Modulation: Periodic vs Random vs Chaotic

Published on May 22, 2020 Learning Modular

"What are the differences between periodic modulation (i.e. a normal LFO), a random CV source, and a chaotic CV source? Some may be surprised to learn that the chaotic source is actually a cross between a random source and a normal LFO: its output can be fairly consistent for a few cycles like an LFO, but then it will create its own variations on the theme. In this introductory video I demonstrate these differences, both controlling a filter cutoff (one dimension) and the two timbre parameters of a 2hp Vowel oscillator (two dimensions).

If you would like to dive deeper, I’ve created a pair of companion posts for my Patreon supporters. The first (https://www.patreon.com/posts/37383127) goes into more detail comparing these three types of modulators, including patch and application suggestions; the second (https://www.patreon.com/posts/37424894) goes deeper into explaining chaos theory and some common characteristics of chaotic CV sources.

I am also creating videos on Ian Fritz’s ChaQuO, Chaotica, and Hypster modules that will be made available to +5v and above Patrons, as well as those enrolled in the Eurorack Expansion: Extended (Tier 3) course on https://courses.learningmodular.com."