New Buchla Modules - 223e, 296, and 260e

http://buchla.com
Update: prices added after each description below.
via Ross / cray5656 / vicmod

"Model 296e SPECTRAL PROCESSOR

A 16 channel bandpass filter with built-in analysis and synthesis capability, the 296e can function as a real time performance filter, a programmable compound equalizer and even as a spectrum transferring vocoder.

Center frequencies are selected to complement the ear’s discrimination curve. Each frequency band has its own VCA input and envelope follower output, allowing for rather intricate transformations. The 296e can be split into two 8 band filters, with vocoding interconnections internally provided, or two 296e’s can be cascaded (with a behind-the-panel connection) with one performing spectral analysis, and the other synthesis.

A unique user interface can present instantaneous envelopes, thus creating a real time spectrum display, or two response curves may be entered, stored and edited in real time. Modulation may be applied to the response curves, creating some rather strange effects, and a “freeze” facility allows for storage of the instantaneous envelopes.

Envelope decay times are adjustable, and pre-emphasis may be applied to smooth the frequency response when vocoding.

All settings can be stored as presets in systems with a 225e or a 206e preset manager." $4600

"Model 223e TACTILE INPUT PORT

You don’t care for spatial control? The 223e substitutes an innovative arpeggiator for the rings of the 222e

This three panel unit tactile sensor responds to a feather-weight touch, or to several pounds of pressure. An additional (1 panel unit) module houses the outputs, the arpeggiator controls, and the edit facility.

The tactile surface is normally mounted in the first row of a 201e-12 or 201e-18 cabinet: alternatively, it may be mounted in the recently announced 201e-3u frame, relieving spatial binds in crowded systems.

An ergonomic array of 27 keys sense pressure and velocity; fourteen respond to location in one or two dimensions. Arrayed into multiple user-defined groups ranging in size from 1 to 25 keys, they produce a variety of user-programmed control voltages.

Location, pressure, impact and tuned voltages, as well as pulses, are presented at a total of 30 outputs. The LCD based user interface is remarkably simple and flexible. The arpeggiator features multiple patterns, internal and external clocks, and many other sundry features.

All settings, including key programming, can be memorized and recalled by the 225e or 206e preset manager" $2550

"Model 260e DUOPHONIC PITCH CLASS GENERATOR

The Model 260e Duophonic Pitch Class Generator consists of two independent, voltage controlled pitch class generators. (A pitch class generator produces a singular pitch in every perceivable octave.) Frequency modulation inputs and a five band spectrum-shaping facility are provided.

When switched to the "barber pole" mode, an internal computer takes over pitch control of both generators, and issues pulses for triggering an external envelope generator (a model 281e, for example), which in turn can drive a voltage controlled amplifier (like a model 292e dynamics manager). When the 260e's output signals are gated through the latter, Shepard tones and other auditory illusions (such as the tri-tone paradox) may be produced.

The rate of change is variable to 2.5 octaves per second in either direction, and is voltage controllable. Additionally, the pitch intervals can be adjusted from quarter-tones to tri-tones to continuous (for Risset tones).

With its multi-voicing, equalization, envelope shaping, and frequency modulation capabilities, you will find the 260e musically more interesting than the standard Shepard tone generator employed in perceptual psychology experiments.

The settings of the 260e can be stored and retrieved as numbered presets with a model 225e or 206e preset manager." $900