For modular use, a joystick would have 2 basic control voltage outputs. One
voltage would vary as you move the stick in the X plane, the other as you
move in the Y plane. You plug the cv outputs anywhere you want. Control
filter cutoff or resonance, oscillator pitch or pulse width, vca volume,
etc. - anything that can be voltage controlled. Some possible enhancements
to the basic functionality:
1. a pot to control the scaling
2. another pot to add a dc bias voltage (e.g., change whether your output
voltage goes from 0 - 10 volts or -5 to +5 volts)
3. inverting outputs so that you have a mirrored negative X and negative Y
cv available
Also, some joysticks are spring loaded return-to-center types, and some stay
where you place them. Both types are useful for different things, and
certain joysticks can switch the mechanical spring loading in and out.
Dave Bradley
Principal Software Engineer
Engineering Animation, Inc.
daveb@... >
> From: kpeek1@...
>
> I was wondering if someone could explain how these work in terms of
> sending CV based signals based on an X/Y plane. I have never used one
> before but have heard of them and seen them on some older synths.
> Thanks.
>