To the untrained eye, the complex and mystifying black panels of Eurorack modules might appear to be nothing more than a jumbled assortment of knobs, switches, and patch cables. But to the seasoned electronic musician and sound designer, these modules are the keys to unlocking a universe of sonic exploration. The AtoVproject DHO or Dual Harmonic Oscillator, boldly makes a stand in the Eurorack arsenal, offering a multifaceted approach to wave manipulation and a vehicle for creating infinite soundscapes.
The DHO—a complex harmonic oscillator with internal modulation—is a stand-out performer in the complex oscillator category. It encompasses an innovative fusion of an analog oscillator under digital control, which makes for a strikingly responsive and intuitive module. But what's even more fascinating is its imposing showcase of haptic feedback; a pioneering feature in the Eurorack module world.
Boasting a dual analog oscillator, the DHO generates four octaves of triangle waves, with each oscillator modulating the other via through-zero frequency modulation. This robust modulation setup is then smoothly funneled through a four-stage diode wavefolder, giving your waves the added character they comprise.
An observable challenge that electronic musicians face when dealing with complex oscillators is the prerequisite of numerous modulators to unleash their full sonic capabilities—an issue the DHO addresses aptly! This module incorporates a groundbreaking algorithm borrowed from the video game industry and effectively turns it to a musical task of modulating 10 parameters using a single control voltage input. All you need is a subtle twist of a knob, your sound morphs, unravels, then blooms into a boundless aural landscape.
Adding a further layer of depth, the DHO is armed with 10 internal Low-Frequency Oscillators (LFOs) delivering modulatory motion on a silver platter. The need for countless external modulators is therefore unnecessary, making DHO a self-sustained sonic juggernaut.
Not forgetting the most traditional of oscillators, the DHO comes bundled with an expander module. This provides the standard waveforms like sine, square, and sawtooth that we have grown fond of but with added Pulse Width Modulation capability. Plus, it offers both hard and soft sync inputs, giving you the opportunity to align your oscillators with other devices and generate intricate synchronization effects.
In summary, the AtoVproject DHO broadens the horizons of what a complex oscillator can achieve. Tapping into innovative modulation methods, it hands you the reins to steer your sound design projects into magnificent, unforeseen territories. Experiment with this module, and you might stumble upon a soundscape that's never been discovered before!
Example Usage
In a Novice-level usage example, let's explore how you can start creating unique sounds with the AtoVproject DHO. Begin by patching the DHO into your eurorack setup, ensuring it has power and is connected to your audio interface or mixer. Start by turning the main frequency knob to hear the fundamental tone. Experiment with the wavefolder control to introduce harmonic complexity to your sound. You can further enhance your sound by using the internal LFOs to add movement and depth.
To modulate the oscillator, try patching a slow-moving CV signal into the frequency modulation input. Listen as the modulation changes the timbre and pitch of the oscillator. Experiment with different modulation sources such as envelopes or random voltage generators to discover new sonic possibilities.
As you become more comfortable with the AtoVproject DHO, don't hesitate to explore the expander module that offers additional waveform options and synchronization capabilities. By combining the DHO with other modules in your eurorack system, you can unlock a world of complex and evolving soundscapes.
Remember, don't be afraid to experiment and trust your ears. The AtoVproject DHO is a versatile tool that can lead you to new sonic territories with just a few simple adjustments. Happy patching!
In this intermediate-level example, we will explore how to utilize the internal modulation capabilities of the AtoVproject DHO to create evolving and intricate soundscapes.
First, let's start by patching the DHO into your Eurorack system. Connect the main outputs of the DHO to your mixer or audio interface. Next, patch a CV source, such as an envelope generator or LFO, to the modulation input of the DHO.
Now, let's delve into the internal modulation parameters of the DHO. Start by selecting one of the ten available modulation algorithms using the dedicated knob on the module. Experiment with different algorithms to discover the range of sonic possibilities each offers.
Once you have chosen an algorithm, tweak the modulation depth control to adjust the intensity of the modulation effect. You can create subtle shimmering textures or drastic tonal shifts depending on the depth setting.
To add movement and variation to your sound, explore the internal LFOs provided by the DHO. These LFOs can be routed to various parameters within the oscillator, adding rhythmic fluctuations and evolving timbral changes to your patches.
By combining the internal modulation algorithms and LFOs, you can craft complex and evolving soundscapes that continuously morph and transform over time. Don't be afraid to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional harmonic structures with the AtoVproject DHO - a powerhouse of sonic exploration and modulation possibilities.
Further Thoughts
For an EXPERT-level usage example, let's dive into creating evolving and intricate soundscapes with the AtoVproject DHO. Start by patching the DHO into your Eurorack setup, ensuring you have a solid CV and gate source to get the most out of its capabilities. Begin by exploring the internal modulation options and experimenting with the through-zero frequency modulation between the two oscillators. The four-stage diode wavefolder adds rich harmonics, enhancing the complexity of your sounds.
Next, activate the haptic feedback feature to feel the modulation in real-time as you adjust the parameters. Utilize the algorithmic modulation of the 10 parameters to dynamically sculpt your sound, opening the doors to infinite sonic possibilities. Experiment with the internal LFOs to add movement and depth to your patches.
Take advantage of the expander included with the DHO to access standard oscillator waveforms, PWM, and sync inputs, further expanding the sonic palette at your disposal. Don't hesitate to push the boundaries of traditional oscillator usage and let the DHO guide you into uncharted territories of sound design.
With its innovative features and expert-level modulation capabilities, the AtoVproject DHO is a powerful tool for creating complex and mesmerizing soundscapes limited only by your imagination.