4MS VCA Matrix

Description

The VCA Matrix from 4ms is a playable 4×4 matrix of 16 VCAs.

Four CV or audio inputs can be routed in any amount/combination to four outputs, using the 16 CV control jacks, Level knobs, and Mute buttons.

Features:

• 4 CV/audio inputs and 4 outputs (buffered and dc-coupled)
• Full range (0Hz – 20kHz) for both Control and Signal inputs, allows for AM effects, etc.
• 16 VCA’s using high quality SSM chips
• Attenuation/gain range from -100dB (mute) to 0dB (unity). Up to +20dB boost with trimpot adjustment.
• Playable surface with 16 latching Mute LED buttons, used to mute each VCA individually (Mute button disconnects Control jack and Level knob, and fully attenuates the VCA)
• LED button brightness indicates amount of attenuation and Control CV signal
• 16 Control jacks for VCA level control
• 16 Level knobs attenuate the incoming Control signals. The Level knobs act as manual level controls when nothing is plugged into the Control jack
• Exponential VCA response in low control voltage range, pseudo-log response in higher voltage range.
• “Soft Limit” effect limits gain to prevent clipping, while still responding to higher Control voltages with more “punch” and wider pulses
• Matrix Expandability: VCA Matrices can be connected to form a larger matrix using headers on the back (4×8, 8×8, 12×4, etc)
• Control Expandability: 16-pin header on back side of PCB allows an external device to control all VCAs: e.g. patch recall, patch sequencing, preset patterns such as quadrature panning, etc.
• Suitable as a 4×4 mixer, splitter, dynamic signal router, limited waveshaper, etc.

Module size:
The VCA Matrix is 26HP, and approximately 1.6 inches deep (40mm)

Power consumption:
A jumper selects using +5V from the power supply, or generating +5V on-board from the +12V rail.

• -12V rail: 110mA max
• +12V rail:
  • 80 max with jumper selecting external 5V
  • 110mA max with jumper selecting internal 5V.
• +5V rail:
  • 40mA max with jumper selecting external 5V
  • not used (0mA) with jumper selecting internal 5V.