The Vole by Laine Modular is a fresh addition to the 1U utility module family. Its sophistication lies in the sheer simplicity, embodying dual volume control that introduces an appealing touch to your sound.
Equipped with two channels, one of the distinct features of Vole is the incorporation of saturation and slight EQ boosts which not only take control of attenuation but also add zest to the sound layers. With channel one dedicated to a gentle high shelf boost, and channel two for low shelf boost, the design follows the style of Baxandall EQ shelf circuits. The soft-clipping that resides between these channels attributes warmness and richness to the sound without distorting it, making it an ideal component for a sound system that seeks quality and balance.
Now, if you run a sound that requires a bit of twinkle through channel one, and a drum track that begs for certain punchiness through channel two, the result is something more than pleasing to the ear. The EQ curves are subtle and produce a gain of 4dB, further accentuated by the post-attenuator amplifier's full spectrum gain boost. The transparent sound produced at medium gain levels speaks for the system's open sound nature.
As for the technical side, each channel is complemented by three LED level indicators. Most notably, the third orange LED hiding beneath the front plate kicks in when soft clipping gets engaged. Indicative of the module’s discreet form yet revealing nature, these LEDs serve as visual cues for the levels and clipping, adding a practical touch to acoustic performances.
CH 1 adopts a wideband boost plus 4dB high-frequency shelf boost beginning at 3.5KHz. In contrast, CH 2 incorporates a wideband boost as well, with an added 4dB low-frequency shelf boost starting from 250Hz. In terms of the operational flow, CH 1 output is normalled to the CH 2 input jack switch. Both channels produce non-inverting outputs.
The module accommodates DC-coupled inputs that maintain the minimum waveshaping and can also be used for CV control. This makes the Vole an optimal choice for musical artists who desire that extra edge in their sound without significantly altering the overall texture.
The Vole from Laine Modular provides an easy-to-use, modular approach to sound design. Whether you're looking for that additional sparkle in your melodies or more energetic drum tracks, this module's squarely balanced saturation and tonal enhancement will serve you well. It undeniably stands as proof that sometimes, it’s the subtle enhancements that make all the difference in the world of sound design.
Example Usage
The Vole by Laine Modular is a versatile tool that can significantly enhance your sound palette, especially for those just starting out in the world of Eurorack. Its dual volume control and subtle EQ boosts make it a perfect addition to any novice's setup.
To get started, connect your audio source—perhaps a simple synthesizer or a drum machine—to channel one of the Vole. As you adjust the volume with the input knob, notice how the soft-clipping begins to add warmth and character to your sound as you approach higher gain levels. This is not just a matter of turning up the volume; the unique circuitry allows you to achieve a nice saturation that can really elevate your mix.
Next, try running a separate audio signal into channel two. A classic application would be to utilize this channel for a percussion track or bass line. With the low shelf boost, you can add depth and punch that can help drive your track forward. Turn up the low-frequency boost and play with the volume until you find that sweet spot where the sound is enriched without overwhelming other elements in your patch.
You should also take advantage of the LED level indicators on each channel. As you adjust the settings, keep an eye on these lights to ensure that your signals are healthy and not overdriven—except, of course, when you’re aiming for that warm saturation that soft-clipping provides.
For experimental sound design, consider sending control voltages into the DC-coupled inputs. This can lead to some creative modulation possibilities—tweaking volume dynamically based on another signal source, or modulating your EQ settings for evolving textures throughout your performance.
Overall, Vole is not just a dual volume control; it's an integral part of your sonic toolkit. With its subtle EQ enhancements and usability for both audio and CV, it offers a pathway for novices to explore and refine their sound craft, ensuring that every track you create can shine with clarity and character.
In creating an intermediate-level usage example, let's explore how to integrate the Vole module into a live performance setup, enhancing your sound through its versatile dual volume control and subtle EQ boosts.
Imagine you have a layered synth line and a percussive drum pattern that need some refinement for a richer mix. Start by routing your synth line into Channel 1 of the Vole. This will allow you to utilize its high-frequency shelf boost to add some sparkle to the sound. As you turn up the volume on Channel 1, pay attention to the third LED indicator; when it lights up orange, you’ll know you are entering the soft-clipping zone. This adds a warm, analog-style saturation to your synth, which can help it cut through the mix without becoming harsh.
Next, send your drum pattern into Channel 2. Utilize the low-frequency boost to add weight and punch to the kick and snare hits. Start with the volume set lower and gradually increase it while fine-tuning the level until you achieve the desired punchiness. Both channels benefitting from Vole’s wideband boost will enhance the mix, creating a fuller sound overall.
Since Channel 1 is normalled to Channel 2, you can create intricate layers seamlessly. For instance, you could run a sidechain effect from your drum pattern into Channel 1. As you tweak Channel 1’s level, the sidechain compression paired with the high shelf will produce a dynamic response, enhancing the excitement within your performance.
For more complex sounds, consider using CV inputs with various modulation sources. Since the inputs are DC coupled, you'll likely find creative ways to shape your sound beyond mere volume adjustments. Experimenting with different CV sources will reveal nuances in your audio signals, allowing for unique modular interactions.
Finally, as you're performing, keep an eye on the LED meters. They provide essential feedback on your levels, preventing unwanted distortion. With Vole’s transparent amplification and subtle EQ capabilities, you can truly elevate your mix, ensuring each element shines in the spotlight during your performance.
Further Thoughts
Vole by Laine Modular serves as an exceptional tool for sound designers looking to add a layer of character and clarity to their modular setups. When utilizing Vole's dual volume control and EQ functions, you can dramatically influence the texture and presence of your audio signals in nuanced ways.
To illustrate its capabilities, consider an application where you're processing a basic sine wave oscillator. Route the oscillator to Channel 1 of Vole. By beginning with a moderate attenuation, you can gently boost the original signal, allowing for the introduced soft clipping to add warmth and saturation without harshness. The high frequency shelf boost at 3.5 kHz will enhance the crispness of the sine wave, imparting a sense of brightness that can cut through the mix effectively. By carefully adjusting the gain, you can maintain the sine wave's purity while still achieving that vital sparkle.
Next, take the output from Channel 1 and plug it into Channel 2. Here, you can further enrich your signal. Channel 2 offers a low frequency shelf boost starting at 250 Hz, which is perfect for grounding your sound. In this case, apply just a touch of gain to the lows, allowing the sine wave to blend seamlessly with your other elements, such as percussive sounds. This addition creates a more cohesive blend, enhancing both the warmth of your low end and the bright presence produced by Channel 1.
Using the LED indicators, monitor your levels to achieve an optimal balance of clarity and saturation. The soft clipping LED will guide you when your signal is nearing the sweet spot of coloration—allowing you to make real-time adjustments as you hear how the dynamics of your patch evolve. Additionally, because Vole's inputs are DC coupled, you can also send CV control signals to modulate the volume levels dynamically, introducing even more movement and potential complexity to your sound design.
Overall, by utilizing Vole in this manner, you create a rich sonic palette that beautifully retains the nuances of your modular chain while simultaneously adding character and depth to your sound. Whether you are working with rhythmic sequences or evolving textures, Vole proves itself to be an indispensable module for both subtle tonal changes and impactful sonic transformations. The combination of its dual-channel flexibility and elegant EQ options offers you a creative toolbox that elevates any patch to new heights.