The Therevox Ondes VCO: Reviving the Sounds of the Ondes Martenot in Eurorack Form

The Therevox Ondes VCO is a new eurorack module that revives the original 7th generation Ondes Martenot oscillator, which was developed by Maurice Martenot in the 1920s. The module is based on original schematics and guidance from Jean Landry, who was responsible for repairing many Ondes Martenot in Canada.

The Ondes Martenot was one of the first electronic musical instruments and was in continuous development for over 50 years. By 1975 the vacuum tubes were replaced by solid-state electronics, which allowed for many new and unique timbral combinations. The Therevox Ondes VCO re-creates these rare sounds and provides access to the specialized wave shapers and mixing circuits that make up the unique timbral combinations of the instrument.

The module features a temperature correcting pitch circuit, precision components, and stability improvements, as well as a 1V/OCT pitch input, four position octave switch, three buffered outputs, and two high-quality internal VCAs with illuminated level indication. The layout and function of each switch have been preserved, making this oscillator an ideal performance tool. Three independent switchable outputs can be used to patch unique destinations in the spirit of the Ondes Martenot's selectable Diffuseurs.

Silkscreened aluminum front panels are available in four different colors and combinations of industrial powder-coating and bead-blasted anodizing. The module also includes original Davies daka-ware tuning knob, genuine QingPu 3.5mm jacks, integrated dust-shields on slide potentiometers, M2.5 nylon screws, M3 nylon screws, a 10-14pin power cable, printed user manual, and vinyl sticker.

The Therevox Ondes VCO is a rare legend re-imagined, and it is now available for modular synthesis. It is 14HP wide, 30mm deep, and has a current draw of +12V 80mA and -12V 80mA. It is reverse polarity protected (shorting). All units go through final inspection and calibration by Therevox in Canada. Videos are available for this module, and it can be purchased through Therevox and other distributors. The Therevox Ondes VCO is a must-have for any electronic music expert and anyone looking for a unique and special eurorack module.

Example Usage

For novice eurorack users, the Therevox Ondes VCO offers a unique sound with easy-to-use features. Simply patch the 1V/OCT pitch input from your MIDI controller or sequencer, and explore the different waveforms using the illuminated level indication of the VCAs. Try switching between the Octaviant and Gambe waveforms for dramatic changes in tone. And if you're feeling adventurous, experiment with the specialized wave shapers and mixing circuits to create your own unique timbres.

An intermediate-level usage example for the Therevox Ondes VCO would be to use the three independent switchable outputs to patch unique destinations, similar to the Ondes Martenot's selectable Diffuseurs. For example, you could patch the Octaviant waveform to a filter to create a bassline, the Nasillard waveform to a delay to create a spacey effect, and the Gambe waveform to a reverb to create a lush background texture. By switching between the three outputs during a performance, you can create dynamic and evolving sounds that capture the unique timbral combinations of the Ondes Martenot. The illuminated level indication on the internal VCAs also allows for precise control over the Octaviant and Gambe waveforms with CV input, adding even more depth to your sounds.

Further Thoughts

One creative usage for the Therevox Ondes VCO is to utilize its three independent switchable outputs to create complex modular patches in the spirit of the Ondes Martenot's selectable Diffuseurs. By patching each output to a different destination, such as a filter or delay module, and switching between them during performance, the user can create evolving, otherworldly sounds reminiscent of the unique timbral combinations of the original instrument. The addition of two high-quality internal VCAs also allows for greater control and expression over the Octaviant and Gambe waveforms, adding even more depth and complexity to the patch. With its temperature correcting pitch circuit and precision components, the Therevox Ondes VCO is a reliable and versatile tool for any modular synthesist looking to expand their sonic palette.

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