact of the "LFO CV" socket. In polarizer mode of the CV control that way extremely low frequencies (up to one hour period and more) are possible.

VCA: This is a linear VCA that can be switched to "normal" VCA (i.e. kind of a voltage controlled attenuator) or voltage controlled polarizer ("VCA Mode" switch). 
In the "normal" VCA mode amplification +1 is achieved with about +5V control voltage. 
In polarizer mode the amplification ranges from about -0.5 (i.e. inverted signal with about 50% level) with 0V CV to +0.5 (i.e. non-inverted signal with about 50% level) with +5V CV. With about +2.5V CV the signal is suppressed.
Details about the functioning of a voltage controlled polarizer can be found in the description of the module A-133. In this mode the VCA can be treated also a DC coupled ring modulator (similar to A-114).
The VCA of the A-147-2 has three sockets available: "In" (signal input), "Out" (signal output) and "CV" (control voltage input).
The Triangle Output of the LFO is normalled to the VCA signal input by means of the switching contact of the "VCA In" socket. If another LFO waveform (or any other signal) should be processed by the VCA the corresponding signal has to be patched to the "VCA In" socket. 
The VCA can be used also independently from the LFO and the Delay CV. 
In this case the VCA sockets In, Out and CV have to be patched accordingly. The VCA can be used also as waveshaper for the LFO signals (e.g. by patching VCA In and VCA CV to different LFO signals, if necessary via attenuator A-183-1 or offset generator/attenuator A-183-2).

A-147-2 block diagram
Attack/Delay: The third sub-unit of the module is a simple, voltage controlled envelope generator that has only the parameter "Delay" (or Attack) available. 
This unit generates a linear increasing voltage that starts from 0V after each Delay Reset until it reaches about +5V.
Then the voltage remains at +5V until the next Delay Reset occurs. 
The inclination or gradient is controlled by the manual Delay control and the Delay control voltage ("Delay CV" input). 
The waveform is linear, the control scale is exponential. The output voltage is displayed by a unicolor LED (probably orange) and available at the "Delay Out" socket.
The manual Delay control ranges - without external "Delay CV" - from about 5ms (fully CW) up to 2 minutes (fully CCW). By means of an external voltage applied to the "Delay CV" socket this range can be extended. A rising CV shortens the delay time (behaviour like a VCO) !
The Delay output voltage ranges from about 0V to +5V. The rising edge of the gate, clock or trigger signal applied to the "Delay Reset" sockets resets the Delay output voltage to 0 V.
"Delay Out" is normalled to the VCA CV input by means of the switching contact of the "VCA CV" socket and consequently controls the Triangle level provided that no other patch is made. 
A typical example is the usage of a Gate signal (e.g. from a USB/Midi-to-CV/Gate interface) as Delay Reset. 
That way a delayed vibrato or tremolo can be realized if the VCA output is patched to the frequency CV input of a VCO (or VCF), or the CV input of a VCA.
But the Delay sub-unit can be used also independently from the LFO and VCA, e.g. as a voltage controlled waveshaper or for other applications where a linear increasing signal with voltage controlled steepness is required."

The module is planned for early 2015, price ~ Euro 120.00, price and release date are still without obligation !

Monday, November 17, 2014

Ladik EQ-5 / E-110 5-Band EQ Demo Video by @DivKid

DivKid's latest video shows you all the details of the Ladik EQ-5 / E-110 5-Band Equalizer... Enjoy!

Video: LADIK - EQ-5 / E-110 5-Band EQ

"A dirty cheap (picked it up for £32, new they are less than £50) 5 band EQ from LADIK. The module has +/- 12dB EQ at 12.8kHz, 3.2kHz, 800Hz, 200Hz and 50Hz. Really nice to have some proper EQ shaping in my set up.
As always hit subscribe and like for more videos every week and ask any questions in the comments."

Video by Ben Wilson / DivKid - www.youtube.com/divkidvideo

Friday, November 14, 2014

Random Video: Modular Synth Jam - Remedy Without Fear by Iteration and Discord

I like the latest upload by Iteration and Discord a lot... great sounds and build-up;

Video: Modular Synth Jam - Remedy Without Fear

" This patch started with the piston honda mk2. I wanted to use it as a noise source which became more of a snare drum. Next was tuning the tiptop dixie2 into a bass drum and using the doepfer bbd delay to make it interesting.
There are other parts courtesy of the tiptop 808 drums and the epoch modular benjolin. Nothing real complex here but it was definitely fun.

Also the make noise erbe verb played a big part in the beginning and also for making noise swells. All live, what you see is what you're hearing.
I'm using an analog mixer to bring parts in and out.
Thanks for watching and please check out my channel if you like modular synths.
I seek out synth related videos and watch as many as i have time for.
Please consider subscribing for more synthesized awesomeness." 

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

The Benjolin Explained by The Tuesday Night Machines

Felix (The Tuesday Night Machines) uploaded a cool demo in which he explains Rob Hordijk's Benjolin module.

But first some info about the Benjolin, gathered from various sources;

" A darling of the DIY synth community for years now, Rob Hordijk's benjolin circuit is really like no other synth/noisemaker out there.
The Benjolin is the smaller sibling of Rob's now legendary Blippoo Box, the subject of his 2009 article in Leonardo Music Journal (Vol. 9). 
Both the Blippoo Box and the Benjolin emerged from Rob's attempts to design a circuit that was, as he puts it, "bent by design". 
 As such both modules function according to the basic principles of Chaos theory, where short to long sputtering patterns spontaneously alter themselves over time, at times gradually and at times quite suddenly, morphing into new pattern doublings and bifurcations. 
 The result is two incredibly unique instruments that function in a sense autonomously or can "play themselves" if you like.

Klangbau Koln Benjolin by Rob Hordijk
Both the Blippoo Box and the Benjolin are based around similar "chaotic cores," which in the the case of the benjolin, is comprised of two vcos and a unique circuit designed by Rob, which he calls a Rungler. 
 The Rungler is basically an 8 step shift register that takes its serial input from the squarewave of one oscillator and its clock input from the other. 
 The digital outputs of the shift register are than put through a primitive digital to analogue converter to create stepped voltage patterns, which are then wired back into the oscillators.
The effect of this arrangement is to create a complex interference pattern that gives the Benjolin its unique, aleatoric character."*

Rob Hordijk's Benjolin as a Eurorack module,(This version is made by made by Klangbau Köln) consists of two VCOs, a VCF, the famous "Rungler" and an audio mixer, which can mix the classic PWM sound with the dry VCO waveforms for added fatness. 
The VCOs can cross-modulate each other, VCO2's triangle wave can control the filter cutoff (if no external cutoff CV signal is plugged in) and the Rungler CV can of course modulate everything too. It's a complex instrument, which doesn't necessarily need any other modules to be enjoyed.

Outputs:
- Rungler CV
- OSC1 Triangle
- OSC1 Pulse
- OSC2 Triangle
- OSC2 Pulse
- Audio Mixer (VCO1 + VCO2 + PWM)
Inputs
- OSC1 Frequency CV
- OSC2 Frequency CV
- Filter Cutoff CV
A switch lets the Rungler run free, or locks its current pattern.

Video: The BENJOLIN Explained (w/ sound demo) #TTNM

" Wanna know more about this BENJOLIN instrument thing? Then watch this video demo! ... and subscribe:http://www.youtube.com/subscription_c...
Chaos, noise, drones and sweet music, all from one device!

The Benjolin is an instrument designed by Rob Hordijk and built and modified by a lot of DIYers, as well as some synth manufacturers. I explain the Benjolin's basics with a Klangbau Köln Benjolin Eurorack module. Don't worry though, you will easily understand all other versions as well, after watching this video.
The cool thing about the Benjolin is, that it has some amazing feedback loops built in, which can be used to modulate the sound to the Moon and back ... well, some people say "to Hell and back" ... you decide. There is also the famous Rungler circuit of Rob Hordijk, which generates random, looping or evolving CV sequences via a shift register design (similar to the Turing Machine Eurorack module).
It's tons of fun!

Some links:
https://www.facebook.com/rob.hordijk (Rob Hordijk on Facebook)
http://www.klangbauköln.de (Klangbau website)
http://nightmachines.tv/noiserack (Noise Rack video diary series with the Benjolin and others)

Got questions or comments? Go ahead and post them below! I try to reply to all of them :)
Thanks for watching! Check out my channel for more Synthesizer Music and Tutorials:
http://nightmachines.tv/youtube
Filmed with a Canon EOS 550D (Rebel t2i).
If you've read this far, post a comment with the words "rungle all night long" in it :D

LINKS / SUBSCRIBE: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_c...
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://nightmachines.tv
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Flixxx (@Flixxx)
Ello: http://ello.co/nightmachines
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nightmachines
Instagram: http://instagram.com/tuesdaynightmach...
Bandcamp: http://nightmachines.bandcamp.com
My other YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/flx04part2 "

Rob's Benjolin design is also available as a Eurorack modular module by Epoch Modular



Sunday, November 09, 2014

Random Videos by Das Britzel

Welcome to your Sunday-morning music service ;-)
I found these 2 interesting new (long) videos by Das Britzel today on YouTube.
Sadly not recorded with a direct input, but good enough sound quality to share it here...
Enjoy!

Video 1: Random Patch 0


Video 2: Patch5
" Modularsytem Music- Liveact in Progress
Check my Soundcloud:
https://soundcloud.com/dasbritzel (Productions without computer)
https://soundcloud.com/heimchenf-nger (Productions with computer) "


Friday, October 31, 2014

Modular Synth - An All Doepfer Orchestral(ish) Patch by IsVisible

IsVisible uploaded an interesting new video to YouTube... enjoy!

Video: Modular Synth - An All Doepfer Orchestral (ish) Patch

" Here's a patch I filmed about two years ago. Made with all Doepfer modules.
Some patch notes:
The A-143-4 Quad VCLFO/VCO is triggering the gate/envelopes of the A-143-2 Quad ADSR, clocking the random voltages from the A-149-1, providing cv for the two filters (A-106-1 Xtreme and A124 Wasp)
The A-143-4 is in turn being modulated by two LFO's, A-143-9 and A-146.
The two voices are then passed through a channel each of a Tapco 4400 Dual Spring Reverb.
www.isvisible.co.uk"
Uploaded by isvisible

Doepfer A-105 24dB SSM Low Pass Filter Video Tutorials by Raul Pena

Raul Pena just started a new series on the Doepfer A-105 24dB SSM Low Pass Filter.
Here's the first video.

Video 1: Doepfer A-105 24 dB SSM Low Pass Filter Basics

" A short overview of the Basic features and sound of the Doepfer A105 24dB SSM Low Pass Filter. Audio demonstration continued in next segment of series. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 2: Doepfer A-105 24 dB SSM Low Pass Filter Audio Demonstration

" A continued exploration of the Doepfer A105 24 dB SSM Low Pass Filter.
This time we hear the wide range of the filter using a sequenced passage.
We also explore the subtlety of the filter's resonance.
Second video of three.
Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 3: Doepfer A-105 24 dB SSM Low Pass Filter Modulation Demonstration

" A continued exploration of the Doepfer A105 24 dB SSM Low Pass Filter.
This time we experiment with a few modulation sources.
A short demo of using the filter in self oscillation is included.
Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Monday, October 27, 2014

Ginko Synthese Flightcases

Ginko Synthese portable flightcase frontside 
Ginko Synthese, known from their recent successfully funded SampleSlicer project and their TTLFO, has been making modular cases for quite a while...

Now this Dutch company is thinking about making a small batch of portable flightcases (the white one with aluminium corners), maybe 10 or 20 pcs.
The pictures are an indication of what it will look like (a case he made earlier).

The busboards are connected directly to the back of the case in this one, but if enough people are interested he will make internal mounting rails for them so there will be nothing visible on the outside.

Ginko Synthese portable flightcase backside
Specifications:
- 104 or 114HP width
- includes PSU and Doepfer busboards
- case depth will be around 11cm
- keeps your patches inside while lid is closed
- detachable lid
- 220V connection on side for standard eurostyle power cable

Updated November 3, 2014
You can still order for this batch.
They are available in two sizes:
104HPx6U = €320,-
114HPx9U = €500,-
They come including PSU and busboards.
The color is white/grey and have a subtile gynkosynthese logo engraved in the lid.
The power connection is on the side so you can use it laying flat or standing vertical.
Check the Ginko Synthese Portable Cases product-page for more info on how to order:
http://www.ginkosynthese.com/product/portable-cases/

Saturday, October 25, 2014

Doepfer A-105 SSM 24 dB Low Pass Filter Demo by LesIndes

LesIndes uploaded a long demonstration of the Doepfer A-105 SSM LowPass Filter.

The A-105 is very similar to the A-122 that is made with a CEM chip. But in contrast to the A-122 the A-105 is made with the legendary SSM filter chip SSM2044.
This chip was used e.g. in these synthesizers: Korg Polysix, Korg Mono/Poly, Fairlight II, PPG Wave 2.2 und 2.3, Emu SP-1200, Siel DK600, Siel Opera 6. 
The first Prophets used the SSM2040 - the precedessor of the 2044 - that generates a very similar sound. 

The special feature of the 4 pole low pass SSM2044 is the patented so-called "true open loop design that delivers a characteristic fat sound not available from other devices" (extract from SSM2044 data sheet). 

The module features voltage controlled resonance and a sensitive audio input to obtain distortion - if desired. 
Regarding to the functions, controls and in/outputs the module are identical to the 24dB low pass filter A-122 that is built around a CEM chip, but the sound, the resonance behavior and the distortion behavior are completely different for both modules.

As the special circuit SSM2044 used in this module is no longer available the module has to be discontinued. Sale while stocks last !

Video: DOEPFER A-105 SSM 24 dB Lo Pass Filter Module // Endorphines Furthrrrr Generator

" SSM filter chips were used in many great vintage synths in the synthesizers' hall of fame. such as the original SEQUENTIEL CIRCUITS PROPHET V, EMU E2, PPG WAVE 2 / 3. the filter chip is 2044.

Uploaded by LesIndes
LesIndes on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/les.indes.3

Friday, October 24, 2014

Analogue Solutions Telemark Multimode Filter

Analogue Solutions just released their Telemark Multimode Filter module, a eurorack module based on the Telemark multimode filter.

The Telemark multimode filter module is based on the filter of the legendary Telemark semi-modular synthesizer.
It's routes lie in the original 1970s Oberheim SEM, though it has developed a character of its own.
The filter is a 12db/Octave multimode type. Multimode means there are more than one type of filter output.
There are in fact four: low pass, band pass, high pass and notch filter.
Additionally, notch filter can be varied for an even wider range of sounds.
Use of Gain and Q allow for even wider possibilities.
No special knowledge is required to use this filter. Just plug your audio in the left, and your audio out on the right.
Optionally (and recommended!) patch a control voltage in to give the sound movement.

KEY FEATURES OF TMF
- Pure analogue circuitry.
- Telemark filter
- 4 filter types- Low, High, Band, Notch
- Resonance (Q) boost feature
- Slim design
- Spun metal knob caps

DivKid made another great video demonstrating the module;

Video: Analogue Solutions TMF - Telemark Multimode Filter eurorack module video overview

" New eurorack module - a multimode filter based on the stand alone synth Telemark, from Analogue Solutions.
Video by Ben Wilson / DivKid - www.youtube.com/divkidvideo"

SiteTip: Equipboard

These last few weeks i have been trying out a 'new' music start-up called Equipboard.
The site mainly focuses on the question: What gear do my favorite music artists use?


" Equipboard is a community-built database of artists and the gear they use.
Launched in late 2013, this growing community of gear-obsessed music fans have already made the connection between 13,147 products and 4,480 artists – everything from Jimi Hendrix’s guitars and amps to Aphex Twin’s arsenal of electronics.
In addition to contributing, users can create their own equipment boards to share the gear they have or want, and participate in authentic conversations about their favorite artists and brands.

Artists and brands can claim or create a profile to add additional content and participate in conversations with fans.
Some of the brands already using Equipboard include: AIAIAI, Intellijel, Fab Filter, Lennar Digital, Bohemian Guitars."

I have tried it out now for almost a month and i like the idea of it.
The site certainly looks great, you can find a lot of info on the kits of known (and unknown) producers/artists but the list of instruments is still far from complete...
Luckily it is easy to add your own instruments, so i have put my full studio-setup up at http://equipboard.com/patchpierre.

I did not spend any time on uploading all my Eurorack modules, because i did that already on  ModularGrid, which does almost the same (but only modular synthesizers), but also mainly with user-generated data.
There's a nice (but still small) community that can interact/like/follow together, but there's not a lot activity (with me) yet... it could use some more contributors/members.

Check it out for yourself at:  http://equipboard.com

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Doepfer A-110-4 Thru Zero Quadrature VCO Announced

Doepfer's latest module-announcement is the A-110-4 Thru Zero Quadrature VCO.
I do have to dig a bit deeper into this module before i completely understand it, but here is the text from the Doepfer website, where they will soon have audio examples and oscilloscope views available...

Doepfer A-110-4
Thru Zero Quadrature VCO
" The term "quadrature" means in this connection that the oscillator outputs sine and cosine waveforms simultaneously. 
The term "Thru-Zero" means that even "negative" frequencies are generated. 
This can be a bit of a misleading term as negative frequencies do not really exist. 
"Negative" means in this connection simply that the sine/cosine waves will stop when the linear control voltage reaches 0V and continue with the opposite direction as the linear control voltage becomes negative and vice versa.

The module has two control sections: linear and a exponential. 
The exponential section consists of the XTune control, the 1V/Oct input and the XFM input with the corresponding attenuator XFM. 
The exponential control voltage is the sum of these three voltages. 
The linear section consists of the LTune control and the LFM input with the corresponding attenuator LFM. 
The linear control voltage is the sum of these two voltages. 
A dual color LED is used to display the polarity of the linear control voltage (green = positive, red = negative). 
The resultion pitch of the sine/cosine outputs is determined by the resulting control voltages of both sections. The linear section is used to control the pitch in a linear manner. 

When the LTune control (LTune means Linear Tune) is fully CW the module works like a normal Quadrature VCO (e.g. like the A-143-9) and the LED lights green. 
The pitch is then controlled by the exponential section with the manual Tune control and the exponential frequency control inputs 1V/Oct and XFM. 1V/Oct is used to control the pitch by a 1V/Oct CV source (e.g. sequencer or Midi/USB-to-CV interface). 
XFM is used to apply an exponential frequency modulation with adjustable depth (e.g. from an LFO or another VCO). 
As the LTune control is turned counterclockwise starting from the fully CW position the frequency is lowered in a linear manner until the sine/cosine waves stop near the center position of LTune (provided that no LFM signal is present). 
As the LTune control is moved from the center towards the CCW position the waves start again but into reverse direction and the LED turns red. 
When the fully CCW position of LTune is reached the module works again like a normal Quadrature VCO. 

But much more exciting is the usage of the LFM input to modify the linear control voltage by an external control voltage (typically another VCO). 
Linear modulation by another oscillator using the thru zero feature generates audio spectra than cannot be obtained from an oscillator without the thru zero function. 
The reason is that a "normal" VCO will simply stop as the linear control voltage becomes zero or negative. 
But a thru zero VCO will start again with "negative" frequencies as the the linear control voltage becomes negative.

The main advantage of the A-110-4 compared to other Thru Zero VCOs is that the design used a sine/cosine core. The sine/cosine waves are not derived from other waveforms (e.g. sawtooth or triangle) by means of waveshaping. 
Rather the sine and cosine waves are the core of the VCO which results in very pure waves with a minimum of distortion and overtones." 

The A-110-4 is planned for early 2015, price ~ Euro 120.00

Doepfer A-160-2 Clock Divider II Announced

Doepfer announced a few new modules modules this week.
Starting with this one:

The A-160-2 Clock Divider II is an enhanced version of the standard clock divider A-160.
The 4HP wide module is a frequency divider for clock/trigger/gate signals, designed to be a source of lower frequencies, particularly for rhythm uses.
Doepfer A-160-2
The Clock input will take any digital signal from, eg., an LFO, MIDI sync, or the gate from a MIDI-CV interface.
At the outputs, you have access to three sets of seven different sub-divided clock signals, from half
the clock frequency down to 1/128.
The low/high levels of the output signals are 0V and about +10V.
The A-160-2 also has a reset input. Whenever a reset signal is sensed, all outputs are set to certain levels which depend upon the selected mode.

These are the most important features of the module:

- Three different sets of dividing factors, selected by a three-position switch at the front panel: power of two: 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128
prime numbers: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17
integer: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
- Two output modes, selected by a two-position switch at the front panel:
- Gate mode: outputs act like the outputs of typical binary dividers
- Trigger mode: in this mode the outputs are AND-wired with the clock signal (i.e. the clock pulsewidth affects the pulsewidth of the outputs)
- Clock edge type selected by a jumper on the pc board:
positive: the rising edge of the clock signal triggers the state change of the outputs
negative: the falling edge of the clock signal triggers the state change of the outputs
- Reset behaviour by two jumpers on the pc board:
level triggered: the level at the Reset input triggers the Reset
edge triggered: the edge of the signal at the Reset input triggers the Reset
positive: a high level (> 2.5V) or the rising edge at the Reset input triggers the Reset
negative: a low level (< 1 V) or the falling edge at the Reset input triggers the Reset
- Output polarity selected by a jumper on the pc board:
positive: non-inverted outputs
negative: all seven outputs are inverted


The module is planned for early 2015, price ~ Euro 100.00

Update Nov 27th 2014:
" we also think about a A-161-2 which is independent from the A-160 (i.e. own clock and reset). Details are not yet available, except one thing: switchable between gate and trigger mode, in trigger mode the outputs are "gated" with the incoming clock signal. 
And we are working also on a clock multiplier module (A-160-3 ?). 
But the release dates, prices and detailed features for these new modules are not yet available."

Sources: Doepfer website
and Dieter Doepfer via the Yahoo Doepfer A-100 usergroup https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Doepfer_a100/conversations/messages/25947

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Steffcorp ARP2600 Eurorack modules

VCF 2612
Arplifier
Steffcorp from Sweden is the next new Eurorack manufacturer on my list.

After passionately working with synthesizers for over 20 years, doing both music and a lot of sound-design, Rickard Steffensen started a journey 2 years ago recreating his favorite synthesizer of all time – the legendary ARP 2600.
The result of this quest is the first batch of 4 Eurorack modules that Steffcorp released this month;

The Oscillarp is a eurorack-clone of the 4027-1 VCO used in the ARP 2600.
The VCF 2612 is a clone of the 4012 VCF used in the ARP 2600.
The Envelarp is a eurorack-clone of the 4020 ADSR/AR used in the ARP 2600.
,and the Arplifier VCA is a eurorack-clone of the 4019 VCA used in the ARP 2600.

Envelarp
Oscillarp
Rickard is now working hard on getting a full voice of 2600 modules out the door, followed by other even older designs that deserve to be revived.

I'm looking forward to the first sound-examples...

More info at https://steffcorp.se/


Animodule TikTok Clock Multiplier and Divider Overview by DivKid

Animodule
TikTok
DivKid uploaded an overview video about the Animodule TikTok.

The TikTok is a 4HP Clock Divider/Multiplier that calculates divisions and multiplications of:
*//2 , *//3 , *//4 , *//5 ,and *//6

There is a Clk Input and a Reset Input.
Both are buffered with an opamp based comparator circuit.
They are looking for approximately +1.1V on a rising edge.
This means that you are not constrained to gate (pulse) signals to trigger them.

The Reset input resets your divisions clock counter to 1
There is a switch to select Mathematical or Musical divisions.
The Multiplication Outputs 25MS Trigger pulses.
The Division Outputs are on as long as your Clock source.

- Avg Current draw:
40 mA / -9 mA
- Peak Current Draw:
80 mA / -17 mA
Width = 4HP
Depth = 38mm



Video: Animodule - TikTok

" Here's the AniModule - TikTok a 4HP eurorack clock multiplier and divider in one compact module. As always feel free to ask any questions in the comments and like/subscribe for more videos every week."
Video uploaded by DivKidVideo