Quad Voltage-Controlled Resonant Bandpass filter (VCRBPF)"It is designed to infect, corrupt and pervert a signal beyond recognition. It contains four Voltage-Controlled Resonant Bandpass filters that were designed with the goals of maximum signal alteration and maximum parameter controllability. Each filter has controls for varying the high and low corner frequencies of the passband, as well as variable gain and an input attenuator. Each section of the Plague Bearer can be used as a filter, an oscillator, a noise generator, or even as a resonance oscillator!
Depending on the settings, the filter can be a lowpass, highpass, single-bandpass, or multiple-bandpass. Adjusting the resonance point can cause the filter to self-oscillate in many ways: By adjusting the controls to just below the point of oscillation, and then applying a pulse, square, or other abrupt-edged input signal waveform will “ring” the filter. A simple “click” on the input can give a percussive output sound – from bass drum to bell to a harsh metallic clang; Crank the controls up and this beast will scream like a banshee! The oscillation can be damped or continuous. Chain a couple in series and get accumulating feedback – the build-up can be slow, fast or instantaneous. White Noise is easy to do - you don’t even need an input signal! Turn the input all the way down, and then slowly turn the gain up. You can adjust the “color” of the noise with the frequency controls. Daisy-chaining multiple filters can give a “comb” or multi-phase noise. About phase-shift characteristics: A single filter can give a STRONG chorus effect if so desired, useful as a sub-oscillator or just to “fatten” a sound
The Plague Bearer’s patchbay is designed to fit the most patch options possible in the small space available. Each filter has four Input/Output (I/O) connections: High CV, Low CV, Signal In, and Signal Out. Each of these has two jacks, one 3.5mm phone jack for external signals to avoid floating grounds, and one 0.080” tip jack for internal patching between filters. Each pair is direct-connected as a multiple – NOT a summing node! I have found this setup to be the most fun!For maximum flexibility, the Plague Bearer can run off two 9V batteries or a 12V.A.C. wall wart (wall wart included with unit). The batteries are mounted externally in an unobtrusive location for ease of replacement. The power source is selected via the power switch.
Version 1 units are mounted in an extruded aluminum enclosure with aluminum panels. These enclosures are some of the best I have ever come across! This initial run will be of only FOUR (4) units! I’ll do another run in this style only if I can get more enclosures. I am constantly searching for more enclosures so, we’ll see!"
You can find more info including images and ordering information on flight of harmony.
I didn't see any order info. This has some parallels to the MAMM box that had three bandpass filters (KORG MS10 filters!), but they were panned in stereo with CV and LFO control. A great box as well...
ReplyDeleteThat's a very interesting enclosure. Nice panel job too.
ReplyDeleteI could see alot of DIY potential for that style of enclosure which entices me to ask where you might get one like it?
Many apologies - Ordering information has been added to the Plague Bearer page. I'm still working on the website and hope to get a store page up soon. In the meantime, I accept any forms of payment that can be made via PayPal. Account email is flight(at)flightofharmony.com
ReplyDeleteThanks! I've been experimenting with panel graphic materials, this combination seems to work best for the DIY approach. I found it at the RePC in Tukwila, WA. RePC (in case you're not from the area) is the only major electronics recycling/salvage company in Washington that is open to the public. The actual device was a Protex Prolink Security system (auction image). It is the only angled extruded aluminum enclosure I have ever seen - and I did a LOT of searching while sourcing parts for the Infernal Noise Machine. The aluminum is a high-grade aircraft aluminum, quite a pain to work with but very strong. I hope to find more (at a better price than that in the auction link above.)
ReplyDeleteAll units are spoken for, thanks for all the interest! More devices to come soon. I will also be working on a Plague Bearer version 2 once I find some good enclosures. I am also keeping a wish list / mailing list, send me an email at flight(at)flightofharmony.com
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