Transmission (4OP Wrapper V1.4)

This is a wrapper for 4 FM modules. The reason for creating this was to try and make sound design using this method as fast and painless as possible. 12 algorithms following Reface DX. Number pad algorithm selection or seamless morph (yep) between algo’s (thanks switch modules for the routing matrices).
Extended with multiple choice envelopes, individual operator bypasses, LFO’s, digital degradation, pitch envelopes and lots of macro control.

V1.2
Given operators output level modulation, on a second layer! (audio and modulation signal squeeze through a stereo hole, then split outside the layers container)
Some tinkering with the overview controls (FM sliders now work exponentially, fine pitch control is bipolar)
I’ve posted this completely zeroed, so it won’t be interesting out the box, but I prefer to start off this way.

V1.3
I wanted to control all the operator envelopes (amp) from one place without scrolling or other distractions so I put in a rack of ‘outrigger’ AD modules. I also wanted to be able to switch off individual operators, although this possibility was at the end of the signal chain, it only affected operators routing out, it was cumbersome to get to. So there’s switches next to the AD modules that not only shut down the respective operator but bypass the incoming FM signal (according to the algorithm) around the silent operator, passing it down the line. I found this is useful, not only as a design aid but also as a performance tool.
The other element I wanted to explore was increasing the amplitude of the modulator signal beyond the – 1/1 range. As Drambo doesn’t clip internally this is no problem. This drags up way more side bands from the depths for a very bright sound. Operators 4, 3 and 2 have a “High Range” switch, which multiplies the signal by a given amount. This multiplied signal is only used as a modulator so it’s safe to scroll through algorithms without sending a massive signal to the mix… Except.. Using high range whilst bypassing operators can result in a boosted signal getting through to the audio output. There wasn’t any way I could see to prevent this, so be careful. There’s a clip module at the end of the rack to prevent accidents.
The algorithm morph control is effective but it doesn’t always make sense to sweep the entire range. There are now three morph buttons on the algorithm mode panel that allow the slider to cover different parts of the index. Of course these are configured using the graphic shaper modules.
The routing method changed slightly, I put in relays so the matrices can be patched far more easily, there really wasn’t any point in doing this here but if there’s ever a 6 operator version the work involved in patching together all standard 32 algorithms needed to be made more efficient.

V1.4

This latest version is a complete rework taking advantage of the fact that layers now support internal connections being made within the layer modules.

Operator ratios now assigned by the pitch ratio module.
Expanded LoFi (decimator and bit reduction) to Individual operators.
Lots of macro control to make life as easy as possible.
Ditched the ‘High Range’ buttons in favour of a ‘Mod Gain’ knob. This only affects operators when they are in use as modulators.

Given the name ‘Transmission’. Exploring sounds with this reminded me of sweeping across radio waves. Without intention, just enjoying the play between noise and signal.

5 comments on “Transmission (4OP Wrapper V1.4)
  • rs2000 on said:

    Great work!
    I’m thinking about adding envelopes. If we’re lucky, we’ll get an enhanced Graphic Envelope module soon which could be a great fit here for volume and pitch envelopes.

  • SpartanClownTide on said:

    Thanks, I’ve been spending a lot of time with this! Trying to understand FM in more depth, certainly a useful application for the spectrogram. Indeed, additional low frequency modulation is called for. I’m posting the latest developments seeing as there’s some interest, still got ideas in the bag but this one (v1.2) is pretty sweet.

  • holler on said:

    Love tinkering with this one. Thanks!

  • SpartanClownTide on said:

    Thanks for the encouragement! As always I couldn’t help tinkering some more, V1.3 is I think, quite good :)

  • SpartanClownTide on said:

    Maybe tone down the high range multiplier value (unfolded, first module) to something like 4.00. It’s a bit more usable, the default 16.00 is more research purposes..

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    • Platform:
    • Category: Synthesizer
    • Revision: V1.4
    • License: The Unlicense
    • Modified: 3 years ago
    • Views: 131
      Likes: 10
      Downloads: 75
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