Modular synthesizer

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Sine, square, triangle, and sawtooth waveforms
Sine, square, triangle, and sawtooth waveforms

The modular synthesizer is a type of synthesizer consisting of separate modules which must be connected by wires (patch cords) to create a so-called patch. These synthesizers are very flexible. Every output generates an electric current of variable voltage. All inputs expect a voltage so that almost any combination of connections between the modules is allowed and valid.

There exist many different modules and even modules with the same function have different inputs and outputs on various models. There are some standards which manufacturers followed for their range of synthesizers, however, connecting synthesizers from different manufacturers often requires converters.

Some standard modules found on almost any modular synth are:

  • VCO - Voltage-controlled oscillator, which will output a pitched sound (frequency) in a simple waveform (most usually a square wave or a sawtooth wave, but also includes pulse, triangle and sine waves).
  • VCF - Voltage-controlled filter, which attenuates frequencies below (high-pass), above (low-pass) or both below and above (band-pass) a certain frequency.
  • VCA - Voltage-controlled amplifier, which controls the amplitude.
  • Envelope generator - this circuit, on receiving a trigger pulse and/or gate, produces a voltage which changes in a predictable, repeatable manner over time. It can be triggered either manually (for example, by an electronic keyboard) or automatically (for example, by a sequencer). This envelope is most commonly used to control the amplitude of the sound, by routing it to the control input of the VCA or the timbre of the sound, by routing it to the control input of the VCF. This technique can be used to create (synthesize) the volume and timbre contour of naturally decaying sounds such as a piano. The patchable structure of the synthesizer makes it possible to use the envelope generator to modulate other parameters such as the pitch of the VCO, the width of the pulse wave on the VCO and so on. The most common form of envelope contour is the ADSR, although some electronic instruments, such as those produced by Buchla & Associates or the Wiard Synthesizer Company use the simpler AD or AR contour which can be mixed to form an ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) envelope.
  • LFO - Low-frequency oscillator, the output being a low frequency waveform (this is usually below 20 Hz which becomes a pulsating rhythm rather than an audible tone), usually a sine or triangle wave and used as a control voltage for some other module (for instance, to modulate the frequency of the VCO's output).
  • Ring modulator - Two audio inputs are utilized to create sum and difference frequencies while suppressing the original signals. This gives the sound a "robotic" quality.
  • Mixer, a module that combines multiple signals into one.
  • Sample and hold, which takes a "sample" of the input voltage when a trigger pulse is received and "holds" it until a subsequent trigger pulse is applied.
  • Sequencer, which produces a sequence of notes, usually a music loop.
  • Slew Limiter - smooths off the peaks of voltages. This can be used to create glide or portamento between notes. Can also work as a primitive low-pass filter.

Modular synthesizers were largely replaced by highly integrated keyboard synthesizers, racks of MIDI-connected gear, and samplers. However, there continues to be a loyal following of musicians and manufacturers who prefer the physically-patched approach and flexibility of traditional modulars.

The earliest commercial modular synthesizers were developed, in parallel, by Moog modular synthesizer, and Buchla in 1963. The synthesizer broadened the spectrum of possible electronic music, which before was made via tape splicing and the theremin. ARP, Serge, and EMS versions were soon to follow. In 1976, the Japanese company Roland came out with the System 700.

Contents

Hardware offerings range from complete systems in cases to kits for hobbyist DIY constructors. Many manufacturers augment their range with products based on recent re-designs of classic modules; often both the original and subsequent reworked designs are available free on the WWW, the original patents having lapsed. Many hobbyist designers also make available bare PCB boards and front panels for sale to other hobbyists.

Computers have grown so powerful and inexpensive that software programs can realistically model the signals, sounds, and patchability of modulars very well. While potentially lacking the physical presence of desirable analog sound generation, real voltage manipulation, knobs, sliders, cables, and LEDs, software modular synthesizers offer the infinite variations and visual patching at a more affordable price and in a compact form factor.

A modular synthesizer has a case or frame into which arbitrary modules can be plugged; modules are usually connected together using patch cords and a system may include modules from different sources, as long as it fits the form factors of the case and uses the the same electrical specifications.

A semi modular synthesizer is a collection of modules from a single manufacturer that makes a cohesive product. Modules may not be swapped out and often a typical configuration has be pre-wired, however the manufacturer provides mechanisms to allow the user to connect modules in different orders.

Matrix systems use pin matrixes or other crosspoint switches rather than patch cords. Historic examples with pin matrixes include the EMS Synthi 100, EMS VCS-3, ETI International 4600, Maplin 5600. The Arp 2500 used a matrix switch.

The different modules of a semi modular synthesizer are wired together into a typical configuration, but can be re-wired by the user using patch cords. Some examples are the Arp 2600, Anyware Instruments Semtex, the Cwejman S1, Korg MS-10, MS-20 and MS-50.

Reconfigurable systems allow certain signals to routed through modules in different orders. Examples include the Oberheim Matrix and Rhodes Chroma, and Moog Voyager.

Hybrid synthesizers use hardware and software combination. In alphabetical order:

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