ALM MCF x2 Dual Multi-Mode Filter Module Instructions
- June 6, 2024
- ALM
Table of Contents
ALM030 / MCFx2
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Power: +12V 85ma / -12V 85ma
Size: 14HP
Depth: 32mm
Module Installation
With your modular synth powered off, connect the 10 pin end of the supplied
standard eurorack power connector cable to the 10 pin power connector on the
rear of the module.
The red stripe on the cable should be orientated to match the text ‘RED’ marked on the rear of the module near the power connector (this is -12V). Connect the other 16 pin end of the cable to your eurorack bus board (Refer to your bus board documentation for the correct orientation).
You are now safe to power up your modular synth. If the module fails to power up, check that you have the power cable correctly orientated and have carefully read the manual.
http://busycircuits.com/alm030
The MCFx2 is our state variable MCF’ filter made double. It features 2 identical classic analog 3 pole state variable filter cores each with Low, High and Band Pass (or Notch) outputs. Direct and voltage control is provided for both filter cut-offs and resonance. Switches allow the filters to function as one, with theFeed’ switch internally routing audio from one filter to the
other in series and the `Link’ switch linking the cut-off controls for both
filter cores. MCFx2 expands on the great-sounding MCF filter to offer both
serial and parallel functionality for stereo operation, dual peak, tighter
slopes and other complex filtering set ups.
FREQUENCY CONTROLS
Sets the base frequency for the filter cut-offs. The v/oct and frequency
inputs are added to these.
V/OCT INPUTS
Additonal cut-off frequency control inputs. Cut-off frequency approx doubles
for every input volt. Allows for key tracking and use as sine oscillator when
filter self oscillates.
RESONANCE CONTROL
Sets the level of resonant peaks atop the cut-off frequencies. The resonance
can get particularly aggressive going into self-oscillation with the control
past 12 o’clock.
OUTPUTS
Each filter output is 3 pole with an 18dB/oct slope.
Low – low pass filter outputs. Passes frequencies below the cut-off.
High – high pass filter outputs. Passes frequencies above the cut-off.
BP/Notch – band pass or notch filter outputs. Jumpers on the rear of the module select one or the other for each filter.
Passes frequencies within (BP) or outside (Notch) a narrow region around cut- off frequency.
LINK BUTTON
Links the left cut off to parallel control both filters. The right controls
will now set the max range of the right core. Both filters will track
together when the right cut off is fully clockwise.
FEED BUTTON
Routes the output of the left filter core to the input of the right (unless
patched), with the desired output filter type selected via jumper at the rear
of the module.
FREQ INPUTS AND ATTENUATORS
Control voltage inputs here are combined with knob offsets to set the final
cut-off. Attenuversion control allows for both attenuation and inversion of
the CV. Expects approx. -5V – 5V input.
RES INPUTS AND ATTENUATORS
Attenuated control voltage inputs here are combined with knob offsets to set
the final resonance. Expects approx. -5V – 5V input.
AUDIO INPUT ‘In’
Signal inputs to the filter cores for processing.
Input sources may need to be attenuated, filter will drive from hotter input
levels.
The Left input is normalised to the right (unless ‘Feed’ is enabled).
V/OCT Tracking Calibration
Calibration is performed by carefully adjusting the trimmers on the back of
the module. Apply 1V to V/Oct input, and tune the self-oscillating filter via
front panel controls to C1. Next, change the input voltage to 3V and then
adjust the trimmer on reverse until you get C3. You may need to go back and
forth and repeat the process a couple of times for best results.
You should expect good tracking over at least 2 octaves. Note the module ships pre-calibrated.
Support
Need help? Email your questions to
[email protected]
For the latest news, additional info, downloads and firmware updates please
visit the ALM website at http://busycircuits.com
and follow @busycircuits on Twitter and Instagram.
Limited Warranty
From the date of manufacture, this device is guaranteed for a period of 2
years against any manufacturing or material defects. Any such defects will be
repaired or replaced at the discretion of ALM. This does not apply to;
- Physical damage arising from mis treating (i.e dropping, submerging, ‘modding’ etc).
- Damage caused by incorrect power connections.
- Overexposure to heat or direct sunlight.
- Damage caused by inappropriate or misuse.
- Use of incorrect or non official firmware
No responsibility is implied or accepted for harm to a person or apparatus caused through operation of this product. By using this product you agree to these terms.