Quick Tip XIII : Improvised Multiples

The bigger your Eurorack gets, the more often you need longer cables.
In case you don't have enough long cables, i would advice you to put an A-180(-2) Multiples module somewhere in the middle of your system so you can extend your cable-reach from there.

A-164-1 as
improvised
Multiple

If you don't have enough multiple modules, you can also look if you have other options.

A-165 Trigger
Modifier Inputs

You should know that some Doepfer modules have multiple in- or outputs that are interconnected in a way that they can act as multiples as well...

You can recognize these in/outputs by the connected line between the mini-jacks.
The A-175 Voltage Inverter  and A-165 Trigger Modifier  are nice examples,  both have two separate channels, so also two multiples.
The A-164-1 Manual Gate module can even be used as 3 separate multiples.
The 2 outputs on the A-119 External Input module are connected together too, as well as the audio inputs on the A-126 Voltage Controlled Frequency Shifter.

A few more Doepfer modules also have this option, let me know in the comments if you find other modules that have this possibility.

This 'trick' works for CV signals and for audio but I should mention that if you use these modules as an improvised Multiple, most of the times you cannot use the module's original functions at the same time.

New Ladik Modules

Ladik J-010 XY Joystick module

Another new video from Ladik popped up on YouTube today.
I'm not exactly sure why, but there is some kind of charm about these kind of small east-European synthesizer companies IMO and finally i have a little bit more info about this Czechoslovakian manufacturer.

Like a site for example, find them now at http://ladik.eu/ and have a look at their other products, the Synare 3 clone for example looks and sounds pretty amazing.
I haven't had contact with the owner (yet), but i'm quite interested to know how this all started and where this company is heading to...
I would love to record an interview-session with them for an upcoming interview-series for my blog next winter. (I have a few more people on my list, including Dieter Doepfer himself)

Lakik J-011 J-Math module

Their latest video shows two of their new products;
The J-010, an industry standard Joystick CV controller for Eurorack, with two outputs with adjustable settings for range and offset for both X and Y directions.
and the J-011, The J-Math, a small 2-input Maths module that perfoms basic mathemetical funtions as X+Y, X-Y, -X-Y etc...
It works with control voltages and i assume it will do something interesting with audio too, but the info is not on the site yet.
Find more info about all their products at http://ladik.eu/.

Video: Modular XY-Joystick & J-math modules ladik J-010 & J-011 in Eurorack (Doepfer A100) format

" Industrial-grade Joystick ladik J-010 and math module J-011 for Eurorack (Doepfer A-100)."

Uploaded by RuprechtM

Random Video: DIY Acrylic Modular Syntheziser

This video comes from Jonas Karlsson via the Doepfer A-100 Analog Modular Facebook page.

It features himself, building and installing modules into his DIY acrylic Eurorack-case.

It even has some nice music...

Video: DIY Acrylic Modular Syntheziser

" DIY Building a Eurorack modular synthesizer case of acrylic and Doepfer DIY kit 1.
Stills and video, Music is made with Doepfer A-111-5 Mini synthesizer voice,
Make Noise Phonogene Sequenced with Make Noise René

And a Korg Monotron delay "

Uploaded by miip999

Zyntetix at Bandcamp

The Rest: Waldorf Pulse

Waldorf Pulse

The Doepfer A-100 is not the only analog synthesier in my studio.
Although i am not a collector, I do have some other quite interesting analog machines which I will review in a new section called 'The Rest'

Th first synth that I will discuss today is my Waldorf Pulse... just the plain edition, not the fancy 'plus'-version that was released one year later with CV-Gate outputs and an audio input...
The original Pulse does have the full MIDI in/out/thru sockets and a stereo audio-output.

Waldorf is the German company that emerged from the former digital synthesizer company  PPG,

The Pulse (Years of production: 1996-2002) is a monophonic synthesizer with three digitally controlled analog oscillators and an excellent arpeggiator. 

Waldorf Pulse modulation sources and  destinations

This 3-unit high synthesizer module has 100 patch programs which are divided into 59 presets, 40 user sounds and one random sound.
It has only 4 buttons and 6 knobs on the front panel and a very powerful programming/ modulation matrix.
Besides the more standard modulations, four assignable modulation routes with selectable source, amount and destination allow unlimited possibilities for creating fat analog bass and lead synth sounds.

Waldorf Pulse programming matrix

I have used this synth quite a lot, but it is not in my live-set at the moment. Maybe i should try to integrate it in my current setup... I want to change my studio just a little bit anyway (again)
The Pulse is a very powerful machine, but sadly it is monophonic.
The arpeggiator sounds great and is sync-able via MIDI, making it great for arpeggiated basslines and trancey bleeps.
The 24dB Low-Pass filter is nice but steep, and as you all might know by now, I do prefer 12dB filters...

Waldorf showed the follow-up, the Pulse 2 at the MusikMesse this year.
This is a much compacter desktop- module but it has the same type of programming matrix and many knobs on the front and is backwards compatible with the original Pulse.
It looks and sounds great and it has 500 memories, a large LCD display and up to 8-voice polyphony.
I think i'll stick to the original...

Video: Waldorf Pulse

Video uploaded by mummstylesound

Doepfer A-170 Dual Slew Limiter Video Tutorials by Raul Pena

Yay... a new tutorial series by Raul Pena has started...
The topic this time is the Doepfer A-170 Dual Slew Limiter , enjoy!

Video 1: Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter Basics
" First video in a series on the Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter. Discussing Basic Concepts and features. Audio demonstrations begin in next segment. Sound and Video by Raul Pena. "

Video 2: Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter-Processing and Oscilloscope views Pt 1

" A continuation of the Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter series. In this segment Oscilloscope views of subaudio waveforms are examined when processed through a slew limiter. Audio rate examples begin in the next segment. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 3: Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter-Processing and Oscilloscope views Pt 2

" A continuation of the Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter series. In this segment Oscilloscope views of subaudio waveforms processed with a slew limiter modulating a VCO are compared to those unprocessed. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 4: Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter Processing and Oscilloscope Views Pt 3

" A continuation of the Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter series. In this segment we continue to compare oscilloscope views of processed versus unprocessed signals effecting a VCO. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 5: Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter-Slew Portamento and Filtering Examples

" Continuing the Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter Series. This segment explores a more standard use of the Doepfer A170 Slew Limiter for Portamento. Also included is an example of using the A170 as a Filter. Sound and Video by Raul Pena. " 

Video 6: Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter-Glissando AM example

" A continuation of the Doepfer A170 Slew Limiter Series. In this segment we examine a patch from the manual involving AM.Special thanks to chrisso from the Muff's Module forum.Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 7: Doepfer A170 Dual Slew Limiter -Slew as AR example

" A continuation of the Doepfer A170 Slew Limiter Series. In this segment we examine a patch from the manual involving the A170 as an AR envelope.Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

New videos in this series will be added to this post weekly on Thursdays.

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:

raulsworldofsynths on YouTube

raulsworldofsynths on Vimeo

raulsworldofsynths on SoundCloud

raulsworldofsynths at iTunes

raulsworldofsynths at CDBABY

Doepfer A-135-1 Voltage Controlled Mixer Re-Design

Old version of the A-135

The original A-135 module was a simple quad voltage controlled mixer.
It was made of 4 independent linear VCA's, mixed to one common output.
For each VCA the following inputs and controls were available: audio input with attenuator, control voltage input with attenuator, gain (pre-amplification).
The VCA's were realized with high-quality CEM VCA's (CEM3381).

The module could be used for voltage controlled mixing of up to 4 audio signals with separate control voltages (e.g. by LFO's, ADSR's, Random, Shepard generator, MIDI-to-CV interface or other control voltage sources).

In June last year, Doepfer announced the re-design of several modules because of shortage of CEM3080 Chips that were used in this A-135 and other modules.
This year a few of these re-designed modules were released, each in a slightly extended/ improved version (like the A-130/131 that are now also DC-coupled, and the recently announced A-141-2).*

A-135-1 Redesign of the A-135

This new version of the A-135 also has some nice extras in the form of a Sum Out and 4 single outputs for each channel instead of only one (Mixed) Audio output on the original A-135.
They've also managed to make it only 18 HP instead of  22 HP wide.

The new version of the A-135-1 is also able to process slowly varying control voltages because the signal in/outputs are DC coupled.

The new version is manufactured from May 2013 and is available now.

* More re-designs were also promised to us last year, like the A-107, A-116, A-127, A-132-1, A-147, A-171), so that promises a lot for the future...

Find more about various Doepfer re-designs via http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/search/label/Re-design

SiteTip: A Patch A Day by Hamilton Ulmer

I have been following Hamilton Ulmer's 'A Patch a Day' project from the very beginning, and he completed the first full month of his eurorack/video-project this week.

On his YouTube page, he writes:
" I am not new to music, but I am new to modular synthesis. So I am creating one simple patch a day in order to get used to my small system.

I will do approximately 365 patches over the next year. Over that course of time I will likely add modules, change my setup, and explore various rabbit holes.

A few questions arise from these constraints. First, can I manage to create compelling sounds on a small system without investing a hell of a lot more money? Second, can I consistently produce something even moderately worthwhile every day?"

Videos: A Patch A Day by Hamilton Ulmer (Full Playlist)


Very interesting sounds and a great idea for a project, I'm looking forward to the next 11 months... ;-)

Site: http://hamiltonulmer.com/patch/
You can also find him on Twitter, Facebook, and Bandcamp

New A-141-2 Voltage Controlled ADSR/LFO Announced

A-141-2 Voltage Controlled
ADSR/LFO

Doepfer announced another new module this week.
The A-141-2 Voltage Controlled ADSR/LFO will replace the old A-141 module that is running out now. (the last ones are on sale)

The newly announced 14 HP wide A-141-2 Voltage Controlled ADSR/LFO will be similar to the A-141 but it has a lot of extras/ improvements.
For example it has a common CV input for all time parameters (A/D/R), a 3-position range switch for time range 10:1:100 and digital outputs for EOA (end of attack) and EOR (end of release).

It also has three envelope outputs: one with fixed ADSR, one inverted output and a third output with additional CV input for level (i.e. built-in level VCA)

There's also the possibility to change the shape of each segment of the envelope (exponential - linear - inverted exponential), it has a VCLFO mode and is planned for summer 2013

The price will be around 125.00 Euro, price and planned release date (August 2013) are still without obligation !

Source: Doepfer Website

Quick Tip XII : A-149-1/2 Connection

Since i recently own an A-149-1/2 Quantized/Stored Random Voltages combination i thought it would be a good idea to spend a few blogposts on it.
Sadly something in my mixing-desk popped yesterday, so i can't make any demo's of it right now (or even listen to loud music...) I hope fixing it will not take too long... or cost too much :-(

This first post is very basic, but i have seen the question on how to connect these two modules pop up on forums several times.
This can also be found in the A-149-2 Manual (PDF), but i guess this post (and picture) will provide all the info you need.

The A-149-2 must be placed directly next to the A-149-1 module (I prefer it on the right side as it seems more logic to me)

A-149 connection - A-149-2 on top, A-149-1 below that
The inter-connecting ribbon is the right one,
the ones on the left should be connected to the busboard

The special connecting ribbon cable is equipped with 10 pin female connectors on both ends.
Join the two modules with the supplied 10-way ribbon cable.
Make sure that the ribbon cable is not twisted, and that the colour-coded section is oriented the same on both modules.

One of the female connectors is already connected in the factory to the pin header labelled "JP2 TO A-149-1 EXPANSION CONNECTOR" on the A-149-2 pc board.
The second female connector of this cable is used to establish the connection between A-149-2 and A-149-1.
This female connector is put on the pin header labelled "JP5 EXPANSION" on the main board of the module A-149-1.
For both modules the cable has to be the same polarity (i.e. red wire to bottom for both modules).

Pay attention not to damage any of the parts on the boards.

Random Video: Eurorack Techno: Stress Testing Doepfer's A-132-4 VCA by Skrapadelix

I found this one on YouTube, a very nice subtle techno track by skrapadelix showing off his A-132-4 VCAs and more...
Enjoy!

Video: Eurorack Techno: Stress Testing Doepfer's A-132-4 VCA

" I just got a new VCA (well 4 of them actually) in the shape of the Doepfer A-132-4.I'm really impressed with the size (6hp), value for money and the sound - snappy, loud and clean. Here's a test patch with bass, percussion, hats and stab each routed through a separate VCA - and no matter how hot the levels get, the A-132-4 takes it all like a champ.

Patch details:
Kick drum: Analogue Solutions DB99
Bass: Cyclebox II sequenced by A-149 into VCA channel 1
Percussion: Piston Honda sequenced from A-160/A-161/A-138c into VCA channel 2
hats: A-118 into VCA channel 3
Stab: Flame Talking Synth into Pittsburgh delay into A-124 Wasp filter into VCA channel 4
The whole mix routed through the TipTop Audio Z5000 cv'd by the A-143-1.
As usual everything done in the wooden box in realtime with nothing else added..."

Uploaded by skrapadelix

Doepfer Gifts - Full Disclosure

Doepfer mug-shot

Back in January i received an e-mail from Dieter Doepfer himself in reply to a few questions that i had in preparation for a new blogpost.

Doepfer customer service has always been good, and Dieter always tries to personally answer his emails the same day. 

He is always willing to help me out with my retro-product-questions.
Besides the answers to my questions, he also had another nice announcement.

" Hello Pierre,
that's really a nice collection of our history products. 

When I have the time I could scan all the old documents I still have.
I think this will help you to continue the excellent work.
As you agreed that we link to your page I'm willing to offer some compensation for your job.
Publishing these details will also help us because sometimes customers ask for something like that.
Let me know if you are interested e.g. in a free A-100 module or similar."

Thank you, Dieter

...and last week, my package finally arrived.

They sent me a beautiful black-and-white Doepfer mug and an A-149-1/2 Quantized/Stored Random Voltages combination,  great modules that were high on my wishlist.

Doepfer mug and A-149-1/2 combo

I am very thankful for these gifts, and i see it as a recognition for (over) three years of blogging about modular synthesizers here at PatchPierre.Net.

I also feel that i have to mention these gifts from Doepfer here, as some kind of disclosure.

I will (of course) write one or more blogposts about my new modules, and i will keep on bringing you all the Doepfer news in the future.

Not much will change by these gifts, but i will stay the Doepfer fanboi that i always have been...

Random Video: Like Forbidden Planet by Yoric Spick

I liked this new video on YouTube.
Sadly it hasn't got much info, but what I see is a nice Eurorack module, controlled by a wooden custom-made (DIY?) controller box with faders, buttons and a joystick.
The video is shot on a mobile phone in portrait-mode and the video isn't very sharp, but I like the sound-effects that are created...

Video: Like Forbidden Planet

" Jeu aux joysticks et faders inspiré par les techniques du GRM. "

" Play with joysticks and faders inspired by the techniques of GRM

Uploaded by yoric spick

BookTip: Vintage Guides from FutureMusic

'50 Great Second-hand Buys' and '30 Vintage Buys' by FutureMusic

I have been buying/collecting Future Music Magazine almost since the beginning, i believe it was in 1993 when i first discovered the magazine and bought issue #5 in a Dutch bookshop.

Back then it was a great magazine, i remember that it was around the top of the big retro-hype that was going on in the mid-nineties.

One of the main advantages of that was that every month it was filled with lots of reviews of interesting hardware, in contrast to what i see lately whenever i pick one up in the local bookstore.

50 Great Second-Hand Buys
Free with Future Music #18
April 1994

About half a year after I bought my first FM  issue I got myself a subscription, and I have enjoyed the magazine for almost a decade.

I even had a year subscription to the Dutch version of the magazine.

Not only did the Future Music come with a free demo-CD with every issue, sometimes the came with other extras, like these two little books for example.

The '50 Great Second-Hand Buys' booklet (64 pages) came with the April issue of 1994 and featured descriptions and (basic) technical specifications of 50 of the best second-hand music-buys around.
It also gave advice on what to look for and what your rights were when you were looking into buying second-hand gear.
It's weird to see how dated the info in the book now looks with the AtariST and Amiga hardware and software-tips...

30 Vintage Buys
Free with Future Music #37
November 1995

The other booklet (32 pages) '30 Vintage Buys' appeared 1 ½ year later.
It had quite some overlap with the other book, but was also very interesting for people who wanted to buy second-hand classic gear.
This one included 30 retro gear reviews (including 13(!) Roland products), buying advice, pros and cons of the equipment and a short fact file section for each item.

If you are interested in vintage gear, these two books together are nice collector's items, but the info in it was rather limited and at some points very dated.
If you need more details on older equipment i suggest you read other books like the 'Keyfax Omnibus Edition' by Julian Colbeck or Peter Forrest's 'The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizers' (out of print) for example.
These books offer much more in-depth info, and cover much more instruments.

Also check out my other BookTips

Most Wanted VII: A-1?? Speech Module

Time to get one of my earlier segments off the shelf.

Since i first started to write this blog, i have posted quite a few 'Most Wanted' posts about modules i would really like to see being made by Doepfer.

In some cases i even did some predictions and/or wild guesses which proved to be not that far from what has come out of the hands of Doepfer lately.

For example... Take a look for example at my blogpost from December 2010, and compare it with the details on Doepfer's forthcoming A-190-8 MIDI-to-Sync Interface module.

A-1?? Speech module,
announced in the 2008 Doepfer brochure

I really wish i could tell you more about this one too, but i can't...

The A-1?? Speech Module was first mentioned in the 2008 A-100 brochure, as a 'synthetic human voice moduled controlled by CV/Gate or MIDI' 

I often wondered what this module would be like, and I have been waiting for more info about it ever since.
My hopes were that it would be a module with a SpeakJet chip inside, just like FLAME's Talking Synth, a module that has always intrigued me...
The variety of the SpeakJet chip ranges from speech-like sounds and synthetic robot voices (as well as beeps and alarms), to retro-style sci-fi sounds.
Due to the structure of the Speakjet (with its complex sound synthesizer, preset sounds and serial interface) it offers an impressive range of possibilities. The SpeakJet is not sample based as you might think, it has its own sound engine.

Video: Speakjet Chip Demo Mode

" In this video I demonstrate the Speakjet chip in demo mode in which you can hear all the pre-loaded vocal and sounds that the chip outputs in demo mode.
FYI: I used the mic connection instead of the 120ohm speaker that they recommend since you can barley hear the chip(in demo mode w/o an amplifier)!"

Uploaded by sergiolcjr

To be honest, i don't even care what speech-chip the A-1?? will have inside, the thought alone of bringing synthesized speech into a Eurorack modular is a good thought.
In my opinion it is hard enough nowadays to invent original and new truly analog modules, so i would welcome the use of more digital chips and circuits integrated in a CV/Gate-controlled modular environment.

Sadly enough, this module disappeared in all later Doepfer brochures.

I will investigate this further and post more about this module later... i hope... ;-)

A few days after posting this Dieter replied to my blogpost;
" The response to the announcement of the speech module was very poor.
And as there is already a similar module available from another manufacturer (Flame Talking Synth) we decided to stop this development and focus on other new modules." 

Find all my earlier 'Most Wanted' posts HERE

Modular Checker by Ladik

Now here's an interesting looking Eurorack test-tool...

Ladik (from the Czech Republic) has now produced a nice device that you can plug into any mini-jack-socket to check if there is any voltage output (positive and negative)

They look quite robust and they are made out of a Quality REAN (Neutrik) connector and has a bright bi-colored LCD (positive = red, negative = green) that starts glowing if it registers a signal of approx 2 Volts.

He hasn't listed them on eBay yet, but expect to find these soon HERE

Video: "Checker" for modular Eurorack synth

"Is an signal in this hole?
3,5mm jack (Rean by Neutrik)
Just checks if in a madular jack is positive or negative voltage over 2 volts."

Video uploaded by RuprechtM

Random Video: The Doepfer A-160 Clock Divider As Sequencer

I only recently found out that someone on MuffWiggler has created an impressive list with all kinds of Eurorack video tutorials. 

This list is being updated regularly, because i also see some of my own recent videos in the Doepfer section of the list.

One of the more interesting videos i stumbled upon there was a year-old video by hiawogice from YouTube that shows the use of a Doepfer A-160 Clock Divider as a nifty little stand-alone sequencer module.

Module A-160 is a frequency divider for clock/trigger/gate signals, particularly for rhythm uses.

At the outputs, you have access to the sub-divided clock signals, from half the clock frequency down to 1/64.
The Clock Divider can be used in combination with the A-161 Clock Sequencer to produce stepped sequences with a length of from one to eight events.

This video shows you can also have a lot of fun without the A-161 module...

Video: Doepfer a160 sequence

" demo of a fun, simple concept: clock divider as sequencer. sorry for camera mic audio quality"

Uploaded by hiawogice

Random Video: Emergence Sea by RockWoofStone

Video: Emergence Sea

" Listen on Soundcloud:https://soundcloud.com/rockwoofstone/...
Main track elements:
Reverb: Doepfer A-199
Delay: Echophon, Pittsburgh Delay
Panning: VCAMatrix + Circuit Abbey Invys
Drums: Tip-Top modules + MFB SEQ-01
VCOs: Sychrodyne, Doepfer A-110, Dixie, Rubicon, E340
Arpeggios from the Doepfer Dark Energy (out of shot) using it's built in arpeggiator.
Sequenced bass-line: SympleSEQ Mk II (out of shot) (with a tip of the hat to a certain early 80s track ;-)
Transposition: manually controlled from Pressure Points
Envelopes & main modulation elements from PEG, Maths, Quadra, Doepfer Quad LFO.
Emphasis/modulation of bassline gesture controlled from Doepfer A-178 Theremin (out of shot)."

Uploaded by RockWoofstone

SiteTip: ModularGrid.Net

ModularGrid is a community driven database for modular synthesizers with an intuitive drag and drop rack planner.
Their extensive database supports all common modular formats like Eurorack, Buchla, Dotcom, 5U, Frac and Serge.

The ModularGrid has many features and here are just a few:
- Combined Planner and Module Database
- Unlimited Racks
- Works on iPad
- Rate your favorite modules and find the most popular modules based on user ratings
- Access your Modular Sketches from any computer
- Show off and link to your Modular Sketches from websites or forums

I did write about saving patches and modular planners in previous posts (find them HERE and HERE), and this is a nice alternative. Even if your module is not in their database, you can simply add them yourself.

Sketch a Patch is a nifty paintbox feature inside ModularGrid.
With this feature you can draw cables on your screenshots and show the world your awesome patches.
It is also possible to share your whole rack with others on forums and/or for discussion elsewhere. (find mine at http://www.modulargrid.net/e/racks/view/4120 / work in progress)

Overall this is a very nice site, and although i hadn't visited it in quite some time, I will check it out more often now i've seen the improvements they went through...

Check it out at http://www.modulargrid.net/

https://www.facebook.com/ModularGrid on Facebook

Ladik M-011 Modular Voltage-meter Module for Eurorack

Now that looks interesting;
If you (just like me) can't get enough of blinking lights in your modular, this might be something for you.

On eBay this Bipolar voltmeter module called Ladik M-011 popped up.
It's a very basic analog VU-meter for modular synthesizers with 3 switchable ranges (front panel switch): -2 to +2V, -4 to +4V, -8 to +8V, and a zero-point in the middle.

4 x Ladik M-011 Modular Voltage-meter

It has 4 LEDs/steps for positive and 4 LEDs/steps for negative voltage in the selected ranges and it seems very
handy for checking CV or audio output levels between modules.
There's also an LED for the centrepoint/zero input.

For example - slow LFO will light up alternating bar up and down (depends of waveshape),
symmetric VCO output will light symmetric bars (alternating so fast for eye) which appears like
continuous light in positive and negative range.
Not suitable for exact measuring of CV (tuning check or so). Step spacing is too big for this.
All three panel jacks are parallel (can be used as one to two multiple).
Quality England connectors (not cheapo China), durable engraved panel.

Video: Modular V-meter module ladik M-011 in Eurorack (Doepfer A100) format

" V-meter for Eurorack (Doepfer A100 system).
3 switchable ranges (front panel switch): -2 to +2V, -4 to +4V, -8 to +8V, zero in the middle. 4 steps for positive and 4 steps for negative voltage in selected range.
Very handy for checking CV or audio levels between modules.
For example - slow LFO will light up alternating bar up and down (depends of waveshape), symmetric VCO output will light symmetric bars (alternating so fast for eye) which appears like continuous light in positive and negative range.
Not suitable for exact measuring of CV (tuning check or so). Step spacing is too big for this.
Some flicker is caused by camera shutter, with high-frequency input signals bars "steady lights" (too fast switching for eye)."

Uploaded by RuprechtM

Built by the seller.
The PCB on rear side is silver coated.
The module has a max. depth of 60 mm and costs $65
Power ribbon cable included (handy 20cm, 16/10pin). 6 mA +12V / 6 mA -12V

Via MATRIXSYNTH / eBay

Acid Reduction by PatchPierre

Video: Acid Reduction by PatchPierre

" PatchPierre live Acid Jam, unscripted and unrehearsed.
- equipment used:
Doepfer A-100 & MAQ16/3, Roland R-8 & TB-303, Elektron Machinedrum,
Captured Live on Ustream at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/NetPierre "

Doepfer History: Doepfer MCV1 MIDI-to-CV Converter

In 1986 Doepfer introduced the first in a series of MIDI-to-CV interfaces, the MCV1.
The MCV1 was a monophonic MIDI-to-CV/GATE-Interface that could control other vintage analog synthesizers equipped with CV and Gate/Trigger inputs via MIDI.

MCV1 front (version 4 or 5)

MCV1 was equipped with MIDI in and Thru, one CV (control voltage) output to control the VCO's (Voltage Controlled Oscillator) and a Gate/Trigger output to control the Envelope Generators.
It was suitable for synthesizers using standardized V/Octave or Hz/V and gate voltages from +5V to +12V or switched trigger (S-Trig)

The factory setting and adjustment of the CV output was 1.00V/Octave. To change or re-adjust the scale you had to insert a small screw driver into the the hole labeled ADJUST/ or SCALE right of the CV jack and turn the potentiometer setting to the desired value.
The factory setting for the GATE output was +5V voltage gate, and if you wanted to change the setting you had to remove the cover plate.
On the PC board inside you could find a  jumper that could be set in 3 ways: +5V or +U voltage gate or SWITCH TRIGGER (S-TRIG. e.g. used by MOOG).

There was also the possibility of changing additional settings by Program Change control numbers.

The interface had no separate ON/OFF switch nor have a built-in power supply. Instead it used an external plug-in type.

Back side of the MCV1 plus external adapter

The pictures probably show version 4 or 5. 

Versions 1 and 2 were available only as kits and there was no suitable housing available (i.e. pcb only). 

Version 1 had no sockets on board. The MIDI and CV/Gate sockets had to be wired manually. 

Version 2 had MIDI and CV/Gate sockets on board. MIDI channel and other parameters were adjusted by means of a DIP switch. 

Version 3 was a redesign of version 2 so that a small standard case could be used (the case in the picture). 

As far as Dieter remembers the only difference between versions 3 and 4 was the non-volatile memory. Version 3 did not store the settings (i.e. after power off the settings for MIDI channel, reference note and other parameters were lost and the unit started with Midi channel 1 and reference note 36 after the next power on). 

Version 4 had a non-volatile memory for these parameters 

The price range of the MCV1 was from around Euro 50 (kit version without case) to about Euro 90 (ready built with case).
Approximately 500 units were sold (i.e. all versions together).

Another fun fact: The guy who programmed the firmware for the MCV1 about 30 years ago showed up at the Doepfer/Alex4 booth at MusikMesse in Frankfurt this year. They had not seen each other in more than 15 years...

Find more info at http://www.doepfer.de/alte_anl.txt/MCV1_V5E.txt

*Special thanks to Dieter Doepfer again for all additional info

Doepfer A-124 Wasp Filter Tutorial Videos by Raul Pena

A brand new series of Raul Pena's excellent tutorial videos starts today.
This time all about the A-124 Wasp Filter, one of my favorites...

Video 1: Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter Basics

" A short description of the basic features and functions of the Doepfer A124 Wasp filter.Sound demonstrations begin in the following segments. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 2: Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter LP/BP/HP/Notch Demonstrations Part One

" A brief discussion of the sequencer setup for the demonstration. The Bandpass portion of this filter of the Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter is explored. Other filter types will be examined in the following segments. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 3: Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter LP/BP/HP/Notch Demonstrations Part Two

" A continuation of the exploration of the Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter. The Notch, Lowpass, and Highpass portions of the Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter are explored. In the next segment this filter is compared to the Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 4: Doepfer A124 Wasp vs. A121 Multimode Filter Part One

" Continuing the Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter series, this part one of two explores how the Doepfer A124 Wasp filter compares to the Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter. A brief discussion regarding setup followed by audio demonstration of Lowpass filter similarities. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 5: Doepfer A124 Wasp vs. A121 Multimode Filter Part Two

" Continuing the Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter series, part two of two explores how the Doepfer A124 Wasp filter compares to the Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter. Audio demonstration of Notch, Bandpass, and Highpass filter similarities. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 6: Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter- Modulation and Other Effects

" The final segment in the Doepfer A124 Wasp Filter Series. Covering Modulation and other effects. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

New videos in this series will be added to this post weekly on Thursdays.

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

raulsworldofsynths on YouTube

raulsworldofsynths on Vimeo

raulsworldofsynths on SoundCloud

raulsworldofsynths at iTunes

raulsworldofsynths at CDBABY

The easy and very useful self-oscillation modification (with clear pictures can be found via http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/search/label/A-124 )

Random Video: Analog Modular Karussell! System by Schneiders Buero

Schneiders Buero (distribution, sales representative, general importer of various European synthesizer brands and products) from Berlin posted a nice video showing how random people react to a modular synthesizer.

Video: Analog Modular Karussell! System by Schneiders Buero.

" Take a look at the analog modular system by Schneiders Buro.
See people interact with that really cool modular synthesizer system wich turns 360° while operating.

Analog Modular Karussell! System by Schneiders Buero JoCognito"

Random Video: Cumulus 2 - The Bridge by Glitzerstrahl

Glitzerstrahl has uploaded the sequel in his Cumulus series of videos. (Find part 1 HERE /work in progress)
Interesting noises this time again, made with a great variety of Eurorack modules, find a full list at http://glitzerstrahl.com/the-modular/

Video: Cumulus 2 - The Bridge by Glitzerstrahl

" Part two in the tentatively named Cumulus series. Based entirely on the modular synth, with the exception of the kick drum. This track continues to explore the theme of sound textures started with the Cumulus 1, but this time with a higher tempo.
The track was recorded in multiple layers with the Morphing Terrarium as the primary sound source, except for some guest play from time to time by the Bubblesound VCOs. Only reverb was added as an effect while mixing the layers. There are no other computer generated effects.

Of course, all layers where recorded as continues 'live' recordings, each track 'over dubbing' the previous ones. The video was recorded in separate takes for each layer, and since all I have is a web camera and iMovie the results are... not exactly stellar. But at least it gives you some pretty light to look at as an excuse to listen to the track! ;-P Not all of the layers where filmed so if you are trying to match up knob-wiggling with actual sound it wont exactly match all the time :).

Modules are from Doepfer, XAOC Devices, Synthesis Technology, Bubblesound, TipTop Audio, Pittsburgh Modular and 4ms. "

Uploaded by GlitzerstrahlMusic (subscribe!)

Using an A-115 For Complex Waveforms

The A-115 Divider module is very useful to create 'complex' layered basslines, and I use it a lot in my patches.

This module adds 4 separately mixable sub-octaves to your original signal, where F/2 = half the frequency = first sub-octave, F/4 = quarter frequency = second sub-octave, and so on...
Especially if you turn up the original oscillator source up a few octaves, you can get very nice results.

My latest PatchPourri video demonstrates a basic patch, where the original A-111 Oscillator (a square wave, driven by an MAQ16/3 Sequencer) is turned up 4 octaves before it is send into the A-115 Divider.
The A-115 can handle any kind of input waveform, but note that the 4 sub-octaves outputs are all true square waves, so the output provides 4 square waves plus the original signal.

Video: Using an A-115 for complex waveforms - PatchPourri IV by PatchPierre

" Short PatchPierre Tutorial
Equipment used: Doepfer A-100, Roland R8, Elektron Machinedrum "

Uploaded by PatchPierre (subscribe!)

Added filtering will bring even more color to your mixed signal, from here you can route it to anywhere in your system...

This is part 4 in my PatchPourri video-series withs basic patch-examples, find them all HERE

Maxi Schaltwerk

It's weird that i haven't posted any video's of the original Doepfer Schaltwerk sequencer (introduced in 1997) on my blog yet.

After the recent announcement of the upcoming A-157 (or Mini Schaltwerk),
I thought it would be interesting enough to look up more info about the Schaltwerk and share it with you.

It will take some time, but I will post more about it in future blogposts, so here is just a teaser, uploaded 2 years ago by popitem

Video: Doepfer Schaltwerk quick demo

" 3 tracks sequencing a modular synth with cv / gate5 tracks sequencing a midi drum modul (mfb kult)"

uploaded by popitem

As you see there are many differences between the original Schaltwerk and the new A-157/Dark Flow modules.

Besides the size, the main thing is that the new modules will only sequence triggers, and no note/pitch info. That's why i think it will be mainly used for triggering drum-sounds with it, that can ultimately result in very complex rhythms once the A-157-4 controller will be out.

Doepfer A-157 (or Mini Schaltwerk)
prototype at MusikMesse 2013

Funny thing is that the A-157 has the same amount of push-buttons (8 x 16 trigger matrix), only on a much tinier surface.
That's just another thing that i like about the Doepfer modules; many features on space-effective modules.
I am aware that in some cases you can hardly turn a knob if you have big fingers, but luckily I am blessed with small hands and fingers.

The original Schaltwerk is no longer available from Doepfer anymore.
Sometimes used ones pop up on eBay and other sites, good luck finding a second-hand one... I wish i had one too.

ps. There are not many Doepfer Schaltwerk videos on YouTube yet... Feel free to upload more Schaltwerk-videos in the near future if you have one.
Thanks in advance, more Schaltwerk next month...

Doepfer MAQ16/3 Versions

This year Doepfer is celebrating the 20th birthday of the MAQ16/3 MIDI Analog Sequencer with a special 'Dark Edition'

The current MAQ16/3 version

The original version of the MAQ was designed in cooperation with the German band Kraftwerk 20 years ago, and is used by many famous musicians like Human League, Jean-Michel Jarre, Klaus Schulze and many more.

These sequencers are best known in Doepfer's silver-grey color, but this new Dark Edition is not the first black MAQ sequencer that they sold.
In fact there were a few different versions that gradually evolved into the current version.

The first MAQs for example, only had 8 presets, no CV/Gate outputs, and a potentio-meter instead of a rotary encoder for data input.

An overview of the most important innovations of the current version 3.xx compared to the older versions 1.xx and 2.xx:

- CV and Gate output for each row (not on the original version)

- 30 preset memories (instead of 8 only)

- Editing feature of all preset data (not only the running parameters but even the step values)

- New additional running modes (e.g. one shot and serial connection of rows)

- On/Off for single steps or complete rows

- Remote control via Midi standard messages

- Step advance via external Midi note on message (no longer clock controlled)

- A rotary encoder instead of potentiometer for data input

- Dark Energy-style knobs (Dark Edition only)

The first black MAQ16/3 model - Picture by Fixed1t

As i wrote in an earlier post, the current MAQ16/3 including the new 'Dark Edition' is now totally 'maxed out', meaningnthat the existing hardware of the MAQ16/3 is already "exhausted" and it will be a problem to add more features with the existing controls and displays.
If you have an old model, you can still upgrade it to todays' standards.

Older devices with software V1.xx or V2.xx can still be updated to the current version 3.xx.
This requires the replacement of the old main board by the new one and the transfer of some integrated circuits from the old board to the new one (including the main processor with PLCC case).
In addition the data potentiometer has to be replaced by the rotary encoder and 6 holes for the CV/Gate sockets have to be drilled or punched into the rear panel.
If your unit is already equipped with the new main board an update to the latest firmware version is carried out simply by replacing the EPROM.

You can find out if your MAQ16/3 contains already the new main board by checking the installed firmware version. It is displayed for a short time after power on. If it shows 3.xx (xx = any number) the new main board is installed.

The latest firmware version for the old main board was 2.04 while the latest firmware version for the new main board is 3.72 (as of summer 2012).

The installed firmware version of my own MAQ is 3.61...

The new MAQ16/3 Dark Edition

Read more about the MAQ updates at http://www.doepfer.de/maq_update.htm

Using an A-118 to Liven Up A Bassline (Look, No Hands)

One of the main problems that I have when performing live with a modular synth is that i only have two hands.
This new PatchPourri post shows an example how to simply  'automate' a filter with an A-118 Noise/Random Voltage module.
This can add a nice random effect to your basslines, with the right settings, and might be useful in live situations where you can't pay attention to everything.

I don't use the Noise audio-outputs of the A-118 Noise/Random Voltages a lot, but i love using the random outputs of this module.
(I even added a 2nd Random output to this module a few weeks ago - find my blog-post about it HERE)

The patch goes as follows;
A sequence on the MAQ16/3 controls an A-111 VCO sawtooth that goes into an A-121 Multimode filter
A-118 RND output controls the Filter cutoff, the other (copied) A-118 RND output controls the Resonance.
I added an envelope to the A-121 CV2-input to make it a little bit more punchy.

No edits or effects... no hands (just watch the LEDs on the A-118)
All hands were free for simple additional drums from my Machinedrum.

Video: Using an A-118 Random Voltage to liven up a bassline - PatchPourri III by PatchPierre

" Short PatchPierre Tutorial (Look... no hands, just watch the A-118's LEDs)
Equipment used: Doepfer A-100 system,A-118 Noise/RND Voltage and A-121 Multimode BandPass filter plus Roland R8 and Machinedrum"

This principle was also (maybe even better) used in one of my earlier A-120 videos, just keep your eye on the yellow wire.

Deep Inside The Doepfer Booth at MusikMesse

Ah... the first pictures and videos from the Doepfer/Alex4 booth at MusikMesse are popping up on the internet.

This first one, from http://stereoklang.se/blog/ (@steelberryclone on Twitter) shows the inside of the Alex4 booth with a glipse of their new products... 

Video 1: Deep inside the Doepfer booth at MusikMesse

" A quick tour of all the modular stuff you will find in the realms of Doepfer
Nice and bleepy with loads of modules and flashing lights
Get all your electronic music news first here at Steelberry Clones http://stereoklang.se/blog
SBCLive@MusikMesse2013 "

Source: http://stereoklang.se/blog/deep-inside-the-doepfer-booth-at-musikmesse

The next video, from CDMblogs / CDMTV shows a little more of new A-157 Trigger sequencer.

Video 2: Doepfer Sequencers at Musikmesse

" Impressions from the ALEX4 booth, modular sequencers, sequencing. "

Tipped by FSK1138 from http://www.modulargrid.net/

SonicState gives a nice overview of the whole Alex4-booth in the next 2 videos, with an introduction by Andreas Schneider from Alex4 (+ Schneiders Buro) in video 3, and an interview with Dieter Doepfer in video 4.

Video 3: MESSE13: Alex4 European Modular Synth Distribution

" MESSE13: Alex4 European Modular Synth Distribution Mr Schneider Tells us all about it "

Video 4: Dr Doepfer Introduces New Synth Modules - MESSE 2013
" MESSE13: A Chat With Dr Doepfer New Serge slew, gate sequencer, MAQ16/3 Dark Edition "

More SonicState MusikMesse videos HERE

Doepfer A-127 VCRF Re-Design

I almost missed this between all Doepfer's other MusikMesse announcements;
As of April 2013 the Voltage Controlled Resonance Filter A-127 is available in an improved version.
Instead of the CA3080 chip (not available anymore) that was used in the original versions, new high-end circuits (SSM2164) are now used.

Doepfer A-127 Triple Voltage Controlled Resonance Filter

"The SSM2164 chip contains four independent voltage controlled amplifiers (VCAs) in a single package. High performance (100 dB dynamic range, 0.02% THD) is provided at a very low cost-per-VCA, resulting in excellent value for cost sensitive gain control applications.
Each VCA offers current input and output for maximum design flexibility, and a ground referenced -33 mV/dB control port."

A-127 + Expander

This is probably the Doepfer filter that i use the most, and the brand new re-design also promises to reduces the noise floor and the distortion clearly, according to Doepfer.
(The noise that i never really noticed before...)

The price of the new A-127 VCRF remains unchanged.

Check out how to make an A-127 expander module HERE.

Doepfer Monster Base Unpacking Video by Raul Pena

Video: Doepfer Monster Base Unpacking

" A short unpacking video of my new Doepfer Monster Base.My subscribers will like to know there will be a change of scenery soon. I though this an appropriate way to let them in on the secret. ;). Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Uploaded by Raul Pena

Custom Wooden Side-panels For Your Synth

I did spend a few words on the wooden side-panels for the Dark Energy / Dark Time that i had seen online more than a year ago.
Until now i had little info on them, but now i have a little bit more.

Dark Energy with custom wooden side-panels

The side-panels are made and sold by Howard, who is calling himself Synthfan73 on eBay UK
He makes and sells these custom made wooden side-panels for all kinds of desktop synths like the Dark Energy (1 and 2), Dark Time, Moog Minitaur, Access Virus b, Waldorf Q(+)
He also created wooden panels for the Clavia Nord Lead Desktop 1 / 2 / 2x, Vermona Mono Lancet and Novation Nova. (see video)

In my opinion they look great and perhaps they are ergonomic too.
If i only had one of these 'Dark' instruments i would definitely try them out.

Due to popular requests, he makes the Dark Energy panels in dark Saple Mahogany wood.

They are coated in Danish finish and fit both Dark Energy and Dark Time and can be found on Ebay UK under 'Doepfer Dark Energy.

£29.99 a set. (+ postage)

Video: Doepfer Dark Energy & Moog Minitaur Custom Panels

" Custom Panels Montage."

Uploaded by Howdy

Available from eBay UK (Not to be confused with the guy in eBay US).

Doepfer A-121 Multimode Filter Tutorial Videos by Raul Pena

As promised, a new series of Raul Pena's excellent tutorial videos has started today.
This time Raul digs deep into, and explains all about one of my favorite filters, the Doepfer A-121 Multimode Filter.

Video 1: Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter Basics

" A brief look at the Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter. Basic Features and functions are discussed.
Audio demonstrations in the next video in the series.
Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 2: Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter Low and High pass Filters Demonstration

" A brief look at the Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter.
Audio demonstrations of the Doepfer A121 Multimode filters.
A specific look at the Low and High Pass Filters. Next video in series looks at the Band Pass and Notch filters.
Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 3: Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter- Band Pass and Notch filters Demonstration

" A brief look at the Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter. Audio demonstrations of the Doepfer A121 Multimode filters. A specific look at the Band pass and Notch Filters. Next video in series looks at Modulation of the filter.Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

Video 4: Doepfer A121 Multimode Filter- Modulation Demonstration

" Last segment in the Doepfer A121 Multimode filter series. Segment explores modulation of the A121 via the 1/V per octave inputs for frequency and resonance. Sound and Video by Raul Pena."

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

raulsworldofsynths on YouTube

raulsworldofsynths on Vimeo

raulsworldofsynths on SoundCloud

raulsworldofsynths at iTunes

raulsworldofsynths at CDBABY

Doepfer MAQ16/3 Already Maxed Out

The announcement of the re-issued MAQ16/3 Dark Edition has been warmly welcomed by most people.

It has also triggered the obvious MAQ-update questions again.
Although i am very happy with my MAQ16/3 MIDI Analog Sequencer, i agree that there are still many points for improvements in my, and other people's opinion.

The main issue that i have with the MAQ is basically the limited number of only 30 presets/memories.

It could also help if it had different scale settings, shuffle control and a bigger display for example.

Sadly the new MAQ Dark Edition will not bring any changes in that...

My Doepfer MAQ16/3 with
firmware version V3.61

Back in 2005, Doepfer explained how they already maxed out the capacity of the original MAQ hardware design.

" We discussed several times a "MAQ16/3 Mark II".
The main reason why we did not develop a new sequencer so far (2005) is because we wanted to offer the possibility to upgrade older devices (as for the CV/Gate output
addition from version 3.0).
Most of the suggested improvements would require a hardware change that does not allow to update older devices (e.g. LC display or a second display for more information, additional LEDs to display the step that's value is displayed currently, rotary encoders instead of potentiometers for exact adjustment, and some more)

Maybe there will come a "MAQ16/3 Mark II" at some time but it will not be possible to upgrade the existing MAQ devices because of hardware/mechanical limitations. 

We believe that the existing hardware of the MAQ16/3 is already "exhausted" and it will be a problem to add more features with the existing controls and displays. 

For example the glowing LEDs to show the currently selected row or the usage of the points of the display are already such makeshifts."

Source: Doepfer Yahoo Usergroup - Oktober 2005  

What you will get with the new Dark Edition MAQ, is still an awesome and affordable sequencer, that hasn't been available in black for a very long time and that will probably look better in your setup as the recent silver(y) edition... (that will also stay available for now)
Doepfer is being very smart IMO with using their already infamous range of 'Dark'-branded products for this latest edition, and that also makes it nice for the collectors.

Find all features of the recent MAQ16/3 at http://www.doepfer.de/maq.htm

Using an A-174-1 Joystick for WobWob

I'm not sure how to name my latest collection of short basic tutorials yet, but i am considering the name "PatchPourri" for this weird collection of short basic patch-ideas.

My latest video shows how you can simply use an A-174-1 Joystick for dubstep-like effects.
The idea comes partly from blogpost i wrote about Dmitry Shtatnov's DIY-fader, but i used this patch before on several other occasions.

In the video a 2-note sequence from the MAQ16/3 controls a standard A-110 VCO.

I connected the X-output from the joystick module to the CV input of a VCA, and the Y-output controls an A-121 Filter (lowpass mode).

Very simple, very basic... off course you can expand this in all kinds of ways.

Have fun experimenting!

Video: Using an A-174-1 Joystick for WobWob by PatchPierre

" Short PatchPierre Tutorial
Equipment used: Doepfer A-100, Roland TB-303, Machinedrum "

Uploaded by PatchPierre (subscribe!)

Read how i removed the spring from the x-axis of the A-174 Joystick module at http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/2010/09/happy-modding-ii-joystick-spring.html