DSI P8 has a knob called slop that " introduces a bit of randomness to simulate the drift typical of analog oscillators that aren’t digitally controlled." The original Oberheim SEM 2/4/8 voice naturally had this randomness since each SEM had to be matched by hand. The SEM had “slop” for all the knobs actually.
Is there a way to achieve this with poly chained slim phatties? It’s a nice sound when each module is the same, but slightly different.
Even so, a “slop” function allows you to adjust how much randomness, from subtle to extreme. Also, it would be cool to have the option over all the parameters, filter, envelopes, etc…
It would be really close to the old poly oberheims. A quality that makes them special.
The phatties oscillators are pretty stable, at least the SubP is so you don’t get the drift like older synths. I can see some situations where slop would be useful.
It would be cool if it was one turn of a knob. All the parameters randomly drift a little or a lot depending how much you turn the knob. Then you don’t have to go into each module. I wonder if it could be done. If they can add an exotic tunings option, I don’t see why this couldn’t be developed and added in a future update.
Anyone that’s messed with old poly Oberheim SEMs knows the sound.
First, turn auto tune off. Then, Put a small DC fan inside and point it directly at the VCO circuit. Connect it to a potentiometer to adjust the speed of the fan. The faster it goes, the more slop!
Sorta. It’s usually part of the LFO on a synth. It’s actually taking an input source (typically white noise) and scans the voltage, then “randomly” holds onto that voltage for the duration of the rate (or every gate). Sorry, I put my nerdcap on there
Usually, this is done with a S+H and a lag processor. There’s one in the CP-251, but it might be a bit complicated to setup, because you still need to control the pitch with the keyboard.
I’m talking about when you polychain slim phatties. Making each one slightly different even though they share the same preset. And making the option easy.
True, but in a live setting that’s too long. Maybe it’s too much to ask with the current Slim Phatty, but if Moog ever designed a new polysynth then I think this is a cool idea. Especially for those that like the charm of the Oberheim poly SEMs. Or those that would like a preset where each module is set different. Instantly recalling that arrangement.
I don’t think actual randomization is what is needed. Random deviations within a realistic range compared to vintage analog oscillators would be cool, though.