2015 NAMM Show: KOMA Elektronik has introduced the Poltergeist – a Eurorack module that lets you manipulate up to four audio/CV signals quadraphonically or stereophonically.
The Poltergeist is an analog Eurorack format audio/CV mixer, panner and VCA that goes beyond the usual two dimensional standards and enables hands-on quadraphonic mixing and panning with a staggering number of VCAs.
The four individual channels each include a VCA with CV input, performance-oriented clickless solo and mute switches that engage upon release for perfect timing, pan with CV input over 360 degrees (however, with the proper CV signal you can spin the sound around infinitely), a FIELD knob to add an inverted version of the signal to all mixer outputs, an ORIGIN knob to control pan modulation from the Master Pan CV input, and an input with Gain control.
Spatial animation is easily achieved by adjusting these parameters along with outside CV control from other modulation sources.
With a flick of a switch, the Poltergeist can function as a stereophonic mixer as well. In the master section are 4 mixer outputs dedicated to each quadrant or left and right depending on which mode it is in. There is also an auxiliary stereo input going directly to the summing bus (pre-master VCA).
You can also create your own compressor by using another module like an envelope or comparator into the Master Gain CV Input, a half-rectified, inverted CV input where positive CV reduces the Master Gain and negative CV is ignored. At the end is the Master Volume knob with CV input.
Pan position is highly controllable on an individual level for each channel. Slope (also controllable via CV) controls the curve of the pan: on one end the signal remains at one output for a long time then quickly jumps to the next; while on the other end, the signal stays at the output for a shortage before it slowly begins moving to the next. Shift each or all channels pan positions from 100% to 0% to -100% with the Master Pan CV input. By adjusting each attenuverter on each channel, complex choreographies are possible.
Additionally, while the Poltergeist comes AC coupled to protect amplification equipment from DC signals, a dip switch on the back allows it to be DC coupled to process CV signals as well. It measures at 28HP wide.
KOMA says that they have worked over a year and a half on this entirely new design as this module premiers a new patented analog method of controlling quadraphony and mixing.
The Poltergeist will be available at retailers worldwide in Spring 2015. Pricing is to be announced.
