The ADDAC712 Dual Channel Discrete Gain Staging Amplifier is an exciting new Eurorack module that offers users a vintage saturation and distortion/fuzz character. This module is based on a famous discrete preamp board from the 70s used in some of the legendary equipment from that era. The module can be used with modular signals to add distortion/fuzz character to the sound, or it can be used as a preamp for external sources such as line sources, guitars, and keyboards.
One of the standout features of the ADDAC712 is its flexibility with its top and middle gain stages. The top stage can completely distort the signal, while the second stage manages the output level. The module includes an On/Off bypass switch that can route the signal into the effect or to the bottom output gain stage. The amount of amplification is controlled by the Gain control, and the maximum amount of amplification can be set by the user using the Max Gain trimmer.
The module offers a unique quality of hard clipping that can create gate effects at extreme levels. Up to ±5.5v, the incoming signal will keep its integrity, but beyond this point, saturation begins to increase. At approximately ±6v, a hard clipping effect occurs, and at extreme levels, the audio 0v bias reference drifts upwards, resulting in gate effects.
In the middle of the module, an x2 opamp-based output gain stage with a clipping led monitors the clipping at the output, and an Output control sets the output volume. Having the top and middle gain stages allows for flexibility in sound design, allowing users to completely distort the signal on the top stage and tame its output level with the second stage.
The ADDAC712 is also an excellent side companion for the ADDAC711 Balanced Inputs module. Overall, this module is an excellent option for those seeking a vintage preamp sound and looking to add a unique quality of hard clipping to their modular setup. The module's flexibility and versatility make it a valuable addition to any creative musician's toolbox.
Example Usage
If you're new to the world of distortion and fuzz modules, the ADDAC712 Dual Channel Discrete Gain Staging Amplifier is a great place to start experimenting with different sounds. Simply connect your Eurorack signal to the input, and use the [GAIN] control to adjust the amount of distortion added to your sound. You can use the [MAX GAIN] trimmer to set the maximum level of distortion that the module will produce. If you want to bypass the effect, just switch the [BYPASS] switch to the down position. The module also has an output gain stage with a clipping LED and an [OUTPUT] control to set the final volume level. Try different settings and adjustments to find the perfect level of vintage saturation and distortion for your music!
An intermediate-level usage example for the ADDAC712 Dual Channel Discrete Gain Staging Amplifier could be to use it as a preamp for a guitar. With the vintage preamp board and unique saturation/distortion, the ADDAC712 can add a warm and rich character to the guitar's sound. By connecting the guitar to the input and setting the gain to a desired level, the ADDAC712 will amplify the guitar signal and add saturation/distortion as the gain is increased. The output can then be controlled with the second gain stage, allowing for the amount of distortion to be tamed while still maintaining a desirable output level. The LED clipping indicator on the second gain stage is also useful in visually monitoring the guitar's input signal and avoiding unwanted clipping. Overall, the ADDAC712 adds both vintage charm and flexibility to the guitar's sound.
Further Thoughts
Let's say you want to breathe new life into an old drum machine that you haven't used in years. You can use the ADDAC712 Dual Channel Discrete Gain Staging Amplifier to give it a vintage sound with the perfect amount of grit and character. Dial in the right amount of gain with the [GAIN] control, and adjust the output volume with the [OUTPUT] control to make sure the levels match the other elements of your track. The [MAX GAIN] trimmer allows you to set a maximum amount of amplification to prevent unwanted distortion. With its ability to handle modular signals as well as external sources like drum machines, guitars, and keyboards, the ADDAC712 is a versatile tool for any musician or producer looking to add some vintage saturation and flexibility to their sound.