Threeler VCF from Ian Fritz and Synthcube.com

The Threeler VCF created by Ian Fritz is an interesting filter design. Utilizing a 3rd order design with 3 single pole filters in various combinations the Threeler is able to give a large variety of filter types. A mode select switch gives us 4 options of slopes. the first row consisting of Low pass configurations, the second row consisting of band pass , the third is a reversed order bandpass  and the bottom row consisting of high pass filters. we are give 3 simultaneous outputs at a time (giving us access to different stages of the filter.) CV is available to control filter cut off, frequency modulation and resonance. The Filter also tracks volt per octave nicely over quite a few octaves which gives us access to a nice sine oscillator.

Available now as a PCB, Panel PCB, full Kit and as a completed module from Synthcube.com or on their Synth release club ( a module renting/leasing program. 

Pricing for completed module starts at $285

Getting the most out of older gear Part 1: MPC 1000 fat pad upgrade

These days there are a ton of options for the upcoming producer and selecting which tools you use can be daunting. Factors such as price range, hardware vs software, analog vs digital and workflow can all be major factors. Luckily for those in the know, there are some real deals to be had these days.  This series will focus of finding production equipment deals, older gear that still holds a lot of useful abilities, and breathing new life into that gear. To help get the best bang for your production dollar, I have decided to grab a few of these pieces of gear and show how to revamp them, what to look out for, and how to use them in todays modern environment.

So lets start off with arguably the center of most production setups, the sequencer/drum sampler.  I have chosen the MPC 1000 for a few reasons. 1) it is affordably priced and readily available. 2) with its compact flash slot, hard drive and USB connection, this MPC can easily connect to a modern studio set up with ease. 3) the MPC 1000 is to this day one of the most powerful portable samplers available.Screen Shot 2016-04-19 at 6.27.34 PM

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Mode Machines OMF-1 Analog Rack Filter

The Mode Machines OMF-1 is an analog 19″ rack filter designed for use with a wide variety of sources. the preamp in this unit can handle signals from guitar (instrument level) input all the way up to eurorack modular levels.  Far from just a basic Moog ladder filter clone, the OMF-1 adds a tap for the phase reversible single pole -6 db per octave slope (labeled FIZZ) phase reversible 4 pole -24 dp per octave slope(labeled Smooth), as well as extensiv modulation options. Also included in this circuit is a beautiful sounding overdrive. By sending signal into the filter and adjusting the preamp, you can overload the filter core (indicated by a red LED) to add additional harmonic content to the signal.  The OMF-1 features a side chain input as well as CV and Gate inputs for external filter control. The modulation options are Follower (think Mutron bass filter) Attack Release and Attack Decay settings. the LFO has triangle and square waveforms with a rate control and dedicated depth control as well as the ability to self trigger the envelope (which essentially will act like a complex lfo shape).  clocking in £666.00 direct from the mode machines site, this is an impressive all analog rack mount filter that truly has an impressive character.Take a listen to the video for plenty of sound demonstration. take a look at the Manual here