ERICA SYNTHS PICO SYSTEM III
This is Erica's most affordable and flexible miniature modular synth yet: the Pico System III, a West Coast-inspired instrument that draws clear inspiration from the Buchla Music Easel. With a classic pairing of rich modulation sources, complex oscillator, lowpass gates, and preset memory via DIY "program cards," the Pico System III Eurorack module brings a taste of classic Buchla to Eurorack systems at a remarkable price. But of course, it has a uniquely Erica spin—bringing a touch of grunge and grit to this classic workflow.
The basic signal flow begins with two oscillators with a dedicated VCO Controller, allowing for linear and exponential FM and multiple forms of waveshaping (including PWM). Two resonant lowpass gates provide a rubbery, plucky, organic dynamic response, and a voltage-controllable BBD effect provides flanging, chorus, and short delay effects (with delay times up to 400ms).
The other half of the instrument's character is defined by its modulation options. A multi-purpose modulator module offers sine and pulse LFOs, as well as random pulses, random S&H, and noise. Two voltage-controllable AD envelopes (with optional looping) provide the potential to create everything from plucky articulations to long, evolving voltage contours. And of course, several mixers provide the option for combining CV or audio signals.
Using the included factory preset cards and a host of DIY cards, users can explore the possibility of modular preset memory—storing all patch routing on individual cards. Experiment with using resistors to attenuate signals between modules, or simply stick with the factory cards for a fun and immediate experience.
Bringing many of the concepts of classic West Coast synths to Eurorack format with a decidedly "Erica" twist, the Pico System III module is one of the most interesting full voice modules currently available.
PICO SYSTEM III FEATURES
Full West Coast modular synth voice in only 42hp
Preset card patch memory functionality a la Buchla Music Easel
Four-step sequencer
Two VCOs with linear and exponential FM and various waveshaping tricks
Dedicated modulation oscillator with Noise, S&H, and Random Pulse generation
Two looping voltage-controllable envelope generators
Two Lowpass gates with variable resonance
Built-in BBD delay with up to 400ms delay time
Three built-in mixers for modulation, audio mixing, and output level management
Includes Five factory preset voice cards and five DIY voice cards
Includes one Hosa stackable patch cable
Includes User Manual with several pages for patch notes