This board containts two independant VCFs based on the popular CMOS based Wasp VCF, In adition it also features adjustable post-filter distortion.

A little on how it works:

Click here for the Schematic

Of note is that the filter core is running between 0V and -5V, allowing a simple exponential converter to be used to give an appropriate response to the control voltage. The distortion channel straight signal are mixed via a seque circuit (reverse panner). The final stage is just a regular, inverting amplifier, but with a voltage divider in the feedback loop to avoid the need for an excessively high value resistor to achieve the required gain.

Construction

The component overlay for the filter.

Before you start assembly, check the board for etching faults. Look for any shorts between tracks, or open circuits due to over etching. Take this opportunity to sand the edges of the board if needed, removing any splinters or rough edges. (With the boards supplied by me, the edges are already milled, and etching faults are very rare.)

When you are happy with the printed circuit board, construction can proceed as normal, starting with the resistors first, followed by the IC socket if used, then moving onto the taller components.

Take particular care with the orientation of the polarized components such as electrolytics, diodes, transistors and ICs.

The CMOS chip MUST be of the unbuffered type. 4069 continued to be made in UB form long after most other UB 4000 series chips were stopped, so locating them should not be difficult. CD, HEF etc. are acceptable designators. Do not use chips with designators starting with "74".

Suggested wiring for the filters.

Notes:

• The Distortion channel is based on Jurgen Haible's design. Filter originally by Chris Huggett.
• PCB info: 2" x 6" with four 3mm mounting holes 0.15" in from the edges.
• Please email me if you find any errors.

Part Quantity Capacitors 68pF 2 1n 8 100n 6 220n 6 10uF 25V 6 Resistors 1k 6 2k2 4 4k7 4 10k 2 33k 18 51k 6 100k 32 1M 2 1k 25 turn trimmer 2 47k or 50k lin pot 2 100k lin pot 4 Semi's 1N4148 4 79L05 1 BC547 2 BC557 4 CA3080 or LM3080 4 TL072 2 4069UB 2 Misc. Misc. Ferrite Bead (or 10R resistor) 2 0.156 4 pin connector 1 CGS49 PCB 1

Parts list

This is a guide only. Parts needed will vary with individual constructor's needs.

If anyone is interested in buying these boards, please. Check the PCBs for Sale page to see if I have any in stock.

Can't find the parts? See the parts FAQ to see if I've already answered the question. Also see the CGS Synth discussion group.
 

Article, art & design copyright 2007 by Ken Stone

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