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Synthesizers.com Q181EB Quick Start Manual

Synthesizers.com Q181EB Quick Start Manual

Expression block controller

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Q181EB
Expression Block Controller
Feb 2014
The Expression Block controller produces a voltage as you press the block,
Q181EB
similar to the Ondes Martenot and other instruments. Perfect for controlling am-
plitude as you play notes on the keyboard, to control filter frequency, or other
parameters in the synthesizer system.
The Expression Block controller uses our standardized Q181 single-channel
Controller Interface module providing an Auto Gate, Switch Gate and a voltage
output range switch.
The module can be mounted in a Box-style cabinet next to your keyboard con-
troller, or in a synthesizer cabinet just like any other module.
An Auto Gate signal is automatically created as the block is pressed. This gate
can be used to trigger sequencers and envelope generators.
A switch at the bottom of the block's travel activates the Switch Gate signal for
triggering devices also.
A 3-color LED illuminates the acrylic block and may be programmed to change
colors as it moves or as the Auto Gate is activated.
Q181EB Expression Block Specifications
Panel Size: 2.125"w x 8.75"h. (single-space)
Block: Acrylic. .75"w x .75" high, 2.625" long
Block Travel: .75", 15 degrees
Voltage Output: Selectable range - 5V, 2V, 4/12V
Auto Gate Output: 5V, adjustable position activation
Switch Gate Output: 5V, activated at full-down
LED Colors: 3 primary colors (Red, Green, Blue)
LED Control: Forward, Reverse, Power, or Auto Gate - user-configurable
Power: +15V@50ma, -15V@50ma, +5V@50ma

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Summary of Contents for Synthesizers.com Q181EB

  • Page 1 A 3-color LED illuminates the acrylic block and may be programmed to change colors as it moves or as the Auto Gate is activated. Q181EB Expression Block Specifications Panel Size: 2.125"w x 8.75"h. (single-space) Block: Acrylic. .75”w x .75" high, 2.625” long Block Travel: .75", 15 degrees...
  • Page 2 Q181EB Expression Block Controller Feb 2014 Output range. Voltage output Set to 4/12V for based on the +/- 2 semitone range block's position Auto Gate trigger point. Auto Gate output Activates based on (5V positive) the block's position Switch Gate...
  • Page 3: Features And Operation

    Feb 2014 Features and Operation Expression Block mounted in a Box1 The Q181EB produces signals as the block is pressed down. The Expression Block controller operates through the Q181 Controller Interface module to produce voltages and gate sig- nals. These signals can be used to control parameters in a synthesizer system.
  • Page 4 Q181EB Expression Block Controller Feb 2014 Calibration Calibration is done at the factory and not required under normal circumstances. Only attempt these pro- cedures if you have the skills and a good digital voltmeter. We can perform this procedure for you.
  • Page 5 Q181EB Expression Block Controller Feb 2014 Q181 Controller Interface PCB Red Line Connector on flat cable to controller goes to pin 1 Jumpers shown in factory default location Range Toggle Switch 5V,2V,4/12V Bipolar Mode (Pitch Bend, zero center) Unipolar Mode (Modulation, zero end)
  • Page 6 Q181EB Expression Block Controller Feb 2014 Patch Ideas This is a common patch where the Expression Block controller is used to pitch bend two oscillators. Volt- age from the Expression Block is added to the keyboard's pitch voltage at each oscillator. Pitch bend can also be accomplished by using the Q174 MIDI Interface's ADD-IN input.
  • Page 7 Q181EB Expression Block Controller Feb 2014 In this patch, the Expression Block is used as a pitch bender and the Switch Gate triggers an envelope generator for a special effect. When the block is pushed down, the envelope will trigger.
  • Page 8 Q181EB Expression Block Controller Feb 2014 This patch shows the block controlling a filter and the Auto Gate turning on noise modulation. As the block is pressed, the Auto Gate turns on according to the knob's position. That gate is then used to switch on a noise signal using a Q128 Switch.