On Sun, 8 May 2005, Greg Amann wrote:
> I have noticed that many Blacet modules seem to be power hungry
> compared to similar MOTM modules. Why is this? I mean, Blacet have
> 1/8" jacks and MOTM have 1/4". Shouldn't MOTM use more power because
> they're bigger?
Ah yes, a common misconception by new users. You see, 1/4" jacks have more
surface contact area than inferior 1/8" jacks. This allows for more
efficient transfer of electrons between modules and an overall greater
operating efficiency, hence the lower operating current of standard MOTM
modules.
When people refer to a synth sounding "thin" or "small" they're often
referring to the sound quality imparted by 1/8" jacks. I have a Blacet time
machine which I converted to MOTM format, and let me tell you, larger
jacks really allow the inner power of this module to escape!
But seriously, the reason is simple: "It does a lot." Look at the number
of components in the TimeMachine as compared to say, the 120.
Each one of those little chips draws current like a little leach stuck on
the side of your leg. The more leaches, the more current. Think of your
leg as a power supply, it can only support so many leaches before you
faint. You know, I wonder if I'm the first person to try and explain
current flow with leaches? Hopefully I'm not the last.
> (This message is a test to see if humor can be carried off on the
> internet without the use of happy faces or goofy acronyms.)
You insult my culture!