User`s manual

12 ARTURIA – MOOG MODULAR V 2.6 – USER’S MANUAL
2.2 A MODULAR SYNTHESIZER , WHY ?
Why create a modular synthesizer, that is to say comprised of independent modules that we
must connect ourselves, sometimes with difficulty, before obtaining a sound?
The answer, as you can imagine, is very simple: the modularity brings immense possibilities
for the creation of sound.
To convince you, let’s look at some basic concepts.
Sound synthesis is essentially based on the use of generators and filters. From these
components, the sound designer must create sounds that can be used by musicians. To
succeed, the different parameters that we have access to (height of note, filter cut-off
frequency, output volume, wave form…) must evolve in time. And for this, we must link
different modules between each other.
Let’s take an example: an oscillator, which has inputs to modulate each of its parameters.
Let’s connect the output of an envelope generator to the oscillator frequency modulation input,
and there we get a signal depending on the use of a keyboard. Now we’ll connect a low
frequency generator to the impulse width modulation input and here we have the waveform,
which will evolve in time.
But why not have internal cables, fixed from the start?
Here again, another example will help. Let’s take an envelope and two oscillators. The latter
possess three modulation inputs: a frequency modulation, an impulse width modulation and a
volume modulation.
Effecting every combination with fixed connections would oblige us to have six independent
buttons for the modulation of the parameters.
If we now take 9 oscillators, 6 envelopes, a modulation wheel and a velocity setting, we would
need… 216 setting buttons.
What can we therefore say for the Moog Modular V, which on top of this has three filters, a
noise generator, a sequencer and two control pads?
Connections in a modular synthesizer can sometimes seem difficult, but the often-unexpected
results are always a source of great musical inspiration.
Either way, don’t worry, the presets created by experienced musicians will allow you, if
necessary, a gentle introduction to the art of sound creation.
This new version presents new modules and a notable improvement to the sound quality and
synthesis possibilities. As was the case with the previous versions, it remains faithful to the
original Moog Modulars and offers the possibility to organize the arrangement of certain
modules. Ergonomically this version remains very close to the previous so as not to loose time
learning the different functions again.
2.3 A BETTER EMULATION THANKS TO TAE®
TAE® - standing for True Analog Emulation - is a new technology dedicated to the digital
reproduction of analog circuits.
When implemented in software code, TAE’s algorithms guaranty the respect of hardware
specifications. This is why your Moog Modular V offers an unparalleled quality of sound.