The Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO, a dual complex voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) at its heart, sets the stage for audial voyages into unknown territories. Featuring intricacies such as a Saw Core and an integrated wavefolder, it's a testament to sonic inventiveness, painted on the canvas of Eurorack's infinite possibilities. Offering independent twin VCOs, you are given the keys of 4 waveforms, complete with classic basic VCO controls, able to stay the course up to ten octaves on a very stable 1v/oct control.
Perhaps what sets the Dominus Dual VCO apart – and allows for its signature array of non-linear sound textures – is its sophisticated independent wavefolder section. An artistic tool with a non-linear approach, the wavefolder creates stunning sounds by manipulating the shape of a waveform. By selecting one of the three waveforms via switches, using just one, or choosing to mix both VCOs, you're in the driver's seat dictating the journey of your waveforms' transformations.
As your exploration deepens, the Dominus Dual VCO's Radius potentiometer unveils another layer, adjusting the range over a certain frequency band. A low pass filter of sorts, this facility selects a part of the frequency spectrum to focus on, with the potential to create enchanting and often underappreciated low-frequency oscillation sounds.
Taking the helm of your eurorack's mission to conquer complex soundscapes are CV control, capable of interacting with envelopes, LFOs, and sequencers, and the SHAPE knob, adding another level of allure by adjusting, modifying, and distorting the final result. With the VCO1 and VCO2 potentiometers, you can adjust the level of each VCO, encouraging you to experiment, knowing various level settings will fuel very different, yet captivatingly rich sounds.
On the more technical end, the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO boasts a wide-frequency range, running the gamut from a rhythmic 6hz all the way up to a screaming 24,000hz. This harnesses the power to generate anything from barely audible low-frequency sounds to extremely high-frequency sounds that push the limit of human hearing.
The Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO is more than just a module; it’s a portal for the eurorack enthusiast, a sonic Cinderella's glass slipper for the creative artist, and a playground for the inquisitive explorer. It adds an expansive layer of depth to your eurorack rig, granting you an unconventional palette for etching out non-linear sound textures. Whether your goal is to craft sounds from the outer realms of synthesis or to inject a new layer of authenticity into more conventional vibes, the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO is a deftly engineered companion ready to escort you on your eurorack journey.
Example Usage
In this example, we'll explore how the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO can be used to create a swirling and evolving sound texture in a live performance setting.
First, let's start by connecting the Dominus Dual VCO module to your Eurorack system. Ensure that you have a proper power connection and the necessary patch cables ready.
Now, let's begin by patching the Dominus Dual VCO to an output module or mixer so you can hear the sound it generates. Take a patch cable and connect the Dominus Dual VCO's output jack to your desired destination.
Next, let's focus on the VCO section of the Dominus Dual VCO module. Set the VCO1 and VCO2 potentiometers to moderate levels. This will ensure a balanced mix between the two oscillators.
To add some movement to our sound, let's introduce modulation using an LFO. Take another patch cable and connect the LFO output from another module to the CV input of the Dominus Dual VCO. Adjust the LFO rate to a speed that suits your desired soundscape.
Now, let's shape the overall sound using the wavefolder section of the Dominus Dual VCO. Take the wavefolder section's output and connect it to a separate mixer channel or output module. This will allow you to blend the folded waveform with the original oscillators.
Experiment with the Radius potentiometer to adjust the range of frequencies affected by the wavefolder. This will give you control over how much folding and distortion is applied to the sound.
Lastly, let's add some additional texture and complexity to the sound using the SHAPE knob. Twist the SHAPE knob to add different levels of modification and distortion to the final sound output.
With this setup, you can now perform and explore a wide range of complex soundscapes. Try adjusting the VCO levels, waveform selections, and modulation sources to create unique and evolving textures that will mesmerize your audience.
Remember, the Dominus Dual VCO module offers even more possibilities, such as the ability to mix the two VCOs independently or use only one of them. Feel free to experiment with these features to further expand your sonic palette.
Enjoy your wavefolding journey with the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO and have fun exploring the world of complex soundscapes!
In this intermediate-level example, we will explore how to create dynamic and evolving soundscapes using the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO module.
Start by patching the Dominus Dual VCO into your Eurorack system, ensuring that both VCOs are connected to the mixer or audio interface for output. Connect a sequencer or a modulation source to the 1v/oct input of VCO 1, and another modulation source to the 1v/oct input of VCO 2. This will allow you to control the pitch of both oscillators simultaneously.
Next, let's add some modulation to introduce movement and complexity. Take an envelope generator and patch it into the CV input of the wavefolder section. Adjust the envelope's attack, decay, sustain, and release to shape the modulation. As the envelope triggers, it will interact with the wavefolder, creating unique timbral variations in your sound.
To further enhance the evolving nature of the sound, connect an LFO to the SHAPE input of the wavefolder. Adjust the rate and depth of the LFO to influence the shape of the folded waveforms. Experiment with different LFO waveforms like sine, triangle, or random to achieve interesting and unpredictable results.
Now, let's delve into sound design possibilities by adjusting the parameters of each VCO. Start by setting different waveforms for VCO 1 and VCO 2 to achieve a more layered and harmonically rich sound. Play with the VCO1 and VCO2 potentiometers to blend the levels of each oscillator. Try different settings to discover how they interact and influence the overall sound.
Finally, use the Radius potentiometer to control the frequency band affected by the wavefolder. Turning it clockwise will increase the range of frequencies affected, while turning it counterclockwise will narrow the range. This parameter allows you to sculpt the texture and character of the wavefolded sound.
With these techniques, you can create intricate soundscapes that evolve over time, full of captivating textures and harmonics. Don't be afraid to explore and experiment with different modulation sources, waveforms, and level settings to unlock the vast creative potential of the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO module.
Further Thoughts
In the realm of complex soundscapes, the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO proves to be an indispensable tool for sonic exploration. With its dual complex VCO and integrated wavefolder, this module offers a vast array of possibilities for creating rich and evolving textures.
One innovative way to harness the potential of the Dominus Dual VCO is by utilizing its CV control in conjunction with envelopes, LFOs, and sequencers. By applying carefully crafted modulation signals to the CV input, you can push the boundaries of sound manipulation and take your soundscapes to new heights.
For instance, imagine using an envelope generator to modulate the wavefolder's Radius parameter. By employing a slow-rising envelope with a long decay time, you can gradually increase the folding intensity as the envelope unfolds, resulting in a mesmerizing transformation of the sound over time. Additionally, you could introduce an LFO to modulate the SHAPE knob, offering continuous variations and distortion that evolve cyclically.
To create a truly immersive sonic experience, consider running the Dominus Dual VCO's outputs through a stereo effects processor. By panning the outputs slightly apart and applying different effects, such as reverb, delay, or chorus, you can achieve a spacious and enveloping soundstage.
Moreover, by experimenting with the VCO1 and VCO2 potentiometers, you can sculpt the sound further. Try offsetting the levels of each VCO to create harmonic interplay between them. Asymmetrical level settings can result in intricate timbral combinations, while equal levels can yield a thicker and more powerful sound. Don't hesitate to explore extreme level settings as well, as they can unveil unique and unexpected sonic territories.
In summary, the Arcaico Dominus Dual VCO with its integrated wavefolder opens up a universe of possibilities for sound designers, music producers, and modular enthusiasts. Through the integration of complex modulation and careful manipulation of the module's parameters, you can traverse uncharted sonic landscapes and unlock a wealth of creativity. Embrace the journey and harness the power of the Dominus Dual VCO to craft intricate and captivating complex soundscapes.