The SuperLadder VCF

Constructional difficulty: 1U version, moderate. 3U version, complex.

This is the new 1U wide 'Filter Core' version of the SuperLadder. One would use this module in conjunction with external mixers for maximum control.

The Superladder is a voltage controlled transistor ladder filter. Cut-off frequency and resonance are both voltage controlable.

The voltage controlled filter, or VCF, may be built as a 1U filter core or as a complete 3U filter system. The 1U 'Filter Core' format is our new way of handling filter modules. Although the 1U module can be used as a filter module on its own, it is expected that users will make use of external mixers to control CV and audio levels going into the filter. In this way, you will be able to have a collection of space saving 1U filter cores that can be used with any generic mixer module. The Oakley Multimix is an ideal choice for a handy mixer module.

The Superladder VCF module has a variable shape output. It incorporates a feature first seen on the Oakley Orbital prototypes. A pot gives you an output that can be varied from one pole to four pole, via band pass in the middle. And that's band pass with moog ladder warmth.

The audio output is 'Q compensated'. This means that the output volume will not drop significantly when you turn up the resonance pot. This design uses two inbuilt VCAs to achieve voltage controlled resonance without the hassle. A beautiful sound.

This is the 3U version of the Superladder. This is a fully featured filter module that includes inbuilt CV and audio mixer sections.

Sound Samples

super.mp3 1.66Mb 1min 50s. Moog filter option. Simple sequence with two Oakley VCOs at one octave spread on sawtooth outputs. The filter is manually being swept via the 'shape', 'freq', 'resonance' pots and altering ADSR sweep depth.

The above photo shows the old issue 4 PCB fitted to the 3U wide MOTM compatible panel. Notice the four CV depth pots fitted with the 'potchip' mini PCBs. The new 'filter core' issue 1 board is very similar in size and complexity.

The PCB is 10.6cm (deep) x 14.3cm (height). The frequency, resonance, resonance CV depth and shape pots can be board mounted for easier construction.

As with all Oakley projects the PCB is double sided with through plated holes, has solder mask both sides, and has component legending for ease of construction.

Prices

Superladder 'filter core' issue 1 PCB .............................. 19GBP
Superladder pot kit .............................................................12GBP
Superladder pot bracket kit ................................................ 4GBP

THAT300P NPN array ........................................................ 6GBP

The Superladder pot kit now contains four Spectrol 248 pots sufficient to make up the Filter Core 1U wide panel. No knobs are provided. The Superladder pot bracket kit contains four Oakley pot brackets and four extra pot nuts. The brackets are especially made for us to hold the PCB mounted Spectrol pots safely to the PCBs and cannot be purchased anywhere else.

All other parts can be purchased from you usual electronic component supplier.

See the prices page for ordering information, shipping charges and payment methods.

All prices include VAT at UK rates. Shipping/postage is additional to these prices. See also the FAQ page.

Project Downloads

User Guide

Use 'save as...' button to download and view the files. IE users need to right hand mouse click and then choose 'save as'.

Links to schematics are available to purchasers of the PCB or module and will be sent via e-mail when the board(s) are shipped.

Front Panel database

A Schaeffer front panel can be made for either of the two variants of the new SuperLadder module. The databases can be found here: 3U format or 1U filter core. To read these files you will need a copy of 'Frontplatten designer' from Schaeffer. The program also features on-line ordering, so its now even easier to buy your panels from Scheaffer.

The company are based in Berlin in Germany and will send out panels to anywhere in the world. Delivery to the UK normally takes around ten days. For North American users you can also order your Schaeffer panels from Front Panel Express.

Schematics and Projects: Projects

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