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Notes: ***B-STOCK: Box opened, product in perfect working order***


Module A-199 is a spring reverb module. The reverb effect is electronically simulated by means of 3 spiral springs. Spring reverb systems have a very characteristic sound that is based on the (insufficient) mechanical properties of the springs like signal delays, audio resonances, limited frequency range, acoustic feedback behaviour, sensitivity to mechanical shocks and others.

The 3-spring system used in the A-199 ensures a "dense" reverb because of the different properties of the three springs.

The A-199 implies some special features that are not self-evident for spring reverb units:

The reverb signal can be fed back to the input using the Feedback control. Even self-oscillation of the springs similar to the self-oscillation of filters is available. The feedback loop can lead even via external modules like VCA, VCF, phaser, frequency shifter, vocoder, distortion/waveshaper, ring modulator and others. In this case the reverb output of the A-199 is connected to the input of the external module(s) and the output of the external module(s) is fed back to the Ext. Feedback In socket of the A-199. This socket contains a switch that interrupts the internal feedback loop as soon as a plug is inserted.

Another feature is the Emphasis control. This enables the adjustment of the accentuation of middle frequencies (around ~ 2kHz).

With the Mix control the relation between original and reverb signal appearing at the mix output is adjusted.

Using all these features very extreme and unusual effects can be generated with the A-199.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Item refurbished, repaired and in perfect working order.***


Module A-156 is a Dual Control Voltage Quantizer. A quantizer converts a continuous control voltage in the range 0...+10V into a stepped output voltage in the same voltage range (i.e. only certain voltages occur). Normally 1/12 V steps are used to obtain semitone steps. Quantizer 2 of the A-156 allows has more sophisticated quantizing modes like major scale (i.e. only voltages corresponding to the major scale), minor scale, major chord, minor chord, fundamental + fifth and addition of seventh or sixth when chords are selected. Only those voltages appear at the CV output which comply with the selection rule (e.g. minor chord with seventh). The mode setting of quantizer 2 is done with 3 switches (1-0-1 type with middle position). From the factory quantizer 1 is working in the semitone mode. But there is a jumper on the pc board that can be changed so that even quantizer 1 uses the same scale as quantizer 2.

For each quantizer the following in/outputs are available:

- Control voltage input (CV In): The input for the continuous voltage to be quantized
- Control voltage output (CV Out): The output of the quantized voltage
- Trigger input (Trig.In): If this jack is left open the quantizer is working permanently. If a rectangle voltage is applied quantisation happens only at the rising edge of the signal (e.g. from an LFO or MIDI-to-Sync interface). Thus the quantizing can be synchronized with other events
- Trigger output (Trig.Out): Whenever a quantisation happens (i.e. a new voltage is generated at the CV Out) a positive pulse occurs at this output. It may be used to trigger an envelope generator (ADSR) or for triggering other modules (sequential switch A-151, trigger divider/sequencer A-160/161, trigger delay A-162, ...). If none of these functions are used the jack is left open

On top of that the A-156 is provided with a common transpose CV input having an additive effect on both quantizers. This input is quantized in semitone steps. A typical application is the transposition of a sequence generated by the A-155 by a second control voltage (e.g. coming from the MIDI-CV interface A-190).

Typical applications:

- Quantizing the CV sequence generated by an A-155 (semitone, only major scale, only minor scale and so on)
- Quantizing the voltage coming from the Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller A-198, Theremin A-178 or Light-to-CV module A-179 to get accurate semitones or major/minor scale tones
- Arpeggio-like effects with LFO, random, noise, envelope generators as CV sources (for negative or symmetrical voltages an offset must be added, e.g. with the offset/attenuator module A-129-3, to obtain positive voltages for the A-156 input)

Notes: Module A-156 is a Dual Control Voltage Quantizer. A quantizer converts a continuous control voltage in the range 0...+10V into a stepped output voltage in the same voltage range (i.e. only certain voltages occur). Normally 1/12 V steps are used to obtain semitone steps. Quantizer 2 of the A-156 allows has more sophisticated quantizing modes like major scale (i.e. only voltages corresponding to the major scale), minor scale, major chord, minor chord, fundamental + fifth and addition of seventh or sixth when chords are selected. Only those voltages appear at the CV output which comply with the selection rule (e.g. minor chord with seventh). The mode setting of quantizer 2 is done with 3 switches (1-0-1 type with middle position). From the factory quantizer 1 is working in the semitone mode. But there is a jumper on the pc board that can be changed so that even quantizer 1 uses the same scale as quantizer 2.

For each quantizer the following in/outputs are available:

- Control voltage input (CV In): The input for the continuous voltage to be quantized
- Control voltage output (CV Out): The output of the quantized voltage
- Trigger input (Trig.In): If this jack is left open the quantizer is working permanently. If a rectangle voltage is applied quantisation happens only at the rising edge of the signal (e.g. from an LFO or MIDI-to-Sync interface). Thus the quantizing can be synchronized with other events
- Trigger output (Trig.Out): Whenever a quantisation happens (i.e. a new voltage is generated at the CV Out) a positive pulse occurs at this output. It may be used to trigger an envelope generator (ADSR) or for triggering other modules (sequential switch A-151, trigger divider/sequencer A-160/161, trigger delay A-162, ...). If none of these functions are used the jack is left open

On top of that the A-156 is provided with a common transpose CV input having an additive effect on both quantizers. This input is quantized in semitone steps. A typical application is the transposition of a sequence generated by the A-155 by a second control voltage (e.g. coming from the MIDI-CV interface A-190).

Typical applications:

- Quantizing the CV sequence generated by an A-155 (semitone, only major scale, only minor scale and so on)
- Quantizing the voltage coming from the Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller A-198, Theremin A-178 or Light-to-CV module A-179 to get accurate semitones or major/minor scale tones
- Arpeggio-like effects with LFO, random, noise, envelope generators as CV sources (for negative or symmetrical voltages an offset must be added, e.g. with the offset/attenuator module A-129-3, to obtain positive voltages for the A-156 input)

Notes: Module A-138p is the 4-fold input module.

A-138p features:

4 channels
controls and inputs for each channel
input (3.5 mm mono socket)
signal LED (as a coarse monitor of the incoming level, the level is measured after the gain control)
mute switch
gain (control to adapt different audio levels)
Level (the main volume control, linear response curve)
Aux
Pan
internal jumper for each channel to choose between Aux pre/post main Level control
internal connection to the output module and to other A-138p or A-135-4 modules
A-138p requires A-138o (no stand-alone use)

Dimensions
16 HP
40 mm deep

Current Draw
Module does not draw current

Notes: Module A-199 is a spring reverb module. The reverb effect is electronically simulated by means of 3 spiral springs. Spring reverb systems have a very characteristic sound that is based on the (insufficient) mechanical properties of the springs like signal delays, audio resonances, limited frequency range, acoustic feedback behaviour, sensitivity to mechanical shocks and others.

The 3-spring system used in the A-199 ensures a "dense" reverb because of the different properties of the three springs.

The A-199 implies some special features that are not self-evident for spring reverb units:

The reverb signal can be fed back to the input using the Feedback control. Even self-oscillation of the springs similar to the self-oscillation of filters is available. The feedback loop can lead even via external modules like VCA, VCF, phaser, frequency shifter, vocoder, distortion/waveshaper, ring modulator and others. In this case the reverb output of the A-199 is connected to the input of the external module(s) and the output of the external module(s) is fed back to the Ext. Feedback In socket of the A-199. This socket contains a switch that interrupts the internal feedback loop as soon as a plug is inserted.

Another feature is the Emphasis control. This enables the adjustment of the accentuation of middle frequencies (around ~ 2kHz).

With the Mix control the relation between original and reverb signal appearing at the mix output is adjusted.

Using all these features very extreme and unusual effects can be generated with the A-199.

Notes: Module A-199 is a spring reverb module. The reverb effect is electronically simulated by means of 3 spiral springs. Spring reverb systems have a very characteristic sound that is based on the (insufficient) mechanical properties of the springs like signal delays, audio resonances, limited frequency range, acoustic feedback behaviour, sensitivity to mechanical shocks and others.

The 3-spring system used in the A-199 ensures a "dense" reverb because of the different properties of the three springs.

The A-199 implies some special features that are not self-evident for spring reverb units:

The reverb signal can be fed back to the input using the Feedback control. Even self-oscillation of the springs similar to the self-oscillation of filters is available. The feedback loop can lead even via external modules like VCA, VCF, phaser, frequency shifter, vocoder, distortion/waveshaper, ring modulator and others. In this case the reverb output of the A-199 is connected to the input of the external module(s) and the output of the external module(s) is fed back to the Ext. Feedback In socket of the A-199. This socket contains a switch that interrupts the internal feedback loop as soon as a plug is inserted.

Another feature is the Emphasis control. This enables the adjustment of the accentuation of middle frequencies (around ~ 2kHz).

With the Mix control the relation between original and reverb signal appearing at the mix output is adjusted.

Using all these features very extreme and unusual effects can be generated with the A-199.

Notes: Module A-198 is a Trautonium Manual resp. Ribbon Controller. The controlling element of the A-198 is a linear position sensor (length about 50 cm) that has available a pressure sensor too.

Touching the sensor with a finger generates a control voltage CV1 that is proportional to the position of the finger. The scale (i.e. the relation between position difference and voltage difference) is adjustable with a potentiometer at the front panel. A hold switch is used to determine if the CV voltage is held after removing the finger (hold = on) or if the CV voltage jumps to 0V (hold = off). In the last case (hold = off) a gate signal is derived from the CV voltage whenever a finger touches the sensor (e.g. for triggering an envelope generator).

A sensitive pressure sensor located below the position sensor generates a second control voltage CV2 that increases with higher pressure of the finger. Even for CV2 the scale is adjustable. A second gate signal is triggered as soon as the pressure exceeds a certain value. The gate threshold is adjustable at the front panel.

The sensors are located in a separate metal frame (length about 600 mm, width about 30 mm, height about 18 mm, weight: about 900 g, colour: silver-grey). The connection between the module and the sensor frame is made by a 4 pin cable (same as used for USB connections).

Typical applications:

- Trautonium manual, the string is replaced by the position sensor that is much easier to use and cheaper than the string. In combination with the Subharmonic Oscillator A-113, the Trautonium Filter A-104 and some auxiliary modules a complete Trautonium replica may be realized. In combination with the Quantizer A-156 exact semitone intervals are possible.

- Ribbon Controller for any A-100 parameter

Notes: Touching the sensor with a finger generates a control voltage CV1 that is proportional to the position of the finger. The scale (i.e. the relation between position difference and voltage difference) is adjustable with a potentiometer at the front panel. A hold switch is used to determine if the CV voltage is held after removing the finger (hold = on) or if the CV voltage jumps to 0V (hold = off). In the last case (hold = off) a gate signal is derived from the CV voltage whenever a finger touches the sensor (e.g. for triggering an envelope generator).

A sensitive pressure sensor located below the position sensor generates a second control voltage CV2 that increases with higher pressure of the finger. Even for CV2 the scale is adjustable. A second gate signal is triggered as soon as the pressure exceeds a certain value. The gate threshold is adjustable at the front panel.

The sensors are located in a separate metal frame (length about 600 mm, width about 30 mm, height about 18 mm, weight: about 900 g, colour: silver-grey). The connection between the module and the sensor frame is made by a 4 pin cable (same as used for USB connections).

Typical applications:

- Trautonium manual, the string is replaced by the position sensor that is much easier to use and cheaper than the string. In combination with the Subharmonic Oscillator A-113, the Trautonium Filter A-104 and some auxiliary modules a complete Trautonium replica may be realized. In combination with the Quantizer A-156 exact semitone intervals are possible.

- Ribbon Controller for any A-100 parameter

Notes: Module A-197-3 is a control unit for RGB LED stripes. The LED stripe is glued e.g. to the inner edges of the cases A-100P6/P9/PMS6/PMS9/PMS12 to illuminate the modules and patching statically or dynamically. Especially during live events the dynamic illumination in sync with the sound is an eye-catcher. Each colour (red, green, blue) has available a manual control for the background brightness and a CV input with attenuator that enables the dynamic brightness controlled by other control voltages of the modular system. For example three envelopes can be used which also control the loudness or filtering of sound processing modules. But even other control applications are possible, e.g. LFO, random voltages, clock/gate/trigger signals, sequencer, Midi-to-CV.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Box damaged, product in perfect working order***


Module A-196 contains a so-called phase locked loop (PLL). The basic PLL system is shown in the sketch at the bottom of this page. A PLL consists of three parts: voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), phase comparator (PC), and low-pass filter (LPF). All parts are normally connected to form a closed-loop frequency-feedback system.

This is how a PLL works: The output of the internal VCO (linear CV control, rectangle output) is compared with an external signal (e.g. the rectangle output of a A-110 VCO) in the so-called phase comparator (PC). The output of the phase comparator is a digital signal (low/high/tristate) that indicates if the frequency resp. phase difference of the two input signals is negative, zero or positive. The output of the phase comparator is processed by a low pass filter (LPF) to generate a smooth voltage that is used to control the frequency of the internal VCO. The 3 units VCO, PC and LPF form a feedback loop that works like this: The control voltage (output of the LPF) increases as long as the external frequency is higher than the frequency of the internal VCO und stops increasing when both frequencies become identical. The control voltage decreases as long as the external frequency is lower than the frequency of the internal VCO und stops decreasing when both frequencies become identical.

But there are some stumbling blocks: Different types of phase comparators with advantages and disadvantages can be made. Some phase comparators e.g. even lock at harmonics, i.e. if the two frequencies to be compared are integer multiples. But for some applications this can be used to create interesting effects. The A-196 contains 3 different types of phase comparators: PC1 is a simple exclusive OR, that even locks at harmonics. PC2 is a so-called RS flipflop and PC3 a more complex digital memory network. The user can select one of the three phase comparators with a 3-position switch. When PC2 is used a LED displays the "locked" state, i.e. when the frequency of the internal VCO is identical to the external frequency.

Special attention has to be directed to the frequency of the LPF. To obtain a smooth control voltage for the VCO the frequency of the LPF has to be much smaller than the lowest frequency of the internal or external audio signal. Otherwise the frequency of the internal VCO will jitter or wobble around the correct frequency. But for special effects this frequency jitter can be used intentionally. Example: frequencies in the range 50Hz...1kHz have to be processed with the PLL. Therefore the frequency of the LPF has to be about 10Hz or even less. Such a low frequency of the LPF causes a noticeable slew of the internal VCO. When the frequency of the external signal jumps e.g. between 500Hz and 1kHz it takes about 0.1 second until the internal VCO reaches the new frequency (like portamento). So one has to find a compromise between frequency jitter and portamento. But these remarks are valid only for the "ideal" working PLL. As the A-196 is used in a musical environment the "problems" and disadvantages with jitter and slew time lead to additional musical applications like portamento effects, wobbling frequencies or harmonic locking according to the type of frequency comparator and time constant of the PLL low pass filter. Instead of the internal manually controlled low pass filter the voltage controlled slew limiter A-171 can be used to obtain voltage control of this parameter. Normal audio filters (e.g. A-120, A-121) cannot be used for this job as the minimum frequency is to high (down to a few Hz or even less necessary) and the signal has to be DC coupled due to the low frequencies. Audio filters are normally AC coupled.

Another very important application of a PLL is frequency multiplication in combination with an external frequency divider. For this the output of the PLL-VCO is processed through an external frequency divider (e.g. A-163, A-160, A-161, A-115) before it is fed to In1 of the phase comparator. In this case the frequency of the PLL-VCO will be a multiple of the master frequency. E.g. if the A-163 is used and adjusted to dividing factor 5 the frequency of the PLL-VCO will be 5 times the frequency of the master VCO. Consequently, frequency division (A-163) leads to frequency multiplication with the PLL circuit. In combination with the PLL low pass frequency several effects can be realized (frequency multiplication with portamento or wobbling). The frequency multiplication can even be used to drive a graphic VCO. If your graphic VCO e.g. has 8 steps (e.g. A-155) and you use a frequency divider with factor 8 in the PLL feedback the output of the graphic VCO has the same frequency as the master VCO. Another application is the generation of pseudo-harmonics (not real harmonics as only rectangle waves are available) or clock generation for switched-capacitor filters.

Notes: Module A-196 contains a so-called phase locked loop (PLL). The basic PLL system is shown in the sketch at the bottom of this page. A PLL consists of three parts: voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), phase comparator (PC), and low-pass filter (LPF). All parts are normally connected to form a closed-loop frequency-feedback system.

This is how a PLL works: The output of the internal VCO (linear CV control, rectangle output) is compared with an external signal (e.g. the rectangle output of a A-110 VCO) in the so-called phase comparator (PC). The output of the phase comparator is a digital signal (low/high/tristate) that indicates if the frequency resp. phase difference of the two input signals is negative, zero or positive. The output of the phase comparator is processed by a low pass filter (LPF) to generate a smooth voltage that is used to control the frequency of the internal VCO. The 3 units VCO, PC and LPF form a feedback loop that works like this: The control voltage (output of the LPF) increases as long as the external frequency is higher than the frequency of the internal VCO und stops increasing when both frequencies become identical. The control voltage decreases as long as the external frequency is lower than the frequency of the internal VCO und stops decreasing when both frequencies become identical.

But there are some stumbling blocks: Different types of phase comparators with advantages and disadvantages can be made. Some phase comparators e.g. even lock at harmonics, i.e. if the two frequencies to be compared are integer multiples. But for some applications this can be used to create interesting effects. The A-196 contains 3 different types of phase comparators: PC1 is a simple exclusive OR, that even locks at harmonics. PC2 is a so-called RS flipflop and PC3 a more complex digital memory network. The user can select one of the three phase comparators with a 3-position switch. When PC2 is used a LED displays the "locked" state, i.e. when the frequency of the internal VCO is identical to the external frequency.

Special attention has to be directed to the frequency of the LPF. To obtain a smooth control voltage for the VCO the frequency of the LPF has to be much smaller than the lowest frequency of the internal or external audio signal. Otherwise the frequency of the internal VCO will jitter or wobble around the correct frequency. But for special effects this frequency jitter can be used intentionally. Example: frequencies in the range 50Hz...1kHz have to be processed with the PLL. Therefore the frequency of the LPF has to be about 10Hz or even less. Such a low frequency of the LPF causes a noticeable slew of the internal VCO. When the frequency of the external signal jumps e.g. between 500Hz and 1kHz it takes about 0.1 second until the internal VCO reaches the new frequency (like portamento). So one has to find a compromise between frequency jitter and portamento. But these remarks are valid only for the "ideal" working PLL. As the A-196 is used in a musical environment the "problems" and disadvantages with jitter and slew time lead to additional musical applications like portamento effects, wobbling frequencies or harmonic locking according to the type of frequency comparator and time constant of the PLL low pass filter. Instead of the internal manually controlled low pass filter the voltage controlled slew limiter A-171 can be used to obtain voltage control of this parameter. Normal audio filters (e.g. A-120, A-121) cannot be used for this job as the minimum frequency is to high (down to a few Hz or even less necessary) and the signal has to be DC coupled due to the low frequencies. Audio filters are normally AC coupled.

Another very important application of a PLL is frequency multiplication in combination with an external frequency divider. For this the output of the PLL-VCO is processed through an external frequency divider (e.g. A-163, A-160, A-161, A-115) before it is fed to In1 of the phase comparator. In this case the frequency of the PLL-VCO will be a multiple of the master frequency. E.g. if the A-163 is used and adjusted to dividing factor 5 the frequency of the PLL-VCO will be 5 times the frequency of the master VCO. Consequently, frequency division (A-163) leads to frequency multiplication with the PLL circuit. In combination with the PLL low pass frequency several effects can be realized (frequency multiplication with portamento or wobbling). The frequency multiplication can even be used to drive a graphic VCO. If your graphic VCO e.g. has 8 steps (e.g. A-155) and you use a frequency divider with factor 8 in the PLL feedback the output of the graphic VCO has the same frequency as the master VCO. Another application is the generation of pseudo-harmonics (not real harmonics as only rectangle waves are available) or clock generation for switched-capacitor filters.

Notes: Module A-192-2 contains two independent CV/Gate-to-Midi/USB interfaces. For each of the two sub-units these inputs are available:

- Gate Input (min. +5V)
- CVN Input (defines the Midi note number), 1V/octave standard, range 0...+10V (i.e. 10 octaves)
- CVV Input (defines the velocity value assigned to the Midi note message), can be used alternatively for Midi volume (CC#7), range 0...+5V
- CVC Input (free assignable to any Midi control change number), range 0...+5V

For both sub-units a common CV Transpose input is available (1V/octave, range 0...+10V). The voltage applied to this input is added internally to CVN before the Midi note number is generated. It can be used e.g. to transpose two sequences simultaneously by one voltage.

How it works:

Whenever the rising edge of the Gate input is recognized a Midi note on message is generated. The note number corresponds to the sum of the voltages applied to the CVN input and the common CV Transpose Input that is present at the rising edge of the gate signal.

Notes: USB/MIDI to clock interface that allows for synchronizing clock-driven modules with the MIDI environment. It processes only the Clock, Start, Stop and Continue MIDI commands. It has several clock divider outputs, each one start, stop and reset outputs for controlling sequencers and also an interesting wait function. Input is either a 5-pin DIN socket or USB.

Notes: Module A-190-5 is a four voice Midi/USB to CV/Gate interface. For each voice a pitch control voltage (CV1, 1V/octave standard to control VCOs), a gate output (to control envelope generators) and two additional control voltages (CV2, CV3) are available. The two additional CV outputs can be controlled by Midi velocity, volume, modulation, pitch bend, after touch or free assignable Midi controllers.

- Four voice monophonic (i.e. to control four monophonic voices by four succeeding Midi channels)
- Four voice polyphonic (i.e. to control four monophonic voices by one Midi channel) with several sub-modes (e.g. rotating/non-rotating)
- Two voice polyphonic (i.e. to control two monophonic voices by one Midi channel)
- Unisono

The basic mode is selected by means of a momentary switch (probably Mode or Algor.) and is shown in the LC display. Certain parameters of each mode can be edited (e.g. the midi channel(s), the midi reference note for 0V CV, assigned controllers for CV2 and CV3). For this the momentary switch Edit/Play is used. The parameter values (e.g. midi channels) are shown in the display and can be modified by means of the momentary switches 1...4. In Play mode the LEDs of these four switches display the gate states.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Product has light surface marks/scratches, but otherwise in perfect working condition***


Module A-190-5 is a four voice Midi/USB to CV/Gate interface. For each voice a pitch control voltage (CV1, 1V/octave standard to control VCOs), a gate output (to control envelope generators) and two additional control voltages (CV2, CV3) are available. The two additional CV outputs can be controlled by Midi velocity, volume, modulation, pitch bend, after touch or free assignable Midi controllers.

- Four voice monophonic (i.e. to control four monophonic voices by four succeeding Midi channels)
- Four voice polyphonic (i.e. to control four monophonic voices by one Midi channel) with several sub-modes (e.g. rotating/non-rotating)
- Two voice polyphonic (i.e. to control two monophonic voices by one Midi channel)
- Unisono

The basic mode is selected by means of a momentary switch (probably Mode or Algor.) and is shown in the LC display. Certain parameters of each mode can be edited (e.g. the midi channel(s), the midi reference note for 0V CV, assigned controllers for CV2 and CV3). For this the momentary switch Edit/Play is used. The parameter values (e.g. midi channels) are shown in the display and can be modified by means of the momentary switches 1...4. In Play mode the LEDs of these four switches display the gate states.

Notes: A-190-4 is the replacement for module A-190-1 which is no longer available. The functions of A-190-1 and A-190-4 are nearly the same (Midi In, Midi Out, CV1, CV2, Gate, Clock, Reset). But the operation of the A-190-4 has been improved because a 3-digit LED display is available. The current values of all parameters (like Midi channel, reference note, clock divider) can be read back and modified by means of up/down buttons. In addition, A-190-4 is equipped with an USB interface and the external +5V supply is no longer available. Consequently, the additional charges for the 5V adapter fall away.

The module width is the same for A-190-1 and A-190-4. In the A-100 basic systems the A-190-1 will be replaced by the A-190-4 from about May 2014.

Important notes:

- The Scale (SCA) and Tune (TUn) parameters remain unchanged when the module is initialized! Otherwise the initialization would overwrite the adjusted values. Because of the tolerances of electrical parts there are no fixed values for SCA and TUn which are valid for all modules. The values for SCA and TUn differ a bit from module to module because of the tolerances of electrical parts. In case that the module has been adjusted totally wrong: typical values are 100 for SCA (coarse) and 55 for TUn (coarse).

- The module comes with installed bus jumpers for CV and Gate. One has to remove the jumpers if e.g. an A-164, A-190-1, A-190-2, A-190-3, A-185-1 or A-185-2 is already connected to the CV and/or gate lines of the same bus board! If the A-190-3 should be used as CV and gate source for the A-100 bus the CV and gate connections of other CV/gate sources to the A-100 bus have to be removed. Otherwise short circuits are made between the outputs of the CV or gate transmitters!

- The gate level of the A-190-3 can be changed from +5V to +12V. For this the jumper on JP10A (behind the CV Note socket, labelled "GATE 5V JP10A") has to be removed and installed to JP10B (behind the 16 pin bus connector, labelled "GATE 12V JP10B").

- The module is a USB device or slave in USB mode. It has no USB host function (like computers or laptops with type A USB connectors).

Notes: Module A-190-3 is a Midi/USB-to-CV/Gate interface that allows the integration of the A-100 system into a USB or Midi environment. It has available 4 analogue control voltage outputs (CV1...4) and one Gate output. A-190-3 is the modular version of Dark Link.

In/Outputs and controls:

- USB
- Midi Input
- Learn button
- Gate Out (with LED for Gate display and learn function), 0/+5V
- CV1: controlled by Midi note messages, 1V/Octave, 0...+5V
- CV2: controlled by Midi pitch bend, ~ -2.5...+2.5V or ~ 0...+5V (can be selected by an internal jumper)
- CV3: controlled by Midi velocity, 0...+5V
- CV4: controlled by Midi control change messages, free assignable controller in learn mode
- Glide control (portamento function for CV1)

Other Features:

- Midi channel, reference note and Midi control change number for CV4 are adjusted by means of a learn button and LED.
- By means of two jumpers CV1 and Gate can be connected to the corresponding lines of the A-100 bus. That way the VCOs A-110 or A-111 and the envelope generator A-140 can be controlled directly via the A-100 bus, i.e. it's not necessary to patch CV and Gate with cables between the front panels. In addition, CV1 is buffered, i.e. even several VCOs can be controlled by the A-190-3 without the need of an additional bus buffer (e.g. A-185-1 or A-185-2).
- The gate voltage can be set to +5V or +12V by means of two jumpers. For modules of the A-100 both voltages can be used. For modules or devices from other manufacturers the gate voltage has to be set accordingly.
- If you want to connect the gate output to devices that use S-Trig a special S-Trig cable is available. For details please refer to our FAQ page
- By means of the precise CV adder A-185-2 CV1 and CV2 can be added to obtain an adjustable width of the pitch bend. For this CV2 of the A-190-3 is connected to the upper input of the A-185-2 which has an attenuator available. CV1 of the - A-190-3 is connected to one of the other inputs without attenuator.

Notes: Module A-190-3 is a Midi/USB-to-CV/Gate interface that allows the integration of the A-100 system into a USB or Midi environment. It has available 4 analogue control voltage outputs (CV1...4) and one Gate output. A-190-3 is the modular version of Dark Link.

In/Outputs and controls:

- USB
- Midi Input
- Learn button
- Gate Out (with LED for Gate display and learn function), 0/+5V
- CV1: controlled by Midi note messages, 1V/Octave, 0...+5V
- CV2: controlled by Midi pitch bend, ~ -2.5...+2.5V or ~ 0...+5V (can be selected by an internal jumper)
- CV3: controlled by Midi velocity, 0...+5V
- CV4: controlled by Midi control change messages, free assignable controller in learn mode
- Glide control (portamento function for CV1)

Other Features:

- Midi channel, reference note and Midi control change number for CV4 are adjusted by means of a learn button and LED.
- By means of two jumpers CV1 and Gate can be connected to the corresponding lines of the A-100 bus. That way the VCOs A-110 or A-111 and the envelope generator A-140 can be controlled directly via the A-100 bus, i.e. it's not necessary to patch CV and Gate with cables between the front panels. In addition, CV1 is buffered, i.e. even several VCOs can be controlled by the A-190-3 without the need of an additional bus buffer (e.g. A-185-1 or A-185-2).
- The gate voltage can be set to +5V or +12V by means of two jumpers. For modules of the A-100 both voltages can be used. For modules or devices from other manufacturers the gate voltage has to be set accordingly.
- If you want to connect the gate output to devices that use S-Trig a special S-Trig cable is available. For details please refer to our FAQ page
- By means of the precise CV adder A-185-2 CV1 and CV2 can be added to obtain an adjustable width of the pitch bend. For this CV2 of the A-190-3 is connected to the upper input of the A-185-2 which has an attenuator available. CV1 of the - A-190-3 is connected to one of the other inputs without attenuator.

Notes: Module A-190-2 is an economically priced alternative to the MIDI-CV/SYNC interface A-190-1. It can be used in all cases where the additional features of the A-190-1 are not required (e.g. clock output, start/stop output). A-190-2 is the modular version of the established MCV4. Only some minor changes were made for a better adaption to the A-100 system, e.g. five 3.5 mm sockets, zero-symmetrical CV for pitch bend to be able to adjust the pitch bend range e.g. in combination with the precision CV adder A-185-2, glide function.

These are the most important features of the A-190-2:

- Midi CV/Gate interface
- Gate output 0/+5V
- CV1: this voltage is derived from incoming Midi note messages (0...+5V / 5 octaves), the glide control affects this CV output
- CV2: this voltage is derived from incoming Midi pitch bend messages (-2.5 ... +2.5V)
- CV3: this voltage is derived from the multiplication of incoming Midi volume messages and the velocity data of the note messages (0...+5V)
- CV4: this voltage is derived from a freely adjustable Midi control change message (0...+5V)
- Midi channel, reference note for 0V CV1 and the midi control change number for CV4 are adjusted by means of the learn button.
- Glide control: portamento/slew limiter function for CV1

By means of two jumpers CV1 and Gate can be connected to the corresponding lines of the A-100 bus. That way the VCOs A-110 or A-111 and the envelope generator A-140 can be controlled directly via the A-100 bus, i.e. it's not necessary to patch CV and Gate with cables between the front panels. In addition CV1 is buffered, i.e. even several VCOs can be controlled by the A-190-2 without the need of an additional bus buffer (e.g. A-185-1 or A-185-2).

Notes: Module A-189-1 is a voltage controlled bit modifier. It offers several voltage controlled algorithmic functions like voltage controlled bit crunching, bit shifting (with/without carry over), bit exchange, rectifying, absolute value and calculating operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication or division.

The module has two control units both with manual control and CV input with attenuator:

- One for the algorithmic function according to the selected mode (e.g. number of shifted bits): BC and BC CV
- One for the sampling rate (SR and SR CV).

The signal input is equipped with an attenuator. As the module is DC coupled even control voltages can be processed.

The mode (e.g. bit crunching, bit shifting, bit exchange) is selected by a 16-position rotary switch.

Notes: A-188-2 is another module that is based on a so-called Bucket Brigade Device (BBD). If you are not familiar with BBDs please refer to the A-188-1. There you can find some details about this special type of circuits.

The main difference between A-188-1 and A-188-2 is the type of BBD circuit that leads to completely different module principles and sounds. The A-188-1 uses different single BBD chips with one signal input and one signal output only. In contrast the A-188-2 uses as so-called tapped BBD that has available six outputs - the so-called taps after the BBD stages 396, 662, 1194, 1726, 2790 and 3328. In the A-188-2 we use this special BBD circuit (MN3011) to obtain these module features:

The module has available two separate mixing sub-units. For both mixers the levels and polarities of each BBD output can be adjusted to obtain two different mixtures of the BBD outputs. A new type of potentiometers with centre detent and centre terminal is used for the BBD mixing controls to have a better feel for the neutral position. Each mixer has a wet/dry control at its output that allows choosing between the pure input signal (original), the BBD mix or anything in between. The two outputs can be treated as stereo outputs but it is also possible to use one of the outputs for other applications (details in the next paragraph).

The A-188-2 has a feedback section available that is very similar to the one in the A-188-1. But as we now have 6 different BBD outputs available 6 different feedback types are possible. The feedback input socket is normalled to the "396" output (not to "1194" as shown in the scheme, the front panel is correct). But by patching the feedback socket to any of the single output sockets another BBD tap can be used for the feedback to obtain different sounds. Even external feedback processing is possible (e.g. with a VCA for voltage controlled feedback). The feedback control has polarizer function, i.e. the neutral position is at the centre. Left from the centre the feedback signal is subtracted from the input signal, right from the centre it's added (negative/positive feedback). Even for this potentiometer the new version with centre detent is used.

A special feedback can be obtained if one of the mix outputs is used for the feedback function. In this case for each tap the positive or negative feedback share can be adjusted. This leads to multiple peaks and/or notches in the frequency response of the module.

For each tap of the BBD a separate output socket is available. These sockets can be used for changing the feedback loop - as mentioned above -, for voltage controlled mixing of the taps - e.g. with the voltage controlled mixer A-135 or other applications that require access to each single tap.

The A-188-2 uses the same high speed VCO (HSVCO) for the BBD clock as the A-188-1. The clock and consequently the delay time can be controlled manually (delay control) and by the two control voltage inputs CV1 and CV2. The sensitivity of CV1 is approximately 1V/oct. CV2 is equipped with a polarizer (a new type of potentiometers with centre detent). The HSVCO has a clock output available that is normalled to the clock input socket. These sockets can be used to link different BBD modules and to run them with the same clock. But even other applications with frequency dividers (e.g. A-163) or PLL (e.g. A-196) are conceivable. A voltage composed of the manual delay control, CV1 and CV2 is available at the CV out socket, e.g. to control an external clock suppression filter as the A-188-2 is not equipped with such a filter (same as for the A-188-1).

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a co-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital BBD-delays.

The version with 256 stages provides a delay time of 0.51 - 256ms and is great for Karpluss-Strong synthesis.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a co-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital BBD-delays.

The version with 256 stages provides a delay time of 0.51 - 256ms and is great for Karpluss-Strong synthesis.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital BBD-delays.

The version with 128 stages provides a delay time of 0.26 - 128ms and is great for Karpluss-Strong synthesis.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital BBD-delays.

The version with 128 stages provides a delay time of 0.26 - 128ms and is great for Karpluss-Strong synthesis.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: Module A-188-1 is a so-called Bucket Brigade Device module.

BBDs have been used to delay audio signals before digital delays dethroned the BBD based effect units. But BBDs have some very unique advantages (or disadvantages dependent on the point of view) over the digital counterpart which result from the special properties of the BBDs. BBD circuits can be treated as a chain of Sample&Hold units (S&H) which pass on their voltages to the next S&H in the chain at each clock pulse.

In any case the sounds generated by module A-188-1 are very special. Typical applications are: Flanger, Chorus, Analog Delay or Karplus/Strong synthesis. But as the A-188-1 has a lot of very unique features (voltage controlled clock rate / delay time with extreme range, polarity switches for the CV inputs, feedback and BBD out/mix, clock and CV output of the high speed VCO, BBD clock input, feedback insert, feedback up to self-oscillation) a lot of unusual applications can be realized with the module (e.g. delay controlled by ADSR, envelope, random or sequencer with positive or negative effect).

The A-188-1 also has no built-in anti-aliasing filter in order not to limit the possibilities of the module. For this the CV out is intended.

This module comes without BBD circuit. The final adjustment is possible only with the BBD circuit used in the module. Electronic experience and measuring equipment (digital multi-meter, oscilloscope, frequency meter) are required.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Box opened, product in perfect working order***


Module A-188-1 is a so-called Bucket Brigade Device module.

BBDs have been used to delay audio signals before digital delays dethroned the BBD based effect units. But BBDs have some very unique advantages (or disadvantages dependent on the point of view) over the digital counterpart which result from the special properties of the BBDs. BBD circuits can be treated as a chain of Sample&Hold units (S&H) which pass on their voltages to the next S&H in the chain at each clock pulse.

In any case the sounds generated by module A-188-1 are very special. Typical applications are: Flanger, Chorus, Analog Delay or Karplus/Strong synthesis. But as the A-188-1 has a lot of very unique features (voltage controlled clock rate / delay time with extreme range, polarity switches for the CV inputs, feedback and BBD out/mix, clock and CV output of the high speed VCO, BBD clock input, feedback insert, feedback up to self-oscillation) a lot of unusual applications can be realized with the module (e.g. delay controlled by ADSR, envelope, random or sequencer with positive or negative effect).

The A-188-1 also has no built-in anti-aliasing filter in order not to limit the possibilities of the module. For this the CV out is intended.

This module comes without BBD circuit. The final adjustment is possible only with the BBD circuit used in the module. Electronic experience and measuring equipment (digital multi-meter, oscilloscope, frequency meter) are required.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital delays of the 1980s.

The version with 2048 stages provides a delay time range of 4.10 - 2048ms.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: Module A-188-1 is a so-called Bucket Brigade Device module (abbr. BBD). BBDs have been used to delay audio signals before digital delays dethroned the BBD based effect units. But BBDs have some very unique advantages (or disadvantages dependent on the point of view) over the digital counterpart which result from the special properties of the BBDs. BBD circuits can be treated as a chain of Sample&Hold units (S&H) which pass on their voltages to the next S&H in the chain at each clock pulse. A more detailed explanation including the different types of BBDs can be found in following chapter.

In any case the sounds generated by module A-188-1 are very special. Typical applications are: Flanger, Chorus, Analog Delay or Karplus/Strong synthesis. But as the A-188-1 has a lot of very unique features (voltage controlled clock rate / delay time with extreme range, polarity switches for the CV inputs, feedback and BBD out/mix, clock and CV output of the high speed VCO, BBD clock input, feedback insert, feedback up to self-oscillation) a lot of unusual applications can be realized with the module (e.g. delay controlled by ADSR, envelope, random or sequencer with positive or negative effect). The A-188-1 also has no built-in anti-alisaing filter in order not to limit the possibilities of the module. For this the CV out is intended.

Originally A-188-1 was developed for BBD curcuits with 1024 or 2048 stages as these circuits are still in production. Bur we found a limited quantity of normally obsolete BBD devices with 128, 256, 512 and 4096 stages (MN3006, MN3009/3209, MN3204, MN3005). These are more expensive than the two standard circuits with 1024 and 2048 stages. Therefore the module versions with 128, 256, 512 or 4096 stages are more expensive and available only while stocks last. The BBD type used in the module is indicated by a dot at the front panel. These are the names of the different versions:

A-188-1X with 128 stages BBD (MN3006/MN3206)
A-188-1Y with 256 stages BBD (MN3009/MN3209)
A-188-1A with 512 stages BBD (MN3004/MN3204), available only as long as quantities of MN3004/MN3204 last geringer Bestand / low stock !
A-188-1B with 1024 stages BBD (MN3007/MN3207/BL3207)
A-188-1C with 2048 stages BBD (MN3008/MN3208/BL3208)
A-188-1D with 4096 stages BBD (MN3005/MN3205)
For the BBD circuits with 128 and 4096 stages the first version of the A-188-1 cannot be used without modifications (additional electronic parts and wires, interrupted pcb tracks). The revised version of the module is delivered since about June 2006 and contains several jumpers to select the desired BBD circuit. If desired we are able to modify the first version of the module for the BBD with 4096 or 128 stages (additional charge).

These controls and in/outputs are available:

High speed VCO (HSVCO) section:
manual delay control
delay CV input (CV1) without attenuator (about 1V/oct) and polarity switch (negative/off/positive)
delay CV input (CV2) with attenuator and polarity switch (negative/off/positive)
turning the manual delay knob clockwise or an increasing the external CV with polarity switch in positive position increases the clock and consequently decreases the delay time (similar to a VCF or VCO, especially because of Karplus-Strong synthesis applications)
clock output (e.g. to control another BBD, SC-Filter or delay module)
CV output (e.g. to control a VCF that follows the BBD clock), this voltage is composed of the manual delay control, CV1 and CV2
BBD/audio section:
standard versions of the module: 1024 or 2048 stage BBD (choice at order, a mark at the front panel identifies the type of BBD, similar to A-138a/b)
special versions of the module: 128, 256, 512 or 4096 stage BBD (additional charge, available only while stocks of these special BBD chips last)
delay range for 1024 stage BBD module: ~ 2.5 ms to ??? (corresponds to max. a clock frequency of ~ 200 kHz)
delay range for 2048 stage BBD module: ~ 7 ms to ??? (corresponds to max. a clock frequency of ~ 150 kHz)
the delay ranges for the 128, 256, 512 and 4096 stage versions can be found in the user's manual A1881_man.pdf.
the max. delay time (???) is not specified as it depends upon the desired quality of the delayed audio signal. The signal becomes more and more poor as the clock frequency is reduced (please refer to the corresponding note below and listen to the audio examples for details)
external clock input (used to control the module e.g. from an external HSVCO or from another BBD module). The socket is normalled to the output of the internal clock oscillator.
two audio inputs (connected as a miniature multiple) with attenuator
BBD output (raw delayed output without original signal, e.g. for external feedback control via other A-100 modules, e.g VCA or VCF), the BBD output is affected by the feedback polarity switch to obtain the polarity function even for external feedback loops
manual feedback control
feedback polarity switch (positive/off/negative), affects even the BBD output socket
external feedback input (the socket is normalled to BBD output)
BBD signal polarity switch (positive/off/negative)
mix control (relation between original signal and positive or negative BBD signal)
mixed audio output
Links to some audio examples are available below (with 2048 and 1024 stage BBD devices). The main difference between the two types of BBDs is the delay time range. The maximum clock frequency mentioned in the data sheet of the 2048 stage BBD is 100kHz. This leads to a minimum delay time of about 10ms. But we found that the device is able to operate even a bit beyond this spec (up to ~ 150kHz) causing a minimum delay time of about 7ms. The maximum clock frequency mentioned in the data sheet of the 1024 stage BBD is 200kHz. This leads to a minimum delay time of about 2,5ms. Overclocking is not possible for the 1024 stage BBD.

The maximum (useful) delay time is hard to define. The output becomes more and more crunchy as the clock frequency goes down because the number of samples per second taken from the original signal decreases as the clock frequency is reduced. But this is only one aspect. Indeed several effects occur simultaneously:

kind of bit crunching because of the increasing time between samples taken from the audio signal
aliasing effect as the sample rate becomes less than twice the max. audio frequency
BBD losses: the BBDs are not specified for clock frequencies less than 10 kHz (this value is valid for both 1024 and 2048 stage BBDs). The BBDs can be treated like a chain of sample&hold units with very small capacitors (the capacitors are integrated on the BBD chip). Clock frequencies below 10kHz cause voltage losses as the holding times of the S&Hs are no longer sufficient to pass on the voltages to the succeeding stage without errors/losses.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital BBD-delays.

The version with 4096 stages provides a delay time of 8.19 - 4096 ms.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital delays of the 1980s.

The version with 2048 stages provides a delay time range of 4.10 - 2048ms.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital BBD-delays.

The version with 1024 stages provides a delay time of 2.05 - 1024 ms.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital BBD-delays.

The version with 1024 stages provides a delay time of 2.05 - 1024 ms.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital delays of the 1980s.

The version with 512 stages provides a delay time of 1.02 - 512 ms.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: The A-188-1 series bases on a so-called bucket brigade device (BBD) that has been used in the pseudo-digital delays of the 1980s.

The version with 512 stages provides a delay time of 1.02 - 512 ms.

The module is not an entire delay but only its core with all anomalies (e.g. cross talk of the internal clock frequency), and its very independent spacey and raw sound.

There are modulation possibilities with invertible polaritiy, a dry/wet control, feedback up to self-oscillation and a feedback loop with insert.

Notes: Module A-187-1 is a DSP based effects module. Four parameters of the selected digital effect are voltage controlled. The main effect (e.g. reverb, delay, pitch-shifter, equalizer) is selected by the two small buttons effect up/down. The upper row of the display shows the effect that is currently selected. In the lower row the four parameters are shown as well as a small bar left from the abbreviation that displays the current parameter value. Each parameter can be adjusted manually (upper potentiometer row) and modified by external control voltages (lower row of the potentiometers and upper row of the sockets). The lower row of the sockets contains the two audio inputs and outputs.

Another button (bypass) is used to turn the effect on/off. When bypass is chosen the upper line of the display shows in turn "BYPASS" and the name of the pre-selected effect. In the bypass mode another effect can be pre-selected and called-up by pressing the bypass button again. Even the effect parameters can be adjusted and are displayed with the bar graphs. But they become effective not before the bypass mode is left.

The module is equipped with two audio inputs and two audio outputs because the DSP board features stereo audio processing. The audio inputs can process usual A-100 signal levels without clipping/distortion. For higher levels external attenuators (e.g. A-183-1) or VCAs may be used.

A ready-made DSP board is used inside the A-187-1 module. Consequently, only these effects and parameters are available that are supported by the DSP module. Some parameters can be changed only in steps or with audible artefacts. The DSP board has 20 Bit DA and AD converter with 32 kHz sample rate available. The inter sound processing uses 24 Bit.

Notes: Module A-186-1 is a very simple, passive unit that combines up to 7 gate, trigger or analog signals by or-wiring.

Function:

- If all seven inputs are low or open the output is low
- If one or more of the seven inputs is "high" the output turns high

Applications:

- Combination ("or"-wiring) of gate and/or trigger signals (e.g. from LFOs, sequencers, keyboards, Midi-to-CV interfaces, ribbon controller, theremin, trigger delays or any other source of gate/trigger signals
- Maximum extractor for analog voltages: at the output the maximum voltage (minus ~ 0.7V because of the diodes) appears, similar function as the maximum output of the A-172 Maximum/Minimum Selector module, e.g. for simple waveshaping
- Simple half-wave rectifier

Notes: Module A-185-2 is a precision control voltage adder/buffer. Precision means that the amplification of the inputs without attenuators is exactly 1.00 and is suitable to add control voltages for the pitch control of VCOs (e.g. from keyboard + sequencer 1 + sequencer 2). Summing resistors matched to 0.1% are used to obtain an accuracy of 0.1% for the added voltages.

The module is equipped with four CV inputs: one with attenuator and three without attenuator. Each input is normalled to +1 V (i.e. if no plug is inserted the input contributes 1 V to the sum appearing at the output).

The input with attenuator can be used for common modulations (e.g. from an LFO, ADSR, Theremin, Pitch-Bender) for all VCOs connected to the output. The Lev.1 control is used to adjust the depth of the modulation, the first switch selects the polarity of the modulation. If no signal is connected to the first socket the attenuator works as a (fine) tuning knob because a voltage in the range 0...+1V (right position of the switch) or 0...-1V (left position of the switch) is added to the CV output.

The inputs without attenuators are planned to add control voltages coming out of keyboards, sequencers, Midi-to-CV interfaces, ribbon controllers or other CV sources that follow the 1V/oct standard. For example the CV of a keyboard can be used to transpose the CV coming from a sequencer, or the CV of a slow sequencer can be used to transpose the CV from a fast sequencer.

Each input is equipped with a three-position switch that determines if the corresponding voltage is added (right position), subtracted (left position) or if the input has no effect (centre position). If no plug is inserted the corresponding switch works as an octave switch for the lower three sections as the default 1 V are added or subtracted to the output voltage according to the switch position. The first switch can be used to add a variable voltage to the sum output. The variable voltage is adjusted with the Lev.1 control and the knob works then as kind of a (fine) tuning control.

The module is equipped with 4 outputs: three non-inverting and one inverting ouput. An internal jumper can be used to connect the non-inverted or inverted output to the CV line of the A-100 bus. That way the module can used to control several VCOs that are connected to the same bus board as the A-185-2 (same functionality as A-185-1).

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Item refurbished, repaired and in perfect working order.***


Module A-185-2 is a precision control voltage adder/buffer. Precision means that the amplification of the inputs without attenuators is exactly 1.00 and is suitable to add control voltages for the pitch control of VCOs (e.g. from keyboard + sequencer 1 + sequencer 2). Summing resistors matched to 0.1% are used to obtain an accuracy of 0.1% for the added voltages.

The module is equipped with four CV inputs: one with attenuator and three without attenuator. Each input is normalled to +1 V (i.e. if no plug is inserted the input contributes 1 V to the sum appearing at the output).

The input with attenuator can be used for common modulations (e.g. from an LFO, ADSR, Theremin, Pitch-Bender) for all VCOs connected to the output. The Lev.1 control is used to adjust the depth of the modulation, the first switch selects the polarity of the modulation. If no signal is connected to the first socket the attenuator works as a (fine) tuning knob because a voltage in the range 0...+1V (right position of the switch) or 0...-1V (left position of the switch) is added to the CV output.

The inputs without attenuators are planned to add control voltages coming out of keyboards, sequencers, Midi-to-CV interfaces, ribbon controllers or other CV sources that follow the 1V/oct standard. For example the CV of a keyboard can be used to transpose the CV coming from a sequencer, or the CV of a slow sequencer can be used to transpose the CV from a fast sequencer.

Each input is equipped with a three-position switch that determines if the corresponding voltage is added (right position), subtracted (left position) or if the input has no effect (centre position). If no plug is inserted the corresponding switch works as an octave switch for the lower three sections as the default 1 V are added or subtracted to the output voltage according to the switch position. The first switch can be used to add a variable voltage to the sum output. The variable voltage is adjusted with the Lev.1 control and the knob works then as kind of a (fine) tuning control.

The module is equipped with 4 outputs: three non-inverting and one inverting ouput. An internal jumper can be used to connect the non-inverted or inverted output to the CV line of the A-100 bus. That way the module can used to control several VCOs that are connected to the same bus board as the A-185-2 (same functionality as A-185-1).

Notes: Module A-185-2 is a precision control voltage adder/buffer. Precision means that the amplification of the inputs without attenuators is exactly 1.00 and is suitable to add control voltages for the pitch control of VCOs (e.g. from keyboard + sequencer 1 + sequencer 2). Summing resistors matched to 0.1% are used to obtain an accuracy of 0.1% for the added voltages.

The module is equipped with four CV inputs: one with attenuator and three without attenuator. Each input is normalled to +1 V (i.e. if no plug is inserted the input contributes 1 V to the sum appearing at the output).

The input with attenuator can be used for common modulations (e.g. from an LFO, ADSR, Theremin, Pitch-Bender) for all VCOs connected to the output. The Lev.1 control is used to adjust the depth of the modulation, the first switch selects the polarity of the modulation. If no signal is connected to the first socket the attenuator works as a (fine) tuning knob because a voltage in the range 0...+1V (right position of the switch) or 0...-1V (left position of the switch) is added to the CV output.

The inputs without attenuators are planned to add control voltages coming out of keyboards, sequencers, Midi-to-CV interfaces, ribbon controllers or other CV sources that follow the 1V/oct standard. For example the CV of a keyboard can be used to transpose the CV coming from a sequencer, or the CV of a slow sequencer can be used to transpose the CV from a fast sequencer.

Each input is equipped with a three-position switch that determines if the corresponding voltage is added (right position), subtracted (left position) or if the input has no effect (centre position). If no plug is inserted the corresponding switch works as an octave switch for the lower three sections as the default 1 V are added or subtracted to the output voltage according to the switch position. The first switch can be used to add a variable voltage to the sum output. The variable voltage is adjusted with the Lev.1 control and the knob works then as kind of a (fine) tuning control.

The module is equipped with 4 outputs: three non-inverting and one inverting ouput. An internal jumper can be used to connect the non-inverted or inverted output to the CV line of the A-100 bus. That way the module can used to control several VCOs that are connected to the same bus board as the A-185-2 (same functionality as A-185-1).

Notes: Module A-184-2 is the combination of two functions and planned primarily as an expansion module for VCOs or LFOs (e.g. A-110-1, A-110-2, A-145, A-147-2).

Triangle-to-Sine Waveshaper:

The upper section is a very precise triangle-to-sine converter (thanks to Tim Stinchcombe who recommended this circuit). It can be used to convert any triangle waveform into a (nearly) perfect sine. The converter is much better than the simple diode converter used in the A-110-1, A-111-1, A-145 and A-147-2. Two trimming potentiometers are used to optimize the sine shape. The converter should be assigned to one VCO or LFO because the trimming potentiometers have to be re-adjusted if the input level or DC offset of the input signal changes. If the trimming potentiometers are deliberately mis-adjusted it can be used also as a waveshaper for non-sine waveforms (e.g. sine-shaped at the top of the signal and a peak at the bottom, even voltage controlled by applying an additional voltage to the waveshaping circuit, "circuit-bending" notes will be available).

The waveform converter is DC coupled and can be used also for low frequencies (e.g. LFO triangle waves).

Voltage Controlled Crossfader:

The lower section is a voltage controlled crossfader. It has two inputs A and B. The two signals are mixed together with variable percentage. When the manual control CF is fully CCW only signal A appears at the CF Out socket. When the manual control CF is fully CW only signal B appears at the CF Out socket. In the centre position of the manual control both signal appear with the same level. In addition a control voltage input CV with attenuator is available to enable voltage control of the crossfade.

Two LEDs display the crossfading shares of input A and B.

The crossfader uses two high quality VCAs (SSM2164). Inputs and outputs are DC coupled. Consequently it can be used for audio signals and slowly varying control voltages as well.

The sockets of the upper section (triangle and sine) are normalled to the inputs A and B of the crossfader section. That way the crossfader is used to fade between triangle and sine of the VCO or LFO connected to the waveshaper. If other signals are plugged into the input sockets A and B these signals are used for crossfading.

The main application is to fade between two different waveforms of a VCO or LFO or two different VCF outputs. But the module can be used for any other signals too as the waveshaper and crossfader sections are independent apart from the normalled sockets.

Notes: A-184-1 is the combination of 3 functions which are actually already available in other modules (e.g. A-114, A-148, A-170). In many systems it's not necessary to have two ring modulators (A-114) or two S&H units (A-148) or two slew limiters (A-170) available. That's why we have compiled these function in one small 4 HP module.

The upper section is nothing but half of an A-114, i.e. a ring modulator with the usual X/Y inputs and the X*Y output.

The lower section is a Sample & Hold (S&H) / Track & Hold (T&H) unit followed by a slew limiter. A switch at the front panel to select between S&H and T&H. In S&H mode the unit picks out a sample from the voltage at the SH input at the rising edge of the trigger signal input. In T&H mode the output follows the input voltage as long as the level of the trigger signal is high. As soon as the trigger signal turns low, the last voltage is stored. The trigger input is internally normalled to high, i.e. the unit works as a slew limiter in T&H mode when no trigger signal is applied.

Dimensions
4 HP
40 mm deep

Current Draw
40 mA +12V
30 mA -12V
0 mA 5V

Notes: Module A-183-9 is a simple power supply for up to four devices which can be powered via USB (e.g. keyboards, smartphones). An LED shows is the +5V are present.

The module has no USB function but provides only the +5V supply for USB devices.

A control LED shows if the +5V are present.

Note: The module requires an A-100 case with built in power supply A-100PSU3. Only this A-100 supply has the required +5V available. We do not recommend the usage of an older A-100 case with A-100PSU2 as this would require the +5V adapter A-100AD5 and the max. current would be limited to 100mA.

Notes: Module A-183-5 is a simple passive quad attenuator. Passive means in this context, that each unit is made of two sockets and a 50k linear potentiometer only. There are no active parts like amplifiers or buffers and no power supply is required.

This is how the A-183-5 works: At the output socket appears the attenuated input signal, i.e. zero level at the fully CCW position and max. level and the fully CW position.

Applications:

Adjustable level of CV or audio signals to control other modules that do not have attenuators available.

Dimensions
4 HP
20 mm deep

Notes: Module A-183-4 is a fourfold level shifter. A level shifter is required if the level of a digital control signal has to be increased or decreased. A typical application is the conversion of a gate, trigger or clock signal with +5V voltage level (tolerance range +2...+5V) to +12 voltage level. The output voltage level can be set by means of a jumper to +12V or +5V. The factory setting is +12V. But it can be changed to convert also a higher to a lower level (e.g. +12V to +5V). But this application is required rarely. The output level setting by means of the jumper is global, i.e. it is valid for all four units and cannot be set individually for each unit. The four output signals are displayed by means of LEDs.

The outputs and inputs of the four sub-units are normalled via the switching contacts of the input sockets, i.e. the output signal of the upper unit is used as input signal of the unit below provided that no patch cable is inserted into the input socket of the lower unit. That way the module can be used also as clock/trigger/gate buffer or buffered multiple for digital signals. For this the signal that has to be buffered is connected to input 1. The buffered (and possible level shifted) signal appears then at all four outputs.
Voltage thresholds for the input voltages:
voltages below +0,8 V are treated as "low"
voltages above +3 V are treated as "high"

Typical applications:

Converting the levels of digital control signals (e.g. gate, trigger, clock) to another voltage level (+12V or +5V)
buffering and duplicating digital control signals (e.g. gate, trigger, clock)

Important note: the module cannot be used for analog signals.

Notes: Module A-183-3 is a simple amplifier. It is DC coupled and can be used for both CV and audio signals. The maximal amplification can be switched between 1, 2 and 4 (in position 1 the module does not work as a real amplifier but only as attenuator). The level can be adjusted by means of the Level control between zero and the chosen maximum amplification (1/2/4). Two overload LEDs indicate if the output signal goes beyond about +10V or becomes less than about -10V. Input and output are equipped with miniature 2-fold multiples (nothing but 2 connected sockets).

The main application of this module is to adapt differing audio or CV levels between different modules or systems. For example, LFO, ADSR or Gate levels between modules of different manufacturers can be increased or attenuated. But even audio signals can be attenuated or amplified up to 4. But the module cannot be used as an amplifier for external low level audio signals (e.g. microphones or electric guitars)!

Notes: Module A-183-2 is a voltage offset generator combined with an attenuator/polarizer.

This is how the A-183-2 works: At the two output sockets (simply two connected sockets) appears a DC voltage that is adjusted with the Offset control in the range 0...+5V or -5V...+5V. An internal jumper is used to select the offset range (0...+5V or -5V...+5V). Other ranges are possible by changing a resistor on the pc board (e.g. 0...+10V or -10V...+10V). The DC voltage generated by the Offset control is overlaid by the attenuated voltage that is fed to the In socket. The function of the attenuator control can be set to Attenuator or Polarizer by means of a toggle switch. When the switch is in the Attenuator position the control works as an usual attenuator, i.e. zero level at the fully CCW position and max. level and the fully CW position. When the switch is in the Polarizer position the control works as a polarizer, i.e. zero level appears at the centre position. Right from the centre position the In signal is added to the offset voltage, left from the centre position the In signal is subtracted from the offset voltage. In other words: at the fully CW position the non-inverted In signal is added with the full level to the offset voltage, at the fully CCW position the inverted In signal is added with the full level to the offset voltage.

The amplification range for the input is about 0...+1 in the attenuator mode, and -1...+1 in the polarizer mode. The amplification range can be modified by replacing a resistor by another value.

Applications:

Generation of adjustable DC voltages overlaid by control voltages with adjustable level and polarity to control other modules that do not have attenuators or offset controls, e.g. Sampler A-112 (mainly for the wavetable mode), dual VCA A-132-1, VCLFO A-147-2 for waveshaping and ring modulator applications, Quantizer A-156, Theremin A-178, CV-to-Midi interface A-192 and modules of other manufacturers).

Notes: Module A-183-1 is a simple passive dual attenuator. Passive means, that each unit is made of two sockets and a 50k linear potentiometer only. There are no active parts like amplifiers or buffers and no power supply is required.

This is how the A-183-1 works: At the output socket appears the attenuated input signal, i.e. zero level at the fully CCW position and max. level and the fully CW position.

Applications:

Adjustable level of CV or audio signals to control other modules that do not have attenuators (e.g. Dual VCA A-132-1, Quantizer A-156, CV-to-Midi interface A-192 and modules of other manufacturers).

Notes: Module A-182-4 is a simple passive module that contains two mechanical rotary switches with 4 positions each. According to the position of the control knob socket 1, 2, 3 or 4 is connected to the common socket C.
As the module is fully passive it works bidirectional, i.e. the sockets 1...4 can be inputs and then C is the output. The other way round C can be the input and the sockets 1...4 are the outputs.
By means of an internal jumper the terminals C of both switches can be connected. That way the module can be used as kind of a miniature 4x4 matrix. Rotary switch A is e.g. used to select one of the four sockets 1...4 as input and this signal is sent to one of the four sockets 1...4 of switch B.

Applications:

switching of audio or control signals in the modular system without the need to unplug and plug patch cables (i.e. no signal interruptions)
building a small 4x4 miniature switch matrix

Width: 4 HP / 20.0 mm
Depth: 20mm (measured from the rear side of the front panel)
Current: 0mA (+12V) / 0mA (-12V)

Notes: A-182-2 is a simple passive module that contains four changeover switches, which are used to connect or disconnect the sockets of the corresponding socket triplet:

- In the upper position of the switch the upper socket of the corresponding socket triplet is connected to the centre socket
- In the lower position of the switch the lower socket of the corresponding socket triplet is connected to the centre socket
- In the centre position of the switch the sockets are not connected

Each unit of the module can be used to switch between two signals or to interrupt/connect a signal. In the last case the third socket of the triplet is not used.

The module is fully passive and both audio or control signals can be switched.