Joranalogue Audio Design

Notes: The window comparator is a very useful circuit building block that is common in general electronics, but rarely found in modular synths. While a regular comparator activates when the input signal voltage is higher than a threshold level, a window comparator checks if the voltage is between two levels (these form the 'window').

Compare 2 combines two such comparators and a logic section in 8 HP. The result is an advanced tool for extracting gates and pulses from analogue signals in Eurorack synths.

The detection windows are defined by the shift and size parameters, which can be varied using the knobs and CV inputs. Complementary gate outputs are available, with big three-colour LEDs showing each comparator's status.

All inputs are normalised from the left section to the right, but the two comparators can also be used completely independently. On the bottom, the outputs from both comparators are combined in various ways by the logic section, which also features LEDs.

You'll find a use for this truly multi-functional module in practically any patch, processing either CV or audio: complex rhythm generator, dual pulse width modulator, frequency multiplier/divider with PWM, digital ‘ring modulator’ with PWM, dynamic depth VCO synchronizer, voltage controlled swing, logic function array with adjustable thresholds... and many more applications waiting to be discovered!

Notes: For decades, the voltage controlled slew limiter has been a staple of modular synthesisers. With its extreme versatility, it can be used to slew control voltages (CVs), create envelopes, as a low-frequency or audio oscillator and much more.

Today, Contour 1 brings a fresh approach to this classic circuit. It delivers much improved performance and control by incorporating modern design techniques.

At its most basic, a slew limiter slows down the rate of voltage change in a signal. On Contour 1, the rising and falling rates can be individually set using sliders and CV modulation.

The gate and trigger inputs allow the module to be used as a function generator: create snappy attack-release (AR) and attack-decay (AD) envelopes, with slope times ranging from 500 us to 30 seconds. The dedicated gate input makes it easy to generate +10 V envelopes from any signal source. Using the large tactile push button, AD envelopes can be manually triggered. A trigger will also reset the output voltage.

When set to loop mode, Contour 1 will continually re-trigger itself. In this mode, it fulfils the role of a variable-shape low-frequency oscillator (LFO) or temperature-stable voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) in the audio range.

Both the rising and falling slopes can be individually bent, from concave through linear to convex. While doing so, the deviation in slope time, and thus oscillation frequency, is kept to a minimum. Since the bend parameters are separately voltage controllable, boundless modulation possibilities present themselves.

Explore anything from shape-shifting envelopes to rich VCO timbres: Contour 1 will make you re-think what a slew limiter can do.

Dimensions
8 HP
30 mm deep

Current Draw
90 mA +12V
85 mA -12V

Notes: Bucket brigade delay gets pushed into exciting creative territory with this beauty from Joranalogue. Precise analogue delay with loads of character, capable of simple chorus and flanger or more exotic Karplus-Strong synthesis and comb filtering.

Supplier's Notes:
While digital audio processors are often plagued by latency issues, analogue circuits are known for their instant response. But what if you want to delay a signal on purpose, without the use of tape or digital memory? Enter the bucket brigade delay (BBD) line: a series of capacitor 'buckets', which pass the incoming signal along at a high rate in order to delay it.

Delay 1 is a fully analogue BBD-based delay module with a multitude of features geared towards modern musical use. An integrated temperature-compensated, high-frequency voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) provides the 'clock' signal necessary to drive the delay line within 1 to 50 ms.

By increasing the drive frequency to over 20 kHz, the classic 'BBD clock whine' problem is solved, while still providing a wide range in delay time. Classic chorus, flanger and echo effects are easily achieved using the dry/wet blend, feedback and damping parameters.

To greatly reduce distortion and noise, Delay 1 includes a newly developed control circuit. The improved fidelity is maintained at a multitude of signal levels by an integrated high-performance compander, while maintaining signal dynamics.

The module's 'split phase' topology provides two different dry/wet mixes, which may be used to convert mono signals to stereo, for complementary comb filtering and more.

Delay 1 also allows you to experiment with Karplus-Strong synthesis, an exciting technique to create string and percussion type sounds. This is made easy by an integrated noise transient generator, driven by the 'pluck' input, and by the clock VCO's 1 volt per octave response.

By re-engineering the classic analogue delay line, Delay 1 brings the unique magic of BBDs into the contemporary electronic musician's arsenal.

Analogue bucket brigade delay line.
Integrated temperature-stable high-frequency BBD clock VCO with fine and coarse tuning.
Split-phase topology with additive and subtractive dry/wet blend outputs.
Blend, feedback and damping (feedback filter) parameters. Positive or negative feedback with low or high pass filtering.
High-performance BBD drive circuitry and transparent compander chain ensure optimal signal fidelity.
Dedicated pluck trigger input for Karplus-Strong synthesis.
High-frequency BBD clock input and output to synchronise multiple delay lines.
Impedance-compensated outputs with dual-colour LEDs.
Trim potentiometer accessible from the front panel.
Premium mounting hardware: black screws, black nylon washers and matching hex key.
High-quality components and assembly; designed and made in Belgium.

12 HP | +12: 125 mA, -12: 95 mA

Notes: A comprehensive solution for stereo signals in Eurorack, the Enhance 2 offers stereo and mid/side processing with tons of CV control. Balance, widen and sculpt frequency bands.

Supplier's Notes:
Moving from mono to stereo sound: a logical progression for any synthesist looking to expand their sonic palette. Making use of two audio channels, rather than just one, quite literally adds another dimension to the capabilities of a synthesiser.

Unfortunately, controlling stereo signals can be a challenge within a modular system. This realisation led to the development of Enhance 2: a convenient yet high-fidelity tool for stereo enhancement. It can be used to adjust balance, width and spectral content, while also opening up a world of mid/side processing; all under voltage control and in just 8 HP.

The primary stereo parameters are balance (moving the sound left or right) and width (making it narrower or wider). The balance circuit uses a true constant-power gain law, while the width stage allows for seamless transitions from pure mono to extra-wide stereo.

In addition, tone control is provided by a pair of unique, wide-ranging mid/side voltage controlled tilt filters with selectable corner frequency. These make 'cleaning up' a muddy-sounding mix straightforward, but also provide unique binaural effects when modulated.

Mid/side processing encodes the stereo signals into one containing only the mono material (mid), and another containing the differences between both channels (side). Apart from the internal tilt filters, mid/side outputs also enable external signal processing such as compression or reverberation. An integrated mid/side decoder returns the results back to standard stereo. And at all times, a LED bar phase meter ensures that phase correlation can be easily maintained.

Stereo field modulation, mid/side equalisation and beyond; Enhance 2 brings true analogue stereo control to the Eurorack world.

8 HP
+12: 70 mA, -12: 70 mA

Notes: Belgian analogue innovators Joranalogue serve up an ultra-versatile filter module. Multimode flexibility meets self-oscillation for added sonic versatility. A hell of a lot of filter for the money.

Supplier's notes:
Representing the cutting edge in modular analogue voltage controlled filter (VCF) design, Filter 8 offers more possibilities and higher fidelity in 12 HP than ever before.

Starting from the classic OTA-style 4-pole cascaded lowpass (LP) topology, Filter 8 features separate LP outputs, each with their own character. Additional filter responses are achieved by pole mixing: 1-pole highpass, a special band boost and notch response, phase shifter and 4-pole bandpass. All outputs are available simultaneously.

Key to Filter 8's performance is the innovative resonant feedback circuit. By increasing the resonance, all outputs will resonate at the filter frequency, without any low frequency response loss. At higher resonance levels, self-oscillation is achieved, turning the module into an excellent 8-phase sine wave voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) with temperature and switchable gain compensation, low distortion, constant amplitude and accurate frequency tracking over at least 5 octaves. At sub-audio frequencies, Filter 8 can function as an 8-output voltage controlled slew modifier or 8-phase low frequency oscillator (LFO).

Simultaneous exponential and linear frequency modulation is possible, for classic FM tones or chaotic modulation. A hold feature is also provided, 'freezing' the output voltages manually or under gate control. This is useful for halting modulations, or as a sync-like effect at audio frequencies. The dedicated 'ping' input allows you to easily create crisp percussive sounds with different timbres.

While rooted in the legacy of classic synthesisers, Filter 8 provides a new approach to musical signal generators and modifiers: instead of simply a VCF, VCO, slew modifier or VCLFO, a single analogue module can now be any of those, and anything in between.

Notes: Designed with versatility in mind, the Fold 6 is a six-stage wavefolder with simultaneous series and parallel outputs, dual signal inputs and voltage-controlled folding and overdrive shaping.

Supplier's Notes:
Often considered to be the opposite of filters within a modular system, wavefolders are designed to fold a signal over itself multiple times. This generates additional harmonics, resulting in rich timbres.

While there is a bewildering array of filter types within the synthesiser world, most wavefolders fall within only a few categories. Diode wavefolders in particular come in just two variants: series and parallel circuit topologies. Choosing a specific folder also means being limited to specific sounds and capabilities.

For the first time, Fold 6 puts forward a 6-stage hybrid series/parallel topology, yielding a greater sonic palette than ever in just 4 HP. Having both main (series) and alternate (parallel) outputs means a single module now gives access to just about all wavefolding tones imaginable.

To take things even further, an integrated symmetrical soft clipper limits the output signals to approximately 10 Vpp, keeping the amplitude within typical Eurorack levels and making it easier to create overdriven sounds at high fold ratios. This clipping stage can be driven continuously using the shape parameter, smoothly transforming the folded waveforms into pulse waves for even more harmonic content.

Two signal inputs are included, to mix audio signals or add in a DC voltage for asymmetric folding. The symmetry can also be manually controlled using the dedicated knob. Of course, both fold and shape parameters feature voltage control, to enable continuous timbral modulation.

Moving beyond simple signal processing, Fold 6 also lends itself perfectly for feedback patching, CV folding or frequency multiplication; its modest size belies the sonic capabilities within.

Notes: Any signal can be expressed in terms of a few parameters: frequency, phase, amplitude and timbre. It is through modulation of these aspects that synthesists create electronic sound. With Generate 3, it is now possible to create a signal and control all its parameters by through-zero modulation within a single 12 HP wide module.

Everything starts with the exceptionally precise triangle-core voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) at the module’s heart. Through-zero linear frequency modulation (FM) enables rich yet pitch-stable FM sounds, by allowing the oscillator to run backwards into ‘negative frequencies’.

The resultant triangle wave is then processed by the through-zero phase modulator, providing a total phase shift range of 900°. Phase modulation offers an interesting alternative for FM, as it enables deep FM-type tones without actually changing the oscillation frequency.

The timbre of a signal is determined by its harmonic content. This full set of harmonics can be grouped into three main parts: the fundamental, even and odd harmonics. Generate 3’s harmonics generator separates out these three timbral ‘channels’. By adjusting their relative amplitudes, a vast array of different waveforms can be created, including but not limited to the classic sine, saw and square waves.

While the amplitudes can be adjusted manually, each timbral channel supports through-zero amplitude modulation, also known as balanced or ring modulation. When audio-frequency modulation signals are applied, the harmonics become ‘split’, enriching the spectrum.

In addition to all the usual analogue synthesis techniques, the extensive set of modulation options makes Generate 3 especially suited for exploring multiphonic synthesis: a monophonic source creating a complex timbre, much like throat singing, yet by electronic means.

Notes: By combining a mixer and four VCAs in a single module, Mix 3 manages to provide a unique combination of compact size and functionality in just 6 HP. High-end signal paths ensure extremely low noise and distortion, wide headroom and precise gain control, despite the small form factor.

Each of the three main channels has an exponential response, which is more natural for audio than linear, as it matches the human hearing. However, all signal paths are DC-coupled, so control voltage (CV) signals can be processed as well.

What truly sets Mix 3 apart from other compact mixing modules are the three CV inputs, providing voltage control over the signal levels. This even allows you to go beyond unity gain and reach up to +20 dB of amplification. Once a CV input is used, the corresponding channel knob becomes a CV attenuator.

When clipping, Mix 3 does so in a clean, symmetrical way. This yields a very pure overdriven sound, only containing odd harmonics, and allows the module to be used as a triple voltage controlled distortion.

Additional features include audio indicator LEDs, a fourth auxiliary input, voltage control over the output level and a line output jumper setting.

Notes: A multi-VCA module on steroids, the Morph 4 is designed as a modulation hub for an entire Eurorack system, capable of working in coutnless different ways. Proper versatile business.

Supplier's Notes:
Modulation is the core concept of modular synthesis: parameters changing over time, adding movement and musical interest to what would otherwise be merely static sounds. Being able to control the amplitude of signals throughout a patch is therefore essential, and one can never have too many voltage controlled amplifiers (VCAs).

Designed as a fully-featured modulation hub for Eurorack synthesisers, Morph 4 takes the basic concept of the multi-VCA module to the next level.

Four linear amplitude modulators are controlled by a master 'morph' parameter. The response of each modulator to this parameter is completely variable, both manually and under voltage control, and can be overridden if desired. Each response is triangular, with the 'position' parameter setting the maximum point along the morph axis, while 'span' determines the width of the triangle's base.

In addition to separate signal inputs and outputs, a variety of combined outputs is available as well: A+B, C+D, add (unity gain) and averaging mixes, and instantaneous minimum and maximum. Input normalisation makes it easy to send the same signal to multiple modulators, while output and modulator response LEDs provide essential visual feedback.

The combination of master control, fully flexible modulators and multiple combined outputs creates a module truly embodying the spirit of 'patch programmable' modular synthesis. Use Morph 4 as a voltage controlled mixer, dual crossfader, dual panner, interpolating scanner, interpolating distributor, quad VCA, quadraphonic controller, slope modifier, rectifier, complex waveshaper or something in between any of those- the choice is yours.

Notes: Introduce some precisely controlled chaos to your patches with the Orbit 3, based on the orbit of a particle through 3D space. Audio and low-frequency modes allow it to work as an oscillator or LFO.

Supplier's Notes:
In everyday usage, 'chaos' means 'disorder, 'randomness'. In mathematics however, chaos has a very specific meaning. Chaos theory deals with systems exhibiting highly irregular behaviour, seemingly random yet completely deterministic.

Applying this to the world of modular synths opens up a whole new world of modulation opportunities, introducing a natural irregularity to otherwise purely 'mechanical' music, yet with much more control and repeatability than just simple randomness.

In chaos theory, the combination of all possible oscillations at a specific set of parameters is known as the 'attractor'. Orbit 3 incorporates a modified electronic analogue of the classic double-scroll attractor. Since it contains some (bi)stable regions in addition to chaotic ones, this type is known as a 'strange' attractor.

The voltages at each of the module's outputs can be thought to describe the orbit of a particle through 3D space around two equilibrium points. The positions of these points, as well as the distribution of the orbits and rate of movement can all be adjusted under manual or voltage control.

Not just limited to low frequency modulation use, Orbit 3 can operate in the audio frequency domain as well, yielding a variety of waveforms from its three complementary output pairs. These span a wide range, from near-sine waves to white noise. The addition of temperature compensation and calibrated pitch tracking makes for an unconventional and lively, yet also accurate audio oscillator.

And when you need a break from all that musical chaos, simply connecting any pair of outputs to the XY inputs of an oscilloscope will surely not disappoint!

10 HP
+12: 70 mA, -12: 65 mA

Notes: Make quick changes to signal routing manually or with CV control. Any audio or CV signal can be routed via two outputs in series, parallel or reverse series. Quick, clever and easy to use.

Supplier's Notes:
Signal flow is an essential concept in modular synthesis: the path taken by audio or control voltages (CVs) may be long or short, branching or linear, intuitive or highly complex.

While the patch programmability of a modular system is its greatest strength, it can also be a weakness: quick experimentation is often hampered by the need to repatch the synthesiser to change the signal flow.

Pivot 2 offers a unique solution: a compact, fully voltage controlled variable signal router. At the turn of a single knob, any signal can be routed through two external modules in series, parallel or reverse series, as well as any combination in between.

Experiment with patching wavefolders before, after or alongside filters, shuffle multiple delay lines, precisely dial in two-stage audio compression or easily control intricate feedback patches.

Looking beyond the basic signal routing application, Pivot 2 will also function as a complementary pair of counter-acting linear voltage controlled amplifiers (VCAs), a voltage controlled crossfader or a voltage controlled panner.

Analogue voltage controlled send/return router.
Seamless transitions from series, through parallel on to reverse series effect routing.
Also functions as a complementary VCA pair, voltage controlled crossfader or panner.
Impedance-compensated outputs with dual-colour LEDs.
Premium mounting hardware: black screws, black nylon washers and matching hex key.
High-quality components and assembly; designed and made in Belgium.

4 HP | +12: 60 mA, -12: 60 mA

Notes: While modular synthesisers are most often used as stand-alone instruments, they also present exciting opportunities for processing external signals. Anything from an electric guitar to an effects send on a studio mixing desk can benefit from the unique sonic capabilities of even a modest Eurorack system.

However, patching in an external source usually requires an adapter cable and plenty of clean gain to bring the signal to Eurorack level. If the signal source is balanced, a balanced input is required as well to provide the best possible interference rejection.

Receive 2 (or RX2 for short) provides a convenient all-in-one solution. It offers two universal external inputs, which accept both balanced or single-ended signals via XLR or 6.35 mm jack connectors.

The circuit incorporates low-impedance design practices, radio-frequency (RF) filtering and premium balanced receivers to provide transformer-like interconnect performance in a compact and affordable module. And thanks to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, it’s rugged enough to survive the rigours of performing on the road.

The very clean integrated pre-amps feature variable gain, ranging from unity to +40 dB on each channel. As a result, Receive 2 can handle just about any signal source you may encounter, including electric instruments, piezoelectric pickups and many dynamic microphones.

Adjusting the gains is a breeze thanks to the dual peak-responding LED meters. A mix output is included as well, so external signals can be easily mixed directly in the module.

Notes: Flexible Eurorack signal paths under gate or trigger control: that is the basic principle behind Route 4. Consisting of a pair of complementary routing sections, it grants access to a new level of signal routing options.

The module's top section is a 4-to-1 router. Any of the four signal inputs may be selected to be mixed into the section's output, as determined by the control inputs.

Control can either be gate or latch driveniin the latter case, the signal inputs are toggled on and off by received trigger pulses. Meanwhile, the solo/multi switch determines whether the inputs are exclusive, or if multiple may be active at the same time.

With each input socket biased by a +1 V precision voltage source when left unused, gate or trigger controlled transposition of pitch sequences becomes a breeze.

On the bottom, the 1-to-4 router provides the same feature set, with a single input being routed to up to four outputs and normalisation between the sections adding some patching convenience.

All signal paths are designed for use with any Eurorack signals, whether they be control voltages, audio or gate streams. Visual feedback is provided by 10 responsive LEDs, continually displaying the status of the routers.

With Route 4, an 8 HP super-flexible analogue mixing and routing powerhouse has arrived to fuel your patching imagination. The ability to redirect signals within a modular system on the fly, with an unparalleled level of control, is sure to excite even the most seasoned patcher.

8 HP | +12: 35 mA, -12: 20 mA

Notes: Designed with and for performing artists, Switch 4 delivers a hands-on signal switching and routing solution for your Eurorack modular synthesiser.

Quickly mute audio signals, trigger envelopes live, select modulation sources on the fly... With custom dual-action toggle switches, an intuitive interface and sturdy construction, Switch 4 will prove just as useful on stage as in the studio.

The bottom switching section includes four lever-actuated toggle switches, to make or break the signal path between the inputs and outputs. These switches feature a dual action: latched upwards, momentary downwards.

The four input signals are also sent to the top routing section, where two rotary switches allow you to select the signals to be sent to the matching outputs. Here you'll also find dual-action toggle switches, for added versatility.

Finally, all signal paths are buffered, avoiding signal cuts when shorting a jack during patching or severe loading effects when driving many inputs. The high-end components provide exceptionally low noise and distortion, so Switch 4 can reliably process audio, control voltages and gates/triggers.