The Moog Labyrinth is a unique parallel generative analog synthesizer and idea machine, blending East Coast (Moog) and West Coast (Buchla-esque) synthesis with two intertwining, evolving 8-step generative sequencers that create polymetric melodies and textures.
It features decay-only envelopes, a state-variable filter, wavefolding, and parallel signal paths, designed to add unique soundscapes, rhythm, or color to a studio setup, either standalone or within a Eurorack system.
There are two sequencers, and two sound paths letting you layer sounds.
The wavefolder is a Buchla thing. The filter is very East Coast Moog.
The 2 pole State-Variable Filter is interesting. I think its a new Moog design that blends between low-pass and band-pass, without self-oscillation.
the lower VCO is mainly for modulation and produces a triangle wave.... its tunes to a lower frequency than the upper oscillator.
(Its a interesting choice of waveforms ... there are no saw, square or pulse waves on this synth).
This vco (FM) cross modulation is a common Buchla idea. The 158 for example used a saw-sine waveform
The audio signal passes through a mixer & noise source.
There are level (LVL) controls for each VCO & noise.
The noise has a tone control
There is also a ring-mod level control which controls the loudness
of the ring-modulated product of the two oscillators.
After the mixer, the signal passes to a filter and a wavefolder.
This can be both (parallel) or either.
The Buchla inspired voltage controlled wavefolder (VCW) is a diode-transistor circuit.
It has two parts: VCW Fold & Bias.
VCW sets the amount of wavefolding.
"Normally, when the gain of an input signal exceeds the headroom of a circuit, the tops and bottoms of the waveform are clipped off, causing distortion (such as in the Labyrinth MIXER). A wavefolder, however, folds the sections of the signal exceeding the floor/ceiling back in on the signal itself, creating new harmonics in the process"
(official manual)
The bias applies a DC voltage offset (achieving asymmetrical folding) to the signal entering the wave folder to emphasize even or odd harmonics.
The wavefolder an be modulated by EG1, SEQ1 & BIAS
These are the patches that came with the synth. A great way to start exploring.
These are just quick lo-fi recordings using my phone mic.
Instant techno drums
Myriads of Ivy
Polymetric Parallel voices
.jpg)
