The Erica Synths Black Ring-Fade module is an innovative and versatile tool for sound shaping. It features two ringmodulators/waveshapers, a crossfader that works for both audio and CV, and a VCA. The module allows for unique waveshaping even without a carrier signal and can create amplitude modulation effects when combined with the crossfader and VCA.
The Black Ring-Fade also offers selectable AC/DC coupling, which allows for manual or CV control over the crossfade. This makes it an excellent addition to any modular system looking to explore new sonic possibilities. The module is designed with dual unconventional ringmodulators that pass through the signal without alteration if no carrier is present, resulting in unique waveshaping.
Moreover, the carrier level adjustment feature adds to the versatility of the module. With this feature, you can adjust the level of the carrier input to achieve the desired effect. What's more, the voltage-controlled crossfader allows for seamless audio and CV transitions, and you can use the manual control for more precise adjustments.
The selectable AC/DC coupling feature on the module is particularly useful. You can switch between AC and DC coupling depending on the input signal. AC coupling removes any DC offset that may occur in the input signal, while DC coupling preserves the DC offset, making it ideal for CV applications.
In terms of the VCA, the Black Ring-Fade module comes with a selectable bias feature that allows you to adjust the VCA's output level. This feature gives you more control over the output signal, making it easy to shape the sound to your liking.
To sum up, the Erica Synths Black Ring-Fade module is an excellent signal processing module that allows for unique waveshaping and amplitude modulation effects. It is versatile, with selectable AC/DC coupling, manual/CV control over the crossfade, and a selectable bias feature on the VCA. This module is a must-have for any modular system looking to explore new sonic possibilities and add a touch of creativity to their sound shaping.
Example Usage
A great way to start using the Erica Synths Black Ring-Fade module is to use it as a simple VCA. Simply patch an audio signal into the input, and patch a control signal into the CV input. Adjust the gain and bias controls to achieve your desired output level, and you're ready to go! Experiment with different control signals to shape and modulate your sound in unique ways.
An intermediate-level usage example for the Erica Synths Black Ring-Fade could be creating a rhythmic and textured bassline. Begin by sending a steady saw wave to one of the module's ringmodulators/waveshapers, and adding a rhythmic sequence to the carrier input of the other ringmodulator/waveshaper. Use the crossfader to blend between the two signals, adding movement and variation to the bassline. Adjust the carrier level and VCA bias to fine-tune the texture of the sound. Finally, use an envelope generator or LFO to modulate the crossfader for even more dynamic and evolving basslines.
Further Thoughts
A great usage example for the Erica Synths Black Ring-Fade would be to use it for creating unique percussion sounds. By sending a trigger signal to the carrier input of one of the ringmodulators, and a noise signal to the other, you can use the crossfader to blend between the two and create interesting variations in the percussion sound. By adding the VCA to the mix, you can also dynamically control the amplitude of the percussive hits. This adds a level of versatility to the Black Ring-Fade and allows for experimentation in creating percussive sounds that are not limited by traditional percussion synthesis techniques.