MATRIXSYNTH: Search results for AJH Synth Official



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Showing posts sorted by date for query AJH Synth Official. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Sunday, January 22, 2023

'Sonic X-Voice' - Human Vocal Patch from our Klaus Schulze Tribute video with Sonic XV Eurorack VCF


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This Patch of The Week shows how the vocal sound was created that featured in the Klaus Schulze tribute video. It uses the Sonic XV Diode Transistor Ladder Filter for both it's band pass filter, and it's built-in wave folder. Patch sheet at the end of video, plus a download link for a PDF version with notes further down the page. Musical Tribute to Klaus Schulze: https://youtu.be/VA-Io4jVKbA

The Sonic XV is a surprisingly flexible multimode VCF - it can do the kind of aggressive, screaming resonance chaos that you'd expect from some of the famous diode filter-wielding synths of the past, but it's also particularly good at softer, delicate sounds, and having a well-featured wave folder on board gives it a much wider scope for tone-shaping. This, coupled with it's fast response, and simultaneous band pass, 6dB and 24dB low pass outputs, makes it a great choice for fast melodic sequences and percussion sounds. It's character is significantly different than that of the Minimoog-based Transistor Ladder Filter, and compliments it nicely, even if only used for it's wave folder to feed other VCF's. Sonic Wave Folder & Sequencer: https://youtu.be/pJUb-ZEddqQ

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself.

Video by @DreamsOfWires

Patch sheet with notes: https://kvisit.com/8AE/x_8G

Patch notes:
--------------------
Green dots show approximate pot and switch positions. Pots and switches that do not have green dots are not used in this patch, and should be left at their zero or off positions.
DH-ADSR: As we are using the inverted output here, it will constantly be sending a +8V signal to the LIN-CV of the VCO (therefore raising it's frequency/pitch) until it receives a gate signal, at which point it will follow the envelope settings, starting from an output of 0V. This is why the VCO will need re-tuning to match other instruments used, but preferably after you are happy with the amount of envelope to pitch influence you have dialled in. Dual LFO: The Tap Tempo VC-LFO module could also be used here in the same way, as it also has a built-in VCA (level control). Sonic XV: Small differences in wave folder settings can make a big difference to the sound, so it'll probably require some fine-tweaking to get the ideal timbre. I have added some resonance in this version, as it can help to simulate the tone of a human voice, but this is of course subjective - all voices are different. Band pass is definitely the best filter type to use, as it can remove both high and low frequencies that would be beyond those produced by a human voice. Modules used from left to right: DH-ADSR Envelope, Dual LFO + VCA, Vintage Transistor Core VCO, Sonic XV Diode Filter, Contour Generators, Discrete Cascaded VCA."

Sunday, January 15, 2023

Polyphonic: Using the Keystep Pro for 4-Voice Polyphony in Eurorack Modular - with AJH Synth MiniMod


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This video demonstrates the Arturia Keystep Pro controlling a MiniMod system in polyphonic mode, and show's how to enable up to 4 voices of polyphony on the Keystep Pro controller keyboard. The MiniMod system uses just 4 VCO's, envelope generators, VCF's and VCA's to supply 4 simple, single-oscillator voices, which are then complimented by either an LFO or noise source to add interest to the sound. This really is about as spartan as you can get for a modular 4-voice setup, so adding further modules would greatly expand it's sound palette, but this is just a proof of concept. Since it's fully modular, even with such a simple voice structure a surprising range of sounds can be achieved.

This was partly inspired by the earliest polyphonic synths, which were initially huge modular systems controlled by polyphonic keyboard controllers, and then the first polyphonic Oberheim synths, which controlled 4 or 8 individual monophonic synth voice modules individually (the superb-sounding SEM), each needing to be setup and tuned. However, this meant that each voice was free to be whatever the user wanted - similar or completely different than the others, something conventional analogue polysynths can't do.

The Gemini 2412 is used here as it has extensive multi-mode filter options, and conveniently contains 2 fully-featured VCF's per module, but also since it is directly based on the filter from the classic SEM module. A pair of Contour Generators serves as a simple and convenient dual envelope per module, although here they are shared for both VCF and/or VCA.
It's unlikely that many would buy a complete modular system purely to use as a polyphonic synth, but as your system grows it may eventually provide sufficient modules to be used in a poly configuration, even just as 2 voices, such as here: [posted here]

POWER: This module setup and PSU is just an example of the concept - it isn't necessary to arrange the modules in this way, and you should always ensure your power supply is sufficient to provide significantly more power to your selection of modules than is needed, across the +12V, -12V, and 5V power lines. For example, in this setup I'm using roughly 400mA on the -12V rail, but the PSU only provides 500mA to -12V, so this is pushing it a little too close to the limit than is ideal. Modulargrid.net is a great tool to use for designing your system and calculating your power needs, but also consult your PSU's documentation for advice on power usage.

MODULES USED:
Vintage Transistor Core VCO x4
Gemini 2412 x2
Contour Generators x2
Discrete Cascaded VCA x4
Dual LFO + VCA x1 (optional)
Entropic Doom x1 (as a noise source, optional)
Precision Voltages (as an offset for Gemini D-FCV, optional)
V-Scale x1 (as a buffered multiple, optional)

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself.

Video by @DreamsOfWires"

Sunday, January 08, 2023

'Für Klaus' - Tribute to Klaus Schulze, a Eurorack Modular Performance #eurorack #synth #ajhsynth


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"On this channel Sunday 8th @7pm GMT - a 13-minute track recorded as a single-take performance, and a purpose-made tribute/dedication to the late Klaus Schulze. The piece is inspired by his music directly, creating some sounds akin to those he used in the late 1970's, even including one of his sequences. Much of it was composed and rehearsed, whilst some of it was improvised, but I suspect much less so than Schulze's works, which were often much longer, involving more improvisation and more instruments. This piece consists of just three voices across 4 audio tracks/channels, altered or converted in real-time during the performance to achieve different sounds.

As a creator of electronic music, Schulze was one of the most significant influences for me (the video creator). His music, his attitude towards it in the interviews I read of his, and the way he worked alone to create dense, fascinating, complete musical performances and soundscapes, at a time when the technology was in it's infancy, and before later technologies such as complex computer sequencing, sound creation, processing and mixing were available. As a solitary musician, his was a great, empowering example. His bravery to improvise, experiment, and co-exist with imperfections, embracing them rather than fearing them, makes me warm to the artist and the music even more. Schulze used, among others, an early Minimoog (leads) and a large Moog modular system, which he customised with additional modules over the following years. Since the core AJH MiniMod system is directly based on the early, more desirable R.A.Moog version of the Minimoog, yet is entirely modular, it makes a great choice for this homage to one of electronic music's greatest pioneers.

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself.

Video by DreamsOfWires

Modules used:
Vintage Transistor Core VCO x6
Transistor Ladder Filter
Gemini 2412 Dual State-variable VCF
Wave Swarm
Ring SM
Glide + Noise MkII x2
Next Phase
Dual RVG
Tap Tempo VC-LFO
Sonic XV Diode Ladder Filter
Contour Generators x2
Muting Mixer
Dual LFO + VCA
Discrete Cascaded VCA x3"

Sunday, December 11, 2022

MiniMod VCO as LFO - Use as a Low Frequency Oscillator for Modulation, & Extending it's CV Range


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This video shows how to use the MiniMod Vintage Transistor Core VCO in it's dedicated LFO mode, and how to use it in conjunction with other modules in order to extend it's CV/voltage range, or modulate it with another VCO to create unusual or experimental waveforms.
The MIniMod VCO is based on that from the original R.A.Moog version of the Minimoog, which itself used one of it's 2 VCO's as an LFO, so it's natural that the MiniMod oscillator would also feature and LFO mode to be used in a similar way. However, since it is fully modular, it's potential uses go far beyond that of a self-contained synthesizer, and so not only can it's frequency range be greatly extended, but also it can also be modulated itself, by other modules, even another identical VCO. Using the Sync function can reset it's waveforms to produce more complex, but still time-locked modulation, which can be very useful for modulating filters in more interesting ways.

Video by DreamsOfWires

Index:
00:00 Intro
00:25 Using the VCO as LFO
02:00 Extending LFO Range
06:00 Modulating the Modulator (2 VCO's)"

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

V-SCALE User Guide: Precision Active Buffer & Multiple - Fix Tracking Issues, Accurate Pitch Sharing


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Not all Buffered Multiples are created equal: The V-SCALE by AJH Synth is a precision active buffer and multiple, which can be used to correct impedance mismatches between instruments, controllers and modules that can cause inaccurate tracking/scaling of pitch CV's, leading to out-of-tune VCO's and synths. It can also compensate for synths, VCO's and VCF's that will not track a 1V/Oct CV signal accurately, by way of 4 adjustable outputs, with fine-tuning trimmers allowing a 5% positive or negative alteration. Also, it will function as a highly accurate buffered multiple, and allow the use of further passive multiples after it in the CV signal chain, without risking a loss of signal strength, which would also lead to tuning or tracking inaccuracies. Unlike many buffered multiples, the V-Scale has a very high input impedance, and a very low output impedance, so it can make the various input and output combinations of different instruments play nicely together.

Index:
00:00 Intro
00:26 Module Overview
02:48 Adjusting VCF/VCO Tracking
07:04 Correcting 1V/Oct Signals
10:30 Usage with Passive Multiples
14:15 Performance Example

Video by DreamsOfWires"

Sunday, November 27, 2022

Patch of the Week: Whistle Lead (Tomita/Tangerine Dream) Using self-oscillating Filter/VCF as a VCO


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This sound is inspired by lead sounds of the 70's/80's from Isao Tomita and Tangerine Dream (Remote Viewing), but will also be reminiscent of Kate Bush's 'All we ever wanted', and even Jeff Wayne's 'War of The Worlds' musical. It uses a filter/VCF in self-oscillation as a VCO, controlling it melodically, with envelopes and noise to help recreate the sounds. No VCO/oscillator is needed in the patch, and white or pink noise is optional, but necessary to get a Tomita-like whistle sound. Tomita originally used a Moog modular system for these sounds, so given that the AJH Synth MiniMod system and it's Transistor Ladder Filter are directly based on the early R.A.Moog version of the Minimoog, it's possible to get very close to such sounds. However, I've not tried to emulate it exactly, but you can see that the basis for this patch is very easily customisable, so it's a very useful synth patch to understand for a variety of musical applications. Patch sheet PDF can be downloaded here: https://kvisit.com/8AE/rv4G

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end, with notes below, to show you how to construct it for yourself.

Video by DreamsOfWires

Index:
00:00 Intro
00:29 Performance Example & Overview
02:22 Assembling the patch
03:14 Importance of envelope
03:42 Delayed LFO/Vibrato
05:25 Adding Glide
06:12 Adding Noise
06:56 Mod wheel control of LFO
07:36 Noise as Filter Mod source
08:16 Patch Diagram

Patch Notes:
Green dots show approximate pot and switch positions. Pots and switches that do not have green dots are not used in this patch, and should be left at their zero or off positions.
This is based on the version in the video with noise mixed in as audio, and glide applied to the keyboard CV. For variations without noise or glide, and usage with a mod controller, see the appropriate part of the video (check Index). Only a couple of connections need to be changed for these purposes.
V-Scale: Used here as a simple multiple, but since it's handling Gate signals any passive multiple could be used.
DH-ADSR: Another Contour Generators could be used instead, but the advantage with the DH-ADSR is independent control of both Decay and Release, meaning greater control. It serves as a great companion to the Contour Generators for this reason.
Dual LFO: The Tap Tempo VC-LFO module could also be used here in the same way, as it also has a built-in VCA (level control).
Ladder Filter: The Gemini 2412 would also work well here, it's tracking in self-oscillation is actually better overall. It would just need to have high resonance/self-oscillation enabled by the rear jumpers (see online manual or video user guide). The Ladder Filter struggles to track at lower frequencies, this is an authentic characteristic of the original Minimoog filter, but it's fine for the pitch/note ranges used in this video. The Sonic XV will also self-oscillate, but it's ability to track 1V/Oct is not as tight as the Gemini.
Modules used from left to right: Glide + Noise (Mk I or Mk II), V-Scale, DH-ADSR Envelope, Dual LFO + VCA, Contour Generators, Transistor Ladder Filter, Discrete Cascaded VCA."

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

V-SCALE - How to Reset/Re-tune Trimmers to normal 1V/Oct accurate settings (for buffered multiple)


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This video shows how to return your V-Scale's trimmers back to 'factory default' settings - basically, so that all adjustable outputs are back in their central, accurate 1V/Oct positions. If you've previously adjusted any of the outputs to compensate for another module not tracking accurately, or if you acquired the module from someone else and it's already been adjusted, then it's likely that at some point you'll want to use the module simply as a buffered multiple, for distributing accurate 1V/Oct CV signals to VCO's or other modules. The video shows 2 easy ways of doing this. For musical use it might not always be needed or desired to have VCO's close to perfectly tuned, but the more time spent on adjusting the closer it is possible to get, it really depends on preference. However, tracking across a range of octaves is generally not something that can be compromised too much, and the V-Scale is a purpose-made tool for combatting this problem.
There'll be a full user guide video showing what this module can do very soon, but in the meantime, check out the following video for an example:" [posted here]

Sunday, November 20, 2022

MiniMod & Ribbon Controller - AJH Synth Eurorack Ambient with Gemini 2412 'SEM' style Dual Filter


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"A 2-voice ambient performance using the Doepfer ribbon controller with the AJH Synth MiniMod eurorack modular system, here incorporating the Gemini 2412 'SEM-based' dual multimode filter/VCF. Simple 2 note/2 VCO chords are shifted in pitch with the Ribbon, and pressure sensitivity used to control the Gemini's overall frequency, and the level of pitch vibrato from the Dual LFO module, which has a built-in VCA. A third VCO via the Transistor Ladder Filter creates a single oscillator drone sound (a square wave with pulse width modulation/PWM), whilst the Dual LFO also modulates the frequency of this VCF, and both VCF's on the Gemini in position to each other. The Gemini is used as a stereo filter, with both going of it's VCF's going to separate VCA's and audio channels to creates a stereo panning effect.
The Gemini can be used as 2 filters in series, or in stereo with a single audio input signal, but here both filters are processing a different VCO via their individual inputs, whilst the global Dual Frequency CV function of the module's central mix bus section allows them both to be controlled in unison, in addition to, or instead of their own individual CV control. This offers a huge amount of flexibility.
A suitably large reverb is added in post to add a film/movie soundtrack quality to the sound.

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself.

Video by DreamsOfWires"

Sunday, November 13, 2022

Expanding the Mother 32 Part 2 - More VCO's & Chords, Vocal sounds, External Filter/VCF (Eurorack)


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"The last of 2 videos showing some ways to add more flexibility and sonic power to the Moog Mother 32 using AJH SYNTH modules. The synth is semi-modular and designed with Eurorack compatibility in mind, so this unlocks the huge range of modules in the Eurorack modular ecosystem. Since the Mother 32 has that trademark Moog sound, the AJH Synth MiniMod range sit particularly well with it's vintage analogue synth lineage. The individual elements of the standard MiniMod voice are in fact based directly on the original R.A.Moog version of the Minimoog.

This video shows another example of adding multiple external VCO's to create a big, dense tone with multiple octaves, and also with 2 of the oscillators offset at different pitch intervals to create chords, just as was possible on the original Minimoog synthesizer.

Also shown is an example of using an external filter, in this case the powerful GEMINI 2412 dual multi-mode VCF, which is simply a case of running internal and/or external oscillators and sound sources into the filter, then back into the Ext Audio input, setting the Mother 32's internal ladder filter to maximum frequency (fully open), and reducing resonance to zero. Of course there's no reason why this filter cannot also be used as part of a patch, although the Gemini's two filters can also be run into each other internally (Cascade = in series) in the same way. Finally an example of vocal timbres/formant sounds, which can be achieved by many methods, but here using the wave folder featured on the SONIC XV diode ladder filter, and the FIXED FILTER BANK 914, which really is a go-to tool for tone shaping, allowing the output of 14 individual filters (1 low pass, 12 band pass, 1 high pass), each fixed at a specific frequency, to be mixed together at individual levels in order to dial in a desired tone.

Video by DreamsOfWires

Index:
00:00 Introduction
00:32 Multiple VCO's / 4 stacked octaves
01:20 Chords / VCO Tuning intervals
02:46 Using an External Filter
04:14 Vocal / Formant sounds"

Tuesday, November 08, 2022

AJH Synth Modular Sound Demo by @DKS SYNTH LAB (MiniMod Eurorack Modular jam, No Talking)


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"A repost of a video by Daniele Chierichetti demonstrating lead sounds and showing some of the sonic possibilities of an AJH Synth Eurorack modular synth system. The standard MiniMod voice forms the basis of the system featured here, and this voice is directly based on the original R.A.Moog version of the Minimoog, and as such it is capable of the same classic lead sounds, the same warmth, punch, and character. However, because it is modular, it takes this voice way beyond anything it was originally capable of, opening it up to the now huge Eurorack universe, including a wealth of modules by AJH Synth.
These high-end modules are mostly based on classic vintage designs, some of which are very difficult to obtain nowadays, but brought firmly into the modern Eurorack era by a wealth of connectivity, functionality, and reliability, that simply didn't exist 'back in the day'. Also, some modern, digital modulation modules compliment the range, hugely expanding it's sonic scope."

Timeline
0:00 Intro
0:09 Sound Demo 1
1:32 Sound Demo 2
2:28 Sound Demo 3
3:54 Sound Demo 4
4:50 Sound Demo 5
7:01 Sound Demo 6
7:56 Sound Demo 7

Sunday, November 06, 2022

Mother 32 Tracking Correction with the V-SCALE from AJH SYNTH - Fix those out-of-tune External VCO's


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Following on from last week's video showing some ways to expand the sonic capabilities of your Moog Mother-32, this video details the use of the V-SCALE Eurorack module to fix tracking issues with external VCO's and synths.
Previous video here: [posted here]

The Mother-32 is semi-modular in itself, but it also provides a gateway into Eurorack modular with minimal investment, for those who are unsure if it is for them. Even a single Eurorack module can make a big difference to your sound and capabilities. Since the Mother-32 only has 1 oscillator (and no sub-bass/sub-octave generator), the most obvious choice for many would be adding an external VCO. However, this can result in tuning issues between the synth itself and any external oscillators controlled by the synth's KB output (1V/Oct CV output). This is due to the output impedance, which can cause the 1V/Oct CV signal to become inaccurate, and mean that external VCO's can be out-of-tune within the space of a single octave. This problem gets worse as additional VCO's are loaded onto this pitch CV, affecting it's current.

The V-SCALE is a 5-way active buffer, in it's simplest form serving as an accurate buffered multiple, but more uniquely it is designed to address tracking issues encountered between modules or synths. It has a very high input impedance, and a very low output impedance - this alone can fix many tracking problems simply by connecting it between the misbehaving modules/synths. However, 4 of the 5 outputs are also adjustable - this is particularly useful for synths and modules that simply do not track correctly and need calibrating, something that can be difficult or near-impossible to change depending on the unit. This means it can also be used to to adjust the calibration of anything that needs strong 1V/Oct tracking, such as a self-oscillating filter/VCF when used as a melodic oscillator.

Video by DreamsOfWires

Index
-------
00:00 Intro
00:27 Overview of the issue
01:47 Mother 32 direct to external VCO
04:19 To external VCO via V-SCALE
05:47 3 VCO's via passive multiple
07:13 Passive multiples + V-SCALE
10:24 Testing with a different VCO



more VCOs mother-32 add vco to mother32 suboctave suboctaves subbass audio input ext audio in cv correction fix scaling tracking won't track my synth 1 volt per octave keyboard sequencer problem out of tune issue"

Sunday, October 30, 2022

Expanding the Mother 32 - Sub-octaves, wave multipliers & extra VCO's for chords & vintage fatness


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Here are some ideas for expanding the sonic possibilities and fattening up the sound of the Moog Mother 32 analogue synth - We're sometimes contacted by customers who have, or want to add AJH Synth modules to theirs, as the Mother 32 has great connectivity for Eurorack integration, so hopefully this will video will show a little of what is possible. The Mother 32 has a single oscillator, so the most obvious choice would be to add more VCO's, in order to perform harmonies and simple chords, but also it doesn't have a sub-bass, or sub-octave generator, so this may also be worth considering. In this video we demonstrate both of these options, using the MiniMod Vintage Transistor Core VCO's, the Ring SM to generate sub-octaves and as a CP3 style mixer, but also the Wave Swarm to simulate multiple stacked sawtooth waves. We also use the Sample Hold & Slew to generate rhythmic, random filter modulation, the Precision Voltages as a convenient way to select precise octave and semitone pitch changes of VCO's, and use the V-Scale to address 1V/Oct scaling/tracking issues that may occur when using the Mother 32 to control external VCO's or other instruments via CV.

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.

Index:
00:00 Introduction/Overview
00:53 Sub-octaves/sub-bass (Ring SM)
02:40 Sawtooth multiplication (Wave Swarm)
03:50 Ring SM as CP3 Input mixer
04:44 Using it with a sequencer
06:33 Sample & Hold filter mod
08:37 The need for the V-SCALE
09:09 Adding more VCO's
10:25 Using the Precision Voltages
11:19 Multiple VCO's & a sequencer

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself: https://youtu.be/89bv0dI8yw4

Video by DreamsOfWires"

Sunday, October 23, 2022

Minimoog-style Lead Sounds - Inspired by Rick Wakeman, Keith Emerson, & the sounds of the seventies


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"These are just sound examples, but I am not a keyboardist, so please don't expect any Rick Wakeman/Keith Emerson keyboard wizardry. The intention is just to illustrate the kind of tones that can be created with the basic MiniMod voice in Minimoog configuration (Glide, 3 VCO's, Ladder Filter, etc), along with some overdrive/distortion from driving the audio levels hard.

Generally, input levels significantly beyond 12 O'clock (50%) on the Ladder Filter or Discrete Cascaded VCA should start to apply more overdrive to the audio from the VCO's or other Eurorack level signals. This will noticeably change the character of the sound at extreme settings.

The GAIN SWITCH module is also used a couple of times here, as it conveniently activates the high-gain mode featured on both the Transistor Ladder Filter & Discrete Cascaded VCA modules, which is otherwise set by jumpers on the rear of the modules. Using the Gain Switch just means you don't need to pop the module out to enable/disable the feature. Audio-rate modulation of VCO3 from VCO1 is added at a couple of points... just because it sounds good, not necessarily because it was commonly used in famous lead sounds.

Rick Wakeman has famously used the Minimoog throughout his career, whereas Keith Emerson is equally associated with the Moog modular system that preceded it. Since the AJH Synth MiniMod system is directly based on the early, more desirable R.A.Moog version of the Minimoog, whilst also being fully modular, this makes it an excellent choice for recreating the sounds of those original, iconic instruments, and going way beyond it in the world of Eurorack.

Video by DreamsOfWires"

Sunday, October 16, 2022

AJH Synth Low Pass Filters Compared: 3 Eurorack VCF's - Sequences & Sweeps (dry audio/no talking)


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"A purely functional video this week - we're sometimes asked which filter we'd recommend, but really it's a subjective thing, so here's some examples of the current 3 AJH Synth Low Pass filters compared, with both a sequence and static sawtooth sweeps. The settings are mostly kept similar, bearing in mind that it's impossible to get an exact match with different VCF designs. The video timeline has an index, so you can skip to particular sections by using the links below, or by hovering the mouse over the timeline on the video player.

Filters featured:
Transistor Ladder Filter (based on the R.A.Moog Minimoog)
Sonic XV Diode Ladder Wave Filter (based on the 'muSonics' Sonic V)
Gemini 2412 Dual Vintage State Variable Filters (based on the Oberheim SEM)

INDEX:
00:00 Intro
00:29 Video Overview
01:20 Sequence + 1VCO - Ladder Filter
02:18 Sequence + 1VCO - Sonic XV 24dB
03:16 Sequence + 1VCO - Sonic XV 6dB
03:57 Sequence + 1VCO - Gemini 12dB
04:26 Sequence + 1VCO - Gemini 24dB
04:58 Multiple VCO's
06:33 Fast sequence
09:03 Filter Sweeps - Ladder Filter
10:25 Filter Sweeps - Sonic XV
12:56 Filter Sweeps - Gemini 2412

Video by DreamsOfWires

vcf comparison analogue voltage controlled filters compared analog filter shoot out no talking dry audio only examples no fx transistor ladder filter vs sem filter vs diode filter"

See the AJH label below for more.

Thursday, October 06, 2022

GEMINI 2412 User Guide Part 3: Using the dual filters together - stereo, formant, 24dB cascaded etc


video upload by AJH Synth Official

AJH Synth Official GEMINI 2412 User Guide posts

"Part 3 of 3. The AJH Synth Gemini 2412 Dual Multi-mode SEM-based VCF explained. The 3-part User Guide will cover this very complex and fully-featured, yet simple to use analogue filter. This final part shows how the functions explained in parts 1 and 2 can be used with both filters working together, with particular attention to creating a 24dB low pass filter, and a 12dB band pass filter, using the Gemini as a single filter in cascade mode. Also, creating formant, or vocal type sounds, evolving patches using an envelope to morph between the output of both filters, then finishing off with various no-talking patch examples, such as using the Gemini as a stereo filter, as part of a 2-voice polyphonic synth, and constantly changing sequencer patterns."

Video by DreamsOfWires

Index:
00:00 Intro
00:27 Overview
01:11 Creating a 24dB Low Pass filter
04:43 Creating a 12dB High Pass filter
08:20 Formant vocal sounds
09:26 Audio Mix & Envelopes
11:34 Patch examples"

Sunday, October 02, 2022

Performance: 'Mini Mod' - a 2016 track performed in real-time (analogue melodic eurorack modular)


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"A short real-time performance of a track I originally recorded in 2016, and was my first ever work with the AJH Synth Mini Mod system. The original version was overdubbed, layering a full 3-VCO & Ladder filter system 3 times to provide all of the synth voices. Here it is performed 'live' with all voices occurring simultaneously, but voiced slightly differently - for example, in the original I used just the standard Minimoog style voice configuration to achieve a vocal/choir-like sound, whereas here I used the much more effective combination of the Wave Swarm and Fixed Filter Bank 914, and even the Entropic Doom to provide an additional 'voice' to the all-analogue Mini-choir! No samples were used in this recording.

I also use the SEM--based Gemini 2412 VCF to process a drone sound, with both of it's filters used in Dual mode. It's audio signal is just 1 VCO and some white noise mixed in the Ring SM, which also provides to sub-octaves using it's built-in sub bass generators.

The Arturia Keystep Pro was used as the sequencer - the mod controller to affect the filter frequency of the Gemini, 3 sequencer tracks to control the pitch of the choir oscillators independently, as a kind of faux polyphonic workaround, and finally the fourth track to control the main 3-VCO melodic voice/sequence.

The original track can be found here: https://tomorrowthecure.bandcamp.com/..."

Sunday, September 25, 2022

'Radiophonic Randomness' - Using the RANDOM VOLTAGE EVENT GENERATOR to make retro scf-fi sounds


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Just for fun... Some lo-fi sounds/noises created with the help of the Dual RVG Eurorack module, providing random voltages and clock/gate signals, and demonstrating it's ability to multi-function, here providing 4 control signals. It's just an experiment really, since the author of this video is such a fan of the early adopters of analogue synths and the sounds they created, from the BBC Radiophonic Workshop's low-budget TV and radio soundtracks, to the first, less melodic synthesizer experimentations of Klaus Schulze, Tangerine Dream, and others.

Many of these involved the instruments and tools created by a small English company called EMS (Synthi, VCS3), and the Dual RVG by AJH Synth is directly based on one of their rarest products - the Random Voltage Generator. These would be incredibly hard to find now, and expensive, so having the same functionality and vintage circuit design in just 14hp of Eurorack space is a great alternative. The Dual RVG is a limited edition, only 500 units were to be made, but there are still some left as of writing this. It is an authentic vintage design, and it's behaviour faithfully recreates this character - organic in it's uncertainty and anomalies, unlike modern digital modulation sources. A very unique, but useful tool for generative music, experimental sound design, but also melodic composition and performance, especially when used with a quantiser and/or sequencer (see here: [posted here])

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself: [posted here]

Video by DreamsOfWires"

Sunday, September 18, 2022

'A Space Odyssey' with the LUNAR MODULE - Performance with lo-fi sample processing in eurorack


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This week's Patch of The Week was inspired by the movie '2001: A Space Odyssey', and uses the LUNAR MODULE by AJH Synth to process audio samples from the film, whilst various other Eurorack modules build the accompanying melodic drone to provide the musical backing.

The Lunar Module is an audio processor and noise generator, which also features distortion, a bit-reduction/bit-crushing effect, and a recreation of the 'Quindar' sounds (beeps) used in the actual NASA Apollo space program/missions of the 1960's to early 70's. In conjunction with the Lunar Module's other sound processing tools this can be used to simulate the lo-fi audio transmissions of the time and then applied to anything. All the features are also useful individually, from a customisable noise source, to adding distortion and bit-reduction to any incoming audio or Eurorack level signals, even melodic sounds. This performance originally appeared at the end of the Lunar Module User Guide video - check it out for all the details on what it can do and how to use it.

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself: https://youtu.be/89bv0dI8yw4

Video by DreamsOfWires"

Lunar Module User Guide - Vintage Space Mission Audio/Mic/Sample/Synth Effects for Eurorack

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"The Lunar Module is a fun Eurorack module for recreating the sound character of early space missions, or adding noise and bandwidth limitation to mics, line-level audio, samples, and synth modules. It's effects can be triggered manually, or from gate signals, and include noise with colour control (a bipolar low pass and high pass filter), hum effects with frequency control, variable distortion, and 'Quindar' - an authentic beep used at the beginning and end of transmissions from the Apollo space capsule back to the NASA Huston control centre.

As with all AJH Synth modules, the Lunar Module is designed to be played, and it's pots and jack sockets are made easily accessible so that live tweaking is not hindered, and controls are all substantial in size and spacing. Most are based on vintage synthesizer circuits and designs, bringing the sounds, behaviour and character of classic synths to Eurorack modular, but with the advantage of modern reliability, compatibility, flexibility, and understanding of the needs of modern musicians.

00:00 Intro
00:13 Overview
00:59 Installation Guide
02:12 Inputs & Controls
09:07 Use with Samples
14:43 Use with Microphones
16:29 Use with Synths
19:43 With Other Audio Devices
22:06 A Patch Clip
23:53 A Short Performance"

Video by DreamsOfWires"

Thursday, September 15, 2022

GEMINI 2412 User Guide Part 2: The Mix Bus (Dual Output, Audio, Frequency & CV control of filters)


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Part 2 of 3. The AJH Synth Gemini 2412 Dual Multi-mode SEM-based VCF explained. The 3-part User Guide will cover this very complex and fully-featured, yet simple to use analogue filter. This part will explain the central mixing bus section of the filter, and how it can be used to control the audio and CV balance, and cutoff frequency of both VCF's simultaneously, and how the dual filter (parallel) and cascaded filter (in series) modes work. Part 1 concentrated on the individual filters and their functions: [posted here] Part 3 will cover using the both filters together with the mixing bus, and how this element enables both VCF's to function together as a single, huge filter, either in series or parallel, along with patch examples, including using the Gemini as a stereo filter.

Video by DreamsOfWires

Index:
00:00 Intro
00:32 Dual Mode
02:17 Cascade Mode
06:01 Invert Function
10:38 Audio Mix
12:25 Mix CV (with an Envelope)
17:20 Mix CV (with an LFO)
22:38 Dual Frequency CV (D-FCV)
28:24 Patch Example (no talking)"

Sunday, September 11, 2022

Step Sequencer & Fixed Filter Bank 914 - An alternative to a VCF for sculpting sequences


video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This 'Patch of The Week' shows the Fixed Filter Bank 914 being used instead of a typical voltage-controlled filter to sculpt the sound of a step sequencer pattern, and also how on this particular module the sequencer can also interact with it for more variation and movement. The module is based on the original 914 unit from the vintage Moog modular systems, something Klaus Schulze was very keen on using as part of his 'Big Moog' that he used for much of his music career.
Here the excellent Doepfer Dark Time sequencer is used, but any dual, or combination of 2 step sequences could be used.
Downloadable Patch sheet link and patch notes further down the description.

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself.

Video by DreamsOfWires

Index:
00:00 Intro
00:26 Background to this patch
01:42 The Patch
06:56 Patch Sheet/Diagram"
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