NAMM 2016Waldorf announces Eurorack Pack at NAMM - kb37 Controller Keyboard and three new modules
Waldorf Music has introduced its so-called Eurorack Pack — a self-contained modular synth system, comprising the kb37 Controller Keyboard and three colourful new modules for the ever-present Eurorack format to accompany the already-available nw1 Wavetable Module launched last year — at The NAMM Show 2016, January 21-24 in Anaheim, California, USA.
Waldorf Music made its Eurorack entrance last year when introducing its nw1 Wavetable Module — providing the wavetable set from the company's classic (discontinued) Microwave and Wave synthesizers, speech synthesis, user wavetable creation, and much more besides.
The New Modules
Three different modulation sources in one module make the mod1 Modulator Module the control centre of any 'Eurorack Pack' patch. From simple envelopes and LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators) to complex looped multistage curves, the mod1 Modulator Module delivers rich and endless modulation options — and all based on pure analogue circuitry for everything from super-smooth curves to razor-sharp edges that still sound far from 'digital'.
The dvca1 Dual VCA Module is built around two VCAs (Voltage-Controlled Amplifiers) with a wide range of options, including the most important one of all: an ability to musically colour the signal. Starting in dry mode results in high-precision analogue amplification, and turning the Colour knob adds a warmer and more colourful timbre to the signal based on a finely-crafted state variable filtering circuit. But beyond that, simultaneous Linear and Exp (exponential) control as well as specialised AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) coupled inputs are also provided. Positive Gain control makes the dvca1 Dual VCA Module a true 'amplifier' and flexible Linked modes make modulated panning perfectly possible.
The cmp1 Compressor Module is a high-end analogue compressor that not only adds punch to the signal path, but can also be modulated in intriguing and unconventional ways. Side-chaining with an adjustable Balance control opens up a huge set of modular possibilities. The cmp1 Compressor Module has all the features expected from a modern compressor, including Attack and Release controls, Auto (automatic) and Man (manual) modes, Hard and Soft knee, as well as output Gain and Bleed amount of the original signal.
The kb37 Controller Keyboard comfortably accommodates (and provides power for) all four of those Waldorf Music modules. It can house up to 100 HP of Eurorack modules in its conveniently-angled panel sitting atop a 37-note, full-sized Fatar TP9 keyboard, featuring a high-quality key-bed that transmits velocity and aftertouch. As such, the kb37 Controller Keyboard provides flexible control for any mounted modules, thanks to its high-resolution, temperature-stable 16-bit CV (Control Voltage) interface. Moreover, MIDI channel is programmable, positioning the kb37 Controller Keyboard as the perfect partner for studio and stage usage alike. As well as providing perfect connectivity, capably serving performing players and sound designers' desires with an array of realtime control elements such as Pitch and Modulation wheels, the kb37 Controller Keyboard is compact and easy to transport — just like a conventional synthesizer keyboard, bringing both style and reliability to any performance setup.
The 'Eurorack Pack' will be being showcased on Waldorf Music's booth (#6009) in Hall A at The NAMM Show 2016, January 21-24 in Anaheim, California.
The nw1 Wavetable Module is already available to purchase through Waldorf Music's global network of dealers and retailers at an SRP (Suggested Reseller Price) of €345.00 (including tax). The newly-announced 'Eurorack Pack' products — kb37 Controller Keyboard, mod1 Modulator Module, dvca1 Dual VCA Module, and cmp1 Compressor Module — are expected to ship during the third quarter of 2016.
Watch Waldorf Music's NAMM Show 2016 video teaser here: www.YouTube.com/watch?v=J5GlZuqZ5Xc
Please visit the dedicated nw1 Wavetable Module webpage for more in-depth information here: www.waldorf-music.info/en/nw1-overview
