A Loving Tribute to the MS 20 Filter
This OTA Voltage Controlled Filter uses the same filter structure as the venerable Korg MS 20. The filter is switchable between Lowpass and Hi Pass modes, and features an updated diode gain stage in the resonance section. This circuit was adapted by Sagittronics, who does excellent work.
The VCF will overdrive and distort in both the HP and LP modes, and the resonance can be pushed into self-oscillation. Like the MS 20 Filter, the Low Pass slope is 12dB/octave and the High Pass slope is 6dB/octave. There are two CV inputs with an attenuverter for the first CV input, allowing for dynamic voltage-control of the cutoff.
As with most OTA filters wherein resonance is achieved via negative feedback, the non-resonanced signal (the passed signal) will drop. When used in conjunction with a VCA, this is trivial. There are ways to compensate for this by injecting some of the original signal into the feedback loop, or adding extra gain circuitry, but this has its own issues, and was avoided in this design, in large part for authenticity. In the “normal” mode, there is a normal volume drop, and in the “extended resonance mode” you will see a greater volume drop to the “passed signal.” Due to the high resonance gain, there is a large drop – again, if using a VCA, this is trivial.
The AI004 is designed for all jacks, knobs, and other components to be soldered directly to the PCB. There is no wiring, making this kit ideal for those who have built a simple module before, and are looking for a high quality, legendary filter in an easy-to-build package.
This Panel/PCB Set contains:
- An 8HP Eurorack Aluminum Panel
- PCB Set
AI004 Build Guide & BOM: https://aisynthesis.com/how-to-build-ai004-diy-eurorack-ota-filter-vcf/