Metasonix Announces Tube Waveshaper/Ring Mod

July 31, 2001

(Click for a close-up)

The TM-1 uses an all-vacuum-tube circuit which is unlike any other. Because it is unique, its sounds are unlike those produced by other audio effects. Because this design is new to the music world, it takes some explaining.

It's not a filter, nor is it a simple distortion box (though it can introduce clipping distortion if desired), nor is it a "waveshaper" in the same terms as the Serge waveshaper seen in modular synthesizers. The TM-1 contains three tubes:

1. First in the path is a pentode tube used as a preamp of moderate gain.

2. Next comes a tube which generates short pulses. It is triggered by the input signal, and "spits" those new pulses on top of the signal. This drastically changes the timbre of the signal. This circuit likes to see a signal with "sharp edges" or discontinuities, such as square, pulse or sawtooth waves. However, it can usually be induced to trigger from any waveform (guitar, voice, etc.) by preceding the TM-1 with a fuzzbox or other high-gain preamp that "clips" the waveform.

3. Finally is a tube that serves double duty. It is a special device called a "beam switching" tube—-it's something like a pentode with extra electrodes. Adjusting the BEAM SCREEN control gives some effect on the waveform. Also, this tube can be used as a ring modulator—something never seen in tube effects devices before.

The TM-1 has three control-voltage inputs: VCA CV allows the use of the pentode preamp as a VCA. BEAM CV can be used to vary the beam tube's operating point, changing the waveform drastically. And RINGMOD CARRIER can be used to inject any audio or CV signal into the beam tube for modulation. All the CV inputs of the TM-1 are compatible with all other analog synthesizers.

The TM-1 can create alien sounds with its thick, aggressive distortions and modulations. Good for electronic music studios, dance music, and even for guitarists wanting something really different.

Specifications:

Voltage gain approximately 1–depends on input signal and gain settings.
Recommended input level 0.5v p-p to 2 v p-p. Hum and noise less than 1 mV.
Frequency response typ. +-3dB, 10 Hz to 40 kHz. Distortion adjustable from
<1% to greater than 100%.
Input impedance 100k ohms, output 10k ohms.
Ring modulation function has internal oscillator adjustable from ~200 Hz to ~10 kHz. External ring modulation carrier can be injected, minimum carrier level should be 15 volts p-p.
Power input 10v AC to 12v AC, 50/60 Hz, 0.8 amps maximum at idle.
Dimensions: 7 1/2" (192mm) x 4 3/8" (112mm) x 3" (77mm).
Weight not including accessories approx. 5 pounds (2.2 kg).

The TM-1 is made in the USA and carries a 90-day unlimited warranty. Retail price in the USA: $399.

For more information, visit their web site at http://www.metasonix.com/.

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