The Pittsburgh Modular A Filter of Crows is a unique multi-mode overdrive filter module that redefines analog synthesis. This module combines three analog technologies, including an ultra-high-gain preamp circuit, a 12db state variable PGH filter, and a resonant stability circuit. The result is a module that creates rich, complex, and musically satisfying sounds.
The ultra-high-gain preamp circuit offers up to 75x variable gain overdrive without sounding harsh, making it possible to achieve unmatched dimensions of overdrive. Additionally, the circuit can be completely bypassed to allow for a completely clean exploration of the other aspects of the module.
The PGH filter, on the other hand, is a high-quality and versatile filter that offers lowpass, bandpass, and highpass responses that can be enabled or disabled individually for instant parallel processing. The unique defining characteristic of the PGH filter is its ability to offer a complete sweepable range without any noticeable dead spots, making it easy to achieve a rich, even, and fully sweepable range.
Finally, the resonant stability circuit enables the PGH filter to provide near-infinite resonance without slipping into self-oscillation, unless the user wants it to. Set to stable mode, the module operates as a clean, organic filter, while in unstable mode, the incoming signal modulates the self-oscillating filter to produce harmonically complex sounds, ranging from ringing fuzz to heavy distortion to an extremely musical total failure.
Overall, the Pittsburgh Modular A Filter of Crows is an impressive multi-mode overdrive filter that redefines analog synthesis. Its three analog technologies combine to create a module that produces rich, complex, and musically satisfying sounds that are perfect for a wide range of music production applications.
Example Usage
If you're just starting out with the Pittsburgh Modular A Filter of Crows, it's easy to get started with the basic lowpass filter setting. Simply patch in your audio source, adjust the cutoff frequency knob to your liking, and start playing. As you get more comfortable with the module, begin experimenting with other filter responses such as bandpass and highpass. Don't be afraid to adjust the gain and resonance settings to create unique, organic sounds. Give the unstable resonance setting a try and see what kind of chaotic yet musical sounds you can create. Remember to have fun and let your creativity flow!
To add a unique edge to your bassline, try using A Filter of Crows by Pittsburgh Modular as an overdrive filter. By turning up the ultra-high-gain preamp circuit, you can introduce up to 75x of gain overdrive without the harshness associated with typical overdrive filters. The PGH filter can then be manually adjusted to create lowpass, bandpass, and highpass filter responses, while its "no-dead-spot" characteristic means you can sweep through the entire range without any muted zones. Finally, the Resonant Stability Circuit allows for infinite resonance, yielding an organic filter that produces rich, harmonically complex sounds when self-oscillation is modulated by the incoming signal.
Further Thoughts
When using A Filter of Crows in a performance or recording session, try combining the ultra-high-gain preamp circuit and resonant stability circuit to create a unique and dynamic sound. Start with a clean signal and gradually increase the gain to add warmth and saturation to the sound. Then, switch to unstable mode on the resonant stability circuit and adjust the resonance to create distorted harmonics that evolve over time. Use the PGH filter to sculpt the sound further by enabling or disabling individual filter responses, and experiment with sweeping through the entire range without encountering any noticeable dead spots. Finally, use the filter cutoff and resonance controls to adjust the frequency content and intensity of the sound in real-time. This module offers a versatile range of possibilities for sound design and performance.