The AI017 Low Pass Gate, offered by AI Synthesis, is a versatile Eurorack module that enables users to bring the classic Buchla 200 Series sound to their setup. The module employs a vactrol-based design, which allows it to function as a voltage-controlled filter, voltage-controlled amplifier, or both. The module offers an updated variation of the classic Buchla 200 Series Low Pass Gate, featuring a tunable resonance circuit and depth control.
The Depth control compensates for the vactrol's inability to drop below 100 ohms, which can cause audio bleed on traditional Low Pass Gates. With the Depth control, users can easily attenuate the classic ringing and bongo effects to achieve a modern Low Pass Gate sound. The effect can be switched on or off, offering flexibility to switch between a vintage and modern Low Pass Gate sound as needed.
The tunable resonance circuit on the module provides users with classic ringing and bongo effects, which can be easily adjusted using the rear trimmer for resonance tuning. This feature adds to the versatility of the module, enabling users to personalize the sound to their preference.
Overall, the AI017 Low Pass Gate is an excellent addition to any Eurorack setup for anyone looking to incorporate classic Buchla sounds. It offers a flexible design that can function as a filter, amplifier, or both, with the added benefit of up-to-date features such as a tunable resonance circuit and depth control. The classic Buchla 200 Series sound is now easily achievable in a Eurorack setup with the AI017 Low Pass Gate.
Example Usage
If you are new to using the AI017 Low Pass Gate, start by patching an oscillator into the Gate Input and the Output into a mixer or speaker. Using a sequencer or keyboard, vary the input voltage of the Gate (CV) to change the volume of the oscillator. Experiment with the Depth control to hear the effect on the sound, and try turning the Resonance trimmer to hear different levels of resonance. Play around with different patch scenarios to discover unique ringing and bongo effects that can be achieved with this module.
An intermediate-level usage example for the AI017 Low Pass Gate module would be to use it as a voltage-controlled filter in combination with an oscillator module as the sound source. Patch the output of the oscillator into the input of the Low Pass Gate, and then patch the output of the AI017 Low Pass Gate into a mixer or output module. Adjust the Depth control to achieve the desired amount of resonance and adjust the cutoff frequency using a voltage-controlled input. Experiment with different control voltages to create a variety of timbres and textures, ranging from subtle filtering to classic "ringing" and "bongo" effects.
Further Thoughts
The AI017 Low Pass Gate is a must-have in any Eurorack setup if one is looking for a classic Buchla 200 sound. One of the best ways to use this module is by routing a sound source through it and modulating the voltage control on the AI017 to control both the filter and amplifier simultaneously. With the resonance circuit and depth control, users can achieve the classic "ringing" and "bongo" effects that have become so synonymous with the Buchla sound. With the flick of the switch, the depth control can be turned off to attenuate the effects, which gives users the flexibility to switch quickly from a "vintage" to a "modern" sound. Overall, these capabilities make the AI017 Low Pass Gate an invaluable tool for electronic music creators looking to add new dimensions to their sound.