The Xaoc Devices Berlin Numeric Oscillator is a marvel of circuitry, excelling as a standalone voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), while also brilliantly integrating with the Leibniz Subsystem to offer vast sound manipulation opportunities. It embodies the spirit of experimental music and synthesis techniques while exhibiting functionality and versatility that transcends ordinary oscillators' thresholds. This article dives into examining the intricate design philosophy of the Berlin and its remarkable features.
The 1989 Numeric Oscillator adopts a compact form but houses extensive capabilities. It produces classic square and saw waves, allowing for fundamental sound sculpting for both seasoned professionals and budding enthusiasts. In addition, it hosts FM input, hard sync, and octave switching features, making it a versatile tool fit for any sonic situation.
Notably, the Berlin Numeric Oscillator breaks away from the pack with its engagement with the Leibniz Binary Subsystem interface. The interface, denoted as LBZ in/out, serves as a transformative gateway where the oscillator's output can be processed by any interconnected Leibniz module. Activate the LBZ LINK button on the Berlin's front panel, and the oscillator instantly starts generating a complex, shaped waveform that packs the richness of a vintage wavetable oscillator.
Moreover, when coupled with other Leibniz Subsystem modules like Jena or Rostock, the Berlin Numeric Oscillator steps into the domain of extensive waveshaping. The result is a vast palette of unusual, intricate, and experimental waveforms, neatly wrapped in the Berlin's compact form. The transformable and open nature of the said combination encourages creative experimentation, significantly amplifying the oscillator's scope beyond its size.
The Berlin Numeric Oscillator's internal design draws inspiration from legendary synths like the PPG Wave and Fairlight CMI. It harnesses a variable sample rate from an extremely wide internal clock, which changes as frequencies fluctuate. Consequently, this advanced design helps the Berlin's internal square and saw waves to exhibit no aliasing effect across the entire frequency range - a rare trait that mimics the performance of its iconic predecessors.
With a remarkably broad frequency spectrum ranging from 30 seconds in LFO mode to an astonishing 250 kHz, Berlin is a robust sonic genie in a bottle. This diversity, coupled with voltage control over every parameter, gives the user unparalleled control over sound shaping. Whether you're carving out a soothing ambient track or seeking the cornerstones of experimental sound design, the Berlin has got you covered.
In conclusion, the Xaoc Devices Berlin Numeric Oscillator is truly a gateway to deep sound exploration. Its extensive features cement its place as a powerful asset in one's Eurorack collection. Its resilient design philosophy, coupled with extensive waveform complexity drawn from the Leibniz Subsystem, spearheads both traditional and experimental synthesis techniques. If you eye a diverse sonic palette and innovative module integration, the Berlin stands as an unparalleled choice.
Example Usage
Consider using the Xaoc Devices Berlin Numeric Oscillator in a straightforward patch to illustrate its capabilities as both a VCO and a gateway to the Leibniz Subsystem. Here’s how a novice might set it up for exploring its sound design potential.
Start by patching the Berlin's output to a mixer or audio interface. Use the LBZ LINK button to toggle between the default saw wave output and the modified signal coming from a Leibniz module. For this exercise, connect the Berlin to a Jena module, which will allow you to process the waveform creatively. Jena is known for adding character to signals, and its integration with Berlin is a fantastic way to alter and shape sounds.
Next, utilize the FM input on Berlin by patching a simple LFO from another module, allowing for frequency modulation. This will create rich, evolving textures as you adjust the modulation depth. Experiment with the octave switch to find different harmonic layers, as Berlin can cover over 20 octaves.
For additional depth, introduce a third module, like the Rostock, to further manipulate the output from Jena. This combination can lead to intricate and unique wavetables, letting you explore sounds reminiscent of vintage synthesizers while remaining firmly in the realm of modern experimentation.
Finally, don’t forget to adjust the clock settings. With Berlin's internal clock capable of reaching an astounding 20 MHz, manipulating this will yield surprisingly complex and dynamic waveforms that can inspire your next project. By understanding the connections and capabilities of the Berlin and the Leibniz Subsystem, you’ll uncover a vast palette of sonic possibilities ready for exploration.
The Xaoc Devices Berlin Numeric Oscillator stands out for its unique integration of the Leibniz Binary Subsystem, which facilitates a fascinating exploration of sound synthesis. To unlock the potential of this module, let’s delve into an intermediate usage example that showcases its capabilities.
Begin by patching the Berlin oscillator into your modular setup. Connect the audio output to your mixer or a VCA to access the sound. Utilize the LBZ out and LBZ in connections to interface with one or more Leibniz modules. For this example, integrate the Xaoc Devices Jena in the patch. The Jena allows for extensive wave processing, transforming your initial output from Berlin into something far richer and more complex.
With your modules connected, start by selecting the default saw wave output from Berlin. Engage the LBZ LINK button, which serves as the gateway to the Leibniz subsystem. This action allows signals between Berlin and Jena to communicate seamlessly. Now route an output from Jena back into the LBZ in of Berlin, employing Jena's capabilities to manipulate the waveform.
To further tweak your sound, explore the octaves on Berlin using the manual switches or employing a sequencer or keyboard for voltage control. This will impact the frequency, revealing the oscillators’ impressive range that spans from slow LFO rates to incredibly high frequencies, while remaining free of aliasing.
As you start adjusting parameters on both Berlin and Jena, experiment with Jena’s wave shaping options. Try adjusting the feedback and blend controls within Jena to introduce unique harmonic content to your signal. You can also utilize envelopes or LFOs to modulate the parameters on Berlin, enhancing the dynamic nature of your sound.
This combination of Berlin and Jena not only exemplifies the profound depth of synthesis techniques available in the modular world but also showcases how intricate and unpredictable sounds can emerge from simple beginnings. The exploration of the Leibniz subsystem adds an experimental edge, making every session a fresh sonic adventure.
For further experimentation, consider integrating additional Leibniz modules such as Rostock to expand your sound palette even more. Layering the processed Berlin output with varying waveforms and modulation sources offers endless possibilities, emphasizing the flexible and transformative nature of these combined systems.
Further Thoughts
To harness the full potential of the Xaoc Devices Berlin Numeric Oscillator in conjunction with the Leibniz Subsystem, one could create a patch that transforms basic waveforms into dynamic sonic landscapes. Start by patching your audio output from Berlin’s saw wave output to a mixer or to your main audio path. Now, introduce the LBZ link functionality; connect an additional Leibniz module, such as Jena, to the LBZ IN.
To initiate this exploration, activate the LBZ LINK button on the Berlin module. This action reroutes the output signal through your Leibniz module, allowing any processing you apply in Jena to modify the original saw wave. Utilize Jena’s wave folding and modulation capabilities to produce complex harmonic structures. For example, set Jena to its wavetable mode and adjust the parameters manually or using CV sources. By applying modulation from a slow LFO to the wavetable position, you can create evolving textures that shift and morph over time.
Next, you can dial in Berlin's FM input. Using a secondary oscillator or an LFO, patch a signal into the FM input to add rich overtones or create rhythmic variations. If you increase the modulation depth, you will notice a compelling evolution of your sound as Berlin’s wide frequency range allows for intricate FM synthesis without aliasing, producing a beautifully smooth output even at extreme settings.
To further manipulate tonal characteristics, experiment with the octave switching feature. By sequencing the frequency responses using a sequencer or your preferred CV controller, you can unlock an expansive array of pitches while keeping the inherent character of the Leibniz processed signal intact.
Finally, don’t hesitate to tweak the internal clock rate via the CV inputs on Berlin. This action will directly influence both the resulting wave shapes and your LFO outputs. With a full cycle of experimentation using Berlin and the Leibniz subsystem, you can uncover everything from classic synth leads to entirely unique soundscapes, all rooted in the rich interplay between digital and analog techniques. This method not only illustrates the creativity offered by the Xaoc Devices Berlin but also showcases the endless possibilities when integrated with the Leibniz system.