LZX Gen3 Primer & FAQ: The Future With Chromagnon & LZX Modular

Category: Uncategorized · Tags: chromagnon, eurorack, gen3, lzx · Posts: 79

#1 — creatorlars · 2022-01-15

As we transition into a focus on our third generation of EuroRack video instrument products with Chromagnon, TBC2, ESG3, FKG3, SMX3, DSG3 and DWO3, we agreed it would be good to publish a primer about differences between what we are doing now and what we have done in the past. That’s the purpose of this post, to serve as a living reference and FAQ about anything related to compatibility, new options, or changes in approach.

Supported Video Formats

Composite and S-Video inputs/outputs support these 2 timings: NTSC and PAL.
Component (YPbPr/RGsB) and Sync inputs/outputs support these 15 timings: NTSC, PAL, 486p5994, 576p50, 720p50, 720p5994, 720p60, 1080i50, 1080i5994, 1080i60, 1080p2398, 1080p24, 1080p25, 1080p2997, 1080p30.
In NTSC and PAL modes, full backwards compatibility is maintained with previous LZX modules and instruments.
Most previous LZX modules and instruments will be able to integrate into a system running in HD timings.
If the earlier module does not have a sync input or output, you can expect the module will function without additional consideration for video standards.
If the earlier module has a sync input or output, it likely will not support the new standards, but will still work with the newer modules in their NTSC and PAL modes.
There will be some exceptions to the two above statements, we’ll create and maintain a list of those modules along with additional notes.

Power Supply & Form Factor

EuroRack form factor with maximum adaptability. Modules follow a consistent set of design constraints related to ergonomics, legibility of function, and mounting tolerances. All modules adhere to a maximum mounting depth of 45mm. You won’t be surprised by a future release that requires a case with more mounting depth, or find many off the shelf enclosure options that are unsuitable for LZX modules.
EuroRack power supplies are optional, but not excluded. All modules may be powered directly from a 12V DC input barrel, just like industry standard video equipment from the Broadcast and CCTV industries. However, backwards compatibility is maintained with EuroRack power connectors.
Low noise no matter the environment. Each module integrates a noise filtering internal power supply that keeps your signal path’s noise floor low whether the power input comes from a noisy 12V wall wart or a precision EuroRack power rail.
Power budget expectations. DC 12V @ 25mA per HP. 3 Amps per 104HP is a good rule of thumb that leaves 15% headroom over this budget.
The main things you need to know about power are:
If you’re adding a few Gen3 modules to your combined EuroRack system or earlier LZX system, and your EuroRack supply can support the current, you don’t need any kind of special cable or adapter. Just install the Gen3 module as you have Orion, Expedition and Visionary modules.
If you’re starting fresh with a Gen3 system, we recommend you skip EuroRack power entirely and power your system with a 12VDC distribution module, bus, or cabling. Combining a passive EuroRack enclosure with our DC Distro module is a good place to start.

The Story So Far

In 2019 we reached the decision that we needed to make an architectural shift in the design of our products. We needed to solve for some performance issues introduced by the variable nature of EuroRack power, and create a better power ecosystem for video processing in EuroRack format. We also wanted to make sure we were fully implementing the capabilities of the hardware and format, by introducing a range of new supported video standard timings. Furthermore, we wanted to standardize all of our circuitry to a common library of hierarchical schematic blocks, make some tweaks to our ergonomic standards, and really create a canonical set of core modules we could commit ourselves to in the long term. In other words: we had stuff to change – and it was better if we could do a complete redesign.
Throughout the end of that year, we discontinued most of our catalog of modules and began work on Chromagnon, which is meant to be an ark project that allows us to restandardize all the main components of our core circuitry in a single project. Chromagnon is a master design reference for anything to follow (we solve video input, output, tbc, ramp generators, and core analogue circuitry in a single project.) We also swept TBC2, an existing Orion project, into this initiative so that we could ensure we weren’t releasing two TBC type modules back to back with different feature sets.
We opened preorders for Chromagnon in early 2020, expecting we could be shipping the complete instrument in full by that Summer. The pandemic forced us to close for a few months right as we were, as a whole team, highly focused on getting that job done. The months of uncertainty that year and isolation from each other pushed our entire schedule into chaos.
In 2021, we were finally able to begin production on Chromagnon. During this year, we built over 700 control board assemblies – while these assemblies represent the bulk of the assembly hours required to build a Chromagnon and most of it’s material costs, they are all still waiting on completion of the rear assembly before we can turn them into complete instruments. TBC2 & The Chromagnon rear assemblies are closely linked to each other and firmware development has been slow going. But as we near the end of Summer 2021 we have solved most of our issues with both projects, and have all essential features working, but were about to get distracted.
In late 2021 our production team ran out of work, and had taken the Chromagnon assemblies as far as they could go up to that point. Since we had discontinued our previous catalog of products this left us without a product to build, since Chromagnon presales were dwindling and we had no other primary product available for sale. Chromagnon rear board finalization was going well, but we were experiencing setbacks, and new problems – supply chains for our most expensive subcomponent, the Zynq SoC, were becoming more expensive and uncertain. We needed to revise the boards again to take this into consideration – that way we’d have multiple strategies on the path to fulfillment.
Running out of revenue in late 2021, we decided that we needed to release the first few modules of our new core modular system, and that we needed to engineer their internal sub-assemblies to also be reusable in the final Chromagnon host assembly, this way we are taking two steps forward at once: One toward Chromagnon fulfillment and one toward having a modular video synthesizer system in stock again. It would mean another overall slowdown in the schedule, but at least we would be moving forward on firm ground.
Coming into early 2022, this plan has worked out well, and is allowing us to continue our work through your support of the new module releases. We’re focused right now on delivering on the long term projects most (TBC2 and Chromagnon), as well as introducing our new 5-module modular system into production to support us while we do that. After meeting these deliverables with TBC2 and Chromagnon, we plan to spend a while patching these new instruments, promoting them, and catching up on educational assets and documentation related to them.

Circuit Designer Notes

The Gen3 circuitry is built on the Patchable Video Standard.
All analogue functions are on 6-layer PCBs with dedicated internal planes for power and ground connections. We found this was one of the most effective methods we have for improving overall performance of the system.
Texas Instruments LMH1980 is used exclusively to extract timing from sync inputs, using the recommended application circuit in TI’s datasheet.
All video and sync output jacks are buffered by video opamps and intended to drive a standard 75 ohm video transmission line. There are no 75R termination / loop through options to ensure the transmission line is not hindered by electromechanical contacts in switches. All outputs must be buffered.
To minimize stackup of propagation delay along a series of rebuffered sync outputs, place modules with lower timing requirements towards the end of your sync chain, or use a video distribution amplifier to distribute sync from your source generator in parallel to all modules. We don’t expect this to be a practical concern for most users.
Our local analog power supply for most modules uses +/-5V power rails, generated from internal switching DC converters and ultra-low noise low dropout regulators (such as Texas Instruments TPS7A4701 and TPS7A3301). Power supplies for digital parts such as systems-on-module and FPGA subsystems are typically derived directly from the 12V power entry with separate power supplies designed for their needs.

[UNDER CONSTRUCTION: Additional sections will be added to this document over time, as relevant – please feel free to discuss or add questions below]

#2 — joem · 2022-01-15

creatorlars wrote:

There are no 75R termination / loop through options to ensure the transmission line is not hindered by electromechanical contacts in switches.

Does this mean we need to use a 75R terminator for the end of a sync chain?

#3 — creatorlars · 2022-01-15

joem wrote:

Does this mean we need to use a 75R terminator for the end of a sync chain?

Not quite, it just means every sync input is already terminated, and all sync outputs are buffered transmission lines. No 75R switches or loop thru option. This allows for a much more consistent expectation in terms of sync distribution and performance, and is most reflective of how modern broadcast gear works when dealing with sync references.

There is a 10ns propagation delay per buffer, so at worst, that means that if you have your TBC2 downstream from your ESG3 through a few buffers, you’ll have to adjust the pixel delay on TBC2 to get pixel-perfect alignment relative to output sync. So this is what I mean by “not a practical concern for most users.”

#4 — joem · 2022-01-16

Ah, got it. Thanks. I figured I was misinterpreting it.

#5 — Jesse · 2022-01-16

3A per 104HP? Wow, no wonder y’all moved to 12VDC and onboard power. That’s fully bonkers. The step up to HD bandwidth requires that much more overhead?

How does the onboard power compare to say a linear supply?

Here I was expecting to power my system over euro for ultra low noise but sounds like even a 25A supply might be getting close to the power budget

#6 — creatorlars · 2022-01-16

Jesse wrote:

The step up to HD bandwidth requires that much more overhead?

Looking at the total load, it’s not too far from our previous recommendation of 20mA per HP (10mA per HP on +12V and 10mA per HP on -12V.) It’s just all on one bulk rail. It sounds like a lot until you realize you can get 3Amps of 12VDC on a wall wart for much cheaper than any EuroRack options available. Just look for power supplies designed for CCTV equipment and LED lighting.

There’s also a lot more circuitry behind the panels of these new modules compared to anything we’ve done before. These are new, all-discrete circuit design topologies, which run a little bit hotter than some of the ASIC parts we’ve used in the past like LT1256.

None of this really relates to HD vs SD bandwidths specifically – it’s more about improving the performance of the environment all these signals live inside across the board.

How does the onboard power compare to say a linear supply?

Typical ripple in a linear supply is 3-4mV. Our power board’s noise floor is < 1 mV ripple. It’s analogue, so I’m sure there will always be some noise beyond that to contend with, especially if you’ve got lots of gain stages in your patch. But this is far and beyond cleaner than what we’ve done before.

Here I was expecting to power my system over euro for ultra low noise but sounds like even a 25A supply might be getting close to the power budget

Yeah no need for that – that’s part of the point – you don’t need to speed hundreds of bucks on low noise EuroRack power supplies or busboards – because on these modules you’ve already paid for that (they’re integrated into the power entry, and part of the module’s price tag.)

If you’ve got existing power solutions for your earlier modules that are working out great for ya then just stick to those! No need to change anything. You can squeeze a couple Gen3 modules in if you want. But if you’re planning a whole Gen3 row, just skip the Euro power supply and power it from the bulk DC12V instead.

#7 — nerdware · 2022-01-16

By my rough calculations, that’s around 2A per 84hp row. A 12U rack cabinet gives me 4 rows, and require maybe 8A of power.

So my plan is to a pair of DC Distros to power a 12U cabinet for my Gen3 modules. Anything standalone, like Chromagnon, can sit outside the cab. I have an existing 12U cabinet using a pair of Malekko PSUs for older modules.

I love Gen3. It solves all the power issues that have been bugging me since 2015. Thanks!

#8 — Jesse · 2022-01-16

Hadn’t considered that it’s all on the bulk rail - that’s more promising for a DIY clean power scheme - was thinking 3A± per 104.

I’m in the camp of having gone through the massive pain & expense of building/designing a clean power solution for my setup so was just trying to wrap my head around if/how that fits into Gen3 going forward.

Thats really impressive that they’re sub-1mv, brilliant move by you cats for building an onboard power solution - too long has power been the bane of video modular. Hell, eurorack in general, but video especially.

#9 — wednesdayayay · 2022-01-16

RE the dc distro

is the preferred use case that each output gets its own module or will it be ok to daisy chain multiple modules together?

#10 — Agawell · 2022-01-16

iirc from the original spec for it, you should be able to daisy chain multiple modules together

hopefully this will also work with just putting a hole in the case and daisy chaining a 3A (or more) 12V power supply…

#11 — creatorlars · 2022-01-16

wednesdayayay wrote:

is the preferred use case that each output gets its own module or will it be ok to daisy chain multiple modules together?

We won’t officially be supporting any daisy chain cables just because it’s a potential liability. You do not want to have loose/disconnected hanging DC barrels crammed behind the modules in your rack after installation – that could short against parts or connectors on the rear circuit boards and cause issues. So if you have unused connectors on your daisy chain cable, be sure you cap them with an insulated barrier or insulate them with electrical tape, etc before power up.

Also, with daisy chaining it would be possible to connect more modules than your power barrel/brick can support. So it puts you in the position of adding up your current ratings. On the LZX DC Distro the connector itself is rated for 5A maximum. So even if you had a 15A brick for example, you wouldn’t want to push 15A of current through the connector.

Also, if you are going to daisy chain you need to ensure you are using a wire gauge thick enough to carry the current. So you’d want to do it in segments, not in one long row. For example a 1 in, 5 out chain cable per row, with each cable going to a DC distro outlet, would be better than several daisy chain cables in series with each other.

TLDR; Daisy chain is okay, but you need to know what you’re doing. If you stick with DC distro or a limited scheme, you don’t have to think about it as much.

I prefer parallel distribution like DC Distro or these kind of supplies, where you have parallel output adapter from the power brick directly:

https://www.amazon.com/Fancy-Buying-100V-240V-Certified-Transformers-Fits/dp/B076HKCRNG/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2UHOUMFRU0SG0&keywords=dc+12v+cctv+power+supply&qid=1642358102&sprefix=dc+12v+cctv+power+supply%2Caps%2C126&sr=8-2

#12 — Agawell · 2022-01-16

this looks to be the same thing but for uk!

amazon.co.uk

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Security-Adapter-2-Prong-100V-240V-Splitter-12V-AC-8-Way-Power/dp/B07QXVPVN3Free delivery and returns on eligible orders. Buy 12V 5A 60W Security Camera Power Adapter 100V-240V AC to DC with 8-Way Power Splitter Cable Power Supply for CCTV Security Camera DVR, LED Strip Lights at Amazon UK.

Link: 12V 5A 60W Security Camera Power Adapter 100V-240V AC to DC with 8-Way Power...

#13 — creatorlars · 2022-01-16

Agawell wrote:

this looks to be the same thing but for uk!

Yes, you shouldn’t have trouble finding a wide variety of DC12V solutions! There are CCTV supplies designed to be used with pigtail leads as well, and rackmounted options. Also any generic 12V switcher closed frame supplies like from Meanwell, etc – or DIN rail mount bulk 12V supplies, are all options if you want a dedicated install without wall warts.

I’m sure some of these 12VDC parts are better than others (connector/cable quality, power output stability, expected lifetime of use, etc) but the great thing about any of them is that they are all easy to replace or maintain if something burns out – and most importantly, the Gen3 modules should perform consistently regardless.

Anything we stock at LZX will have to be marked up over what you’d get on the open market, but I view that more as the cost of a verifiable supply chain – if we’re offering something like DC Distro, DC jumpers, power bricks, etc it will be after we’ve put in the work to test them with the system and ensure that a user with no desire to learn the ins and outs of DIY power options can just plug it all in and it works.

#14 — creatorlars · 2022-01-16

wednesdayayay wrote:

is the preferred use case that each output gets its own module

For the DC Distro, that’s the “this will work, I don’t have to add anything up” approach. If you start daisy chaining, just make sure to add up all your module currents and make sure it does not exceed either 5A (the connector rating) or the DC brick rating. (And insulate any unused output connectors!)

There will be some revised DC distro options coming as well as barebones rack ear + rail kits. The current plan is to have those ready at the time DWO3 is put up for sale (the last of the 5 module basic modular set we’ve been working on.)

#15 — creatorlars · 2022-01-16

#16 — nerdware · 2022-01-16

That’s why I plan to use a selection of 2-waym/3-way splitter cables with my DC Distro, with the splitters “upgrading” as I add more modules, up to a max of 14 modules on one brick (using up to four 3-way splitters and a single 2-way splitter).

#17 — creatorlars · 2022-01-16

nerdware wrote:

aym/3-way splitter cables with my DC Distro, with the splitters “upgrading” as I add more modules, up t

That sounds like a good plan. Little velcro straps to keep things tidy as you go is probably a good investment. Due to the L shape of the gen3 modules, there’s a kind of cavity created just below the DC barrel connectors on the rear, the intention is that even if you have a shallow case, this pocket area is enough room to keep any rear cables neatly wrapped rather than potentially smashed against the back of the case.

#18 — creatorlars · 2022-01-16

If you are adapting an existing case and want a no-soldering easy install (and don’t want a DC power entry module up front) you could use a DC feed thru bulkhead, like this:

vetco.net https://vetco.net/products/2-1mm-dc-power-bulkhead-feed-through-jack2.1mm DC Power Bulkhead / Feed-through Jack

Link: Philmore 45-257B - 2.1mm DC Power Bulkhead / Feed-through Jack

#19 — nerdware · 2022-01-16

Well, I’m using 19" racks with an 8" depth. I think that should be deep enough for Gen3!

I like the cable-tie tip. I have some simple “wire” cable-ties that came with various cables, so I coudl make use of them in my Gen3 case. However, I shall now also consider using velcro. Thanks.

#20 — Marizu · 2022-01-17

amazon.co.uk

Link: 12V 5A 60W Security Camera Power Adapter 100V-240V AC to DC with 8-Way Power...

I’ve just got this one. The output jack from the PSU isn’t 2.1mm. The adapter has 2.1mm outputs but isn’t suitable for bulkhead mounting. Just something to keep an eye out for.

Edit: the other thing that I’m seeing is a lot of adapters with a 2.5mm internal that are being advertised as 2.1mm. They only show the dimensions on a small diagram and claim that they are compatible.

#21 — Cappiecasparov · 2022-01-18

Thanks for this update. When reading the explanation of how things went with Chromagnon and TBC2 it definetely makes sense

And it’s good to know that my earlier investment in a huge power supply wasn’t for nothing…

#22 — Dr_Rek · 2022-01-22

Have to read this more later, but wanted to say I am super excited about 1080p, and 720p 60fps in particular. Progressive and High frame rates are gonna be awesome for sensory translator work.

#23 — nerdware · 2022-01-23

Oh, yes. For me it would be 1080p and 50fps PAL. I have a lovely set of PAL CCTV cameras that I use for feedback. I also have some HD-SDI dome cameras. So I’m real interesting in how all these might work in a hybrid SD/HD feedback setup. I also have a pair of Sensory Translators begging to be used in this context. Nevermind processing HD video and stereo audio.

#24 — DaydreamDevices · 2022-01-25

Ah man - I hate to be the one to bring it up - but the mention of TBC2 being interrelated/co-dependent on Chromagnon. Should we still expect to see TBC2 right after the rebuild is done on this first batch (I believe there was a post in December saying around something like around 2 months for rebuild?) - or is it going to continue to be held back as Chromagnon testing & finalization continues? Theres nothing I need more than to inject some external video into my system. I just ordered my third Composite to component converter for Visual Cortex - both had scaling options but nothing locked, gave me any image. Fingers crossed for #3 I guess, it was the expensive one

#26 — Z0NK0UT · 2022-01-25

TBC2 rebuild is in progress. No setbacks from Gen3. The team continues to push hard to meet goals.

#27 — analogbrainsurgeon · 2022-01-25

Hey, in case you haven’t come across this yet, the Ambrey composite to component converter is most people’s go-to for this as it definitely works with Visual Cortex. I know how maddening it is to try to solve this issue, so here’s a link:

ambery.com http://www.ambery.com/sdv1.htmlComposite S-Video to Component YUV RGB Converter And RGB Sync SOG Adapter

Link: Composite S-Video to Component Video RGB Sync On Green Converter

#28 — creatorlars · 2022-01-25

DesertMuseum wrote:

Is the firmware ready to go once the units are rebuilt?

Firmware is looking great on all of these projects, it’s the hardware being finalized that’s holding us back at the moment. We can’t release any firmware until the hardware is 100%, so that’s where we’re focused.

Remember that TBC2, Chromagnon, and anything with sync or ramps infrastructure in Gen3 (ESG3, DSG3, etc) all share a common codebase. It’s going to be to everyone’s advantage that we did it this way (it’s important that we are testing all of them together – TBC2/Chromagnon/ESG3/DSG3) before releasing any of them, but it’s been a long haul to say the least.

To put it another way – ESG3 or DSG3 being done also means a huge chunk of Chromagnon/TBC2 is done as well. Everything’s moving forward together. The modules have actually been helping immensely with finally conquering the big projects.

Ah man - I hate to be the one to bring it up - but the mention of TBC2 being interrelated/co-dependent on Chromagnon. Should we still expect to see TBC2 right after the rebuild is done on this first batch (I believe there was a post in December saying around something like around 2 months for rebuild?)

It’s a perfectly valid question. Yes, we will ship TBC2 as soon as the rebuild is done (meaning within 2-3 weeks of the last of the rebuilt units being completed and fully past testing). The rebuild takes priority over all the Gen3 modular projects. The past month we’ve been pushing through the modular projects hard so that we have some coasting momentum in order to power thru TBC2 fulfillment.

We’ve had some detours, as I’ve tried to explain – at the intent of every decision we’ve made has been “what gets TBC2 and Chromagnon done?” ahead of all else. Unfortunately that’s involved “we have to release these modules so the company doesn’t die” over the past several months. If the company dies, that just leaves me alone to try to fulfill on TBC2 and Chromagnon, possibly on top of a dayjob, and that is just not realistic. So it’s a 2 steps forward, 1 step back scenario.

Every day we get closer, and right now the team is optimistic and working at our best.

Here’s a shot of the whole family under test from last week.

#30 — DaydreamDevices · 2022-01-25

Thanks - Good to know, that is the one I just ordered! Saved the best for last haha Unfortunately 3-4 weeks in between each order for international shipping to test so its been quite a long saga

#31 — analogbrainsurgeon · 2022-01-25

Great, you’ll love it! That little Ambrey box is surprisingly valuable; for some reason VC won’t sync to my V40HD when fed component signal, but putting an Ambrey converter between the composite out and VC works like a charm, which has been necessary to get mixed HD video sources into my rack. Hopefully TBC2 will solve all this, but still the Ambrey box just works, and that’s what we all want

#32 — Chickenbone · 2022-01-27

Thanks for sharing the link! I bought one for this price years ago when I first snatched up a VC, but I’ve noticed the price is a little high from the one guy I see selling it on eBay. Definitely worth it.

#33 — b4_H · 2023-07-14

Hey Everyone!

Just curious if I missed a wave of shipments. I ordered a Chromagnon some time ago. Did I miss anything or are we all still waiting? I asking because my mailing address has changed three times over the years…

Thanks Ofield

#34 — rempesm · 2023-07-14

We’re all waiting, it has not shipped. Project timeline is on LZX’s website: https://lzxindustries.net/products/chromagnon

You can email LZX to update your address.

#35 — parallaxCloud · 2023-08-20

Which other modules functionality overlaps with Chromagnon’s? Are there any modules that Chromagnon makes redundant entirely? I preordered a Chromagnon as my starter module, and am looking at modules to see what might go well with it.

#36 — Z0NK0UT · 2023-08-21

Each additional module adds to the potential of additional complexity and control. I can’t really think of a module that would be redundant alongside Chromagnon. Maybe there are modules you wouldn’t find as useful, but that depends on what you are trying to achieve.

If you are interested in shape generation, then adding DWO3, DSG3, and modules to treat and combine their outputs would be best. From a pattern-making chain of modules you can then use Chromagnon to further complexify and animate the results for final output.

If you are interested in processing external video, you will want good modulation sources. DWO3 is also handy in this iteration, as well as Proc, SMX3, and modulators like LFOs and envelope followers.

Most LZX modules do double duty in external image and shape processing. There isn’t necessarily a wrong choice.

#37 — parallaxCloud · 2023-08-21

What about the video I/O modules TBC2 and ESG3?

#38 — Z0NK0UT · 2023-08-21

TBC2 adds extra video inputs (plus other features) and ESG3 adds an output with brightness and contrast knobs (and invert/mute switches). Both would be useful expansions (or alternatives) to Chromagnon’s i/o. Not redundant, but it depends on your process and whether you need or could use expanded i/o.

#39 — Robbertunist · 2023-08-24

Welcome to the forum @parallaxCloud

Basically Chromagnon replaces 5 (maybe even 6) Expedition modules, the range before Gen3. I’d say the list is: ShapeChanger, Navigator, Staircase, Mapper, Cyclops. (update: I forgot about Polar Fringe)The only obvious one-to-one module in the Gen3 range to the list above is Stairs & Staircase but as @Z0NK0UT pointed out, there’s nothing wrong with duplicating some functions and Stairs/Staircase are really powerful, instant satisfaction modules.

Stairs doubles the number of outputs of Staircase, from 3 to 6, and triples it’s inputs although the 3 are summed and then processed together but hey, it’s a 3 input summing mixer thrown in which doesn’t only have to be for an RGB signal from a TBC for instance.

Someone fed back one of the outputs of Stairs back into one of it’s inputs and hey presto, Stairs owners suddenly had an instant snow-crash noise module in their racks

Although there’s currently 15 Gen3 modules currently available, many of those coming soon & next year will be function blocks of Chromagnon’s functions regarding movement/rotation, I’m sure many others won’t and yet all will be good additions to a Chromagnon centered system, imho.

#40 — Rik_bS · 2023-08-27

Without knowing the signal routing in detail (ie, understanding if each section be patched individually) I wouldn’t so much say the Chromagnon “replaces” specific modules as much as “performs similar functionality”…

#41 — frank · 2023-08-27

did youall do the knobacon thing yet? and if so do you have any video footage of the event we can watch.?

#42 — Boneoh · 2023-08-27

Knobcon Number Eleven, runs September 8-10, 2023

https://www.knobcon.com/

#43 — Robbertunist · 2023-08-27

You’re right @Rik_bS but I was sure I basing what I wrote on something I read on here. I guess it’s an interpretation of this:

Discontinued:

Polar Fringe (replaced by Chromagnon)

Visual Cortex (replaced by Chromagnon, and other future Automata instruments)

Navigator (replaced by Chromagnon)

Shapechanger (replaced by Chromagnon, and other future Automata instruments)

Cyclops (replaced by Chromagnon)

It’s part of an older but important post. It’s towards the bottom, under “Discontinued”.

Here’s the link:

Howdy! > I’ve been meaning to make this post in the wake of our Halloween announcement, in which I explain our direction moving forward into 2020 with current, past and future development.  Please feel free to ask any questions in this thread. >> LZX is entering a third era of development. In each generation we have experimented a lot: Visionary, Expedition and Orion series are all documentations of journeys through a lot of analogue processing territory and instrumentation concepts.  This generat…>

#44 — Dr_Rek · 2023-08-31

Any update on gen3 LFO & envelope follower modules? Pendulum I use all the time, been wondering what will replace it.

#45 — Vdot · 2023-08-31

I suspect a new envelope follower is low on LZX’s list considering VH.S just dropped this bad boy: Aural Scan Video Synth — videoheadroom.systems

#46 — Z0NK0UT · 2023-08-31

DWO3 is pretty impressive for LFO duties, so we have been leaning on that. And the Video Headroom Systems Baja feels indispensable. VH.S also has an envelope follower coming out, as @Vdot mentioned. There are LZX designs for these functions on deck, but we don’t have a timeline laid out.

#47 — dryodryo · 2023-08-31

DWO3 is a great LFO.

Syntonie Animate + Expander also looks amazeballs.

#48 — Robbertunist · 2023-09-01

+1 on the Syntonie Animate & Expander combo although the Animate will go a long way too.

A Square output can be sent to a clockdivider to get fractions of the tempo/LFO speed too.

#49 — brownshoesonly · 2023-09-02

We have new voltage source modules in development. Lfo has been talked a lot. And gone through some very different at times panel concepts. Something more video rate will be happening first. Things that have been mentioned include easing curves. Phase relations. Timeline™️ vibes.

As far as lfo. Yea. It’s kinda like this.

Dwo. Benefits from static cv offset input for very slow stuff. Gives you all that video rate rizz. (Also hard to sacrifice a video rate to do lfo mode)

Syntonie. Gets you lfo only at price reduction from dwo. Ample waves and more with expander. Listed range is 100 seconds. Not sure if you can cv a higher voltage than 1v (normalled to cv input) for extra low low. 4 phases

Baja. Goes slowest with or without patching. Smallest footprint. Single waveform. 6 phases. Ribbon pwr only

I keep putting off Bajas because early simple translations to 5v weren’t instant success

#50 — dryodryo · 2023-09-02

Ease curves, phase, great things to consider. We do have good options in the audio realm, it’s just the voltage conversions that get in the way. Ornament and Crime Plus meets most of my needs, if I can just get the tuning right. If I can get a really precise 1-5V sawtooth into OCP > Hemispheres > VectorMorph, I can map that onto any function curve and phase. I imagine the newer, sexier versions of Disting would also go quite a ways down that path as well.

Anyway, it would be epic if some app-based digital CV magic made its way to the native LZX voltage standard. Custom function curves would effectively enable simple timeline operations, i.e. random access value mappings. (OCP Hemispheres does this) Add a CV digital delay line or two, and Bob’s your uncle. (Disting does this)

DWO is great, I don’t see it as sacrificing video rate to do LFO. I see it as a versatile option that saves rack space. Driving the FM input into negativland gives me all the slow LFO range I need.

#51 — Agawell · 2023-09-03

any digital module with open source firmware - all mutable instrument except beads, and a lot of others, o&c - should be reasonably easy be update to use 0-1v instead of 5v…

mutable ones that I can think of that would be useful for video - ie mostly modulation would be tides (both versions), frames, peaks and stages

doesn’t really need huge amounts of coding skill either… just work out where the output values are being sent to the pins and adjust… and build and reflash… probably a bit hit and miss, at least to start with though…

#52 — dryodryo · 2023-09-03

Agawell wrote:

any digital module with open source firmware - all mutable instrument except beads, and a lot of others, o&c - should be reasonably easy be update

… for someone with considerable relevant skill and experience

#53 — nerdware · 2023-09-03

Changing the scale should be a trivial programming task. Greater changes have been made to the firmware for Mutable Instruments modules. As for updating, see the update instructions for the Parasites firmware.

However, I sold all my digital MI modules and I no longer have any space in the one cabinet in which I could cleanly power them.

I now use a pair of Sensory Translators as my “programmable” modulation sources. I feed them with sine waves with varying amplitudes, generated using CSound, tuned to the frequences of the Sensory Translator bands.

So much easier for me to program and update.

I’m sure the technique could be adapted for Aural Scan and other sine wave sources.

#54 — Agawell · 2023-09-03

indeed - the relevant skills: reading, maths, following instructions and a willingness to spend some time and effort…

no experience necessary…

it’s not like you need to become a fully fledged C++ programmer to do this… and once you’ve done one the others are more than likely exactly the same…

#55 — dryodryo · 2023-09-04

nerdware wrote:

I now use a pair of Sensory Translators as my “programmable” modulation sources. I feed them with sine waves with varying amplitudes, generated using CSound, tuned to the frequences of the Sensory Translator bands.

What’s the advantage of this vs. simply generating control voltages and outputting via a DC coupled audio interface?

#56 — nerdware · 2023-09-04

I have no modules that can produce such complex signals. I usually want slowly flucturating CVs. While Marbles can generate 4 of them, it’s 18hp wide. That’s a lot of panel space for only 4 useful CVs! So I use a pair of Sensory Translators to get 10 fluctuating values. I can also generate any other complex signals, and they can change at any time. Even better, I can sync them with a video signal to get 3 video-rate CVs. I generate the video signals using FFmpeg, of course.

I’m now starting to experiment with more complex audio/visual generative techniques, This is done by writing code that generates filtergraph and/or command files (via the sendcmd filter) for FFmpeg, and score files for Csound. I’m also writing code to generatively edit the video in post-production. I may someday write more code to generate audio synched with the video.

Various examples of these techniques may be found via my Vimeo account.

#57 — dryodryo · 2023-09-05

I’m just saying, if you are good with Csound or whatever, something like Expert Sleepers ES-9 is a much more direct approach. Your use of fine-tuned sine waves through dual 5-band envelope followers is a clever approach. But you can easily just generate the control voltages directly. ES-9 is not cheap, and it “only” has eight outputs, but it is cheaper than 2x Sensory Translators, and I think it’s overall a better solution. I’m planning to go down that road eventually.

#58 — nerdware · 2023-09-05

dryodryo wrote:

ES-9

I have several problems with Expert Systems modules.

The first is that they’re not class-compliaqnt. Even using Windows 10, the driver didn’t work.

The second problem is that I don’t have space for a computer in or near my video rig. I might be able to set up a Rasperry Pi running Debian and Csound, but that would require a class-compliant soundcard.

So I use a pair of LZX modules instead. You can probably guess which video player I use to provide the audio and video.

#59 — dryodryo · 2023-09-05

Sorry this is drifting super far off topic. I’ve not had an issue with the driver for my ES-9 on Windows 10.

If you’re not using a computer, I don’t understand how you’re using Csound.

#60 — nerdware · 2023-09-05

I use a computer running Ubuntu in another room. I use to create or prepare videos I can play into my video synth. The last time I used a computer and the synth in the same room was 2015.

You’re right, this is drifting off-topic. I was simply responding to Agawell’s post about custom MI firmware by describing how I avoided that. I’ve done that and said more than enough now.

#61 — Robbertunist · 2023-09-05

O&C

Ornnament & Crime at 1V

#62 — VanTa · 2023-09-06

Your settings may vary.

It depends a bit on each unit and their calibration.

That said, setting o&c to 1v is fantastic, I used it a lot before having the syntonie lfos.

Having weird waveforms in audio range oscillators and feeding them to diver is a simple and nice patch.

#63 — scuto · 2023-09-06

Interesting to read about Ornament and Crime’s 1v capabilities. I’ve got Zadar, and while it has some wild waveforms which can be skewed in interesting ways, it doesn’t sync to video rates from what I’ve tried so far.

What can take sync (my system is Visual Cortex-based) is Vermona’s uniCYCLE, and it’s already a lower peak-to-peak waveform at 5v instead of 10v like most audio euro oscillators. I can get it to do multiple horizontal lines, but only one vertical line will sync, effectively becoming a ramp. Fun to modulate its even waveform’s pulse width when it’s moonlighting as a horizontal ramp! (I asked and Vermona did not intend them for video use, thus hasn’t mentioned it in their materials, but they’re more versatile in practice if you’ve got an interest in both A & V.

Regardless, it’ll be some time before I’ve caught up with the Gen3 modules. I’m excited to see what will come next, and hope to see more “3 Patches” videos if they’re still making them.

#64 — parallaxCloud · 2023-09-09

I am curious to know what the downresing/upresing experience is with Chromagnon. Synthonie video delay/enhancer modules have caught my eye. Can Chromagnon output to these modules via composite video, then upres the resulting composite video back to 1080 60?

Seems like I would need another output module to export to the synthonie modules, then pass the result to Chromagnon for upresing.

#65 — dryodryo · 2023-09-13

I use the Hemispheres firmware for O&C, it’s like having two complete modules in one. And the Plum Audio version, O&C Plus, adds some indispensible options such as attenuverters, and the all-important +/-5V global switch.

I’ve done the 0-1V dance with OCP plenty of times; one of the apps is Attenuate / Offset. But that uses up one of the hemispheres. I’d rather use both Hemispheres for creative apps. Best to send the 0-5V outputs through a Cadet V scaler or a BSO 5:1… except, as I have lamented many times, the former requires DIY abilities and free time, and the latter is no longer in production.

#66 — dryodryo · 2023-09-13

Chromagnon can upscale or downscale, but only exactly once. It’s a single channel device. You can’t send CVBS out of Chromagnon, through some other boxes, back to Chromagnon, upscale, and output again.

So you probably need a TBC2 if you want to integrate those Syntonie glitch modules in an HD workflow. Or you could do everything in SD and upscale at the end of the chain, either with an HD upscaling device or in software.

#67 — jwsmithwick1 · 2023-09-13

Scopic Modular has a 2hp down-scaler available as well

reverb.com

https://reverb.com/item/68821056-scopic-modular-sca-5-voltage-scaler-5-1-for-lzxSCA-5 Voltage ScalerFour channels of 5:1 voltage scaling adapt eurorack CV and other voltages to the LZX 1v standard, preserving bipolar voltages. Normalized inputs allow use as a scaling buffered multiple. HP: 2Depth: 27mm

Link: Scopic Modular SCA-5 Voltage Scaler 5:1 for LZX | Reverb

#68 — parallaxCloud · 2023-09-13

Very cool. Any recommendations for lightweight upresing? Are there light weight modules for going to/from CompositeVideo and Component Video?

#69 — dryodryo · 2023-09-13

Oh yeah! I forgot about that. Thanks! A five to one voltage converter that’s actually in production! And only 2HP.

#70 — dryodryo · 2023-09-13

parallaxCloud wrote:

Are there light weight modules for going to/from CompositeVideo and Component Video?

Not that I know of… it’s pretty involved from a technical standpoint. Either a full digital frame store, or an intricate analog scan conversion. Many HD mixers will automatically upscale to their chosen output format. There are also numerous legacy standalone scaler boxes from Extron and other manufacturers. And if you’re just recording, not doing live performance, you can always upscale in post using Premiere or whatever.

#71 — petro · 2023-11-06

Hi! I have a vessel case with 2x capsule power. If I want to put some gen3 modules in this case can I power them via a daisy chain from the dc socket on the back of capsule power module(s).

I powered the system on and plugged a dc power cable into the capsule on the right side of the case and measured 11.95V on that connector with a multimeter so it seems good to go. I am using the 8.34A supply that came with the case.

If I put about 10 x gen3 modules in 2 chains of 5x modules daisy chained from each capsule on 1-5 fx pedal daisy chains, the load would be about 1A +12V on each chain . and for the remaining modules load will be approx. 575 mA +12V | 340 mA -12V on each capsule . thanks!

#72 — Z0NK0UT · 2023-11-06

The combination of Capsule and barrel power in that case will make it very flexible for building a system. You can definitely plug a splitter into the DC outlet inside the case and power some Gen3 modules.

#73 — petro · 2023-11-06

oh great, thanks chad !

#74 — b4_H · 2023-11-16

Hello friends,

Have I missed any important updates in terms of Chromagnon shipments?

Thanks in advance. I suppose I can hunt down the most current schedule.

b4_H

#75 — Z0NK0UT · 2023-11-17

We have been preparing an update, but have not yet sent out the newsletter. Soon!

#76 — Strutter · 2024-08-09

Is there a list somewhere of the expedition modules with sync connections that will work at HD rate?

#77 — Z0NK0UT · 2024-08-09

Here are some guidelines for using ESG3, TBC2, and Chromagnon with earlier generations of LZX modules and instruments: >>> ESG3 has 15 different video sync modes. 2 of those modes are NTSC and PAL. ESG3 is fully backwards compatible with all previous LZX modules, because it retains the NTSC and PAL sync modes. So to use it with older modules, run it in NTSC or PAL sync modes. >>> ESG3 does not add 13 new sync modes to older modules. In order to use ESG3 in HD sync modes with older systems you will…>

#78 — pitfiend · 2024-12-02

I have a question about the distant future, long after the Chromagnon saga.

I vaguely remember something about Automata instruments, specifically a texture voice. That and a line of new DIY modules. Are there any vague plans in those areas still?

#79 — 337is · 2024-12-03

I don’t know about Automata instruments for future release, but I recall that being talked about in the past too.

As for DIY, this module is currently available in built and kit form and seems to be a solid step into the future of DIY modules:

lzxindustries.net

https://lzxindustries.net/products/pgoPGO is a multi-purpose analog operator for adding and subtracting signals. It is designed to cover as much functional territory as possible, while also ...

Link: PGO | LZX Industries

#80 — pitfiend · 2024-12-03

Oops, I hadn’t read the latest blog post. So the P Series [like the PGO] is the foretold DIY successor to the Cadet series. That’s awesome news!

#81 — b4_H · 2025-07-10

Good Day,

For the record- Chromagnon has NOT shipped right? I’ve moved twice since I Bought it however many years now. 4-5 I take it. It’s hard to keep up. Thanks