Modular Synthesis 101 | Part 4 | VCAs

Continuing my introductory series of videos on Modular Synthesis 101. It's time to discover the sheer power of VCAs with some simple examples. In the end you'll learn THE BIG SECRET about VCAs and why you can never have too many VCAs in your system. Along the way you'll also get a proper introduction to a dynamics modulation called Envelopes, a perfect companion to VCAs.

0:00 | Intro and VCA Quick Recap
0:47 | Simple Gate
1:30 | Audio Dynamics: Envelopes
3:42 | Tremolo Using an LFO
4:26 | Linear and Exponential Response
5:28 | Using VCAs on Not Audio

Check out my cool Eurorack modules currently available in my Reverb Store

Modular Synthesis 101 | Part 3 | Filters

Continuing my introductory series of videos on Modular Synthesis 101. We enter the realm of Filters, what they do, how to patch them, and a few tips and tricks.

0:00 | Intro and VCF Quick Recap
0:34 | Frequency Analysis and Harmonic Content
1:13 | Lowpass Filter Mode, Frequency Cutoff, and Slope
2:33 | Highpass and Bandpass (Peak) Filter Modes
3:27 | Resonance (Q)
4:08 | Resonant Self-Oscillation
5:18 | Modulation: VCF FREQUENCY
7:12 | Modulation: VCF RESONANCE
Be sure to check out my Reverb Store for Pro VCF, XaVCF, JP6-VCF and other module availability.

2xVCA Exploration of Audio Rates Amplitude Modulation

Want to spice up your ordinary analog VCOs?
In my previous VCA Tips and Tricks video I showed you how to do audio rate modulation using a VCA. It's basically a tremolo, only the control signal is another audio signal.
The result ends up sounding similar to ring mod or FM.
Today I'll show you exactly how to patch it up. And explore the cornucopia of interesting AM sounds using various input and control signals possible using a VCA.

Check my Reverb store for 2xVCA version 3 availability

0:00 Intro
0:26 Patching It Up
1:26 Exploring Various Source and Modulation Waveforms
5:47 Adding a Filter and Envelope

GSE 2xVCA Comparison of versions 1, 2, and 3 Eurorack

Introducing 2xVCA version 3.
This time using BA662F chips.
Version 1 used BA6110.
Version 2 used openlabs BA662 clones.
Is there any difference in sound between these versions?
This is a simple comparison showing all 3.
Recorded direct, no other mastering or effects.

Check my Reverb store for 2xVCA version 3 availability

JP6-VCF Eurorack Filter Bandpass + Notch Patch Trick

Today I show you a modular patch on the JP6-VCF. By inverting a bandpass signal, and mixing it with the original un-processed signal - you can get a notch filter.

Squeeze Audio Compressor by Feedback [USER REVIEW + Demo] DIY SMD Eurorack

User review of the DIY Squeeze Audio Compressor by Feedback electronics.
I'll demo some sounds, give some audio compression tips,
and make a Future Sound of London Big Breakbeat patch.
You don't want to miss that one!
Give some thoughts about building the DIY version.
And conclude with some brief remarks.
I am not affiliated w/ Feedback Modules.

Timestamps
0:00 Cold Open Sounds
0:34 Introduction
2:09 Assembly Notes
4:33 Audio: Drumbrute Impact + Reverb
5:28 Audio: Parallel Compression Trick
6:41 Audio: Arpeggio + Reverb
8:10 Audio: Gluing A Mix Together with Compression
9:48 Patch: Future Sound of London Big Breakbeat
11:43 Concluding Remarks

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No additional mastering or processing.

2xVCA Dual VCA Eurorack Synth Tips/Tricks Demo #2

Today I'm looking at some tips/tricks using a dual VCA.
First I'll briefly go over what is a VCA,
then the features of my dual VCA module.
And lastly, show you some cool things you can do with VCAs.

0:00 Intro
0:16 What is a Voltage Controlled Amplifier?
N:48 A Quick Tour of the 2xVCA
2:21 Volume Knob
2:39 Envelope Amp
3:09 For Percussion Sounds
3:33 Amplitude Key Tracking
4:23 Ducking (sidechain style)
5:22 Audio Amplitude Modulation
6:07 Tremolo
7:02 Gated LFO
7:37 Wave-mixing

Be sure to check out the 2xVCA and my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.

Update from the Studio/Lab January 2019

January is normally D-E-D....dead. So slow. Not this year! So much happening: modules are getting sold out, a couple of great modules getting makeovers, and recently released a new and awesome module - but totally slipped under your radar. Shame on you, starting with that one then...

If you haven't seen it yet, be sure to check out my 6HP 2xVCA dual VCA in my Reverb store. It uses BA6110 chips just like those used in my amazing SH2-VCF filter. So many fun tricks to do w/ that one - I'll have to make a video of those things soon so keep an eye out for that one.

The Tonus VCF is sold out at the moment, as it very well should be - it's the MK1 infringement filter virtually plucked from an ARP 2600. I should have more of those ready to go very soon, just been a little tricky to keep up with the demand.

Lastly. TWO awesome things are getting a killer makeover and should be hitting the road in a week or two. The first is my 101-VCF coming soon in a RED Panel. It looks every bit as tough as the original synth. The other is my 8HP Delta VCF coming in a space-age White panel. Not to worry, I'm keeping those funky green LED sliders for extra vibe.

Introducing My 2xVCA 6HP Eurorack Dual VCA Module

Today I demonstrate my 2xVCA Eurorack module, an analog dual voltage controlled amplifier. Channel 1 is processing modulated noise coming from the E352. Channel 2 is handling an arpeggio from the CEM3340 VCO. My 2xADSR dual envelope is sending CVs to the VCA. I've added a kick from Future Retro Transient, and bass from DNA/101-VCF.

Recorded direct to a Tascam DR-05, some Timefactor delay used.

Specs and details are available at Modular Grid.
Be sure to check out the 2xVCA and my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.

Announcing 2xVCA Dual Voltage Controlled Amplifier 6HP

Hello 2019. Hope everyone had a good holiday. I've already been hard at work to bring you my first module of the New Year, the 2xVCA. It's a dual envelope based on BA6110 chips, and the test circuit is sounding pretty good. Should be ready to go mid-January. More details can be found at Modular Grid.