5.0

m2 VCO3 

Custom Designed Gear

VCO

5.01

Introduction

The m2VCO3 is an unique device which is composed around 3 high quality VCO integrated circuits. The configuration is designed in such way that each VCO has exclusive wave form shapers additives to be combined with the standard wave forms. Each VCO has a wave form mixer to be able to generate complex wave forms just by mixing them. Each VCO mix then can be mixed to a final mix. Wave forms and mix stages also do have separated outputs. Each VCO has 4 ways to SYNC (Soft - Positive - Negative - Hard) to create many timbre variations. The VCO's do have excellent V/OCT tracking over 10 octaves. Separated LOG en LIN VC inputs, Pulse Width and Pulse Width modulation controls.
Because the m2VCO3 is modular, you can make many alternative patches to explore your creativity and originality. Also, if you do not make any external patches, you still can change the setup by using the routing switches and the Voltage Control parameter settings.

The m2VCO3 is built into a wooden case of 34 Cm wide ("13.4), 17,5 Cm high ("6.9) and 50 Cm deep ("19.7) but can be transformed into a 19 Inch case.

The m2VCO3 served many projects and now will be completely renovated to serve a new owner. The front panel will be airbrushed in full colour to match a modern exclusive look (see to view how this can look like or have a glance at the illustration below.

The m2VCO3 also can be newly build, based on the case and IN/OUT types you prefer.

See pricelist

5.02

Specifications

Each VCO features:

  • V/Oct input
    Excellent tracking over more than 10 octaves. Scaling and tracking: on panel 10 turn pot adjustments with screwdriver.
  • Scale switch
    Positions: '2, '4, '8, '16, '32, '32
  • Initial Coarse/Fine 10 turn control.
    A high stable multi turn control sets both coarse and fine initial tuning
  • FM input and on/off switch
    Linear Frequency Modulation input.
  • SYNC input & control switches
    4 different types of SYNC to be selected plus a routing/off switch. Soft, Positive, Negative and Hard SYNC.
  • Pulse Width Modulation
    Sets the pulse width of the square wave form from 1% to 99%. Also includes a LED indication.
  • PWM
    Pulse Width Modulation input and depth control to modulate the PW by an external voltage.
  • Triangle, Saw or Ramp and Square wave forms
    The base wave forms of each VCO. Each wave form also has its own individual output.
  • Wave form mixer
    Wave forms can be mixed together with a slider control. Each VCO has its individual MIX output. Each VCO also features a Final Mix control to mix the individual mix of each VCO to total mix output.
  • Overload LED
    Each VCO wave from mixer features a LED indication to be warned when the wave form mix exceeds its maximum output voltage and starts to distort. The final total mixer also features this indication LED.

 
Furthermore extra features which differ from one module to the other:

  • VCO-A:
    • Sinusoid instead of Triangle.
    • Frequency Doubling and Dividing simultaneous on Saw Tooth and mode switch.
    • Needle waveform additive with mode switch.
    • V/OCT input Selection switch: select external or VCO-B input.
  • VCO-B:
    • Logarithmic shaper on Ramp and Triangle wave form with shape control, mode switch, mixing control and output.
    • Square wave phase selection switch.
  • VCO-C:
    • Waveform rectifying shaper in with shape control, mode switch, mixing control and output.
    • Square wave phase selection switch.
    • V/OCT input Selection switch: select external or VCO-B input.
5.03

5.04

5.05

5.06

5.07

   
 

5.1

m2 VCO3 

Custom Designed Gear

supplement

5.10

Introduction

To complete the M2VCO3 unit in relation to a control device, such as a keyboard, a supplemental panel is designed. Together with the M2VCO3 it fits into a 19 inch rack.
The supplemental unit count 3 Slew Limiters to generate the Portamento effect, A New Pitch Detector to be able to generate new gate signals when playing legato on a monophonic keyboard, A balancer and some Fan-Out and passive mix features. All units can be used for both DC (control) and AC (Audio) signals.

5.11

Specifications

  • 3x Slew Limiter
    Separated In/Outs to also use them independently.
    Internally wired to simply connect to the M2VCO3 unit.
    Slew Limit control pot (Portamento speed in context to the VCO's)
  • NPD
    New Pitch Detector to detect when playing legato on a monophonic keyboard. It generates a reset and gate pulse when a new key is played in a legato manner.
    The sensitivity control lets you also use this NPD unit to be used for other purposes.
  • Balancer
    To balance two signals. Either control or Audio signals.
  • 2x Fan-Out
    To have any signal available 3 times.
  • Passive Mixer
    To passively mix 3 sources of any kind.
5.15

Slew Limiters (SL)

5.16

New Pitch Detector (NPD)

5.17

Balancer (BAL)

5.18

Fan-Out (FOUT)

5.19

Passive Mixer (PAMI)

   
 

5.3

MVCO 

Custom Designed Gear

dual

5.30

Introduction

A synthesizer system needs to have several Low Frequency Generators (LFO's) - best voltage controlled (VC-LFO's) to be able to generate a various range of modulation (M) effects. Vibrato, Tremolo, Wha-Wha etc. are all generated with the essential signal from one or more modulating LFO's.
The dual MVCO is a unit that counts two VC-LFO's. They not only are capable to generate the right Low Frequency waves for mentioned effects, but also can generate Audio and extra low frequencies. The MVCO units also have a control to set the output wave form anywhere between Saw tooth, triangle and Ramp. Also a balancer is available to create a mixture from both MVCO units.

5.31

Specifications

  • Manual Frequency Control
    With the manual control pot, you can set the center frequency.
  • External Frequency Control
    With an external control voltage you can control the frequency. The depth control pot can be turned to the left for a negative control function (freq. gets lower when input voltage higher) and to the right for a positive control function (frequency gets higher when the input voltage gets higher).
  • Frequency Range
    With a 3 position switch you van set the frequency range from ultra-low, low and audio.
  • Wave Shape Control
    With the Shape control pot you can set the 'triangle' output wave form any ware between the Saw Tooth, Triangle and the Ramp wave form.
  • Output Voltage Shift
    The 'Triangle' output can be shifted with in voltage: negative only, both positive and negative and positive only. This is done with a switch.
  • Square wave and pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
    Also a square wave form output is available. The Wave Form Shape control effects the Pulse / Pause ratio of this square output. Thus acts as a pulse Width control.
    An external input to control the Pulse Width is available (this one does not affect the 'triangle' wave form).
  • LEDs and balancer
    Each MVCO has a Tricolour LED indication. Indication both Frequency, wave form and polarity.
    The balancer features you to balance between the two 'Triangle' outputs to create a combined modulation signal.
5.32

Manual Frequency Control

5.33

External Frequency Control

5.34

Frequency Range

5.35

Wave Shape Control

5.36

Output Voltage Shift

5.37

Square wave and pulse Width Modulation (PWM)

5.38

Led indication & Balancing

5.39

Suggestions

   
 

6.0

m2 U11 

Custom Designed Gear

VCA / VCF / ADSR

6.01

Introduction

The m2u11 is a compilation of basic analogy synthesizer modules which are required to create a 'voice'. When you, for example, apply a VCO to it and a keyboard Gate/Trigger, you have all the needs to create a voice for keyboard playing with many variations and modulations possible. The m2u11 may also serve for other purposes than 'standard' keyboard playing.
Because the m2u11 is modular, you can make many alternative patches to explore your creativity and originality. Also, if you do not make any external patches, you still can change the setup by using the routing switches and the Voltage Control parameter settings.
Of course the m2u11 has a collection of features which, as a whole, you will not find in any other modular synthesizer.

The m2u11 is built into a wooden case of 34 Cm wide ("13.4), 17,5 Cm high ("6.9) and 50 Cm deep ("19.7) but can be transformed into a 19 Inch case.

The m2u11 served many projects and now will be completely renovated to serve a new owner. The front panel will be airbrushed in full colour to match a modern exclusive look (see to view how this can look like or have a glance at the illustration below.

The m2u11 also can be newly build, based on the case and IN/OUT types you prefer.

See pricelist

6.02

Dual VCA

VCA 1 features:

VCA 1 is a linear VCA, especially for modulation purposes like Tremolo. It also features a multiplier control to have it functioning as an ANTI-VCA and 2 quadrant multiplier (half ring modulator). The response to the Control signal is at audio speed and this features the VCA also to function as a half-ring modulator. The combination of the multiplier control and the audio-speed control voltage response turns this VCA into a great wave shaper when using 2 tracking VCO modules. The VCA as differential inputs to also create an add/subtract function. Also useful is the fact that the VCA can be used for both AC (audio) and DC (control) signals.

  • Linear control voltage response
    Originally used to add the Tremolo effect to a voice.
  • Fast control voltage response.
    To also modulate at audio frequencies (AM synthesis, ring modulation).
  • Multiplier control
    To create 2 quadrant effect (ANTI-VCA, half ring modulation).
  • AM Control input I
    Featuring a control slider and an on/off switch.
  • AM Control input II
    Featuring a control slider and an on/manual voltage switch.
  • AM Control input III
    Extra direct input.
  • Signal '-' Input (buffered)
    With input Gain switch (Low, High). And a LED overload indication. The 'normal' input which responds to the Multiplier control.
  • Signal '+' Input
    The differential input.
  • Signal Output
  • Good (adjustable) suppression of feed through of the control signal

VCA 2 features:
VCA 2 is a logarithmic VCA, especially for envelope curving purposes. The response to the Control signal is very rapid to have it strongly respond to a fast Attack from an envelope generator. The VCA as differential inputs to also create an add/subtract function. Also useful is the fact that the VCA can be used for both AC (audio) and DC (control) signals.

  • Logarithmical control voltage response
    Originally used to 'volumemize' a voice with an envelope generator.
  • Fast control voltage response.
    To create a fast Attack and modulation on higher frequencies.
  • AM Control I
    Connects internally to the ADSR 2 module, featuring a control slider.
  • AM Control input II
    Featuring a control slider and an on/manual voltage switch.
  • Signal '-' Input
    With input Gain switch (Low, High). And a LED overload indication. The 'normal' input which inverts the signal
  • Signal '+' Input
    With input Gain switch (Low, High). And a LED overload indication. The differential input which does not invert the signal.
  • Signal Output
  • Good (adjustable) suppression of feed through of the control signal
6.20

VCF (VC-SVF)

VCF features:

The VCF is a 'State variable' type which features Low Pass (LP), Band Pass (BP) and High Pass (HP) nodes. These can be mixed together with the input signal (N = By Pass) and all four signals can be switched to invert, off, non-invert to create other filter characteristics such as a Notch filter. There are plenty of control inputs and routing switches. Also the resonance (Q) can be controlled by an external voltage.

  • Frequency manual control.
    To set the center frequency and/or sweep manually.
  • FM Control I
    Connects to two inputs (A, B) which can be selected with a switch (A, Off, B)
  • FM Control II
    Connects to two inputs (A, B) which can be selected with a switch (A, Off, B). The control slider has its zero adjustment at the center. Moving up means using the signal normally (as is) and moving down means using the reversion of the signal (to create an ANTI-VCA).
  • FM Control III
    Connects to an input and has an On/Off switch. The control slider has its zero adjustment at the center. Moving up means using the signal normally (as is) and moving down means using the reversion of the signal (to create an ANTI-VCA).
  • FM Control IV
    Connects to an input and has an On/Off switch.
  • FM Control V
    V/OCT adjusted. Connects to an input and has an On/Off switch.
  • Resonance manual Control (Q)
    To set the Resonance center point.
  • Resonance Control ECV
    External Control Voltage input and a switch to select input A, B or Off.
  • VCF signal input
    With input Gain switch (half, normal, double). And a LED overload indication.
  • By Pass signal input
    Internally connects to the VCF input but also can be patched individually.
  • Mixing sliders
    For LP, BP, HP and By Pass (Voltage controlled)
  • Fase.off switches.
    For LP, BP, HP and By Pass
  • 2 Signal Outputs
6.2x

6.40

Dual Envelope Generator

ADSR features:

Both The ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) Envelope generator modules have besides the standard specifications some extra's. Normally, ADSR 1 serves to control the VCF and ADSR 2 the LOG VCA (2). They can be controlled by a Gate and/or Trigger signal and also have a Reset input to interact with a NPD signal (New key dePress Detection pulse).

  • Attack time control
    To set the Attack time. Starts when the ADSR is triggered by a Gate or Trigger input.
  • Decay time control
    To set the Decay time. Starts when the Attack time is finished.
  • Sustain level control
    To set the Sustain level. Is the Hold level when the Decay time is finished.
  • Release time control
    To set the Release time. Starts when Gate signal falls off.
  • AD / ADSR Function switch
    Mode switch to choose for Gated or Triggered control.
  • Gate/Trigger input
    selection switch between input 1 or 2.
  • Reset signal
    Selection switch to select input 1,2 or off)
  • LED indication
    A LED indicates the ADSR curve.
  • Two outputs

ADSR 1 extra features:

  • Gate / trigger Delay
    A voltage controlled function. Manual set. Very effective to have the VCF starts later with its filter envelope than the VCA.
  • ECV Gate / trigger Delay
    External Control Voltage to control the Gate / Trigger delay time. Input and depth control.
  • Sustain time (hold)
    A voltage controlled function. Manual set. Determines how long the Sustain period last regardless of the Gate time.
  • ECV Sustain time
    External Control Voltage to control the Sustain time period. Input and depth control.
  • STATE LED indication
    A Tri Colour LED indicates the Gate Delay (green) and Hold Time period (red).

ADSR 2 extra features:

  • Mode switch
    has an extra function to set a so called 'Sustain Hold' Function. The sustain level remains valid regardless retriggering. Only the Decay is repeated with each new triggering or reset. Musically: combines the physical means of staccato and legato playing.
6.4x

6.4x

   
 

6.6

Dual ADSR 

Custom Designed Gear

Envelope Generator

6.60

Introduction

The ADSR-2x module count two Envelop Generators, each with Gate/Trigger and Reset inputs and Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release control pots. Both generators have an envelope output and with a special Balancer you also can mix the two envelopes to generate more complex envelope wave forms. The Balancer not only has a normal put but also an inverted and a reversed one.

6.61

ADSR features







6.52

6.53

6.54

6.55

6.56

6.56

   
 

6.7

Dual VCA 

Custom Designed Gear

plus Signal Rigger

6.70

Introduction

The VCA-2x module counts two multi-purpose Voltage Controlled Amplifiers, each with Linear & logarithmic control inputs and control pots. Both VCA outputs are also mixed and brought out separately. The VCA's have Multiply control pots to create various VCA functions such as Anti-VCA or Half-Ring modulator etc.

The module also counts a so called Signal Rigger to transfer any signal to another level, shift and/or invert and to extract a Gate/Trigger signal.

6.71

VCA features

Modular setup. The sections are internally linked to create a total function but also each section can be used on its own.
The response to the Control signal is at audio speed and this features the VCA also to function as a half-ring modulator. The combination of the multiplier control and the audio-speed control voltage response turns this VCA into a great wave shaper when using 2 tracking VCO modules. Also useful is the fact that the VCA can be used for both AC (audio) and DC (control) signals.

  • Linear control voltage response
    Originally used to add the Tremolo effect to a voice.
  • Logarithmical control voltage response
    Originally used to 'volumemize' a voice with an envelope generator.
  • Fast control voltage response.
    To also modulate at audio frequencies (AM synthesis, ring modulation).
  • Multiplier control
    To create 2 quadrant effect (ANTI-VCA, half-ring modulation).
  • AM Linear Control input
    Featuring a depth control pot and a routing/off switch.
  • AM Logarithmic Control input
    Featuring a depth control pot and a routing/off switch.
  • Signal Output
  • Excellent suppression of the feed through of the control signal

 

Rigger features

Modular setup. The sections are internally linked to create a total and versatile function but, also each section can be used on its own.

  • Amplifier
    To Amplify any signal from -2x to 100x. Gain Control pot, two inputs for gain range setting (-2x...10x, -2x...100x), Overload Led indication and an output.
  • Level Shifter
    To DC shift any signal up or down. Shift level control pot, In/out and Bi-Colour LED indication
  • Inverter
    To invert any signal (positive becomes negative and vice versa).
  • Logic/Gate Transformer
    To extract and/or level convert GATE / TRIGGER / LOGIC signals. Also can be used as an audio distortioner. Counts a trigger level control pot, an input, +10 Volt output, +5 Volt output and a +5 Volt reversed output.
6.72

Block diagram

6.73

Dual VCA

6.74

VCA function

6.75

Multiply function

6.76

Lin/Log CV

6.76

Output mixer

6.78

Output inverter

6.80

Voice modulating use

6.81

VC Wave shaper use

6.82

Ring modulator use

6.83

CV modulator use

6.90

Signal Rigger

6.91

Amp

6.92

Shifter

6.93

Inverter

6.94

Trigger

   
 

7.0

m2 U17 

Custom Designed Gear

MM VCF / ENV / RND

7.00

Introduction

The m2U17 is a unique device which is composed around a Multi Mode VCF. This VCF is designed around a high quality analogy VCF chip from CURTIS (CEM 3320). The unique m2 Design has led to a VCF which can be switched by a Control Voltage to 1 out the 5 possible filter modi (APF, SVF, LPF, BPF, HPF). Each filter modus also can be set at its own gain. Both features also can be digitally controlled via a REMOTE connection. The Voltage Controlled Filter Mode Switch gives you the unique opportunity to change from filter mode by any applied voltage. For example by a SEQUENCER line or just by a LFO.
The VCF also has multiple FM (Frequency) and FQ (Resonance) inputs and controls, it also can function as a V/OCT tracking VCO, Each of the 4 filter stages has its own output mix control to create a unique filter sound.

Besides the MM VCF the m2U17 also counts other modules. Quick overview:

  • Noise & Random generator (WN, WNF, CN, RND)
  • Pseudo Sinusoid Random Generator (3 SIN generators with AMP/FREQ control)
  • 2 Slew Limiters
  • 1 Envelope follower (Pre-Amp with Filter and Gain control & Rectifier)
  • 2 Envelope generators ( With Attack and Release control)
  • 2 Envelope Mixers
  • 3 Trigger/Gate extractors (With Response control)

Because the m2U17 is modular, you can make many patches to explore your creativity and originality. Also, if you do not make any external patches, you still can change the setup by using the routing switches and the Voltage Control parameter settings.

The m2 U17 not only can be used in an analogy synthesizer setup, but also used in combination with any instrument or voice. The m2U17 also would be a great filter effect box for guitarist to add dynamic filter changes to their sound which are based on their way of playing. Combine the U17 with a Distortioner (for example) to create an enormous amount of possible effects which can be tuned to your very own personal taste.

The m2U17 is built into a wooden case of 34 Cm wide ("13.4), 17,5 Cm high ("6.9) and 50 Cm deep ("19.7) but can be transformed into a 19 Inch case.

The m2U17 served many projects and now will be completely renovated to serve a new owner. The front panel will be airbrushed in full colour to match a modern exclusive look (see to view how this can look like or have a glance at the illustration below.

The m2U17 also can be newly build, based on the case and IN/OUT types you prefer.

See pricelist

7.01

Specifications

The following list of specifications and features is quit long. Well, you can't have a device with many possibilities and at the same time a short list of specifications. So, take your time.

MM VCF (Multi Mode Voltage Controlled Filter)

  • Multi Controllable Filter Modi
    The 5 main filter modi all in one plus more!
    • SVF: 12 dB/Oct State Variable (parametric filter)
    • APF: 24, 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct All Pass (Notch)
    • LPF: 24, 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct Low Pass
    • BPF: 24, 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct Band Pass
    • HPF: 24, 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct High Pass
    • ALT: Alternative filter modi by mixing the nodes, setting the Phase and mixing it with the direct input signal.
    • 8 level electronic output Gain presetting for each filter modus.
      Gain presetting is done with DIP switches. Switch on/off to change gain simultaneous with change of filter modus.
  • Voltage Controlled Multi Filter Modi
    Exclusive feature to change from filter modus by a control voltage.
    • Manual Control (turn pot sets filter modus)
    • External Voltage Control input and depth controller (reversible).
    • Switch to turn ECV on/off
  • 5 pole mixer with phase control
    By mixing the different filter nodes (add or subtract), you can achieve many filter variations for each filter mode. In the SVF mode you can mix the Notch, LP, BP and HP. In the other modi you can mix the 6, 12, 18 and 24 dB nodes.
    • 4 filter nodes mix controls with phase reverse
    • 1 Direct cut mix control
    • 5 switches to turn the nodes on/off
    • 2 VCF outputs
    • 1 VCF input
  • LED indication
    • 5 LED indication on Filter modus
    • 3 LED indication on GAIN setting
    • 5 LED indication on node on/off
  • Remote Control Socket
    The filter modus, node on/off and the gain setting can be digitally controlled.
    • 8p din socket at the front: logic node and gain control
    • 5p din socket at the back: logic filter control
  • Voltage Controlled Frequency (F and FM)
    • Manual control
    • 1 External input with routing switch and depth control
    • 1 External input with routing switch and depth control (reversible)
    • 1 External input (internally connected to the ENV mixers)
  • Voltage Controlled Resonance (Q and QM)
    • Manual control
    • 1 External input with routing switch and depth control
    • 1 External input with routing switch and depth control (reversible)
    • 1 External input (internally connected to the ENV mixers)
  • VCF in VCO modus
    The Resonance (Q) can be set to have the VCF to oscillate a sin wave and thus becomes a VCO. This can be done in the LPF, BPF and HPF modus.
    • V/OCT tracking frequency modulation control.
    • Distortion factor (wave shaping) can be set with the Q
    • Distortion factor also can be varied by mixing the nodes (add and/or subtract).

Noise & Random Generator

  • Noise Generator
    • High quality analogy Noise generator (neural spectrum)
    • White Noise output (WN)
    • Filtered Noise output (WNF) with Low and High cut controls.
    • Coloured Noise output (CN) fast Random Voltage
  • Random Generator & Slew Limiter
    • Slew Limiter (SL) with DELAY control to create a slow Random voltage
    • SL input and output.
    • Led indication on pos and neg slew limiting result.

Sinusoïde Pseudo Random Generator (PRV)
An alternative way to generate a smooth sinusoid pseudo random voltage. Especially meant to modify the Frequency and/or Resonance of the MM VCF in a very musical way.

  • Features
    • 3 sinusoid generators
    • 2 3pos fixed frequency switches
    • Fixed frequencies are based on practical musicality.
    • 3 depth controls for the final mix.
      By mixing you can vary the character of the pseudo random and/or used it as a LFO with one of the 7 musically fixed modulation frequencies or combine 1 with slightly another one etc.
    • 3 on/off switches on the mix controls.
    • Output
    • Slew Limiter to create a delay Pseudo random voltage.
    • Slew Limit Delay Control
    • Slew Limit LED indication

Envelope Follower & Generators and Trigger/Gate extractors
Especially to interface with non-synthesizer instruments or audio signals in general.

  • Envelope Follower
    Transforms an audio signal into a control voltage (follows the amplitude of an audio signal).
    • Input with true output
    • Low/High filter control for response character
    • Gain control to set sensitivity.
    • LED indication on gain.
  • 2 Envelope Generators
    To generate an envelope based on a GATE or TRIGGER input, or to modify the signal from the envelope follower or to be used as an extend slew Limiter for the positive input side of the signal. Each feature is available twice.
    • Separated Attack and Release control.
    • LED indication.
    • Input and output
    • Input selection switch.
    • Output mixer to mix both envelope generators (2x)
    • Reversible Mix controls.
    • Polarity processor and mode switch
    • Mix & processed Output
  • Trigger/Gate Extractors (TGE)
    To extract a GATE or TRIGGER signal from the Envelop generators. Each feature is available twice.
    • 3pos input selector.
    • Trigger level control.
    • LED indication.
    • Output.

3rd Trigger/Gate Extractor (TGE3)
Especially add to extract Trigger/Gate signals from the Random generators.

    • Input and 2pos input selection switch
    • Trigger level control.
    • LED indication.
    • Output.
7.02

MM VCF (Multi Mode Voltage Controlled Filter

The MM VCF is a unique filter variant which is composed around a multipurpose VCF chip from CURTIS CEM 3320). With this high quality integrated voltage controlled filter chip all common synthesizer filter configurations can be build up. When you buy a VCF module such as a LPF, BPF or HPF, they might be all designed with this CEM chip. It is quite expensive to buy all filter types separately. Why not having a Multi-Mode version to choose with which filter type you want to use it and then set it for this? This is exactly what the MM VCF can do. And even more. You not only can switch between 5 different filter types (modi) but also control this switching with a Control Voltage and thus change the filter type on the fly - controlled by any external voltage. To achieve this requires a lot of extra circuits to electronically switch from one to another filter mode, but this shortly is worth the deal.

Besides this unique feature, the MM VCF has more. The point to point explanation below will guide you through this.
If you did not read the brief overview of features (which is quit long), then the best is to first draw back to it. Go there now

Multi Mode

As you are aware by now, the MM VCF can switch to 5 different filter modi (types). To recall, these are:

  • SVF: 12 dB/Oct State Variable (parametric filter).
    With the node mix controls, you can mix the All Pass (AP/Notch), Low Pass (LP), Band Pass (BP), High Pass (HP) and direct cut nodes. Because you not only mix the nodes but also can do this in an additive and/or subtractive manner, it gives you a very wide range of filter characteristics, you did not encounter before.
  • APF (All Pass Filter): 24, 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct All Pass (Notch)
    This is - without the extras - actually a 24 dB/Oct filter, but with the node selection and mix controls (additive and/or subtractive mixing), you can achieve variations in the filter response. Note: The Resonance control works reversed.
  • LPF (Low Pass Filter)
    Also, a 24 dB/Oct filter. By selecting the node, you can create also a 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct filter.
  • BPF (Band Pass Filter)
    Also, a 24 dB/Oct filter. By selecting the node, you can create also a 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct filter.
  • HPF (High Pass Filter)
    Also, a 24 dB/Oct filter. By selecting the node, you can create also a 18, 12 or 6 dB/Oct filter.
  • ALT: Alternative filter modi by mixing the nodes, setting the Phase and mixing it with the direct input signal.
  • 8 level electronic output Gain pre-setting for each filter modus.
    Gain pre-setting is done with DIP switches. Switch on/off to change gain simultaneous with change of filter modus.

With exception of the APF filter, these filter types (modi) are common to synthesizers, but they hardly appear all at the same time in a single analogy design.

Filter Mode Control & ECV

To change the filter mode manually, you do not turn a switch. Instead you simple turn a control pot. This goes much more smooth. A 5 LED indication bar shows you which filter mode is present. Behind this smooth filter change control lays a unique feature: Voltage Controlled Filter Mode Change! This feature takes quit an extra electronics board but this is worth the deal. Now, you also can apply an external control voltage (ECV) to have the filter mode changed.
Besides all the crazy affects you can achieve with this, lets view a very concrete example on how this feature opens a unique horizon. When you are familiar with the analogy Sequencer you might immediately understand the extend of changing the filter modus with a voltage. In case you are not so familiar with an analogy sequence: with an analogy Sequencer you set a certain voltage for each step the Sequencer may count to produce a tuned note when the Sequencer output connects to the V/OCT input of a VCO. When the Sequencer has more parallel groups, usually people use another group to set the filter center frequency of a VCF for each note differently when they want achieve a special effect. Now, what happens when another Sequencer group also can sets the filter mode for each note........? ........Right! Or what about to let a Sample and Hold module synchronously with a sequencer generate a random or pseudo pattern to change the filter mode for each note.
Another, possibly for more analogy synthesizer owners directly relevant: an envelope generator (mostly a dual setup) generates the envelopes for both the VCA and the VCF. Let's assume that you have for the VCA a fast attack, some decay and a sustain while holding down the key on a keyboard and then a long release. Now, when applying the envelope voltage curve to the ECV input to control the filter mode of the MM VCF and set the depth in such way that the MM VCF change its mode from BPF to LPF at half the maximum envelope curve voltage, then: when you hit a key, the MM VCF starts in a BPF mode. This continues as long the key is depressed. When you release the key, the envelope curve comes in its release period and when this is half way, the MM VCF changes to LPF mode - causing the timbre of the note to drop low. One and another depends on the exact parameter settings and also how - for example - the envelope curve which controls the frequency of the VCF. Many variations can be made based on your analogy configuration.

View the illustration below to catch the idea graphically.

..... here mention the actual input and control. led indication

Voltage Controlled Frequency (F / FM)

Manual

ECV F1

ECV F2

ECV F3

Phase

Routing SW

Voltage Controlled Resonance (Q / QM)

Manual

ECV Q1

ECV Q2

ECV Q3

Phase

Routing SW

Q and filter mode (APF has reversed Q function)

Node Mixer & Phase

Nodes (What are nodes)

Mix pot

Mix phase (add/subtract)

Mix pot sw

Remote control

Led indication ]

Output gain & filter mode

Each filter mode can be programmed for a certain output gain

Why?

On/Off sw

Remote control

Led indication

Remote control sockets

Remote gain & mixer on/off

Remote Filter mode

Why?

How?

7.03

Noise & Random

White Noise (WN)

The Noise generator has the function to produce a so called White Noise (WN) that is as white (flat) as possible. The Noise generator of the m2U17 delivers at its WN output such a noise. It is in contrast to many regular musical instruments analogy generated noise. The White Noise quality of the m2U17 is better than most classical and modern digital noise generators due to the extra selection criteria of the noise-transistor.

White Noise Filtered (WNF)

The WN signal is connected to a heavy LOW and HIGH filter control to prepare the noise signal for typical audio use in combination with a VCF. By amplifying or weakening the low and/or the high spectrum, you more precisely can determine the final spectral effects when using this noise as a base for all kind of imitation which are based on noise (rain and thunder, wind, sea waves etc.).

Coloured Noise (CN) This Noise signal is a heavenly filtered version of the WN signal. It sounds like deep heavy rain and also can be seen as a fast random voltage. It can serve audio effect purposes as described above but also serves generating a slow random voltage.

Synthi-drum

You can use both WN, WNF and CN noise signals as a good base to create a Synthi-drum by combining the ENV follower, generator and the VCF. When you connect for example a microphone to the ENV follower, you can use the MIC as a Synthi-drum pick up element which not only responds good to beating it but also when blowing etc.

Random Voltage (RV or RND)

The CN noise signal is the base to generate a so called slow random voltage. This is done by applying the CN output to the SL module (SLEW LIMITER) input and delay the signal with the DELAY control.

SLEW LIMITER (SL)

The SL module with its Delay control is basically a Low Pass Filter. But, it is not meant to be a filter for audio signals, although possible. Instead it functions as a rigorous delay for control signals. With the Delay control you can set the Attack and Release time. This normally (internal patch) serves to create a variable Random Voltage but because both in and output is patchable, you also can use it for other purposes.

7.04

Pseudo Random

7.05

TGE3

7.06

ENV follower

7.07

ENV generator

7.08

TGE A&B

7.09

   
 

7.2

m2VC-SVF 

Custom Designed Gear

Dual Filter

7.20

Introduction

The m2VC-SVF is a dual Voltage Controlled Sate Variable Filter (parametric). It has selectable LP, BP and HP filter functions which can be balanced with the input signal to achieve alternative filter characteristics. LP, BP and HP also can be extracted by separated outputs. The mix of both filters can be balanced towards a separated output.

Because the m2VC-SVF is modular, you can make many patches to explore your creativity and originality. Also, if you do not make any external patches, you still can change the setup by using the routing switches and the Voltage Control parameter settings.

7.21

Specifications

For both filters

  • Voltage controlled filter frequency (F/FM).
    Manual control to set center frequency (F).
    External Control Voltage (ECV) with depth control pot with invert function (FM).
  • Resonance (Q)
    Resonance control pot.
  • Filter function switch
    To select Low Pass (LP), Band Pass (BP) or High Pass (HP).
  • Balancer
    To Mix (Balance) between selected filter function and the normal input signal.
  • Outputs
    LP, BP and HP are brought out separately besides the Balanced filter output.

With a third Balancer the output signal of both filter scan be mixed.

7.22

Manual Frequency Control

7.23

External Frequency Control (FM)

7.24

Resonance Control

7.25

Filter Function

7.26

Filter Balancer

7.27

Outputs

7.28

Final Balancer

7.29

Suggestions

   
 

8.0

Dual SP 

Custom Designed Gear

plus Signal Rigger

6.70

Introduction

A Signal Processor (SP) is a 3 channel mixer for both AC and DC based signals. Each channel may be mixed in or out phase (non-inverted or inverted). By using the internal patched reference voltage it also can be used as a DC shifter. Besides the use as an audio mixer and waveform shaper, the SP suits very well to create alternative CV signals.

The module also counts a so called Signal Rigger to transfer any signal to another level, shift and/or invert and to extract a Gate/Trigger signal.

8.01

SP features

Modular setup. The sections are internally linked to create a total function but also each section can be used on its own.







 

Rigger features

Modular setup. The sections are internally linked to create a total and versatile function but, also each section can be used on its own.

  • Amplifier
    To Amplify any signal from -2x to 100x. Gain Control pot, two inputs for gain range setting (-2x...10x, -2x...100x), Overload Led indication and an output.
  • Level Shifter
    To DC shift any signal up or down. Shift level control pot, In/out and Bi-Colour LED indication
  • Inverter
    To invert any signal (positive becomes negative and vice versa).
  • Logic/Gate Transformer
    To extract and/or level convert GATE / TRIGGER / LOGIC signals. Also can be used as an audio distortioner. Counts a trigger level control pot, an input, +10 Volt output, +5 Volt output and a +5 Volt reversed output.

More about the Signal Processor module you read at the Dual VCA & Signal Processor item.

8.02

Block diagram

8.03

8.04

8.05

8.06

8.06