Korg VOLCA MODULAR

Description

VOLCA MODULAR MICRO MODULAR SYNTHESIZER

A semi-modular analog synthesizer that makes modular synthesis accessible and understandable to everyone.

Generating novel sounds has been a constant desire since the birth of electronic musical instruments. This desire has gradually evolved and expanded with the development of newly conceived music production tools.

The spread of modular synthesizers has generated enthusiasm and interest in the so-called "West Coast" synthesis style, which deviates from traditional synthesis methods.

Within the compact dimensions of this Volca series synthesizer, 8 modules and 50 patch points are available. While learning the basics of modular synthesis, you can leverage the typical features of the Volca synth series to manage analog sound in a particular and unique way.

An analog synth composed of modules

Eight modules

The Volca Modular is a semi-modular synthesizer composed of independent analog synthesis modules, digital effects, and a sequencer. Each module has been selected to function independently. The modules are internally connected to each other to allow the instrument to be used without necessarily resorting to external connections; signal routing is indicated on the panel by white silkscreened lines. The connection between modules via the included patch chords takes precedence over internal connections, which are bypassed.

SOURCE: consists of a carrier VCO and a modulator. The complex overtones generated by frequency modulation pass through a wave folder circuit, where additional overtones are added to create a distinctive sound. This module is fundamental in determining the basic character of the Volca Modular's sound.

FUNCTIONS: this section consists of 2 envelope generators. In addition to an ADH envelope with attack, hold, and release, there is a Rise-Fall generator, also known as a slope generator, useful not only for creating time-varying modulations but also as a VCO or LFO by connecting the trigger end output to the trigger in (loop).

WOGGLE: stochastic signal generator based on a sample & hold circuit that uses a pink noise source. Two outputs are available, to transmit intermittent step-wise or constant random noise.

SPLIT: This module allows you to duplicate the input source, making it available on two outputs. The Split module can also be used in a reverse configuration to combine two audio or control signals into a single one.

DUAL LPG: two low-pass gate type circuits. Typical of West Coast synthesis style, this module includes a filter and an amplifier that work together to simultaneously vary the frequency and volume of the processed signal.

UTILITY: this is a module that serves to combine, invert, and/or attenuate two signals, audio or control, in different ways.

SPACE OUT: Stereo module for applying a reverb-style effect to the audio signal.

SEQUENCE: This module is used for connection to the integrated sequencer. You can set and select different rhythmic divisions to be played out through the gate counter.

West Coast style synthesis in volca format

Analog synthesizers in which a simple oscillator that reproduces waveforms – for example, sawtooth or square – is modified by a filter are called "East Coast style", as they are based on a typical structure conceived by a well-known American synth manufacturer. This type of synthesizer, such as the MS-20, has evolved over time and is still used in numerous mainstream musical genres and often features a keyboard to facilitate live use.

Conversely, "West Coast style" synthesizers have evolved in a unique and independent direction compared to the evolution of commercial music genres. Pursuing the concept of freedom that distinguishes electronic musical instruments, these synths are based on multiple oscillators, for example in an FM structure, which reproduce numerous overtones, employ random controls and complex low-pass gate circuits to vary the character and volume of the sound. Therefore, a simple movement of a potentiometer can cause a significant variation in the generated audio signal. The undeniable potential of these instruments is proportional to the difficulty of predicting the sonic result obtained by intervening on their parameters; this is not an obstacle, but a peculiarity for sound experimentation.

For these reasons, there are not many hardware instruments of this type on the market. On the other hand, in recent years the popularity of hardware modular synths in Eurorack format, as well as virtual instruments, has brought classic instruments from the past back to light, creating a real active global movement that aims to generate new, unprecedented and interesting sounds. Starting from analog synthesis, then moving on to FM and PCM, the Volca synth series has focused on this trend. And now, the distinctive "West Coast style" synthesis also enters the Volca series by KORG.

Infinite possibilities thanks to patchability

The Volca Modular's modules can be connected to each other via the included cables, allowing for numerous synthesis combinations. The instrument's compact chassis provides 50 patch points at your fingertips. Inputs and outputs are distinguishable by different colors to ensure immediate recognition. Signals, on the other hand, are identifiable by symbols that allow us to quickly recognize their type: audio, control, gate, or trigger. In the Volca Modular, the level of the various signals is universally compatible between modules, allowing for continuous experimentation beyond traditional norms where modules are usually pre-configured for specific purposes. 20 pin cables are included in the package, along with an explanatory guide for each patch point and some examples of connection diagrams.

Patch Examples:

1. Western Bongo

Metallic percussion sound reproduced via FM modulation and wave folder. Basic sound of the SOURCE module.

2. Random Release

The release time of the ADH generation module is randomly varied by the sample & hold module with the aim of applying an organic rhythm to the sequence.

3. Gate Math

Different frequencies are subtracted following a rhythmic gate modulation. The UTILITY potentiometer controls the mix amount, thus varying the rhythm of the modifications applied to the tone of the audio signal.

4. Polyrhythmic Duo

The FM modulator acts as a triangular audio waveform; passing through the low-pass gate separated from the carrier, two different phrases are obtained and summed polyrhythmically.

5. Generative

The "Rise-Fall" slope generator is looped to create an LFO that modulates pitch and cutoff. The irregular variation in the LFO's speed creates particular tonal colorations.

6. Walking Bass

A low-frequency triangular waveform is reproduced at low speed by the gate counter to develop a bass sound that is added to the main sequence at 4-step intervals.

7. Vibrato

The LFO is used to finely modulate the pitch of a triangular waveform to obtain a smooth lead sound reminiscent of a string.

8. Dubstep Bass

The LFO modulates the cutoff of the low-pass gate; the result is a modulated FM bass sound. UTILITY and SPLIT are used to lower the LFO speed as the pitch decreases.

Volca sequencer: from sound experimentation to music

16-step sequencer supporting parameter automation

Although the Volca Modular is a semi-modular synth, the instrument is equipped with a 16-step sequencer complete with various functions that allow you to reproduce automated patterns without necessarily having to integrate it into a complex setup, or connect it to other instruments.

Using the 16 buttons typical of the Volca series, you can add and delete steps, or use them as a keyboard to record your performances in real time. The Pattern Chaining function allows you to reproduce different patterns in succession, up to a maximum of 16 for a sequence totaling 256 steps.

The motion sequence function records potentiometer movements, to add time-varying changes to sound parameters. You can create loops, or use this function to generate surprising performances. 16 sequences and as many sounds can be saved and recalled directly in the Volca Modular.

The active step function is indispensable, allowing you to omit selected steps during sequence playback, halve or reduce its length, generate loop-based rhythmic effects, vary the rhythmic division, or create evolving patterns in real time.

Randomize function: the starting point for your creativity

The Volca Modular's sequencer is capable of randomly generating notes, active steps, and micro-tuning. Irregular phrases, rhythms, and unprecedented scales that are difficult to imagine are randomly generated to ensure that the Volca is a constant source of ideas for your electronic music.

Two new sequence playback modes

The Volca Modular's sequencer has two new playback modes: the bounce sequence mode, which randomly loops between steps, and the stochastic sequence mode, which randomly moves forwards and backwards in the pattern during playback. Playing a previously recorded sequence in these two modes can add drastic and experimental changes to your track or performance.

Advanced musical scales, keyboard, and micro tuning

Although the Volca Modular is a West Coast style synthesizer, thanks to the 14 supported scales that include equal temperament and give you the ability to set the tonic to play in any key, it will be possible to reproduce musically concrete melodies. With the micro tuning function, you will also have the freedom to assign the pitch frequency of each note, thus pursuing your own unique and original style, not only sonic but also musical.

Excellent playability

Connectors for external synchronization and control

The sync connection allows for easy connection to Korg synths and groove machines (minilogue, monologue, prologue, electribe, SQ-1) and other instruments in the Volca series, to quickly synchronize sequences played by the various instruments.

The CV input for external control is a stereo mini-jack (TRS) format to accept two distinct signals: on the left channel a ±5V signal, on the right, a 1V/oct (0–+6V) signal which will be internally converted to pitch CV. Both of these signals can eventually be used to control a module if they are patched.

Play it Anywhere

Thanks to its compact size, battery power, and integrated speaker, the Volca Modular is convenient and easy to take with you for use in any situation.

Korg Volca Modular Technical Specifications

Keyboard

Multi touch Keyboard / Step key

Synthesizer

Type: analog synthesis

Maximum polyphony: 1

Structure: 2 VCO (Triangle), 2 EG, 2 LPG, digital effect

Sequencer

Number of parts: 1

Number of Steps: 16

Recordable patterns: 8

Connections

Audio output: 3.5mm stereo mini jack

Sync In: 3.5mm monaural mini jack; Max Level 20V

Sync Out: 3.5mm monaural mini jack; Max Level 5V

Control In: CV-IN (3.5mm TRS mini-jack)

Power Supply

Battery: 10 hours autonomy (using alkaline batteries)

Power supply: 6 AA type batteries; or Korg “KA-350” adapter (not included)

Other

Includes: Sync cable, pin cable for connecting a set, module explanation card

Accessories (sold separately) AC adapter (KA-350), SEQUENZ CB-4VOLCA hard case, SEQUENZ CC-VOLCA soft case, SQ-CABLE-6 sync cable

Dimensions and weight: 193×115×39mm; 377 grams (excluding batteries)

To purchase the optional power adapter, the Korg KA-350, not included: https://www.algameko.com/it/accessori-tastiere-pianoforti/korg/ka350-alimentatore