The Nonlinearcircuits Tin Teardrop VCF is a distinctive module that expands the horizons of synthesizer creativity through its dual core design. This Voltage Controlled Filter (VCF) uses two SSI2144 chips, which are a modern reissue of the revered SSM2044 chips renowned for their vintage character and warmth. Based on ladder filters, these chips are foundational to the Teardrop VCF's highly pleasing sonic character.
One of the attractive elements of the Tin Teardrop VCF is the individual outputs for each SSI2144 chip. Not only does this provide greater versatility by allowing separately filtered signals, but it also leads to novel processing opportunities when utilized in parallel or in stereo applications. The module also houses a mixed output, which seamlessly combines the duo for enhanced sonority.
In terms of controls, the module hosts the classic cutoff and voltage-controlled resonance (Q). While these parameters are relatively commonplace in most filters, the Tin Teardrop VCF also provides 'spread' controls for both the cutoff and Q. These spread controls, which work as manual controls when devoid of external CV, dish out a unique twist to the traditional filter modulation by affecting both filter cores inversely. Feeding a bipolar CV into the spread controls assures exciting and complex sounds, as the inverse modulation produces counteractive shifts in the parameters of the two filter cores. Even though the spread is slightly less influential than the main 1V/oct CV inputs, it opens up vast experimental possibilities due to its unique inverse modulation feature.
An important point while utilizing the spread controls is to keep them close to zero if subtle or no spread is desired. The spread function strikes an impressive balance between spreading out sonics unevenly and retaining the core essence of the original sound. It achieves this fine balance by accruing a spread of approximately 1V per 2 octaves, a detail that assures significant yet controlled effects on the sound.
By employing a dual core filter design based on SSI2144 chips, the Nonlinearcircuits Tin Teardrop VCF exhibits an exquisite blend of advanced versatility and vintage charisma. Its innovative architecture allows sophisticated modulation possibilities while channeling the golden era of analog synthesis. The module encourages sound designers to explore the boundaries of sonic manipulation, emphasizing non-linear creativity as much as technical proficiency.
In conclusion, the Nonlinearcircuits Tin Teardrop VCF sluggishly moves away from the realm of one-dimensional sonic processing and leaps into the world of layered sound designing. The uniqueness of the module lies not just in its hardware make-up or attribute list but also in how these elements combine to produce unrivaled sound shaping possibilities. It stands as an inspiring testament to the ever-evolving landscape of modular synthesis and welcomes experiment-driven sound enthusiasts into its multi-faceted modulation cosmos.
Example Usage
For novices venturing into the world of modular synthesis with the Nonlinearcircuits Tin Teardrop VCF, the goal is to become familiar with the basic functions and capabilities that this dual core filter module offers. Start by connecting a sound source, such as an oscillator, to the input of the Tin Teardrop VCF. This will serve as the audio signal that you’ll be filtering.
Next, ensure your module is powered appropriately within your eurorack case. Initial understanding begins with the simple adjustment of the cutoff frequency. Turn the cutoff knob to explore how it affects the sound by allowing certain frequencies to pass through while cutting others. The sonic character will change noticeably as you sweep the cutoff from low to high frequencies.
With the basic tonal changes understood, incorporate the voltage-controlled Q. This parameter affects the resonance of the filter, resulting in a peak or boost at the cutoff frequency. Play around with this setting to hear how it sharpens the transition of frequencies, potentially creating a more aggressive tone at higher settings.
To delve deeper, utilize the spread controls. These knobs can manually affect the behavior of the cutoff and Q of the two filter cores simultaneously. Begin with these knobs at zero for a neutral effect, then gradually increase them to hear how the two cores interact. If you have bipolar CV sources at hand, patch these into the spread CV inputs to dynamically modulate the spread further, experiencing the reversed relationship between the two cores.
While experimenting, monitor the individual outputs from each SSI2144 chip, as well as the combined mixed output. Listen attentively for the different audio characteristics each output provides, enriching your understanding of the dual core capabilities.
By focusing on these fundamental operations, a novice can gain practical experience and appreciate the distinctive features of the Nonlinearcircuits Tin Teardrop VCF, establishing a basis for more intricate and creative filtering techniques.
To explore the intermediate-level capabilities of the Nonlinearcircuits Tin Teardrop VCF, let's dive into how you can creatively manipulate its dual-core filter design using the SSI2144 chips. A fascinating feature of this module is the 'spread' control, which adds a unique stereo-like effect to your sound design. By patching a bipolar CV source (ranging from -5V to +5V) into the spread inputs, you can introduce dynamic counter-variations between the two filter cores. This technique can lead to rich and evolving textures, particularly useful when creating wide, immersive soundscapes or intricate rhythmic modulations.
To illustrate this, start by sending a simple waveform, like a sawtooth or square wave, from an oscillator to the input of the Tin Teardrop VCF. With the cutoff frequency set to a moderate level, patch a slow LFO with a bipolar output into the first spread control. As the LFO modulates, you'll notice the interaction between the two filter cores as one sweeps in the opposite direction to the other. This movement can add a hypnotic dynamic to ambient pieces or bring a substantial movement to a drone.
Further, by carefully balancing the main cutoff control alongside the spread, you can maintain a clean and structured frequency range or opt for a sharp, contrasting interplay between the filter cores to add complexity to your patch. Combining this with voltage-controlled Q can allow you to experiment with the resonance, where emphasizing harmonics of your source material can yield striking, resonant sound fragments or even self-oscillation at higher Q settings.
Finally, try routing the mixed output of the VCF through a delay or reverb effect to enhance the spacious quality of your filtered signal. This technique can be particularly rewarding in performance setups where the Tin Teardrop provides a continuously evolving texture, underscoring its invaluable role in shaping your modular synthesis sound palette. This module isn't just about sound shaping—it's a robust platform for sonic exploration, rewarding users who are willing to experiment with its unique properties.
Further Thoughts
To fully exploit the Nonlinearcircuits Tin Teardrop VCF's capabilities, it's essential to delve into how its dual SSI2144-based filter cores interact. Start by experimenting with the individual outputs of each core. Due to the unique sound characteristics of the SSI2144 ladder filter, each core brings its timbral flavor. When utilizing the mixed output, modulation of the 'spread' controls becomes pivotal. This feature allows you to dynamically warp the cutoff frequencies and Q settings across both filter cores. By introducing a bipolar CV into the spread controls, you possess the ability to create counterpoint movements between the two cores—filter one moves up in cutoff as the other moves down, creating a dramatic stereo image if using stereo processing further down your chain.
Tap into the sonic potential of the module with voltage-controlled resonance (Q). Sculpting resonance with an external LFO or envelope can lead to animated filter sweeps, especially when both cores are set at different resonances. When modulating Q via CV, start with subtle modulations to retain the musicality of your patch. For those peak moments in your compositions, crank up the modulation depth to explore self-oscillation territories.
Utilize the spread controls in combination with the standard frequency cutoff to produce evolving textures. The manual knobs offer instant feedback and allow for the creation of intricate dialed-in settings when performing live or recording. However, to unlock the module's true powerhouse nature, patch in LFOs or envelopes into the spread control CV inputs. This patching not only influences pitch but also affects tonal characteristics due to the nonlinear response of the filter, so don't shy away from combining various modulation sources.
In practice, consider layering sequences through each core with differing filter responses to craft rich interwoven textures. Engaging rhythmic modulation from multiple CV sources, potentially clocked differently for each filter, can result in evolving polyrhythmic and polymetric textures. Remember that this module excels in both subtle enhancements of a sound and creating radically dynamic shifts, allowing you to fit it comfortably into any experimental or traditional synthesizer patch.