Sofia

The analog oscillator Sofia from XAOC Devices extends the classic computer music method of formant synthesis (FOF) to allow for a unique form of sound generation.

XAOC provide a novel waveform principle for generating highly complex sounds. The heart of Sofia is a triangular core from which the base tone – a slightly saturated sine wave – is generated. This base tone goes through cycles, with a pair of so-called “ripples” being generated after each cycle. These ripples, or elements, are derivatives of the base sound and can be modulated in waveform (sine & square), decay (decay time) and density.

Although a large number of different frequencies and overtones are created, it always remains harmonic, since the elements are always derived from the base tone and thus always relate in pitch to the base tone. The sound palette is very wide due to this interesting form of sound generation and ranges from acoustic, woody, organic and animal-like sounds to high-pitched, harsh-scratchy and bright sounds.

The sonic possibilities of Sofia can be extended immensely by the numerous CV control options available. It gets particularly interesting when you patch Sofia in itself…

Features:

• fully analog design
• complex waveforms and waveshaping
• extended FOF synthesis
• 3 frequency control inputs
• 8 parameter control inputs
• 6 signal outputs