
( Brand: Doepfer ), ( Model: DOEPFER A-198 ), ( Type: Modular Synthesizer ), ( Input/output Ports: Cv In ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: A-198 )
Review DOEPFER Trc Trautonium Manual/ribbon Controller Module
The Doepfer A-198-TRC is a versatile and intriguing module for any modular synthesizer setup, modeled after the legendary Trautonium electronic music instrument created by Friedrich Trautwein in the 1930s. This module functions as a Manual/Ribbon Controller, offering an unique and expressive way to generate complex and evolving sounds through voltage control.
Upon first glance, the A-198-TRC presents itself as a sleek and compact module, measuring in at 24 HP, with a black aluminum faceplate and a red LED display. The front panel is divided into three main sections: the ribbon controller, the manual controller, and the function selector.
The ribbon controller, which spans the full width of the module, is a smooth and responsive touch plate that can be played with the fingers or a conductive wand for added precision. The ribbon controller generates a voltage output that can be used to control various parameters in your modular system, such as filter cutoff, oscillator frequency, or amplitude. The ribbon controller also includes a adjustable resistor potentiometer, which allows you to set the sensitivity of the ribbon controller, making it more or less responsive to your touch.
To the left of the ribbon controller, you find the manual controller, which consists of a touch plate similar to the ribbon controller, but with a more limited range and a fixed resistance. The manual controller can be used to generate a steady voltage output, which can also be used to control various parameters in your modular system.
The function selector, located on the right side of the module, offers a range of different modes and functions for the ribbon and manual controllers. These include:
1. CV: Outputs the voltage generated by the ribbon or manual controller as a control voltage.
2. GATE: Generates a gate signal when the ribbon or manual controller is touched.
3. ENV: Generates an ADSR envelope when the ribbon or manual controller is touched.
4. LFO: Generates a triangle wave LFO when the ribbon or manual controller is touched.
5. SLEW: Generates a voltage that follows the input voltage with a specified slew rate.
Additionally, the A-198-TRC includes a switch to select between using the ribbon or manual controller, as well as a switch to invert the polarity of the output voltage.
In conclusion, the Doepfer A-198-TRC is a captivating and expressive module that offers a wide range of possibilities for generating and manipulating sounds in your modular synthesizer setup. Its unique design, inspired by the historic Trautonium, makes it a must-have for any serious modular synthesist looking to add a new dimension of expression and control to their setup.
The Doepfer A-198 TRC (Tone Responsive Controller) is a versatile module that functions as both a Trautonium and a manual ribbon controller. Here are some pros and cons that might help in deciding if this module is right for your synthesizer setup.
Pros:1. Tone Responsive: The A-198 TRC responds to the tone of the input signal, allowing for expressive and dynamic control over various synthesizer parameters.
2. Dual Functionality: As a Trautonium module, it generates complex oscillator sequences based on the input tone, while serving as a manual ribbon controller when no input signal is present.
3. CV/Gate Input: The module has a CV/gate input, which can be used to control other synthesizer elements or even trigger sequences.
4. Versatile Control: The A-198 TRC can be used to control a wide range of synthesizer parameters, such as filter cutoff, oscillator frequency, and amplitude.
5. Affordable: Compared to many other Trautonium and ribbon controller modules, the Doepfer A-198 TRC is relatively affordable.
Cons:1. Complexity: The A-198 TRC is a more advanced and complex module, which might require some time to fully understand and utilize its capabilities.
2. Size: The module is quite large, measuring 10 HP, which might be a consideration for those with limited space in their synthesizer racks.
3. Power Consumption: The A-198 TRC consumes a fair amount of power, which might be a concern for those with smaller power supplies.
Conclusion:The Doepfer A-198 TRC is a powerful and expressive module that offers both Trautonium and manual ribbon controller functionality. While it may require some time to fully understand and utilize its capabilities, its versatility, tone-responsive design, and affordability make it an attractive option for synthesists looking to add expressive and dynamic control to their setup.
Recommendation:If you're looking for a versatile and expressive controller for your synthesizer, the Doepfer A-198 TRC is definitely worth considering. Its tone-responsive design and ability to function as both a Trautonium and manual ribbon controller make it a unique and powerful addition to any setup. However, be sure to consider the module's complexity, size, and power consumption before making a purchase.
part # a198 prices
- $161.00-$305.00
specifications synthesasha:
- brand: Doepfer
- model#: DOEPFER A-198
- type: Modular Synthesizer
- input/output ports: Cv In
- manufacturer part number: A-198
shipping synthesasha:
- transit: 3-10 Days
- cost: $8.78
- carrier: USPS
- class: Standard
- service: USPS Ground Advantage
- type: Calculated
returns synthesasha:
- policy: No Returns
payments synthesasha:
- credit card: Diners-club
- wallet: Paypal
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offer synthesasha:
- quantity: 1
- options: Ship-to-home
- availability: In Stock
- sold: 0
- started: June 10, 2025
- best offers: True
general synthesasha:
- Musical Instruments Gear > Pro Audio Equipment > Synthesizers
- condition: Used
seller synthesasha:
- rating: 0.0%
- # reviews: 0
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