DOEPFER Dark link Owner's Manual - Page 17

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Nuts'n bolts of MIDI-CV/Gate conversion

DOEPFER

On most analogue synthesizers, the input socket for an external gate signal is labelled "GATE in", TRIG

in", S-TRIG in" KBD in" or quite similar. Connect it with Dark Links CV1 output.

Some vintage synthesizers require a higher gate-voltage than 5 volts to trigger their envelopes, e.g. the

units manufactured by ARP. They need +10V to +15V.

Most Oddyssey models have both a gate- and a trigger input socket. To start the envelopes, both inputs

should be connected to the gate signal, e.g. via an Y-cable.

As you know, Dark Links gate output is not suitable for devices that require a gate voltage higher than +5V,

but Dark Link can be modified for +12V gate voltage or S-Trigger. The modification should not be carried

out by the customer because in this case the warranty is void (it is necessary to interrupt the +5V track and

install a wire to +12V for the +12V gate level). Details concerning the modification are also available on our

website in the FAQ section (in case that customers want to carry out the modification despite the warranty

loss).

Additional Control Voltages

Dark Link is capable to generate three additional control voltages that can be very useful to access more

parameters of your analogue synthesizer.

CV2 is derived from the pitchbend information of the connected MIDI-keyboard. If your synthesizer offers

an additional input for pitch modulation, you may use this with CV2.

CV3 is derived from the velocity information of the connected MIDI-keyboard. Connect CV3 with the control

voltage input for filter and/or amplifier of your synthesizer. This offers the capability to control timbre and/or

volume dynamically – just like a modern synth.

On most analogue synthesizers, the input sockets for external filter and volume modulation are labelled

"VCF in", "VCF fcM", "Filter-CV" bzw. "VCA", "Volume", "Loudness" or quite similar. Connect it with Dark

Links CV3 output.

CV4 is derived from a user selectable MIDI controller, generated by the connected MIDI-keyboard. The

most commen case is MIDI controller no.1 which is the modwheel. According to the connection capabilities

of your synthesizer, you may use this control voltage in several ways.

In case your analogue synthesizer is not equipped with standard minijacks, please use suitable adapter

cables.