Doepfer NAMM 2018 A-100 Standard Module Announcements

A-123-2

My third and last post about the New Doepfer announcements for NAMM 2018... (January 25/28 2018, Anaheim, Hall A, booth 10706)
The other 2 blogposts are about the  Dark Energy III and their new Polyphonic Modules...
Among the newly announced "Standard Modules" there are these little gems

The A-123-2 6/12/18/24dB Highpass Filter is an interesting voltage controlled highpass filter with four filter outputs (6, 12, 18 and 24dB slope). It also features voltage control of the resonance. These controls and in/outputs are available:

• Audio In with attenuator (Lev)

• Manual Frequency control (Frq)

• FCV1: Frequency control input (~ 1V/oct)

• FCV2: Frequency control input with polarizer

• QCV: Resonance control input with attenuator

• Manual Resonance control (Q)

• 6dB Output

• 12dB Output

• 18dB Output

• 24dB Output

A-140-2

The new A-140-2 Dual Micro ADSR

contains double ADSR type envelope generators behind a front panel with 8 HP only. Each ADSR provides these controls and in/outputs:

• Attack (A), manual control

• Decay (D), manual control

• Sustain (S), manual control

• Release (R), manual control

• Gate Input

• Retrigger Input

• CVT Input with attenuator (CVT = CV Time)

• Envelope Output 1

• Envelope Output 2

• LED control

By means of internal jumpers one can select which parameters are controlled by the CVT input (e.g. D only or D+R or A+D+R) and in which direction (i.e. if an increasing CVT shortens or stretches the time parameter in question). By means of another jumpers output 2 can be set to normal or inverted envelope).

Two more jumpers are used for the optional bus

access to the gate signal of the bus for each ADSR.

A-142-3

A-142-3 Envelope Controlled VCA Module A-142-3 is the combination of a simple AD/AR envelope generator and a VCA behind a front panel with 4HP only.

The type of envelope can be selected by means of a toggle switch between A/D (Attack-Decay) and A/R (Attack/Release). Another toggle switch is used to choose envelope or (free running) LFO mode.

The envelope output controls a linear VCA.

These controls and in/outputs are available:

• Attack control

• Decay/Release control

• AD/off/AR switch

• Envelope/LFO switch

• LED (envelope display)

• Gate Input

• Manual gate (momentary switch)

• Envelope Output

• VCA CV Input (normalled to Envelope Output)

• Audio Input with Level control

• Audio Output (the outputs of several A-142-3 can

be internally mixed together)

Furthermore, the modules that were already announced at Superbooth 2017 like the A-138s Mini Stereo Mixer and A-150-8 Octal Voltage Controlled Switch will be available pretty soon now...  and the A-180-9 got a final facelift and got upgraded from 12 to 14 channels through standard network cables.


Read more about those modules at
http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/2017/04/superbooth-2017-new-doepfer-module.html

Source: Doepfer NAMM 2018 PDF

Doepfer NAMM 2018 A-100 Polyphonic Module Announcements

Right in time for the upcoming NAMM exhibition later this week (January 25/28 2018, Anaheim, Hall A, booth 10706), Doepfer announced a few more interesting A-100 modules (next to the Dark Energy III news). Too many new modules for one blogpost, so I had to split it up into multiple blogposts... The next one will contain their new 'standard' modules.

The magic word for Doepfer this year seems to be Polyphony, because most of the new products are perfect companions for the highly anticipated A-190-5 Polyphonic CV/Gate Interface, a module that has been in pre-production for a loooong while now. 

On the Doepfer website we can still read the message We cannot yet specify a definite release date but hope that it will be available in 2011, from the early prototype stages.

We already know most of its features, i have been blogging about it since 2011, but here are the details once more:

A-190-5 is a Midi/USB interface that generates 4 gate signals and 12 control voltages to control up to four synthesizer voices (i.e. VCOs and associated modules like envelope generators, VCFs and VCAs) for polyphonic sound generation. 

The A-190-5 will be equipped with different polyphonic, duophonic, paraphonic and monophonic modes which are selected by means of menu buttons and the display.
For each channel a gate, a note controlled CV (1V/Oct.) and two auxiliary CVs (e.g. for velocity or controlled by midi control change messages) are available. In play mode the states of the four gates are displayed by four LEDs integrated into the buttons 1-4.
Firmware updates are possible via USB.

The A-111-4 Quad Precision VCO will be available soon too... adding 4 wide-range precision-VCOs to complement the Polyphonic module and was already announced at Superbooth 2017. Read all about this at http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/2017/04/superbooth-2017-new-doepfer-module.html

A-105-4

Brandnew is the A-105-4 Quad SSM VCF filtermodule, their first polyphonic filter and contains four identical 24dB Lowpass filters (SSM2044 type).
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"

This chip was used e.g. in these synths: Korg Polysix, Korg Mono/Poly, Fairlight II, PPG Wave 2.2 und 2.3, Emu SP-1200, Siel KIWI,  DK600, Siel Opera 6, and the Simmons SDS5.

The first Prophets 5s used the SSM2040 - the precedessor of the 2044 - that generates a very similar sound. (source)  Version 3 of the Prophet 5 switched to the thinner sounding Curtis CEM3320. The Pro One also used that chip.

It has available common manual controls and CV inputs with attenuators for these parameters:
• Frequency (F)
• Frequency Modulation Intensity (FM)
• Resonance (Q)
• Audio Input Level (L)

Each filter has available a separate FM input as well as an Audio Input and Output. The FM input is typically connected to the output of the associated envelope
generator (e.g. A-141-4). The envelope amount for all four filters is controlled by the FM knob and the CVFM input by means of four built-in VCAs, which are controlled by the FM control and CVFM input.

A-132-8

This allows also voltage control of the envelope amounts. In addition common frequency modulation for all filters is possible (e.g. by an LFO). For this the CVF input with attenuator can be used.
The range of the audio input level control (L) allows also clipping/distortion with typical A-100 audio levels (e.g. from A-111-4) at the filter inputs.
Even this parameter is voltage controllable as well as the resonance (Q).
Application: polyphonic patches (four VCFs with same parameters)

Another new Polyphonic module is the A-132-8 Octal VCA:
The A-132-8 contains four VCA pairs. Each pair includes two daisy-chained VCAs. One VCA has a linear control scale, for the second VCA linear or exponential control scale can be chosen by means of jumpers.
Doepfer decided to provide two VCAs for each voice because usually one VCA is required for loudness envelope and a second one for velocity (or another function).
For each VCA these in/outputs are available:

A-141-4

• CV Input VCA 1
• CV Input VCA 2
• Audio Input
• Audio Output
Audio Sum Output is also available.
The module features two Initial Gain controls, that enable the opening of the first (G1) and/or second VCA (G2). This is necessary when the VCA in question is not in use (i.e. no external CV available). Otherwise the VCA would close. They are also useful for testing polyphonic patches.
Application: Polyphonic patches with two VCAs per voice.

The A-141-4 Quad Poly VCADSR contains four ADSR type voltage controlled envelope generators with common manual controls and CV inputs with polarizers for the parameters Attack (A), Decay (D), Sustain (S) and Release (R).

Each of the four envelope generators has available a gate input, a control LED and an envelope output.
Application: Polyphonic patches (four envelope generators with the same envelope parameters to control four VCFs, VCAs or other modules)

Source: Doepfer NAMM 2018 PDF

New Podcast: Why We Bleep by Mylar Melodies

I've been a long-time fan of Mylar Melodies. and his (Eurorack) video-productions, and yesterday he released the first episode of a brand new monthly podcast interview-series.

The new show is called Why We Bleep, and in it he meets electronic music makers and the people who make their equipment.
He explores their experiences, their processes, and see what can we learn from them.
"The show is inspired by an eternal struggle to get better at making music. To better understand the mysterious, unique and amazing people behind the equipment and music that we love. And to better understand where music making might be going.", according to the creator.

The podcast is available on iTunes, YouTube, and HERE on his site, and takes the form of a conversation recorded in-person, and also captured on camera where possible.

The first episode starts with meeting @musicthing Tom Whitwell, from Music Thing Modular, open source electronic musical instruments: http://musicthing.co.uk/modular/

Next episode will be Justin Owen of Abstract Data, Abstract Data designs & manufactures electronic musical instruments & effects in Eurorack Modular and Desktop formats.

⏵Video: https://youtu.be/N18ro8nxXI4 

⏵Subscribe on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/why-we-bleep/id1338201154 …

Website: http://www.whywebleep.com

Doepfer Dark Energy III Announced

Doepfer announced some interesting new stuff for the upcoming NAMM  exhibition later this week.

(January 25/28 2018, Anaheim, Hall A, booth 10706)

I will post the new A-100 modules in another blogpost, but first the exciting Dark Energy III

Dark Energy III is the successor of the Dark Energy II, a monophonic stand-alone synthesizer with USB and Midi interface. Main differences between II and III are an

improved VCO (no warm-up period, additional triangle waveform, wider frequency range), resettable LFOs, improved ADSR and a lot of internal access points for DIYers.

This will make it easier for DIY-ers to create their own breakout boxes with extra functions, like Organzoner did a while ago... He posted a great video with a step-by-step tutorial on how to expand the capabilities of the Doepfer Dark Energy 2 by adding a breakout box...

The filter of the Dark Energy II has been unchanged.

The sound generation and all modulation sources are still 100% analog, only the USB/Midi interface contains digital components. 

􀂃 VCO:
o Triangle based, 10 octaves frequency range
o Tune control and Octave switch – 1 / 0 / +1 octave
o FM input with selectable source (ADSR / off / LFO1)
o Manual PW control and PWM with selectable source (ADSR / off / LFO2) for rectangle wave
o Waveform switch
o Additional external CV inputs for frequency and pulsewidth of the rectangle
􀂃 VCF:
o 12dB Multimode VCF with continuous mode control (lowpass – notch – highpass - bandpass)
o Manual Frequency control and FM with selectable source (ADSR / off / LFO2)
o Resonance control, up to self oscillation
o Additional external CV and external audio input
􀂃 VCA:
o Linear control scale
o Manual Amplitude control and AM with selectable source (ADSR / off / LFO1)
o Additional external CV input
􀂃 Envelope:
o Improved ADSR type with 3-position range switch
o Additional external gate input
o Control LED
􀂃 LFO:
o Two resettable LFOs (external Reset inputs)
o manual frequency control and 3-position range switches
o Waveform switches triangle/square
o LED controls

More info at http://www.doepfer.de/home_e.htm

Superbooth 2017 New Doepfer Module Announcements

From April 20-22, 2017 the second Superbooth takes place in Berlin.

Doepfer announced the new modules that will be on display there... with some very exciting new toys.
Some of the new products were already presented as prototypes at NAMM and are now available (e.g. the voltage controller performance mixer series A-135-4). But they will also show some new gear in Berlin (e.g. the quad VCO A-111-4, the micro keyboard A-173-1/2, the miniature stereo mixer A-138s and the low cost versions of the monster cases).

A-111-4 Quad VCO

A-111-4 contains four precision VCOs with 10 octaves range and has individual controls, inputs and outputs for each VCO available as well as common controls.
After all the A-111-4 is very similar to four A-111-3 with built in output mixers for the three waveforms and a common control unit for all VCOs. Controls, inputs and outputs (individual for each and common for all VCOs): 1V/Octave CV input Octave switch (+1/0/-1 octave) Tune control (range internally adjustable by jumpers: 2 semitones / 1 octave / 4 octaves) Modulation CV input (common unit is fixed to FM) Modulation destination FM or PWM (only for the individual VCOs) Modulation intensity Triangle output Sawtooth output Rectangle output Sync input (only for the individual VCOs, internally selectable hard or soft sync, CEM3340 hard sync type)

Typical applications: fat sounding monophonic VCO with the possibility to adjust intervals paraphonic patches (all four VCOs processed by one VCF/VCA) full polyphonic patches in combination with the polyphonic CV interface A-190-5 Date of Delivery: summer 2017 Price: ~ Euro 400.00

A-138s Stereo Mixer

A-138s is a simple but useful 4-in-2 panning/mixing tool. It has four inputs available with level control knobs plus a stereo (L/R) output.

A-173-1/173-2 Micro Keyboard

A-173-1/2 is a module combo that is used to generate a manually controlled
1V/Octave CV signal and up to 15 manually controlled gate/trigger signals.
Typical applications are the transposition of a sequence by means of the CV output (without the need of an external keyboard and CV interface) and the manual generation of gate/trigger signals for start, stop, envelope generator triggering and other trigger tasks. A-173-1 is the transmitter module and is made of a 1 ½ octaves micro keyboard and an octave switch. A-173-2 is the receiver module and generates several gate/trigger signals and a 1V/Oct. CV signal.
The upper section of the module is used for the gates/triggers which are controlled by the corresponding buttons of the A-173-1.
Each output can be programmed as gate (pressing/releasing the corresponding key turns the gate on/off) or toggle (pressing the corresponding key changes the state) or trigger (pressing the corresponding key generates a short trigger signal).
The state of each output is displayed by an LED. The lower section of the module is used the generate a 1V/Oct. CV signal and gate signal in the usual way.

A-180-9
Multicore
Prototype

By means of the learn feature of the A-173-2 (i.e. defining the key for 0V CV) a few buttons can be separated from the CV generation section so that these buttons only control gate/trigger outputs without affecting the CV.
That way e.g. start/stop or other triggers become independent from the CV section. The modules communicate via standard midi note on/off messages and are connected internally by means of a 2-wire cable. That way the modules can be mounted at different positions within the case. Date of Delivery: summer 2017 Price: ~ Euro 180.00 (both modules)

Also a prototype of a new Multicore was on display, but the module has been updated, so the info here is old... Find info about the definitive 2018 version HERE

A-180-9 is another simple but useful tool. It is used to connect up to 12 signals between two different
For operation two of the modules (male and female version) and a Sub-D cable with the required length are required.
Because only male/female Sub-D cables are common on the market also one male and one female version of the module is required for the connection.cases by means of one standard Sub-D cable only. That way it's possible to pre-patch e.g. two (monster) cases and connect all signals, that are required in both cases (e.g. clock, start/stop, master CV) by one cable only instead of 12 individual patches. The module is fully passive (no power supply required) and simply wires the 12 sockets to 12 pins of the Sub-D connector.

Source: Doepfer.de
Source: www.SuperBooth.com

Doepfer A-150-8 Octal Manual/Voltage Controlled Programmable Switches Announced

Doepfer has just released some info on their new modules for NAMM 2017 (19-21 jan.)

Besides some vintage editions of existing modules, the A-135ABC VC Performance mixer modules, the A-110-6Trapezoid Thru Zero Quadrature VCO and a new A-100LC1 case (economically priced small housing with 48 HP width) there was also one other interesting new module announcement:

Module A-150-8 contains eight manually/voltage controlled switches. 

Each of the eight switches has a manual control button (Man.), a control voltage input (CV), a common Out / Input (O/I), and two In / Outputs (I/O1, I/O2). 

The switches are bi-directional, i.e. they can work in both directions, so can connect one input to either of two outputs, or either of two inputs to one output. 

A-150-8 Octal VC Switch prototype

Two LEDs show which in / output is active (ie. which is connected to the common out / input). 

In addition the LEDs are used for the programming of the module:

For each unit the operating mode can be selected: 

Toggle or Level controlled. In Toggle mode the rising edge of the CV input or operating the manual control button changes the state of the switch. In Level mode the switch state is defined by the voltage applied to the CV input (low voltage = I/O1, high voltage = I/O2) or by the state of the manual control button (not pressed = I/O1, pressed = I/O2). 

The modes are programmed very easily: Operating the Toggle/Level button of the program section displays the current state of each switch with the LEDs (left LED on = Toggle mode, right LED on = Level mode). 

Operating the manual control button of the switch in question changes the toggle/level mode.

In addition it's possible to define master/slave groups. In such a group the upper unit (= master) controls also the state of the following switches provided that they are defined as slaves. 

Master/slave programming is also very simple: Operating the Master/Slave button of the program section displays the current state of each switch with the LEDs (left LED on = Master, right LED on = Slave). 

Operating the manual control button of the switch in question changes the master/slave mode. 

When all 8 units are defined as master each switch is independent of each other. If for example the sequence is MSSSMSMS the control unit of the first switch also controls the switches 2, 3 and 4. The control unit of switch #5 also controls the switch #6, and the control unit of switch #7 also controls the switch #8.

Doepfer is also thinking about a small preset management with eight presets which store the states and modes of all switches. But they are not yet sure if this makes sense because the configuration of the switches is associated very closely to the patching of the sockets.

Date of Delivery: Spring 2017 

Price: ~ US$ 160.00 (Euro 150.00) 

Source: http://www.doepfer.de/home_e.htm

Doepfer A-135-4A/B/C Voltage Controlled Performance Mixer Modules Announced

The A-135-4A and B prototypes on display
at the Amsterdam Dance Event in
October 2016

In a previous blogpost I was rather excited about my own new A-138p/o Performance mixer combo.
I bought i just right before I knew that Doepfer was working on a voltage controlled version of this module...

On first impression, the new A-135-4A Voltage Controlled Performance Mixer looks quite the same as the non-cv-controllable A-138p Performance Mixer, only with extra LEDs for displaying the incoming CV voltages for all parameters (except Gain).

Module A-135-4B is the CV-input module, where 16 different control voltages can alter 16 parameters on the A-135-4A Mixer... The modules must be connected via an int 20pin ribbon-cable.

Module A-135-4C is a four-fold envelope follower with adjustable attack and release time for each channel.
The main function of the module is to derive four envelopes from the A-135-4A audio input signals. These voltages can be used to control parameters of the main module A-135-4A via the CV input module A-135-4B2. Typical applications are ducking (e.i. the signal of one channel is used to mute another channel more or less), as well as compressor and expander functions.

A-135-4A/B/C VC Performance mixer prototype
with the A-138o Output module

A-135-4B CV Inputs Module close-up

The modules of the A-135-4 series can be combined with the (non voltage controlled) mixer modules A-138o/p so that these can be used as output module for the A-135-4A. A-135-4A and A-138p can be connected together to the same A-138o to obtain e.g. four fully voltage controlled channels (A-135-4A) and four manually controlled channels (A-138p).

This combo will probably available before spring of this year.

Source:
Preliminary info via http://www.doepfer.de/A1354.htm

Doepfer A-138p/o Performance Mixer Combo

The latest addition to my modular system is the A-138p/o Performance Mixer set of modules...

Modules A-138p/o are a simple performance mixer that I use as and end-mixer for all the signals coming out of my A-100, and for merging my TB-303 audio, before it all goes into my mixing-desk.

Module A-138p is the 4-fold input module, A-138o is the output module that can be combined with one or more A-138p.
I read somewhere that the module didn't start off as commercial product, but as a personal hobby-project of Dieter Doepfer who just needed this module for himself... It did go through quite a few prototype stages before it was released in this final form.

The A-138p has 4 input channels, with separate controls and a mute
switch for each channel.

A-138p/o in my current setup, with
the aux send/return patched through
the Qu-Bit RT-60 DSF Multi fx

The controls are for Gain (control to adapt different audio levels -also for external signals), Level (the main volume control), Aux and Panning
An internal jumper for each channel lets you choose between Aux pre/post main Level control.
There is an internal connection to the output module and to other A-138p modules
The A-138p requires the A-138o Output module (no stand-alone use)

The A-138o Output module features level controls for Left, Right and Aux,  and output sockets for Left, Right and Aux (3.5 mm mono sockets), it requires at least one A-138p (no stand-alone use)

I must say that I am extremely happy with these new modules. It's just what I needed to create an easier workflow in my system.
I especially like the Aux send/return function, which makes it a perfect companion for my Qu-Bit RT-60 DSP multi-effects module, but you can also use it for sending audio to a BBD-module, a filter or spring reverb for example.
Alternatively the Aux send can be used for pre-listening in combination with a headphone.
Like any other Doepfer module this one is easy to use too, the controls are very basic and straightforward. These modules are now the heart of my A-100 system.

About a week after I ordered mine, the word got out that Doepfer was working on another version of this module (A-135A/B/C) with dedicated CV inputs for each parameter and a Quad Envelope follower module with attack and release controls for each of the 4 channels.
Some prototypes of these modules are already touring through the world, I did see one in the Alex4 rack at the Amsterdam Dance Event in October of last year.
You can read more about that in my next blogpost, but I must say it looks promising.
At the moment I don't really need such a module or have the HP space for all of them. but I do see some exciting possibilities in these modules.

Source: http://www.doepfer.de/home_e.htm

Livestock Electronics at ADE SoundLab

Daniel from LiveStock Electronics showing me their range of modules

It's always fun to meet new Modular manufacturers, especially when they're from the Netherlands
and/or Belgium.
Last Saturday i had the chance to talk with Daniel Mulder, one of the co-founders of LiveStock Electronics at a special Amsterdam Dance Event SoundLab showcase event.

Livestock Electornics was founded in early 2016 and is about to release their fist modules at the end of this year. Their modules are heavily inspired by the chiptune and DIY-scene, and Daniel showed off a few interesting sounding new modules... you can find all info on their website.

LiveStock Shepard

The SHEPARD is a 4-channel step sequencer specifically designed for live settings.
This module is great for polyphonic and polyrhythmic sequences. And has a lot more to offer than just triggering notes and gates!
The interface is divided into two modes, play and edit mode. In play mode loops of several channels can be selected at the same time, and easily duplicated. While edit mode gives you the possibility to create dynamic sequences for each channel. Gatescan be delayed or held, notes can be pitched, and sequences can be of different lengths, speeds and directions. Each step can also send two control voltages with a optional glide while triggered, this gives you the option to control other modules during a sequence.

The memory has room for 8 tracks with each 16 loops of 64 steps for each of the 4 channels. The loops and tracks can be selected during play mode, or controlled through cv input.
Note: This module is moddable with the Arduino IDE and modding manual (available after release).
LoveStock also supports users in modifying their modules...

LiveStock Bang

BANG is a digital wavetable oscillator in which you can create and share your own wave libraries using the Bang Application, or simply download user wave libraries from our website. Once uploaded to the Bang Module you can use the waveshaping algorithm built into Bang to create new waves using the waves in the library.
LiveStock Electronics Bang Demo video by Paul Tas: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlIF1jsUHz0

LiveStock Maze

MAZE is a routing and mixing module. Route audio, cv’s or gates to several outputs, determine their intensity and mix them together. Routings can be saved and selected by a knob or by using the cv input.

Felix

FELIX is a two 1:3 buffered multiple with attenuators.
Use this module to copy CV’s, Gates or Audio and change the amplitude or intensitywith the attenuators.

MIR and MIR Expander

MIR is a mixer, inverter and VCA. It has four 2:1 mixing VCA's with uninverted and inverted output.
MIR comes along with an expansion module, which gives you the option to change the amount of cv input and whether the VCA responds linear or exponentionally. Place the expansion board anywhere you like, you can also set the parameters on the pcband leave the expansion board out if you need to save some hp.

LiveStock Kepler

KEPLER is a unique low-pass filter with four poles that are individually
controllable with knobs and cv.
The sound can range from soft and clean sounding sweeps to highly resonating self-oscillating sweeps. The cutoff is even controllable with v/oct which means that you could use the filter as an oscillator.

​The LiveStock Electronics crew will tour some more through the Netherlands in the next few weeks with these new modules, so try to check them out at:
28/10 @ Bizarre Sound Creatures (Dutch Design Week) Eindhoven
02/11 @ Nerds on Stage Rotterdam

The Bang and Felix will probably be released in December or January. As for the other modules, the release depends on the next batch of prototype pcbs. If it goes as planned, you can expect them from January to August 2017!
Website: www.LiveStockElectronics.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LiveStockElectronics

GearSlutz demo video from ADE : https://youtu.be/9nYzxFV0CqE

Doepfer A-184-2 Voltage Controlled Crossfader / Triangle-to-Sine Waveshaper

More News fom the Superbooth event in Berlin (March 31st - April 2nd, 2016)

The A-184-2 Voltage Controlled Crossfader / Triangle-to-Sine Waveshaper is the combination of two functions and planned primarily as an expansion module for VCOs or LFOs (e.g. A-110-1, A-110-2, A-145, A-147-2).

A-184-2

The upper section is a very precise triangle-to-sine converter (thank's to Tim Stinchcombe who recommended this circuit).

It can be used to convert any triangle waveform into a (nearly) perfect sine. 

The converter is much better than the simple diode converter used in the A-110-1, A-111-1, A-145 and A-147-2. 

Two trimming potentiometers are used to optimize the sine shape. 

The converter should be assigned to one VCO or LFO because the trimming potentiometers have to be re-adjusted if the input level or DC offset of the input signal changes. 

If the trimming potentiometers are deliberately mis-adjusted it can be used also as a waveshaper for non-sine waveforms (e.g. sine-shaped at the top of the signal and a peak at the bottom, even voltage controlled by applying an additional voltage to the waveshaping circuit, "circuit-bending" notes will be available).

The lower section is a Voltage Vontrolled Crossfader. 

It has two inputs A and B. The two signals are mixed together with variable percentage. When the manual control CF is fully CCW only signal A appears at the CF Out socket. When the manual control CF is fully CW only signal B appears at the CF Out socket. In the center position of the manual control both signal appear with the same level.

In addition a control voltage input CV with attenuator is available to enable voltage control of the crossfade.
Two LEDs display the crossfading shares of input A and B.
The crossfader uses two high quality VCAs (SSM2164). Inputs and outputs are DC coupled. Consequently it can be used for audio signals and slowly varying control voltages as well.

The sockets of the upper section (triangle and sine) are normalled to the inputs A and B of the crossfader section. That way the crossfader is used to fade between triangle and sine of the VCO or LFO connected to the waveshaper.

If other signals are plugged into the input sockets A and B these signals are used for crossfading.

The main application is to fade between two different waveforms of a VCO or LFO, but the module can be used for any other signals too as the waveshaper and crossfader sections are independent apart from the normalled sockets.

4 HP wide, Price: about Euro 80.00
Available around spring/early summer 2016 

This is a preliminary information about the planned module. The features are still subject to change and all specifications are still preliminary without any obligation !

Source: http://www.doepfer.de/home_e.htm

New Doepfer High End VCOs A-111-2, A-111-3 and A-111-4 Thru-Zero Announced

Doepfer has announced two new High End VCO's at the Superbooth event in Berlin (March 31st - April 2nd, 2016)

The A-111-2 is based on the CEM3340 Rev G chip
There was a close cooperation between Doepfer and OnChip since 2015 regarding to the new re-issue of the CEM3340 and they received the first samples in January during NAMM for development.
The first production batch of the CEM3340 Rev G arrived 2 weeks ago and the production of the A-111-2 has started during the next few days (they are still waiting for the latest front panel and pcb samples). 
Doepfer expects the first modules to be finished around the end of July/August. 
The A-111-3 is also based on the CEM3340 Rev G ,and Doepfer is working on a Thru-Zero VCO based on the CEM3340 Rev G too (module A-111-4).

The Doepfer A-111-2High End Voltage Controlled Oscillator II is the successor of the obsolete High End VCO I A-111-1 and here are the most important features of the planned module:

Triangle core, min. 15 octaves pitch range (typ. 0.5Hz - 20kHz)
perfect 1V/octave tracking over min. 12 octaves (typ. 5Hz - 20kHz)

Exponential frequency controls and inputs:

Tune (~ 1 octave range)
Fine (~ 1 semitone range)

A-111-2 Prototype June 2016

Octave (range switch with 6 positions)
1V/octave CV input
XFM input with attenuator
access to bus CV (via jumper, optional)

Linear frequency controls:
LF (manual linear frequency control: fully CW = standard setting for usual VCO applications, fully CCW: close to 0Hz frequency)
LFM input with attenuator, DC coupled

Pulsewidth controls for rectangle output:
PW (manual pulsewidth control from 0%/output = fixed at "low" state up to 100% / output fixed at "high" state)
PWM input with attenuator
Hard Sync input
Soft Sync input
Waveform outputs:
Sawtooth
Rectangle (with PWM)
Triangle
Sine
Nearly "perfect" waveforms (no glitches)
High end triangle to sine converter with excellent sine waveshape (thanks to Tim Stinchcombe who recommended this circuit)

14 HP Width

Price: about Euro 250.00
Available: spring/early summer 2016

The other new High End VCO  is the A-111-3 High End Precision VCO with a panelwidth of just 4HP.
Essentially it's the same basic circuit as the A-111-2 but with reduced features:

A-111-3 High
End Precision
VCO

Triangle core, min. 15 octaves pitch range (typ. 0.5Hz - 20kHz with appropriate external CV)
Perfect 1V/octave tracking over min. 12 octaves (typ. 5Hz - 20kHz)
Exponential frequency controls and inputs:
Tune (~ 1 or ~ 10 octaves range, selectable via internal jumper, maybe different ranges in the final version)
1V/octave CV input
XM input with attenuator
access to bus CV (via jumper, optional)

Linear frequency controls:
LM input with attenuator, DC coupled

Pulsewidth controls for rectangle output:
PW (manual pulsewidth control from 0%/output = fixed at "low" state up to 100% / output fixed at "high" state)
PW input (without attenuator)
Sync input (selectable hard or soft sync via internal jumper)

Waveform outputs:
Sawtooth
Rectangle (with PWM)
Triangle
Nearly "perfect" waveforms (no glitches)
Only 4HP wide panel

Price: about Euro 150.00
Available: spring/early summer 2016

All features, specifications, prices, date of delivery are still without obligation
Source: http://www.doepfer.de/home_e.htm

Meet the Maker - Modular Synths panel with 6 Eurorack Manufacturers

At this year's Winter NAMM show, Vintage King Audio presented the TEC Tracks panel: "Meet the Maker -- Modular Synths".
This short (35 minutes) panel discussion, distributed by Sound On Sound, brought together 5 well-known modular synth makers to talk about the booming Eurorack format.

Panelists included: Dieter Doepfer (Doepfer), Dan Green (4MS), William Matthewson (WMD), Ryan McGuire (Vintage King moderator), Tony Rolando (Make Noise), Brandon Ryan (Roland) and Gene Stopp (Moog Music)

They talked a bit about the history of the Eurorack standard (with it's US-based Inch-metrics... lol), and the influence of live-Eurorack performers on new modules.
William Matthewson from WMD offered an interesting insight of what to expect in the future with new controls, like tactile things, body movement, gloves, the integration of virtual reality and other new futuristic techniques that can convert all kinds of signals into control voltages.

Interesting to hear was also the process behind the whole module-design and where Dieter shared his point of view about the pros and cons of the community-input, mentioning the importance of the Yahoo A-100 Usergroup (and his annoyance about it sometimes) and the creative input from live musicians like the icelandic band GusGus when it comes to developing new modules.
It reminded me of his work with the guys from Kraftwerk in the past, with the development of the Schaltwerk, the vocoder and other projects...

AQA ElektriX at Dancefair 2016

At Dancefair/Musicfair, I had the chance to talk with an engineer from AQA Elektrix, one of the more recent new brands in Eurorack, about their range of Eurorack modules.

Me and the AQA ElektriX engineer 

AQA Elektrix is a Eurorack Modular Synthesizer manufacturer that works closely with musicians. The modules by AQA Elektrix are inspired by classic circuits that get modified and developed further. They are also working on complete new designs with new functionality.

The modules are manufactured in Berlin, look very nice and the knobs feel solid as a rock.

AQA only released a few modules so far;

the TEG-1 / Triple Envelope Generator,
M/S-Matrix, a module that converts a Left/Right-Stereo-Signal into its Mid and Side Components
the QLFO / Quadrature Low Frequency Oscillator and the DUAL SVF / Dual 12 dB State Variable Voltage Controlled Filter

AQA ElektroniX modules

He also showed me their new 21 HP wide Dual VC Delay that produces some very cool and interesting 'dubby' soundeffects.
Used in parallel/stereo-mode it generates voltage controlled modulated spatial effects with it´s own special character.

Features:
- Delays can be routed in parallel or serial configuration (A => B or A II B)internal feedback with a 6dB HP and LP filter in series for each delay, feedback signals are attenuverted
using normalized feedback in and out jacks, the feedback loops can be opened to insert other stuff
feedback can be switched between parallel and cross routing between A and B
- Audio input attenuators for each Delay
each delay time can be independently controlled by knob
each delay time can be independently modulated by an attenuverted external control voltage
each delay time can be independently modulated by an attenuverted external control voltage
- Normalized audio signal Inputs
- Outputs for the delayed signals
- Outputs for the delayed signal and HP+LP filtered delayed signal (for feedback use)
- Normalized feedback-signal Inputs

Check out the video below for soundexamples.

AQA ElektriX new Modular Euro Rack Synthesizer Modules Dual DELAY AQA at Dancefair 2016

Website: www.aqaelektrix.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AQAElektriX
AQA ElektriX on YouTube

AQA Elektrix is distributed by Alex4

DanceFair/Musicfair Pro Audio Summit Impression

Victor Coral
School of House

This weekend I attended the annual DanceFair/Musicfair Pro Audio Summit, the biggest in the Netherlands at the Jaarbeurs in Utrecht.
A gathering of more than 6000 music makers, industry professionals, 80 record labels and manufacturers of musical instruments, producer and dj gear.
It was the 5th time that Dancefair was held, and the first time that Musicfair joined in.
All together a great event for DJ's, producers and other fanatics for networking, learning and exploring, with inspiring workshops in different rooms and a nice Expo-floor.

We started off our Saturday quite relaxed with an interesting talk about the History of House, presented by Victor Coral from the Dutch School of House.
After that we learned a little more about audio-compression with some interesting views on side-chaining at a Pro Audio session.

DJ Magazine talk at the expo-floor

There was plenty of room for the younger audience and new talents with various production-sessions and workshops for the different styles of dancemusic by Hardwell and Chocolate Puma (amongst others) and a large demo-dropoff zone hosted by national and international record-labels.

The expo floor wasn't huge but filled with a wide variety of exhibitors.

It wasn't too busy on the Saturday, the people in the booths were very accessable for info and plenty of headphones were available for the public to listen to all the new synths and stuff...

Roland Eurorack Modules
Aira Modular, System 500
and Effectors

I had a lot of fun with (finally) playing around with the Moog Mother32, Korg Minilogue, the Novation MiniNova and BassStation 2, plus the modules from the Roland Boutique range JP-03, JX-08, and A-01.
Besides that, Roland showed the whole AIRA-range and a big rack with all their Eurorack modules including the  Aira Modular, System 500 and Effectors...

Arturia showed their Maxibrute for the first time in Europe.
The MatrixBrute is a programmable monophonic / duophonic analog synthesizer, outfitted with three ‘Brute’ oscillators, Steiner-Parker and ladder filters, three envelope generators, analogue effects and a matrix-style modulation matrix.

A short talk with Andy Mac from Akai learned me that they will shoot new MPC-Touch tutorials next week... I hope they will be online soon, as the last 4 Basic Workflow Tutorials that they released (a few weeks ago) were pretty useful for an MPC-noob like me, someone who is totally unfamiliar with the whole MPC-workflow.

One of the 2 Doepfer cases at the Alex4 booth

The most interesting booth (for me) was the one from European Eurorackdistibutor Alex4 that showed a diverse range of Eurorack modules from brands like Doepfer (with most of their new modules), AJH Synth, Verbos, Endorphin.es and Vermona
That last one als showed the prototype Vermona TwinCussion, a percussion module that is capable of very nice 'syncussion' sounds.

DJ/Producer Lucien Foort

The modules from the Austrian Birdkids brand were also on display at the Alex4 booth and the engineer from AQAElektrix showed me their full range of Eurorack modules. More on this in my next blogpost.

Allert from SonarTraffic, who also helped out at the booth  took the time to explain the interesting concept of their studio at Kytopia.

We spent the last hours of the day back at the workshop area from the Herman Brood Academy, where Lucien Foort (from Quadrophonia and more) presented a workshop. He first went through a short history about modular synths, up to the recent Eurorack-boom before he gave an intuitive tutorial on how to integrate modulars in your curent DAW setup.

Overall it was a great atmosphere at the whole event with almost everything you'd expect, including overexpensive drinks and food... and yesssss.... BoothBabes! :)

You can find the rest of my pictures from the Dancefair Saturday at https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1103743713004246.1073741844.143124692399491 …

Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Filter Special Edition

Temporarily a special edition of the Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Filter is available. It is equipped with a stylish Oberheim-style cream-coloured anodized front panel and black knobs.

A-106-5 SEM
Filter
Special Edition

Module A-106-5 is a 12dB multimode filter that is based on the filter circuit of the Oberheim SEM
module.

The filter is equipped with a band pass output and a combined low/notch/high pass output. 

For this output a control knob defines the relation between low and high pass signal. 

If both signals appear at the same level (i.e. middle position of the Mix knob) one obtains a notch filter. Otherwise the low or high pass signal predominates. 

The module does not feature self oscillation in contrast to most of the other filters of the A-100 system. 

The module generates a distorted audio signal if the level control is set to about 50% (i.e. center position) or more with A-100 standard signals like VCOs.

Inputs: Audio In, CV1 In without attenuator, CV2 In with Polarizer
Outputs: Bandpass Out, Low/Highpass Mix-Out
Controls: Audio Attenuator, CV2 Polarizer, Frequency, Resonance, LP/HP Mix

You can find my review of the original A-106-5 module HERE, 

and find all additional info/demos/etc on the A-106-5 on PatchPierre.Net via http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/search/label/A-106-5

Doepfer A-106-5 Filter Demo (August 2012, by PatchPierre)

" Short Doepfer A-106-5 Demo by NetPierre
Starts with a sequenced bassline, generated by my Doepfer MAQ16/3 and Doepfer VCO A-110 (saw wave)
Bandpass Mode first,  LP/HP later
A-118 Random voltages added to VC2 input somewhere in the middle.
Drums provided by an Elektron Machinedrum" 

The module will be available in spring 2016

Source: Doepfer.com

Doepfer A-184-1 Ring Modulator / S&H/T&H / Slew Limiter Combo

Another unexpected release from Doepfer

A-184-1

A-184-1 is the combination of 3 functions which are actually already available in other modules (e.g. A-114, A-148, A-170). In many systems it's not necessary to have two ring modulators (A-114) or two S&H units (A-148) or two slew limiters (A-170) available. That's why we have compiled these function in one small 4 HP module.
The upper section is nothing but half of an A-114, i.e. a ring modulator with the usual X/Y inputs and the X*Y output.

A-184-1V

The lower section is a Sample & Hold (S&H) / Track & Hold (T&H) unit followed by a slew limiter.
An internal jumper is used to set the mode to S&H or T&H. In S&H mode the unit picks out a sample from the voltage at the SH input at the rising edge of the trigger signal input. In T&H mode the output follows the input voltage as long as the level of the trigger signal is high.
As soon as the trigger signal turns low, the last voltage is stored.
The trigger input is internally normalled to high, i.e. the unit works as a slew limiter in T&H mode when no trigger signal is applied.

The module will be available in the new Vintage Black colour-scheme too :)

Price: ~ Euro 90.00
Date of delivery:  spring 2016

Source: Doepfer.com

Downloadable Frontplate Templates for Doepfer Modules Announced

Doepfer A-168-1, A-110-6, A-110-3, A-121-2 and A-184-1
with custom frontpanel designs

You might have noticed the colorful new frontplates on the Doepfer website recently.
I had almost mistaken them for new Special Editions, but Doepfer clearly writes:

"The custom versions of a few modules featured on the Doepfer website are only a design study made with a self adhesive foil, printed by a color laser printer.

That way the customer will be able to design "his" personal module by printing his design on an self adhesive foil and stick the foil to the module (for this the module has to be dismantled).

There are no plans to offer these versions of the module, but they do plan to offer suitable templates for download."

Knobs in different colors are also still available so your only limit will be your imagination.

I wonder how Doepfer will further develop this idea... i.e. if there could be such a thing as an online Doepfer Template designer tool or such... Hmmm... Nice.

The first examples look very impressive IMO...

Doepfer A-110-6 Trapezoid Thru Zero Quadrature VCO Announced

The Doepfer A-110-6 Trapezoid Thru-Zero VCO is the third of Doepfer's Thru-Zero oscillator-range.

The module is based on an idea by Donald Tillman from 2003 but has been revised for the use of modern electronic circuits (no OTAs/CA3280). 

Because of it's unique trapezoid core it's totally different compared to other VCOs but the trapezoid core is not the only specialty: it is also a quadrature VCO and features linear thru zero frequency modulation.

The term "quadrature" means in this connection that the oscillator outputs two trapezoid waves with 90 degrees phase shift. The same as sine and cosine of a standard quadrature oscillator. These waveforms are called TRASIN (trapezoid sine) and TRACOS (trapezoid cosine).

The term "Thru-Zero" means that even "negative" frequencies are generated. But this a bit a misleading term as negative frequencies do not really exist. "Negative" means in this connection simply that the TRASIN/TRACOS waves will stop when the linear control voltage reaches 0V and continue with the opposite directions 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 LFrq 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. The pitch of all outputs is determined by the control voltages of both sections. 

The linear section is used to control the pitch in a linear manner. When the LFrq control (LFrq means Linear Frequency Control) is fully CW the module works like a normal VCO and the LED lights blue. The pitch is then controlled by the exponential section with the manual Tune control XTune 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 LFrq control is turned counterclockwise starting from the fully CW position the frequency is lowered in a linear manner until the TRASIN/TRACOS waves (nearly) stop at the center position of LFrq (provided that no LFM signal is present). 

As the LFrq control is moved from the center towards the CCW position the waves start again but into reverse direction and the LED turns white. When the fully CCW position of LFrq is reached the module works again like a normal 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 in combination with the trapezoid waveforms generates audio spectra than cannot be obtained from any other 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.

A-110-6 Waveforms

Other waveforms like triangle, sawtooth, rectangle and sine can be obtained very easily from the TRASIN/TRACOS signals (triangle e.g. simply by subtracting TRISIN and TRICOS) ,and all waveforms will be available as quadrature pairs (i.e. with 90 degrees phase shift).

That's why Doepfer thinks about adding all these waveform outputs to the module in the final version - or alternatively a about a breakout module which makes all 10 waveforms available (trapezoid, triangle, sine, sawtooth, rectangle - all as quadrature pairs).
They also think about an LFO version of the module (same features but low frequency range with LED displays of the outputs).

Price: around Euro 150.00 (module as shown, without additional waveform outputs, without the above mentioned breakout module)

Releasedate: Spring 2016

Source: Doepfer.com

Doepfer A-110-3 Triangle Thru Zero VCO Specifications

The Doepfer A-110-3 Triangle Thru Zero VCO is the second Thru-Zero module that Doepfer is releasing ( after the A-110-4 Quadrature Thru-Zero VCO )

This module was first shown in November 2014 ( read HERE ), and now there's an official release right before NAMM2016.

The A-110-3 is a Thru Zero VCO with triangle core. The term "Thru-Zero" means that even "negative" frequencies are generated. But this a bit a misleading term as negative frequencies do not really exist. "Negative" means in this connection simply that the triangle wave 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 LFrq 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. The pitch of the outputs is determined by the control voltages of both sections. The linear section is used to control the pitch in a linear manner. 

When the LFrq control (LFrq means Linear Frequency Control) is fully CW the module works like a normal VCO and the pitch is then controlled by the exponential section with the manual Tune control XTune 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 LFrq control is turned counterclockwise starting from the fully CW position the frequency is lowered in a linear manner until the triangle wave (nearly) stops at the center position of LFrq (provided that no LFM signal is present). As the LFrq control is moved from the center towards the CCW position the wave starts again but into reverse direction and the LED changes it's color. When the fully CCW position of LFrq is reached the module works again like a normal 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.

Internal waveshapers are used to generate the additional waveforms sawtooth an rectangle.

Price: around Euro 150.00
Date of delivery: spring 2016 (standard version)

Source: Doepfer.com

Doepfer A-121 Multimode Filter Re-Design

A-121-2 Re-design

We all knew a re-design of the Doepfer A-121 Multimode Filter has been in the pipeline for a while, due to the unavailability of certain chips inside.

Since the beginning this has always been one of my favourite filters, because of it's sophisticated sound and the VC infut for resonance control. Oh, and the multiple simultanuous outputs...

At Namm 2016 Doepfer will present the A-121-2, the successor of the obsolete module A-121.

The circuitry is totally different from the A-121 which used the obsolete CEM3320 filter circuit. 

Module A-121 is a voltage-controlled multi-mode filter with a cut-off slope of -12 dB / octave.

Four simultaneous outputs are available, each with different characteristics: low-pass, band-pass, high-pass and notch (or band reject). 

The cut-off frequency determines the point at which the respective filter effects appear. 

The frequency can be adjusted manually, or by voltage control (Filter modulation, for instance by an LFO or ADSR). 

Two CV inputs are available, whose control voltages are summed. Resonance (Emphasis or Q ) can be adjusted manually, or by voltage control, right up to self-oscillation, in which case it will behave like a sine wave oscillator.

The sound of the new module A-121-2 is identical to filter of the Dark Energy II but has been expanded by the voltage controlled resonance feature (like the original A-121).

Read all about the specs of the original A-121 at http://patchpierre.blogspot.nl/2011/03/filters-ii-121-vcf2-multimode-filter.html

The modules will cost Euro 120.00 and will be available around March 2016

Source: Doepfer.com