Installation; Module Overview - Xaoc Devices TALLIN Operator's Manual

module
explained
SALUT
Thank you for purchasing this Xaoc Devic-
es product. Tallin [ˈtalin]
controlled amplifier (VCA) with overdrive,
offering some unusual control features and a
range of attractive tonal characteristics. Each
of the two identical channels offers two simul-
taneously available inputs for voltage control
over signal attenuation or gain, with linear
and exponential response to CV. Volume con-
trol knobs offer manual gain settings rang-
ing from fully closed (-80dB) up to +18dB. A
color LED indicator displays output signal
levels. A soft-clip circuit avoids harsh clip-
ping distortion, while a switchable overdrive
circuit offers two carefully crafted distortion
responses, simulating the sound of classic tube
amplifiers.
Since both CV inputs are simultaneously
active, they can be jointly exploited within
patches featuring more complex volume con-
trol that otherwise would require using two
traditional VCAs in series. As the signal path
is DC-coupled, Tallin can also be used for han-
dling the control voltages.

INSTALLATION

The module requires 6hp worth of free
space in the eurorack cabinet. The ribbon
type power cable must be plugged into the
bus board, paying close attention to polar-
ity orientation. The red stripe indicates the
negative 12V rail and is supposed to match
the dot, –12V, or red stripe marks on
both the unit and the bus board. The mod-
ule itself is secured against reversed power
connection, however, reversing the 16-pin
header may cause serious damage
is a dual voltage
to oth-
2
er components of your system, because it will
short-circuit the +12V and +5V power rails.
The module should be fastened by mounting
the supplied screws before powering up. To
better understand the device, we strongly
advise reading through the entire manual
before using the module.

MODULE OVERVIEW

Tallin consists of two completely independent
but functionally identical channels, a and b
(fig. 1). Each channel is built around a "mod-
ern vintage" discrete VCA core with a matched
transistor pair and multiple feedback topolo-
gy. This gives Tallin a specific character not
present in other VCAs that use mathemati-
cally precise and sonically pure integrated
gain cell VCA chips. With Tallin, we opted for a
discrete core, to provide a thick and charming
sound that reflects Xaoc's tonal idiosyncrasy.
The signal inputs 1
levels (typically 10Vpp, but capable of handling
up to 20Vpp). They can also accept normal
studio level (+4dBu) signals which can be am-
plified to the modular levels, thanks to the gain
reserve of up to +18dB. The knobs
the attenuation or gain by scaling the corre-
sponding control voltages. Thus, in a min posi-
tion, they fully silence the channel, regardless of
whatever control voltage is applied to the VCA.
Turning a knob up will gradually open the VCA,
offering a significant boost when above the 12
o'clock position (depending on the control volt-
age patched in).
There are two CV inputs in each channel, re-
spectively featuring an exponential
linear control response. Both controls
4
are available simultaneously, and they jointly
accept Eurorack signal
2 control
3 and