Erica Synths x Richie Hawtin – Bullfrog

Erica Synths x Richie Hawtin Bullfrog is a tool for learning synthesis. It is an exciting and expandable subtractive  synthesizer for beginners but also professionals alike.

A joint project between Latvian Eurorack specialists and the Canadian techno legend, Bullfrog combines the exciting options of electronic sound generation with comprehensive learning experience that allows easy immersion into the (modular) possibilities of subtractive synthesis and is expandable in extremely exciting ways via eight voicecards.

The Bullfrog features an audio rate VCO with sine and pulse with manually or CV controllable waveshaping and FM as well as noise generator. All sound sources are mixable via dedicated pots and can be tapped individually. The mixer also provides three audio inputs for the sound generation. In the VCA/Delay section, VCA levels and the built-in delay effect can be modulated, two attack-sustain-release envelopes that can be operated either free-running or loopable and can also function as an LFO through bipolar outputs round out the picture together with a sample & hold stage.

Highlight is a slot for voicecards, which expand the Bullfrog’s sonic flexibility significantly. Included are Acid Bassline for powerful basslines, Sampler-Looper (tape recorder functionality), Groovebox (drum sequencer with kick, snare and hihat sounds) as well as three DIY voicecards, which can be transformed into hardwired custom creations of the Bullfrog sound generation by means of a soldering iron and a little soldering experience. Also optionally available are the voicecards “Highpass VCF”, “Electric Organ”, “Analogue Sequencer” (five-step sequencer) and “Wind and Stars” (experimental wind sounds).

On the rear side Bullfrog can be controlled via MIDI-In, USB (USB-MIDI/Firmware-Updates), audio- or headphone output, as well as a CV- and a Gate-Input. Bullfrog has a built-in speaker and comes with a 12 Volt DC power supply. Also included are 10 patch cords and a user manual that illustrates the principles of Bullfrog sound generation with great attention to detail.

“Whether or not the Bullfrog experience leads to a career in electronic music, our goal is both to foster a passion for electronically generated sounds and to provide an easy and fun introduction to basic sound synthesis,” Hawtin makes it clear that the fun and learning aspects of using sound synthesis are equally important with Bullfrog.

Features:

• All-analog design
• Accurate 8-octave tracking VCO (sine, pulse) with manual or CV-controlled waveshaping and FM
• Zener diode based noise generator
• Resonant lowpass filter
• VCA with adjustable offset
• Delay effect with adjustable delay time and feedback.
• Two looping attack-sustain-release envelopes
• Sample & Hold stage with individual clock
• Manual gate button
• Voicecard slot with various options for sonic expansion: acid bassline, sampler looper, groovebox and three DIY cards included. Highpass VCF, Electric Organ, Analogue Sequencer and Wind and Stars optional.
• Extensive manual
• 10 patch note templates
• 10 patchcords
• 12V DC (center pos) power supply included