MATRIXSYNTH

YouTube via traxcontrols | July 28, 2010

via this auction

"The Rota-Synth is a desktop 8-step analogue sequencer, coupled with a monophonic, true analogue synthesizer. It does not use a keyboard like a conventional synth, but instead generates musical sequences and sound effects that you program in real time.

This is the prototype, and this video demonstrates the sequencer section and analogue state-variable filter. No external effects are used in this clip.

There are two more demonstration videos, part 2 shows how the sequence length can be altered and steps added/removed, and the frequency modulation effects available."

TRAX RS-1 Rota-Synth Analogue Sequencer & Synthesizer Part 2

traxcontrols | July 28, 2010

"This is the second demonstration video for the TRAX RS-1 Rota-Synth, a new 8-step analogue sequencer which incorporates a monophonic, true analogue synthesizer.

In this part, the Glide control is explored, the sequence length is altered by setting a 7-position rotary switch, steps are added and removed using the toggle step switches, and we show the different effects available when the VCO is frequency modulated by the Low Frequency Oscillator. This has a waveshape control, for more modulation possibilities.

The only external effect used here is reverb."

TRAX RS-1 Rota-Synth Analogue Sequencer & Synthesizer Part 3

traxcontrols | July 28, 2010

"In this final video, the RS-1 has been connected to a computer running Ableton via a USB to MIDI lead. This allows you to synchronize a sequence to the MIDI clock output of the computer program.

The RS-1 can also be synched to any other electronic instrument that has a MIDI Clock output, in which case a 5 pin DIN MIDI lead is used.

Apologies in advance for the rather monotonous sequence - there must be many talented musicians out there who can get much better results!"

via this auction

"The Rota-Synth is a desktop 8-step analogue sequencer, coupled with a monophonic, true analogue synthesizer. It does not use a keyboard like a conventional synth, but instead generates musical sequences and sound effects that you program in real time.

Use it to create rapidly repeating musical phrases, grungy riffs, retro computer game effects, rolling basslines, off-the-wall rhythmic patterns, dub sirens, weird sci-fi effects, plus sounds yet undiscovered....

No clumsy menus to wade through - just switch on and go. You get full, hands-on control via knobs and switches.

Sequencer Section
There are separate pitch controls, toggle switches and yellow LED indicators for each step - creating sequences is fast and easy. The Sequence Length switch lets you change the number of steps in a sequence "on the fly"; great for improvisation in live performances.

You can synchronize the sequences to any electronic musical instrument that has a MIDI CLOCK output (just connect with a standard 5-pin DIN MIDI lead).

You can also sync. the sequence to a computer running music software which outputs MIDI Clock, in which case you will need an optional USB to MIDI lead (available on eBay).

PLEASE NOTE: the RS-1's MIDI Sync. input will only respond to MIDI CLOCK, START and STOP commands - it is not possible to control the actual pitch of notes with MIDI.

A 0 - 5.7V control voltage output is provided, along with a +5V gate output, for driving other analogue equipment such as synths and drum machines.

Synthesizer section
FULLY ANALOGUE voltage-controlled oscillator, with triangle and square wave outputs. No glitchy digital oscillators here! Huge frequency range, tuneable from a few Hz. to almost ultrasonic frequencies.

Full frequency modulation of the VCO by a low-frequency oscillator, for anything from a simple vibrato to devastating hyper-modulation! Waveshape control for even greater versatility - create whoops, ultra-slow sweeps and trills.

Turn up the Glide control a little to slide smoothly from one note to another - perfect for dreamy, melodic sequences. Turn it up further, and you are in the Twilight Zone!

Two square-wave sub-octaves can be mixed with the VCO's output for a fuller, fatter sound, perfect for basslines and organ-like effects.

True analogue state-variable filter for "Moog" (TM) style effects, with manual sweep. Selectable Bandpass or Lowpass response.

Add your own effects pedals to increase the range of possible effects even further!

The RS-1 will work on any mains voltage between 110V and 240V ac, via the supplied mains power adapter.

Dimensions: 278 (W) x 173 (D) x 95 (H) including controls and rubber feet. Supplied complete with a comprehensive Owner's Manual containing full operating instructions, tutorials, troubleshooting guide, service information, and program sheets you can copy and print out for future reference.

Guaranteed for one year from date of purchase. Full after-sales service available after expiry of the guarantee period."