Fala versio

“Fala” means “speak” in Portuguese — an apt name for Noise Engineering’s stereo formant filter. The module’s ability to shape sound into vowel-like tones makes it a natural voice sculptor, though its capabilities stretch far beyond simple vocal mimicry. This module takes the classic concept of formant filtering and pushes it into a new territory.

The essence of what makes Fala “fala” lies in its filter structure. This module employs an impressive array of 24 bandpass filters working in concert with post-filter saturators and three allpass filters. Rather than strictly emulating vowel shapes, it shapes sounds while maintaining their inherent musicality. The pre-filter section features a wavefolder that transforms simple waveforms into complex spectra before they hit the filter bank, adding considerable character to even the most basic sources.

Up to three resonant filters can be stacked in parallel configurations of one, two, or four instances (if you want to dive into more chorus-like territory). The first two filters span musical ranges from A2-A5 and E4-E7 respectively, while a third filter can join in when desired, deriving its characteristics from the settings of its siblings.

The module’s pre-filter section includes a wavefolder that transforms simple waveforms into complex spectra before they hit the filter bank. This adds considerable grit to otherwise tame sources. On the output side, a saturator stage lets you drive the entire signal path into carefully tuned distortion.

A built-in stereo LFO brings movement to your patches through filter modulation. It can be synced via tap tempo or external clock, with clock divisions from /4 to x4. The LFO offers two distinct behaviors: smooth sine modulation or random fluctuations, both applying stereo movement to the filters.

Noise Engineering has clearly thought about practical usability. The Q control affects all filters simultaneously, keeping things musical even when pushing the resonance to extremes. A clever volume compensation system maintains consistent levels regardless of filter settings, ie — no sudden spikes!

In practice, Fala Versio does wonders with processing anything from basic oscillator waves to pretty much whatever you throw at it. It’s equally comfortable whispering sweet harmonics or screaming digital incantations, depending on how you drive it. Stack those parallel filters right, and even the most static waveforms start breathing like living things.

Features:

• Stereo formant filter
• Up to three resonant filters with adjustable frequency ranges (A2-A5 and E4-E7 ranges)
• Built-in stereo LFO with tap tempo and clock input for filter modulation
• Switchable between 1, 2, or 4 parallel filter sets for chorus-like effects
• Up to 24 bandpass filters and 12 saturators when fully engaged
• Three-way switch to select between one, two, or three active formant filters
• Pre-filter wavefolder for adding harmonics
• Post-filter saturation stage for additional timbral control
• LFO modes with sine and noise (random)
• Clock division from /4 to x4
• Automatic volume compensation to maintain consistent levels
• Built-in noise gate for clean operation
• CV inputs accept 0V to 5V control signals

Note: Like other modules by Noise Engineering from the Versio, Alia and Legio series, these are digital units whose functions can be changed by swapping the firmware — have a look a look at the [Platforms](https://noiseengineering.us/pages/platforms/) section of their website to learn more!

• 10 HP
• +12v 125 mA
• -12v 10 mA