monotonic labs

Introducing the Type N38 Synthesizer:



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Overview

The Type-N38 is the next iteration of the monotonic labs N-Series synthesizers. The N38 is a completely self contained musical instrument featuring a 4-step sequencer and a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO). The sequencer features control voltage (CV) dials for each step, a clock/tempo dial, and a step hold actuator. The VCO features Frequency and Pulse Width Modulation (FM/PWM), as well as a HI/LO octave toggle. The N38 output waveform is square wave (or an infinite sum of sine waves) providing an extremely rich harmonic portrayal of the fundamental. The output can be shaped to other waveforms (sine, triangle, etc.) by applying external filtering circuits to the signal path prior to amplification. The result is a unique and compact device enabling artists to add new dimensions to their musical projects.



How it works

Everything begins with the clock rate control – this determines how fast the sequencer changes steps. Each step of the sequencer has a CV setting which drives the VCO (which can really be thought of as a voltage-to-frequency converter). The more voltage applied to the VCO, the higher the output tone. The sequencer provides a means to program the output sequence of tones from the VCO which can sped up or slowed down with the clock control. The Center Frequency control sets the reference tone on the VCO which CV from the sequencer modulates. For example, if the center frequency on the VCO is set to 440 Hz, applying CV data from the sequencer (i.e. setting any CV dial greater than zero) will proportionally increase the tonal frequency of the VCO above 440 Hz. The Pulse Width control sets the duty cycle of the VCO which creates several interesting effects such as stepped tones and high pass filtering. See Below:



Improvements

Although the N38 is very similar to the N37 synthesizer, it has several improvements. Several N37 users have commented that the Center Frequency (or Frequency Modulation) control is too sensitive. To address this we have broken the Center Frequency control into 2 octaves (switchable by the HI/LO octave toggle) allowing finer tuning of the VCO reference tone. We have also added a step hold actuator to the sequencer which acts as a “pause” button. Internal circuitry improvements include a completely new PCB layout, thicker traces, and a new buffered output stage.



Specifications

Power: 9VDC Battery (included)

Output: 1/4” Line Out



Warranty

All new Type-N38 synthesizers include a 1-year factory warranty for parts and labor.



Questions?

Feel free to contact us with any questions.