>
> 5) I also hope to have my Mac app translated into physical hardware in
about
> 10 days. Analog Devices, which
> makes a critical chip for the design, has assured me it won't kill it or
> jack the price up 60% (IT IS A $30 CHIP!).
>
> If the concept proves MOTM-worthy, then this will be the next module after
> the '130. What is it? Errrrr......let's
> call it a "Timbre Modulator" for now :) I may have to use a rotary
switch,
> which I ∗do not like∗, but there's no way
> around it. Grrrrr.........
>
So, after perusing the latest Analog Devices ICs, I can't help making the
following conjectures for the Schreiber/Rich/Scholz MOTM module, just for
fun:
1. Pitch Shifter using AD SamplePort (TM) Sample Rate Converter - These
chips can upshift and downshift sample rates through digital interpolation
and decimation. Add a 1 volt per octave interface and you could have
exactly
tracking doubled oscillators. Put in 3, get 6 out! You could add them
after your filter or VCA and virtually duplicate the entire voice, though
envelopes and fixed formants would have chipmunking effects. The AD1890
comes in a DIP package and shifts in ranges from 1:2 to 2:1. The higher
performance AD1896 comes in a surface mount SSOP package but can
shift by 1:8 or 7.75:1.
Note that I'm pulling your leg here. This WON'T WORK, at least not without
some extensive digital post processing - I'll give y'all three guesses why.
2. CSOUND Module - This would be either the most brilliant or stupid idea
in analog modular history. A programmable digital synthesizer module in an
analog module package. Uses AD Extended CSOUND and SHARC DSP.
Could be a fixed algorithm, or let you program your own. Problem is, these
DSP chips only come in QFP or BGA surface mount packages, not exactly
DIY.
3. Pseudo Analog Shift Register - Uses AD5533 or AD5532 32 channel infinite
sample and hold. Multiplex the 32 outputs and you've got analog shift
registers
galore and/or an arpeggiator. Unfortunately, these only come in BGA
packages and also break the $30 price range.
4. Analog Multiplier/Divider/Exponentiator - Uses AD538 Analog computation
unit to take you beyond ring modulation.
5. Numerically Controlled Oscillator - AD7008 - Digital phase accumulator
oscillator with sine and cosine lookup tables and 10 bit D/A output. This
would be pointless, I admit, just buy another MOTM-300 instead and get some
analog warmth.
John Loffink
microtonal@...