Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers Lifeforms Double Helix

MPN
PMS2036
Current price: Current price: $429.00

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SKU
PIT-LFDOUBLEHELIX
Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers Lifeforms Eurorack Analog Oscillator Module with Voltage-Controlled Modulation Matrix

Designed to be the nucleus of a synthesizer, Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers Lifeforms Double Helix Oscillator is a modular waveform generator like no other. A set of beefy analog oscillators paired with voltage-controlled shape contouring, deep modulation, and a performance-ready voltage-controlled modulation matrix create a dynamic analog waveform playground.

At the core of Lifeforms Double Helix are two wide-range precision oscillators. The primary oscillator includes a full complement of waveforms and multiple modulation options. The secondary oscillator offers a more focused set of waves and frequency modulation. Both oscillators reach deep into LFO range and can be used as voltage-controlled modulation sources.

The contour section of Lifeforms Double Helix features a highly-tuned wavefolder paired with Pittsburgh's exclusive dynamic impulse low pass gate. The contour signal chain starts with a two channel mixer; this allows multiple waveforms or multiple oscillators to be combined before passing though the contour section. The first half of the contour section is a voltage-controlled six-stage wavefolder used to add odd harmonics to the incoming waveform. The timbre and timbre CV controls set the density and amplitude of the folds. When processing a sine wave, the wavefolder creates a spectral change from zero harmonics to square, with an infinite harmonic series.

The second half of the contour section is a dynamic impulse low pass gate; the effect of the low pass gate is similar to pairing a low pass filter and VCA together. As the dynamics control is opened, the filter adds harmonics and the VCA increases the amplitude of the waveform. As the dynamics control is closed, the filter removes harmonics and the VCA decreases the amplitude of the waveform. This pairing mimics how sound behaves in the real world, creating a more naturally tonal response. The impulse input adds the ability to strike or 'ping' the low pass gate circuit, creating a very organic percussive sound. The decay time of the impulse input is set by the dynamics response control, allowing the strike to be tuned to a specific musical context.

The modulation section includes an LFO offering simultaneous sine, square and random waveforms. A noise source is also available for audio or modulation use.

A pair of voltage-controlled routers manage all the CV inputs, creating a dual voltage-controlled modulation matrix perfect for complex signal paths, experimentation and live performance. The matrix consists of two voltage-controlled amplifiers designed to control the modulation amount inputs that can be routed to any of the Double Helix CV inputs. Each of the CV inputs can be switched to channel a, bypass or channel b and mixed with a dedicated CV input.

  • Physical specifications
    • Size: 28hp
    • Module depth: 37mm
    • Power usage: 223mA @ +12V, 205mA @ -12V. Does not require +5V. Reversed power polarity protection.
More Information
SKU PIT-LFDOUBLEHELIX
MPN PMS2036
Manufacturer Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers
Condition New
Included from Manufacturer  
Module Type Oscillator
Module Width 28hp
Depth 37mm
1U Module No
Module Power Usage 223mA @ +12V
205mA @ -12V
+5V Required No
Unique Features Contour section includes wavefolder coupled with lowpass gate

Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers Limited Warranty

For a period of one year after the date of original purchase, the instrument and all factory installed parts and modules manufactured by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers LLC. are warranted to function properly and be free of defects in materials and workmanship.

Should a factory installed module fail during the warranty period, contact Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers, LLC. Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers will repair it (or at its option, replace it) at no charge, and pay the cost of shipping it back to you.

The case and all case related hardware are warranted to function properly and be free of defects in materials and workmanship for 1 year.

Patch cables are not covered by the 1 Year Limited Warranty.

This warranty is void if in the opinion of Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers the instrument has been damaged by accident, mishandled, altered, improperly serviced, or repaired by the customer where such treatment has affected its performance or reliability. This includes but is not limited to damage related to incorrectly attaching power ribbon cables. In the event of such misuse/abuse by the customer, costs for repairs plus two-way shipping costs will be borne by the customer. Instruments found defective should be returned to the factory carefully packed, as the customer will be responsible for freight damage.

Incidental or consequential damages or costs incurred as a result of product malfunction are not the responsibility of Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers LLC.

  • Ground shipping is FREE for all orders $99 and up.
  • Our central, midwest location ensures fast delivery times.
  • See below for transit day estimates. Please note, these are estimates and are not guaranteed.

Generally, package estimated transit days are as follows:

  • Upper Midwest: 1-3 days
  • Central US, South East US, and East Coast: 2-4 days
  • West Central US: 3-5 days
  • West Coast: 4-6 days
  • Alaska & Hawaii: 7+ days
All transit times are based in business days. Please allow 7-10 business days for most freight shipments. Business days are Monday through Friday and do not include public holidays and weekends (Saturday/Sunday.) For questions regarding estimates to your specific location, please contact us at [email protected] or 800-783-3368.

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