The ST Modular OBERHAUSEN is an analog oscillator that offers a wide range of unique and character-filled waveforms. The module features two principal oscillators and two modulation oscillators, each providing users with a variety of waveform options. Both principal oscillators offer five different waveforms that can be individually adjusted with a dedicated volume slide potentiometer, and each waveform is available at a separate output jack. The sum of the OSC1 and OSC2 waveforms can be blended via CV or manually with the large potentiometer in the middle of the module.
The module allows users to adjust the character and timbre of their sound with several input and CV options. The OBERHAUSEN's front panel includes an FM input for either exponential or linear frequency modulation, adjustable via the FM switch. The module also includes a V/OCT input and a precision duplicate output of the incoming CV signal for further external processing. Additionally, the module features front panel calibration and gain options, with a trimmer potentiometer for V/OCT tuning and OSC gain.
The OBERHAUSEN's second principal oscillator offers a wide range of different waveforms, including a pure and analog SINE wave, either a triangle or SAWTOOTH waveform according to the TRI/SAW switch, a PULSE waveform with adjustable PULSE-WIDTH via PW knob or CV with a dedicated attenuator PWM CV, and a Buchla inspired timbre generator.
The module also includes an FM OSC (modulation oscillator) that modulates OSC2's frequency and can change the oscillator's waveform from triangle to square wave with the FM switch. The amount of modulation applied can be adjusted with the FM CV attenuator, and an LED indicates if FM modulation is active. The OBERHAUSEN also includes a MOD OSC (modulation oscillator) that is a low frequency oscillator that internally controls BLEND CV, OSC2 TIMBRE CV and OSC1 PWM CV, which is normalized to OSC2 PWM CV.
In order to mix both principal oscillators and their waveforms, the OBERHAUSEN features two 4-channel mixers and an additional blend mixer. With the help of eight dedicated slide potentiometers, each waveform's level can be set. Users can blend between OSC1 and OSC2 either manually, via CV at the BLEND input jack, or internally with the MOD OSC and BLEND attenuator.
In summary, the ST Modular OBERHAUSEN Eurorack module is a skiff-friendly module that is well suited for sound designers and musicians looking to create complex and distinctive electronic music. With its blend mixer and eight slide potentiometers, users have a wide range of options to mix and blend waveforms, producing unique and character-filled sounds. The OBERHAUSEN's numerous input and CV options allow for further customization of sounds, making it a versatile and valuable addition to any Eurorack system.
Example Usage
If you're new to working with oscillators, the ST Modular OBERHAUSEN is a great starting point. Try experimenting with the different waveforms available on each principal oscillator, such as the TRIANGLE or SAWTOOTH waveforms on OSC1 and the SINE wave on OSC2. Adjust the levels of each waveform using the dedicated slide potentiometers and try blending them using the central potentiometer or CV input. Use the V/OCT inputs to control pitch and the FM inputs to add some modulation to your sounds. With just a little bit of experimentation, you can create a wide range of unique and interesting waveforms with this module.
An intermediate-level usage example of the ST Modular OBERHAUSEN Eurorack module is to use it in conjunction with a sequencer and a filter module to create a dynamic and evolving bassline. The user can start by selecting a combination of waveforms from Oscillator 1 and Oscillator 2, adjusting their levels, and blending them using the blend mixer. The user can then send a sequence of voltages from the sequencer to the V/OCT input of the module, and adjust the frequency modulation using the FM input and the FM oscillator. Finally, the user can shape the sound using a filter module such as the Mutable Instruments Ripples and further modulate it using the modulation oscillator and the modulation mixer. This can result in a rich and textured bassline that evolves over time and responds dynamically to changes in the sequencer.
Further Thoughts
Expert usage example: One interesting approach would be to use the ST Modular OBERHAUSEN Eurorack module to create evolving soundscapes with complex waveforms. This can be achieved by utilizing the two modulation oscillators to control the BLEND CV and TIMBRE CV of OSC2. By experimenting with different rates and waveforms of the modulation oscillators, while adjusting the DESTINATION CV attenuators as necessary, a constantly shifting and evolving sound can be created. Additionally, the FM input and FM OSC can be used to add further modulation and complexity to the sound, creating a truly unique and dynamic sonic landscape.