The Best Product Name We’ve Heard This Year At The NAMM Show 2012: Synthetic Sound Labs has just released its first Euro rack format module, the Model 2260 Modulation Orgy.

This new 16 HP width module contains a Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) that offers ‘unmatched modulation flexibility’.

Synthetic Sound Labs has been in the analog synthesizer business since 1973, but the 2260 is the first Euro rack module and the sixth in SSL’s continuing line of new analog synthesizer modules.

LFOs are typically used by analog music synthesists in conjunction with other analog sound producing devices for creating slow, undulating rhythms and sound patterns. The SSL 2260 Modulation Orgy features both manual and external voltage control over LFO Tempo (speed), tempo Multiplier, Waveform and Waveform Distortion.  A total of eight Waveforms are produced, including Sawtooth, Ramp, Rectangle, Triangle, Sine, Sweep, Lumps and Random.  All these (except Random) may be modified using the Wave Distort controls to vary waveform duty cycles.  Independent output jacks provide both normal and inverted LFO phases.

2260 ‘Modulation Orgy’ Specifications at a glance:

• Model  2260 Tap Tempo LFO
• Function: Flexible Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO)
• Tempo Adjust: .05 Hz to >50 Hz (approx)
• Tempo Multipliers: Six (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4; overlapping) – Manual & voltage controlled
• Waveforms: Saw, Ramp, Square, Triangle, Sine, Sweep, Lump and
• Random – Manual and Voltage controlled
• Wave Distortion: 10% to 90% (approx, except Random) – Manual and
• Voltage controlled Inputs
• Tempo CV, Multiplier CV, Waveform CV, Distort CV, Sync, Level CV.  0 to +5V nominal.
• 1/8” Phone jacks. 100k impedance.
• Outputs: Clock (0 to +5 digital), LFO voltage (10V P-P;  +/-5V).  1K impedance.
• 1/8” Phone jacks.
• Panel Indicators: LFO Rate – Red LEDs
• Panel: High quality 0.062” aluminum. Durable black Metalphoto finish with
• natural aluminum and copper graphics.  Complimentary Brass colored knobs.
• Power: Euro rack standard 16 pin keyed header.
• +5VDC @ 14ma, +15vdc @ 16ma, -15vdc 18ma
• Size: 5.0” H x ~3.25” W x ~1.25” D (16 HP). Skiff ready.

Modulation Orgy Details

A unique feature allows the 2260 to synchronize to precise multiples of the musical beat permitting timed vibratos, tremolos, and clocking of external sequencers and sample & hold type devices.  Synchronization is accomplished by manually operating a front panel button, or supplying external clock pulses via the external Sync input.  Multiple 2260s may also be cascaded to provide complex polyrhythmic modulation patterns, which is aided by use of the Clock output jack.

The basic LFO Tempo (frequency) is adjustable from approximately 0.05Hz (a 20 second cycle) and 12.8Hz.  However, in conjunction with the Multiplier, this range is extended from 0.025Hz (a 40-second cycle) to over 50Hz in six overlapping tempo multiplication factors, ranging from 0.5 (1/2 note) to 4.0 (sixteenth note).

The external Level CV input responds linearly and is normalled internally to +5V so that with no input, the 2260 outputs are at maximum. This convenient input can frequently save a separate VCA when doing voltage controlled modulation depth.

A panel LED displays the LFO output rate.  Knobs are conveniently placed for ample room for manual adjustment.  Top quality 1/8” jacks permit smooth, effortless patching.

Solder masked, fiberglass-epoxy printed circuit boards and hand-crafted assembly assure years of trouble-free service.

The Modulation Orgy is priced at $250 US and is available now from Synthetic Sound Labs and from distributors worldwide, including Analogue Haven.