Black 3109 VCF/VCA

The Erica Synths Black 3109 VCF/VCA is a meticulously crafted Eurorack module that combines a low-pass filter and a voltage-controlled amplifier, paying homage to the classic sound of vintage Roland synthesizers. Built around the AS3109 integrated circuit, a modern-day equivalent of the IR3109 chip found in iconic instruments like the Jupiter and Juno series, this module captures the essence of that legendary sound while introducing modern enhancements for today's modular artist. The Black 3109 VCF/VCA is designed for musicians who seek a filter with a rich and musical character, combined with the convenience of an integrated VCA for a compact and powerful voice-shaping tool.

The filter section of the Black 3109 is a 24dB/octave low-pass filter that is revered for its smooth and organic sound. It can be incredibly gentle and subtle, perfect for nuanced sound sculpting, or it can be pushed into a warm and resonant self-oscillation, ideal for creating classic synth leads and textures. Erica Synths has thoughtfully addressed a common issue with vintage filter designs by incorporating a volume drop compensation circuit. This feature, which can be switched on or off, prevents the signal level from decreasing as the resonance is increased, ensuring a consistent and powerful sound. The module also features a built-in voltage-controlled amplifier, which can be used independently or in conjunction with the filter. This integration makes the Black 3109 a highly efficient solution for creating a complete synthesizer voice in a compact setup. The VCA has its own CV input and level control, providing precise dynamic shaping of the audio signal. Furthermore, the filter offers 1V/oct tracking, allowing it to be used as a stable and musical oscillator when in self-oscillation, further expanding its versatility.

Features

• 24dB/octave low-pass filter based on the classic AS3109 (IR3109) chip.
• Integrated voltage-controlled amplifier for a compact voice solution.
• Switchable volume drop compensation for consistent levels at high resonance.
• 1V/oct tracking for using the filter as a VCO.
• CV control over cutoff frequency and resonance for expressive modulation.
• Built-in VCA with dedicated CV input and level control.
• High-quality components and a robust design for professional use.

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