Infrasonic Audio Warp Core, new stereo oscillator with Casio CZ-style phase distortion

Infrasonic Audio Warp Core puts digital phase distortion of the Casio CZ synthesizers and beyond into a new stereo oscillator for Eurorack/VCV Rack.

In the 80s, the first digital synthesizers came onto the market for the big public. Yamaha is at the forefront with its FM synthesizers (DX-7…). In the same decade, Casio also tried it with the CZ series. Unlike Yamaha, these synthesizers used phase distortion synthesis, offering different timbres.

Phase distortion synthesis or FM? Most people probably think of FM because the Yamaha synths have more of a legendary status than the Casio CZ series. Nevertheless, PD is not dead and is still used today. A recent example is a new stereo oscillator from Infrasonic Audio. 

Infrasonic Audio Warp Core

Warp Core is a new stereo oscillator with a digital core that takes a different direction. It uses phase distortion synthesis to produce variably complex waveforms with rich harmonic content from a pure sine wave lookup table. Don’t expect traditional, perfect geometric waves here like a triangle, saw… 

The phase distortion engines host eight unique continuously variable algorithms assignable to two slots routed in series. This gives you a total of 64 possible shaping possibilities. And because these are almost all non-linear, you can achieve instant new timbres with every algorithm’s order swap. 

Besides the dual phase distortion, you can also work with pre-and post-phase modulation via an internal sine modulation oscillator. This has an adjustable frequency ratio to the main oscillator. Plus, you get an audio-rate PM input for deeper, evolving shapings.

Then, you get two tweakable “thickness” parameters aka sub-octave generator to add depth to the fundamental and/or sub-oct of the oscillator.It also adds slight detuning on the 90° output for thicker stereo or unison sounds. 

Clever, Warp Core has a quantizer function that makes tuning the oscillator easy-peasy. The tuning locking function is especially useful for live performances.

Connection side, you get a v/oct input, CV inputs for the warp A, warp B, PM amount, ext PM, and two audio outputs.

Virtual Version

For everyone who prefers to work with Eurorack on their computer in VCV Rack, there is a Warp Core VCV Rack version, that gives you the same functionalities. 

 

First Impression

At first glance, it’s an intriguing stereo digital oscillator with a lovely front panel. It’s nice to see that you can also explore Casio CZ style phase distortion synthesis more deeply in Eurorack

Infrasonic Audio Warp Core is available is out now for $375/438€ (Schneidersladen) 

More information here: Infrasonic Audio

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