DodecaMax: An Immersion into the World of West Coast Synthesis
Dear enthusiasts of synthesizer artistry! If you’ve ever heard of the legendary Buchla systems or been intrigued by the unconventional approach to sound creation known as “West Coast synthesis,” then DodecaMax from KBplugs is your chance to experience this unique philosophy directly in your digital studio. This is not just another plugin, but a whole set of virtual modules inspired by iconic elements of the Buchla 200 series, assembled for maximum convenience on your screen.
DodecaMax expands on the concept of a virtual “Dodecamodule,” accommodating the maximum number of approximate copies of 200-style modules that comfortably fit without the need for scrolling. This creates the feeling of working with a complete modular system, where each element interacts with the others, opening up limitless possibilities for experimentation.
Modules included in DodecaMax:
- Two 258 Dual Oscillators-style oscillators, providing flexible sound sources.
- A combined FM / modulation oscillator (2-op), perfect for creating complex timbres and frequency modulation.
- A Quad Envelope Generator, allowing for the shaping of signal dynamics with high precision.
- A Quad LoPass/VCA complex, combining the functions of a low-pass filter and a voltage-controlled amplifier.
- A Dual random voltage source to introduce elements of unpredictability and organic quality to your patterns.
- A Triple stepLFO/Pulse Source, offering a variety of modulation and rhythmic signal generation options.
- A Dual CV Processor for manipulating control voltages.
- A Six-channel mixer for convenient signal summing and routing.
Features and Philosophy of the Plugin:
One interesting part of DodecaMax is the keyboard control module, based on some functions of the legendary 221 Kinesthetic Input Port. It includes a unique “2D voltage source” – a virtual joystick that generates four different control voltages depending on the direction of deviation from the center (up, down, left, right). This opens up new ways for expressive sound manipulation in real time.
It’s important to understand that DodecaMax does not aim to be an exact emulation of the sound or functions of specific Buchla modules. Instead, its purpose is to give experimenters and musicians the opportunity to feel and understand the unique “West Coast” approach to synthesis. This approach often focuses on complex modulations, FM synthesis, and experimentation with control voltage, moving away from the traditional “East Coast” paradigm (as in Moog), which is based on additive synthesis and filtering.
The patching process in DodecaMax is implemented using convenient drop-down lists on each signal input and CV. This makes routing intuitive and fast, allowing you to focus on creativity rather than complex virtual cable connections.
The plugin is available in VST format and runs on the Windows (Win32) operating system. If you are ready to expand your horizons in the world of synthesis and try a different, less traditional approach to sound creation, DodecaMax from KBplugs is a great tool to start with. It invites experimentation, discovery, and the creation of unique soundscapes inspired by the classics of “West Coast” synthesis.
