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Generating new sounds is a constant desire that has persisted since the birth of electronic musical instruments. This desire has gradually evolved and expanded with the development of new-concept music production tools.
The rise of modular synthesizers has generated excitement and interest in the so-called “West Coast” style of synthesis that moves away from traditional synthesis methods.
This compact Volca series synthesizer features 8 modules and 50 patch points. While learning the basics of modular synthesis, you can take advantage of the typical features of the Volca series synthesizers to manage analog sound in a particular and unique way.
Eight modules
The volca modular is a semi-modular synthesizer that consists of independent analog synthesis modules, digital effects and a sequencer. Each module has been selected to function independently. The modules are connected internally to allow the use of the instrument without necessarily having to resort to external connections; the signal routing is indicated on the board by white silkscreened lines on the panel. The connection between the modules via the supplied patch chords has priority over the internal connections, which are bypassed.
SOURCE: consists of a carrier VCO and a modulator. The complex overtones generated by the frequency modulation pass into a wave folder circuit where additional overtones will be added to create a distinctive sound. This module is of fundamental importance in determining the base character of the volca modular sound.
FUNCTIONS: This section consists of 2 envelope generators. In addition to an ADH envelope with attack, hold and release we find a Rise-Fall generator, also known as a slope generator, useful not only to create time-varying modulations, but also as a VCO or LFO by connecting the trigger end output to the trigger in (loop).
WOGGLE : stochastic signal generator based on a sample & hold circuit that uses a pink noise source. Two outputs are available, to transmit intermittent random noise in steps or constant.
SPLIT: This module allows you to duplicate the input source making it available on two outputs. The Split module can also be used in reverse configuration to combine two audio or control signals into a single one.
DUAL LPG: Two low-pass gate circuits. Typical of the West Coast synthesis style, this module includes a filter and an amplifier that work together to simultaneously vary the frequency and volume of the processed signal.
UTILITY: This is a module that is used to combine, invert and/or attenuate two signals, audio or control, in different ways.
SPACE OUT: Stereo module for applying a reverb-style effect to the audio signal.
SEQUENCE: This module is for connecting to the built-in sequencer. You can set and select different rhythmic divisions to be output through the gate counter.
The West Coast style synthesis in the volca format
Analog synthesizers in which a simple oscillator that reproduces waveforms - for example a sawtooth or square - is modified by a filter are called "East Coast style", as they are based on a typical structure conceived by a well-known American synth manufacturer. This type of synthesizer, for example the MS-20, have evolved over time and are still used in many mainstream music genres and are often equipped with a keyboard to facilitate live use.
"West Coast style" synthesizers have instead evolved in a unique and independent direction with respect to the evolution of commercial musical genres. Pursuing the concept of freedom that distinguishes electronic musical instruments, these synths are based on multiple oscillators, for example in FM structure, which reproduce numerous overtones, employ random controls and complex low-pass gate circuits to vary the character and volume of the sound. Therefore, a simple movement of a potentiometer can originate a significant variation in the generated audio signal. The undoubted potential of these instruments is proportional to the difficulty of predicting the sound result that will be obtained by intervening on their parameters; this does not represent an obstacle, but a peculiarity for sound experimentation.
For these reasons, there are not many hardware instruments of this type on the market. On the other hand, in recent years the popularity of Eurorack format modular hardware synths, as well as virtual instruments, have brought back to light classic instruments of the past, giving life to a real active movement on a global scale that aims to generate new, original and interesting sounds. Starting from analog synthesis, then moving on to FM and PCM, the volca synth series has focused on this trend. And now, the distinctive "West Coast style" synthesis also enters the volca series by KORG.
Endless possibilities thanks to patchability
The volca modular modules can be connected to each other using the included cables, to allow you to create numerous synthesis combinations. The compact chassis of the instrument puts 50 patch points at your fingertips. Inputs and outputs are distinguished by different colors in order to ensure immediate recognition. The signals, on the other hand, are identifiable through symbols that allow us to quickly recognize their type: audio, control, gate, or trigger. In the volca modular the level of the various signals is universally compatible between the modules, to allow you to continuously experiment beyond the traditional canons that usually see the modules pre-configured for certain purposes. 20 pin cables are included in the package, inside which you will also find an explanatory guide for each patch point and some examples of connection diagrams.
Patch Examples:
1. Western Bongo
Metallic percussion sound reproduced by FM modulation and wave folder. base sound of the SOURCE module.
2. Random Release
The release time of the ADH generation module is randomly varied by the sample & hold module with the aim of applying an organic rhythm to the sequence.
3. Gate Math
Different frequencies are subtracted following a rhythmic gate-type modulation. The UTILITY potentiometer controls the amount of mix, thus varying the rhythm of the changes applied to the tone of the audio signal.
4. Polyrhythmic Duo
The FM modulator acts as a triangular audio waveform; passing through the low-pass gate separate from the carrier results in two different phrases summed polyrhythmically.
5. Generative
The “Rise-Fall” slope generator is looped to create an LFO that modulates pitch and cutoff. The irregular variation of the LFO speed creates particular tone colors.
6. Walking Bass
A low frequency triangle waveform is played at low speed by the gate counter to develop a bass sound that is added to the main sequence at 4-step intervals.
7. Vibrated
The LFO is used to finely modulate the pitch of a triangle waveform with the goal of achieving a mellow lead sound reminiscent of a string.
8. Dubstep Bass
The LFO modulates the low-pass gate cutoff; the result is an FM modulated bass sound. UTILITY and SPLIT are used to slow the LFO rate as the pitch drops.
16-step sequencer that supports parameter automation
Even though the volca modular is a semi-modular synth, the instrument is equipped with a 16-step sequencer complete with various functions that will allow you to play automated patterns without having to insert it into a complex setup, or connect it to other instruments.
Using the 16 buttons typical of the volca series you can add and delete steps, or use them as a keyboard to record your performances in real time. The Pattern Chaining function allows you to play different patterns in succession, up to a maximum of 16 for a sequence composed of a total of 256 steps.
The motion sequence function records the movements of the knobs, to add variations over time to the sound parameters. You can create loops, or use this function to generate surprising performances. 16 sequences and as many sounds can be saved and recalled directly in the volca modular.
The active step function is a must-have, allowing you to omit selected steps during sequence playback, halve or reduce the length of the sequence, generate loop-based rhythmic effects, vary the rhythmic division or create evolving patterns in real time.
Randomize Function: The Beginning of Your Creativity
The volca modular sequencer is capable of randomly generating notes, active steps and micro tuning. Irregular phrases, rhythms and unheard scales that are difficult to imagine are generated randomly to ensure that the volca is a constant source of ideas for your electronic music.
Two new ways to play sequences
In the volca modular sequencer we have two new playback modes: bounce sequence mode that randomly loops between steps and stochastic sequence mode that randomly moves back and forth in the pattern during playback. Playing back a previously recorded sequence in these two modes can add drastic and experimental changes to your song or performance.
Advanced musical scales, keyboard and micro tuning
Although the volca modular is a West Coast style synthesizer, thanks to the 14 supported scales that include equal temperament and give you the ability to set the tonic to play in any key, it will be possible to play musically concrete melodies. With the micro tuning function you will also have the freedom to assign the pitch frequency of each note, thus pursuing your own unique and original style, not only in sound, but also in music.
Connectors for external synchronization and control
The sync connection allows you to easily connect to Korg synths and groove machines (minilogue, monologue, prologue, electribe, SQ-1) and other instruments in the Volca series, to synchronize the sequences played by the various instruments in no time.
The CV input for external control is in stereo mini jack format (TRS) to accept two distinct signals: on the left channel a ±5V signal, on the right channel, instead, a 1V/oct (0–+6V) signal that will be internally converted to CV pitch. Both of these signals can eventually be used to control a module if they are patched.
Thanks to its compact size, battery power, and built-in speaker, the volca modular is easy and convenient to take with you for use in any situation.
Keyboard
Multi touch Keyboard / Step key
Synthesizer
Type: Analog synthesis
Maximum polyphony: 1
Structure: 2 VCO (Triangle), 2 EG, 2 LPG, digital effect
Sequencer
Number of parts: 1
Number of Steps: 16
Recordable patterns: 8
Connections
Audio Output: 3.5mm stereo mini jack
Sync In: 3.5mm; Max Level 20V
Sync Out: 3.5mm; Max level 5V
Control In: CV-IN ( 3.5mm TRS mini-jack)
Diet
Battery: 10 hours of battery life (using alkaline batteries)
Power supply: 6 AA batteries; or Korg “KA-350” adapter (not included)
Other
Includes: 6 x AA alkaline batteries (for functionality testing), Sync cable, Pin cable for connecting a set, Module explanation card
Accessories (sold separately) AC adapter (KA-350), SEQUENZ CB-4VOLCA hard case, SEQUENZ CC-VOLCA soft case, SQ-CABLE-6 sync cable
Dimensions and weight: 193×115×39mm; 377 grams (excluding batteries)
To purchase the optional power adapter, the Korg KA-350, not included : https://www.ekomusicgroup.com/it/accessori-tastiere-pianoforti/korg/ka350-alimentatore
For technical support , create a ticket from your user area: https://www.ekomusicgroup.com/it/login
For repairs, spare parts and physical interventions under warranty contact : https://www.masterservice.tk/rma.php
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