FUSEBOX X

user manual
Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual
Introduc)on ................................................................................................................................3
FUSEBOX X Layout .......................................................................................................................5
Differences ..................................................................................................................................6
FUSEBOX X: .................................................................................................................................7
Audio Applica)ons ......................................................................................................................7
Circuits Included .........................................................................................................................8
Moun)ng Op)ons .....................................................................................................................10
Safety Instruc)ons ....................................................................................................................11
GeKng Started ..........................................................................................................................12
Ini)al Tuning .............................................................................................................................13
Circuits in Detail ........................................................................................................................14
VCO - Voltage Controlled Oscillators .........................................................................................15
LFO - Low Frequency Oscillator .................................................................................................20
Envelope Generators ................................................................................................................22
External triggering of the Envelopes .........................................................................................24
MIXER .......................................................................................................................................25
NOISE / SUB .............................................................................................................................25
Filter ..........................................................................................................................................26
Filtering External Sound Sources ..............................................................................................27
VCA ...........................................................................................................................................28
PaZernator ................................................................................................................................29
Digital Sequencer ......................................................................................................................35
SeKng MIDI Receive Channel ...................................................................................................38
Transpose ..................................................................................................................................38
Interval Generator ....................................................................................................................40
Live Performances ....................................................................................................................41
Control CV .................................................................................................................................42
Patch Sheet ...............................................................................................................................45
Patch Examples .........................................................................................................................48
Changing Mechanical Configura)on .........................................................................................49
No Signal? .................................................................................................................................50
Specifica)on ..............................................................................................................................51
Warranty ...................................................................................................................................52

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

Introduction
Congratulations on buying the FUSEBOX X synthesiser. FUSEBOX X is part of the
Analogue Solutions range of analogue music equipment. FUSEBOX X is a precision
electronic musical instrument. It combines all the often needed music electronic
circuitry to make a powerful music synthesiser in one compact module.

No compromise has been made with the construction of FUSEBOX X. Cheaper

options in parts have not been used

• Full rugged steel/aluminium case - no plastic mouldings

• Good quality smooth, metal potentiometers, fully sealed against dust
• Good quality knobs with spun aluminium caps
• High grade double sided circuit board
• High quality 16bit DAC for MIDI-CV conversion
• Stable MIDI to CV
• Stable analogue oscillators
• Designed, built, tested and assembled in the UK
• True retro analogue voice and modulation circuits to give an authentic retro
sound - no DSP.
• Real wood sides.

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

WHY DO I NEED THIS SYNTH? WHAT’S SO SPECIAL?

FUSEBOX X is a compact true analogue mono synth in a neat, smart, small

package.
When we say real analogue, we mean that the entire audio path and all modulation
is entirely analogue, using circuits based on awesome sounding vintage 1970s
designs. Their circuits are not locked down by CPUs. Controls are not quantised and
read by CPUs. With the exception of the MIDI to CV circuit, which by its nature must
have a digital element, and the control sections of the sequencer (which even in
vintage sequencers is digital), FUSEBOX X really is analogue and the sound benefit is
immediately apparent!
We get many good comments about how good Analogue Solutions products sound.
How wonderful, warm and full of character they are.
The synth has been designed by Tom Carpenter, a musician and a big fan of
electronic music. He knows how to program a synth and what should be expected. It
was not designed by an engineer or steered by committee, or men in suits. So, the
modulation choices and range of sounds they produce have all been carefully thought
out and quickly give you those sounds you want: huge bass, synth leads, percussion,
effects, modular style sounds.

FUSEBOX X CAN BE AS COMPLEX OR AS SIMPLE AS YOU

WANT IT TO BE

We have given this synth a large and diverse number of controls, that along side the
patch sockets, will give even the best and experienced synthesist endless possibilities.
We have presented the controls in a user friendly and familiar synth layout that,
together with this manual and other resources, enable even the new guy to get great
sounds.

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

FUSEBOX X Layout

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

Differences

Major Differences Between v1 and X (v2):

Tri-phonic mode (three note poly).

More jacks! Some rocker switches replaced with jack sockets for more patchability.

The Interval Generator and Patternator pots replaced with precision type.

440Hz tuner tone.

Interval Generator clock input - allows automatic transposition in a variety of ways.

Bar1 / Note0 trigger outputs - versatile alternative ways to trigger the Patternator and
Interval Generator.

Arpeggiator replaced with mini step sequencer.

Wider range of playable notes via MIDI.

Many internal performance tweaks.

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

FUSEBOX X:
SYNTH – PERCUSSION – AUDIO PROCESSOR

FUSEBOX X is a compact analogue synthesizer. Analogue - as in really analogue.

Aside from the MIDI chip (which has to be digital), everything else is totally analogue
using real transistors and op-amps. There are no CPU stabilised and quantised circuits,
no DCOs, no digital LFOs and no digital EGs, as found on other so called analogue
synths. The circuitry is based on designs dating back to the mid-1970s. So FUSEBOX
X has a genuine old sound.

Audio Applications

MONO SYNTHESISER
FUSEBOX X is for use any time you need analogue sound effects, fat basses,
screaming leads, beeps, tones, zaps, and all the other crazy sounds associated with
analogue synthesis. Use in place of your boring digital synths and DSP soft synths.

EFFECTS PROCESSOR
FUSEBOX X has an audio input socket, so you can feed external sounds through
the on-board analogue filters for analogue processing.

DRUM SYNTHESISER
FUSEBOX X is able to produce electronic percussion – kick, snare, hi-hats, cymbal,
etc.

MODULAR SYNTHESISER
FUSEBOX X is partially pre-patched but, nearly all of these patches can be
cancelled using the switches and controls. It has such a wide range of modulation
routing possibilities that it is almost as versatile as a full modular and can produce the
same types of sounds, without the mess and confusion of cables. Even so, it has a
large selection of patch sockets that enable you to re-patch itself, or, to connect it to an
external modular.

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual
MIDI (DAW Use) or CV & Gate?
This unit can be used with a MIDI keyboard (or DAW, or sequencer), CV keyboard,
or, you can use it with an analogue sequencer.

You can even use it just on its own using the Patternator and Interval Generator.

It can also be used by MIDI and CV at the same time! So you could have an
analogue step sequencer playing a little melody, then using a MIDI keyboard (or MIDI
sequencer) transpose the analogue sequence.

Circuits Included
Analogue Oscillators
There are three analogue VCOs – each providing a wealth of features and modula)on
choices. VCO 2 and 3 can easily be u)lised as 2nd / 3rd LFOs.

Analogue Low Frequency Oscillator

The LFO has Sine and Square wave modula)on signals and also a delay feature.

4 Analogue Filter Types

FUSEBOX X uses a two pole 12bB per octave mul)mode filter. The filter is actually four
types in one. Low pass, Band pass, High pass and Notch filters. And, it sounds amazing.

Analogue Mixer
Audio choices are the Saw and Square wave of each VCO (VCO3 also has Triangle),
Noise or, and, for added fatness, Sub-Oscillator. There are sockets for external audio.

Analogue Amplifier
The VCA can be set to THRU so it is always ‘open’. This allows FUSEBOX X to be used as
an effects processor.

2 Analogue Envelopes
There are two EGs – each having control over ATTACK, SUSTAIN, and combined DECAY/
RELEASE. It’s not really true to say it is an ASR envelope, it really is an ADSR - Decay
and Release are both controlled by the same control. Saving space with almost no
compromise in flexibility.

Modulation
Great thought has been placed into modula)on route choices, allowing a wide range of
sounds to be produced, including percussion and ‘modular’ style sounds.

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual
MIDI
MIDI is inten)onally kept simple – so you can concentrate on making new sounds and
making music – not geKng )ed up with SYSEX programming.
You get the all important control over filter cut-off using MIDI Velocity. There are other
CV and control voltages outputs also.

‘Patchable’ External CV Control Sockets

FUSEBOX X has many input and output audio and CV sockets - to allow the synth to be
effec)vely re-wired to make new sounds.
The sockets also enable it to be easily used with Eurorack and other modular systems.
They can be patched together.

Sequencer
FUSEBOX X has a vintage style mini step sequencer. Similar to that found on the Roland
SH101. Ideal for crea)ng simple melodic loops, that you can then transpose.

Patternator
FUSEBOX X has a very interes)ng and unique sequencer that is the love child of an
analogue step sequencer and an arpeggiator.
Use it to create short melodic note sequences, and / or use it to create rhythm
paZerns.
A great tool for inspira)on!

Interval Generator
The whole pitch of the synth can be transposed at the push of a buZon, and automated
using the IG Clock In.
There are six transpose seKngs you can program in using six analogue pots.
Set the transpose level you want for each - and then using the push buZons you can
transpose your melodic piece (that you can program in on the PaZernator or
Sequencer) - to create live performance!
The IG pots are not quan)sed - they are also analogue!

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

Mounting Options
FUSEBOX X can be orientated and configured in several ways;

VERTICAL (TALL)
As standard, it comes as a vertical desktop unit just like Telemark.

HORIZONTAL (FLAT)
It is possible to reconfigure it so that it is a flat table top unit, like its cousin Leipzig-3
is. This requires some minor screwdriver work. Essentially remove the 5 front panel
black screws, rotate the front panel 180 degrees, then re-screw.

Note: It was designed to best be used in the tall orientation.

RACKED
Remove the wood sides and fit optional rack ear brackets, and rack mount the whole
assembly. 7U height.


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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

Safety Instructions

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE USING:

• Only use the correct power adaptor - 230V for UK/EU (115V for N.America).
• Never handle the adaptor with wet hands.
• Never excessively bend the adaptor cable or get it trapped or place heavy
objects on it. If the adaptor cable becomes damaged, replace the adaptor.
• Ensure the unit is disconnected from the mains before moving or cleaning.
• Always disconnect the unit from the mains if there is lightning in your area.
• Ensure the unit is on a stable surface, and never place heavy objects on top of
it.
• Never allow young children, flat-Earthers, or animals to operate the unit or
adaptor.
• Do not use excessive force when using the controls or inserting cables to the
connectors.
• The unit should not be operated in the rain, near water, or at a foam party, and
should not be exposed to moisture.
• If the unit is brought from a cold environment to a warm one, the unit should be
left to reach the ambient temperature.
• Keep away from heat sources, such as radiators, ovens, heaters etc.
• Never allow it to get wet. Do not operate it near water, like pools, sinks,
bathrooms etc. Oh, we covered that already.
• Do not place beverages on or near it.
• Never open the case or attempt to make repairs. Refer any servicing to qualified
service personnel.

PREVENTING DAMAGE TO OTHER CONNECTED DEVICES

FUSEBOX X has a very high dynamic range. It is capable of produce loud signals of
very high and sub-sonic frequencies that could blow inadequate speakers if played too
loud. It is recommended that input levels to external equipment (mixers, amp's etc.) are
kept low when first connected, and then slowly increased to a useable level.

MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Any cleaning of the FUSEBOX X case should be done with a clean lint-free cloth. 

DO NOT USE SOLVENTS OR CLEANERS, as this will deteriorate the exterior
appearance of the equipment. Do not use a car wash or jet wash to clean this synth.

PLACE
Place FUSEBOX X soundly on a stable surface so it cannot fall off or over, causing it
or yourself injury.

POWER
The unit needs a 18V DC minimum 800mA or higher. Centre positive.

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

Getting Started

POWER
FUSEBOX X comes with a power supply.

Plug the power lead into the rear of FUSEBOX X.

MIDI

FUSEBOX X has;

MIDI In for sequencing from DAW or playing via MIDI keys.

MIDI Thru outputs a copy of what comes into the MIDI In socket.

MIDI Out outputs a copy of what comes into the MIDI In socket.

PATCHING
The VCOs are not hard-wired to the mixer (filter) inputs. So at the minimum you will
need to patch one or more of the VCO outputs to the VCF inputs via the mixer using
patch cables.

EXAMPLE SET UP
Connect MIDI Out from your computer DAW MIDI interface or MIDI keyboard to
MIDI In of FUSEBOX X.

Optionally connect MIDI Thru/Out from FUSEBOX X to the MIDI In of another

device.

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Analogue Solutions | FUSEBOX X | Manual

Initial Tuning

Once the MIDI and audio connections have been made it may be necessary to tune
in the VCOs to the rest of your music set-up. Allow a five minute warm up time as these
are true analogue VCOs – that’s why they sound so great!

There are many controls on this synth that can affect one or all of the VCOs! If just
one of these extra controls is in action, then you might think odd things are going on
with tuning. So ensure every parameter that can affect the pitch of the VCOs are
cancelled or zeroed.

First set up the controls of FUSEBOX X to make a simple sound.

Set Master Tune to the centre.

Ensure the Patternator pitch control is set to zero.
Ensure the Interval Generator is disabled.
Ensure the Sequencer is off.
Note, that patch leads plugged into the VCOs might also affect pitch.
Set VCO1 Octave to off.
Set Sync to off.
Set Xmod to off.
Set While Tune to off.
Set MIDI Pitch (VCO3) to off.

Turn VCO2 and VCO3 to zero volume so you can only hear VCO1.

Play, say, middle C on the keyboard. Using a digital keyboard as a reference, adjust
the tuning of VCO1 until it plays in tune with your reference.

Turn up VCO2 so both VCOs can be heard. Using the tune control of VCO2, tune it
to VCO1.

Finally, turn up VCO3 so all VCOs can be heard. You may prefer to turn down VCO2
at this point so you just hear VCOs 1 and 3. Using the tune control of VCO3, tune it to
VCO1.

This synth is truly analogue - and uses an old VCO circuit design to give it its great
sound. DON’T expect DCO or DSP style precision pitch.
The pitch will be in tune but have subtle shifts across the octaves due to their
vintage design. The drift right be more noticeable at high octaves. This is in part what
adds to the character and warmth of the sound. That’s the whole point!

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Circuits in Detail
Here follows details on the sockets and controls, with brief simplified explanations of
what the circuits do. We have not gone into technical details on how or exactly what
each circuit does but tried to explain each control's function and effect.

This synth has been designed to be simple and intuitive to use, just like the original
analogue synth’s of the 70s and 80s. There are no multi-layered menus to work
through.

Anyone who has used synthesisers before should be familiar with the terms used
and therefore be able to predict their behaviour and how they affect the sound. The
best way to learn how to use FUSEBOX X is to go straight ahead and play with it.
Reading of this manual may only be necessary for finer operational detail.

There are many many web resources and books available if you need actual tuition
or explanation of how functions like LFO, ADSR, etc work or can be used.

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VCO - Voltage Controlled Oscillators

FUSEBOX X has three analogue VCOs. These produce the raw audio sound source
for later processing.

VCO3 can be detached from MIDI note and be used independently as a voltage
controlled LFO - for modulation duties.

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VCO1

DETUNE

Use this control to alter the pitch in small amounts to detune relative to the other
oscillators.

PITCH

This control is used to attenuate any modulation signal that you patch into the socket
below.

Examples of modulation signals are outputs from the LFO or EG, or from an external
modular system (eg Eurorack). An audio signal can also be used, such as the audio
outputs from the other oscillators.

PW - Pulse Width

This control allows you to manually change the pulse width of the Square waveform.

PWM - Pulse Width Modulation

Use this control to alter the amount external modulation that you patch into the
socket below.

Examples of modulation signals are outputs from the LFO or EG, or from an external
modular system (eg Eurorack).

Square / Sawtooth

There are separate jack socket audio outputs for the two VCO waveforms.

These can be patched to other circuits, for example, used to modulate the pitch of
another oscillator.

OCT - Octave

Click right to transpose the pitch up one octave.

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XMOD - Cross Modulation

Click right to turn XMOD on. This routes Square wave audio out from VCO2 to
VCO1 pitch. Used for amazing effects!

VCO2

DETUNE

Use this control to alter the pitch in small amounts to detune relative to the other
oscillators.

PITCH

This control is used to attenuate any modulation signal that you patch into the socket
below.

Examples of modulation signals are outputs from the LFO or EG, or from an external
modular system (eg Eurorack). An audio signal can also be used, such as the audio
outputs from the other oscillators.

PW - Pulse Width

This control allows you to manually change the pulse width of the Square waveform.

PWM - Pulse Width Modulation

Use this control to alter the amount external modulation that you patch into the
socket below.

Examples of modulation signals are outputs from the LFO or EG, or from an external
modular system (eg Eurorack).

Square / Sawtooth

There are separate jack socket audio outputs for the two VCO waveforms.

These can be patched to other circuits, for example, used to modulate the pitch of
another oscillator.

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WIDE TUNE

Click right to dramatically increase the range of the DETUNE control. You can take
the frequency right down to LFO speeds, and right up to much higher pitches.

Ideal for using VCO2 as an LFO, or for extreme modulations effects.

SYNC

Click right to turn SYNC on. This causes VCO1 and VCO2 to become synchronised
(in pitch). Use for Sync effects.

VCO3 (VCLFO)

DETUNE

Use this control to alter the pitch in small amounts to detune relative to the other
oscillators.

PITCH

This control is used to attenuate any modulation signal that you patch into the socket
below.

Examples of modulation signals are outputs from the LFO or EG, or from an external
modular system (eg Eurorack). Audio signal can also be used, such as the audio
outputs from the other oscillators.

PW - Pulse Width

This control allows you to manually change the pulse width of the Square waveform.

PWM - Pulse Width Modulation

Use this control to alter the amount external modulation that you patch into the
socket below.

Examples of modulation signals are outputs from the LFO or EG, or from an external
modular system (eg Eurorack).

Square / Sawtooth / Triangle

There are separate jack socket audio outputs for the two VCO waveforms.

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These can be patched to other circuits, for example, used to modulate the pitch of
another oscillator.

WIDE TUNE

Click right to dramatically increase the range of the DETUNE control. You can take
the frequency right down to LFO speeds, and right up to much higher pitches.

Ideal for using VCO3 as an LFO, or for extreme modulations effects.

MIDI PITCH

Click left to turn off / disconnect VCO3 pitch control from MIDI.

A typical use for this is for VCO3 to be free running and independent from MIDI
pitch, enabling it to be used as a modulator (LFO or otherwise).

GENERAL VCO CONTROLS (APPLY TO ALL 3)

MASTER TUNE

Used to alter the pitch of all three VCOs.

GLOBAL PITCH

This control alters the level of any modulation signal patched into the adjacent
socket. The modulation signal will affect all three VCOs.

For example, to get equal vibrato playing on all three VCOs, patch the sine wave
from the LFO into here.

VCO AUDIO!
To hear the VCOs one or more need to have their outputs patched to the inputs of
the Mixer section.


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LFO - Low Frequency Oscillator

In addition to being able to use VCO2 or VCO3 as modulators, there is a dedicated
analogue LFO.

It has two 2 Sine wave jack socket outputs and two Square wave jack socket
outputs.

SPEED

This control alters the LFO speed / frequency.

CUT-OFF

This sets the amount of Sine wave LFO signal that will modulate the Filter
Frequency Cut-Off (sounds a little like wah-wah!).

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PWM

This sets the amount of Sine wave LFO signal that will modulate all three VCOs’
Square wave pulse width.

FADE IN

This control sets a delay time for modulation. The time between hitting a MIDI key
and the LFO signal to reach maximum.

It only affects the Sine wave. The delay is initiated from MIDI Note.

Here’s how it happens.

The Sine wave is always running at full level. As soon as you hit a MIDI Note the
Sine level goes to zero then slowly climbs to full level at a rate set by the FADE IN
control.

Use for delayed vibrato affects (when patching Sine out to Global Pitch in).

The LFO Jacks

The Sine wave and Square waves each have two jack socket outputs.

The lower Square wave socket is at a slightly lower level than the one above.

Patch these outputs to other areas of the synth, for example to modulate a VCO’s
pitch or Pulse Width.

The square wave can be used as a clock source for Patternator or the Sequencer.


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Envelope Generators

FUSEBOX X features two separate analogue envelopes.

Just one is shown below:

Fusebox EG is the familiar ADSR type - but with Decay and Release sharing the
same settings using one control.

There are two CV output jacks on the right.

Trigger input Jack.

The rocker switch selects internal triggering source. Up for Patternator Gate, down
for MIDI Gate.


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EG RE-TRIGGERING

When this switch is On (switch is down) the EGs will re-trigger (play again and
again) for as long as a MIDI key is held down.

The rate of re-trigger is taken from the LFO speed.

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External triggering of the Envelopes

It’s possible of course to trigger the envelopes from external gate signals, such as
keyboards with CV and gate outputs, or sequencers.

But! There are no standards for gates or triggers. There’s a kind of loose standard,
or at least a common(ish) understanding of what a gate should be.

The main question is what should the gate voltage be?

Many vintage synths require quite high gate voltages. Some as high as 10V.
FUSEBOX X needs something around 6V. But you’ll find it also depends on power and
impedances.
So there is never any guarantee everything will trigger everything else.
Some modern digital keyboards and digital sequencers have gate outputs now, to try
and be retro and ‘compatible’. But often only low output 5V gates. This is fine for many
synths, but not all. So you’ll find some of these products won’t trigger your synths.

If you have a controller that won’t trigger FUSEBOX X EG trigger ins. (First
remembering that it isn’t a fault or a design oversight). There is a work around that
usually does the trick.
Trigger instead the Patternator clock input, and use the Patternator to trigger the
EGs internally.

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MIXER

The audio mixer has five inputs. Each input has a level
control. Usually, patch VCO outputs into these jacks.

Filtering External Sounds

External sounds can be fed into the filter via the mixer.
Connect an auxiliary out from your external mixer, or line
level audio out from some device to the mixer.

Try feeding in drums, vocals, or other non-synth sounds!

NOISE / SUB

NOISE
There is an analogue white noise generator.

Use this for percussion, effects, wind, noise, breathe

sounds.

To use, patch into one of the mixer inputs.

SUB
There is a Sub-Oscillator.

This is a Square wave signal that is driven from VCO3 (it follows the same pitch as
VCO3) and is one octave lower.

Typically used to thicken up the bottom end. Good for devastating bass sounds!

To use, patch into one of the mixer inputs.

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Filter

FUSEBOX X has a 12db / Octave analogue multimode filter. There are four filter
types. Low pass, High pass, Notch and Band pass.

FREQ

Used to set the frequency cut-off.

RES - Resonance

Used to set the resonance / feedback

level.

MODE

This switch changes the output signal of

the filter from Band Pass to LP/HP/Notch.

When left, Band Pass is selected.

When right, the filter type set by the

adjacent control is selected.

When the control is fully left, the filter is

Low Pass.
When the control is fully right, the filter is
High Pass.
Centre is Notch.
But of course the control can be set to
anything in-between!

The audio output of the filter is then sent

to the VCA.

There are also four audio output jacks from the filter.

Each filter type has its own output: LP, HP, Band, Notch.

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The filter has two jack sockets inputs for external modulation. The adjacent EXT
controls set the amount of modulation.

VEL - Velocity

Use this control to set how much MIDI Velocity will modulate the filter cut-off.

EG1

Use this control to set how much Envelope 1 will modulate the filter cut-off.

Centre is no modulation / off.

Left is inverted EG1 signal.

Right is positive EG1 signal.

Filtering External Sound Sources

External sound sources, such as vocals, guitars, mixer sends, samplers, etc. can be
sent through the filter for extra treatment. Note, mic's and guitars may need pre•amping
if the signal is too quiet.

Simply plug the sound source into one of the front panel mixer input sockets.

Typically set the VCA mode switch to THRU. This will leave the VCA open so a
constant signal.

Finally, play around with the filter and modulation settings as necessary. The VCO
signals can also be introduced, and use the various VCA modes and envelopes if you
wish to contour the sound level and add additional effects.

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VCA

The VCA - this is an analogue circuit that allows you to alter the audio level of the
synthesizer. Typically the last circuit in the audio chain.

VOLUME

Controls the output level of the synth.

Headphone Volume

To t h e r i g h t o f Vo l u m e i s t h e
Headphone level control, with its
corresponding headphone output
socket. (A stereo socket, though this is
a mono synth).

MODE

This switch sets how the VCA level will

be modulated.

UP
The VCA is Bypassed (held open).

Down
EG2 - Envelope 2 signal will modulate the VCA level.

To the right of the switch is an external CV input. Normally you would set the switch
to off (centre) when using this socket, though this socket is always ‘live’.
Use the external CV input socket to modulate the VCA from an alternative CV
source, such as EG1 or an external modular system.

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Patternator

The Patternator is an original type

of sequencer to allow you to easily
create short melodic rhythms.

It is a blend between a step

sequencer and arpeggiator.

Patternator is two devices in one. It

has a CV sequencer section and a
step sequencer section.

They share a clock in but after that

they are essentially independent.

CV SEQUENCER


This is a four step melodic
sequencer.

There are four analogue CV

controls and each step also has an
activity LED. The LED shows which
step is active.

Each step also has a rocker switch:

Switch Up is SKIP
This step is completely missed out when the switch is up.

When down then it will play as normal.

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GATE SEQUENCER
The gate sequencer is 8 step. It is used to create 8 step rhythm patterns that are
used to primarily trigger the Envelope Generators.

There are 8 steps and any or all of them can be turned on and off. When a step is on
a gate signal is sent out the GATE jack, or to the envelopes (if selected on the EG
TRIG rocker switches).

To change the gate pattern use the two BEAT controls.

The left BEAT control affects the even ‘down’ beats. And the right control affects the
odd ‘off’ beats.

They each turn on/off 4 steps (beats) each.

When the controls are both fully left you get no gate triggers at all. When fully right
you get all 8 playing.

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Some example BEAT control settings to give you an idea of how these affect the
gate pattern. Don’t worry about it - just use them and they will make intuitive sense!
Note, the knob positions are approximate.

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OUTPUTS FROM THE PATTERNATOR

CV out Jack and Attenuator

This is a CV output from the CV sequencer that can be patched elsewhere, such as
VCO pitch or PW.

PITCH Attenuator
This control sets the amount of sequencer CV that is used to control the pitch of all
VCOs.

CUTOFF Attenuator
This control sets the amount of sequencer CV that is used to control the cut-off
frequency of the filters.

GATE Jack
This is the gate output from the step sequencer. Patch this to clock or trigger other
devices, including the on-board Sequencer.
It can also be patched to CV inputs.

SYNC Switch

This rocker switch selects the sync source for the Patternator.

Switch Up -
MIDI Note 000 is used as a clock source. Each time MIDI note 0 is played, the
sequencer will advance one step.
Write a Note pattern in your DAW to create your own custom clock rhythms! Far
more versatile than MIDI Sync.

Switch Down -
LFO is used as the clock source.

The jack socket below is an external clock input. M.CLOCK (MIDI clock) can be
patched into here, or Bar1, or a clock from an external modular system.

Note: The Patternator will not play if:

1/ It is Off.
2/ No MIDI note 0 is received when the switch is in this position.
3/ There is no clock patched into the Sync socket.
4/ If it is not patched in to anything, or, the PITCH and CUTOFF controls are at zero
you won’t hear an affect, even if the Patternator is running.

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GENERAL PATTERNATOR USE

By varying the number of CV steps that are playing, in conjunction with varying the
step sequencer pattern, interesting poly rhythms can be created. Add use of the
Interval Generator and you can get a complete performance going with JUST the
FUSEBOX X!

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POLY, AND OTHER MODES

POLY MODE
Fusebox X can play in Unison (all 3 VCOs playing the same note) or in Poly.

To activate, first ensure the SEQ is switched off, since the sequencer is a mono
sequencer and still not work in poly mode. (Use a DAW or live playing to play Poly
notes).
Press RANGE to turn on Poly mode (and again to turn off).

Note: If you have chords programmed in a DAW, and find you just get a Unison
playback, then stagger the 3 notes ever so slightly, like a very quick arpeggio. So
nudge each note right just a tiny bit.
Tuner

This gives an audio tone out of the BAR1 jack, at 440Hz, which can be used as a
tuner tone, to aid tuning your oscillators.
Patch this to the mixer so you can hear it running through the synths output.
To turn on, first ensure the SEQ is not running. Then press the TRANSPOSE button
to turn on (and again to turn off).
You would need to ensure the synth is playing an ‘A’ - that it is not transposed.
So connect a MIDI keyboard, and hit A.
Also ensure Tune and Detune knobs are centred, and any other form of transpose or
pitch mod within the synth is off.

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Digital Sequencer

SEQ & REST

Press the SEQ button to activate the Sequencer.

The Sequencer will memorise up to 16 MIDI notes. It will play them back in the order
you played them in, continuously looping.

The sequencer continually scans the MIDI In socket for notes, and will add these in
order, up to a maximum of 16. This total includes rests. So it memorises 16 events.

So it is best to have no sync to the sequencer whilst programming in a series of

notes, otherwise they will play back as you try to enter more. So put the SYNC rocker
switch up to NOTE.

Then program in the notes and rests by pressing MIDI keys or the REST button.

Finally then apply some Sync to play back the notes and rests.

Note: The sequence is cleared if the Sequencer is disabled, or power is cycled. So

to clear a pattern just toggle the Sequencer button.

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Direction (2 arrows)

There are 2 playback modes.

LED Off
The notes will playback in the order they were programmed in.

LED Solid (continuously on)

The notes will first play back in reverse order.

RANGE

There are 2 playback ranges.

LED Off
The notes will playback as programmed.

LED solid
The notes will playback as programmed, then again an octave higher.

SYNC Switch

This rocker switch selects the sync source for the Sequencer.

Switch Up -
MIDI Note 0 is used as a clock source. Each time MIDI note 0 is played, the
Sequencer will advance one step.
Write a Note pattern in your DAW to create your own custom clock rhythms! Far
more versatile than MIDI Sync.

Switch Down -
LFO is used as the clock source.

The jack socket below is an external clock input. M.CLOCK (MIDI clock) can be
patched into here, or a clock from an external modular system.
Or, use the Gate output of the Patternator as a clock source!

Note: The Sequencer will do nothing if

1/ It is Off.
2/ No MIDI note 0 is received,
3/ There is no clock patched into the Sync socket.

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USING MIDI NOTE 000 AS A CLOCK

for the Patternator and / or Sequencer

Both these sections can be clocked from ‘NOTE’. When selected, the Patternator
and Sequencer will advance one step each time FUSEBOX X receives MIDI Note 000
(on the correct channel!)

This is a very cool and versatile way to sync FUSEBOX X to a MIDI sequencer.

The problem with standard MIDI Clock is it is always on or always off. You can’t
manipulate it in any way mid-sequence.

Using MIDI Note 000 you simple write a bar (or more) of MIDI notes and loop it.

You have the versatility of muting this clock track at will, you can change the tempo
relative to the main sequencer (go half tempo, for example), or, you can make some
kind of syncopated rhythm.

The picture below shows the most straight forward clock pattern you might use.
32nd notes spaced at 16th note intervals. So, FUSEBOX X will advance one step
every 16th note.

The note length is determined by the note value. A 32nd note in this case.

MIDI Note 000 is the first and lower note used by MIDI. Nicely out of the way. Note
value is typically C-2.

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Setting MIDI Receive Channel

MIDI CHAN PUSH BUTTON

This button is used to set the MIDI channel.

Works best if you plug a MIDI keyboard direct to program rather than via a DAW.

To change the MIDI channel;

Press some MIDI keys.

Press & release the MIDI button.

The synth will set its MIDI receive channel to the same channel of the MIDI message
that was received.

Transpose
It is possible to transpose the Sequencer in realtime using MIDI keys.

The transpose feature isn’t designed to generally change the key of the machine. If
is for continuous realtime changing of root note of your Sequence.

It is designed to be used in conjunction with the Sequencer and/or the Patternator.

So first get a Sequence playing.

Then Press TRANS to activate.

Then press a MIDI note to transpose up or down.

Press TRANS at anytime to exit transpose mode.

So, whilst your pattern is playing, use the transpose feature to create ‘song’ by
transposing in realtime.

Note: Transpose feature is only available when the Seq switch is on. Otherwise the
Transpose button acts as Tuner tone.

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MIDI OUT / THRU

Both these sockets acts as MIDI Thru. Fusebox X does not transmit its own MIDI
date.


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Interval Generator

The IG is a creative and simple way to transpose your Sequence and Pattern in real
time using push buttons.

It’s like a 6 key keyboard, where you can set the pitch of each to any note you want.

There are 6 push buttons - each with an interval amount control.

To activate the IG use the rocker switch.

When UP
Off / no transposition.

When Down
All three VCOs are transposed.

To use:

Switch the IG on, by pushing the rocker to the up position.

Then in turn, turn on each IG push button. Set the interval amount you require using
the analogue control (they are not quantised).

Then move onto the next push button and set that and the remainder to the interval
levels you need for your performance.

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Live Performances

The IG works best in conjunction with a live sequencer being played by either, or
both of the Sequencer and Patternator.

Using just these features, without MIDI, you can make a whole performance.

A drum machine can be used in conjunction. Use the MIDI out from the drum
machine (transmitting MIDI clock) as a master. Connect the MIDI Out to the MIDI In of
FUSEBOX X. Or of course using some kind of analogue clock or trigger from typically a
vintage drum machine.

Then patch M.CLOCK of FUSEBOX X to the clock / sync in of the Sequencer or

Patternator.

Then you have the drum machine and FUSEBOX X running together!

Now use the Patternator and Interval Generator to make your performance !

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Control CV

CLOCK IN

A trigger or gate in here will advance the Interval Generator one step to the right.

It only uses the first four positions. So it will loop from four to one and keep going.

This is so you can set up automatic transposition.

Patch the output of STEP1 here, and each time the MIDI note sequencer loops, the
Interval Generator will step one place.
That way, you can have your Sequencer transposed four times - once per loop of
the sequencer.

Patch other clocks and triggers to CLOCK IN as desired, for example, you could
also patch the Patternator Gate out into here.

Like patching in general, there are no rules.

TUNER / STEP1

TUNER

This can be activated to give out a 440Hz tuning note. To hear it, you’d need to
patch it to one of the mixer inputs.

To turn it on:

Ensure the Sequencer is Off.

Turn on by pressing TRANSPOSE (440HZ TUNER)
Push button again to turn it off.

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STEP1

If the Sequencer is running, then each time the sequencer loops, a trigger will be
sent out of this socket. Use this to trigger other circuits, for instance, the Interval
Generator CLOCK IN.

M.CLOCK

When Fusebox receives MIDI Clock, a 16th pulse will be sent out of this socket. Use
to clock the Sequencer or Patternator.

GATE

When using MIDI, when you play notes this socket will output a Gate voltage.

VELOCITY

When using MIDI, this socket will output MIDI Velocity as a voltage.

NOTE0

When using MIDI, this socket will output a trigger whenever NOTE0 is played. Use
to create your own custom ‘MIDI Clock streams’ by programming a stream of NOTE0s
into your DAW. See further notes about use of NOTE0 elsewhere in this manual.

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Patch Sheet
Next page….

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Patch Examples
Two patches to get you going. (Following pages).

One is to run Fusebox from MIDI.

The other is using the Patternator.

Note: control positions are very approximate!

If a control or switch isn’t labelled, it’s either not used, or you can just try your own
settings.

You will likely need to play about with these patches to get something useful.

Just EXPERIMENT!!

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Changing Mechanical Configuration

FITTING RACK EARS

Rack ears are optional.

First remove the Wood sides.

Then screw the optional rack ears to the side using the same eight M4 screws.

CHANGING FROM VERTICAL TO HORIZONTAL

ORIENTATION
As standard, FUSEBOX X is a vertical machine much like the Telemark.

It is possible to rotate the front panel to have it flat, like a desk top device.
This involves some basic mechanics.

First, unplug all the cables including power.

The front panel must be removed and rotated 180 degrees.

Remove the 7 front panel black screws.

Rotate, then replace 6 of the screws. The centre screw doesn't have a mounting
hole in the flat position. So either leave it out, or fit it (along with a M3 nut) to blank the
hole.

In the flat position you may want to fit rubber self adhesive feet. Fit these right in the
corners where the metal work touches your work surface.

Rotating the front panel is an easy task and basic engineering common sense is all
that is needed. Doing this won’t invalidate your warranty. But doing something stupid
like snapping parts or snagging the cable, slipping and mashing the PCB, etc will! And
these will be very evident to us if it gets returned and there would be a repair charge.

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No Signal?
There are many settings that can kill the sound!

General things-

Do you have audio going correctly into your external mixer?

Is your MIDI connected correctly?
Are you triggering the EGs correctly?
Main volume up?
Leads all OK (double check! Assume nothing)?
Do you have VCO outputs patched to Mixer inputs?

Check the following…

• Your mixing desk / monitoring equipment is on and working correctly.

• Check the synth is switched on and that the power adaptor is functioning
correctly. Check you are using the correct mains adaptor.
• Check it is connected to your monitoring equipment correctly and that the cable
is not faulty.
• Ensure the output volume is high enough.
• Ensure FUSEBOX X mixer level controls are turned up, and that audio is
patched into the mixer.
• Certain extreme filter settings may filter out all of the signal or produce low level
signals. Try adjusting the filter cut-off.
• Certain extreme PW/PWM settings may cause the pulse outputs to cut-out. Try
adjusting PW/PWM as necessary.
• Ensure the VCA is correctly set.
• Ensure EGs are being triggered.

Don’t instantly assume the synth is at fault - we have had dozens of instances where
problems turn out to be faulty and intermittent leads, incorrect settings in DAW and
audio cards, mixer busses set wrong etc. We have heard all manor of crazy and silly
mistakes.

You can always plug the VCO outputs directly into your external audio mixer (watch
levels aren’t too high!) and this will give you confidence power is OK.

You can also take audio direct out from the VCF to check the filter works!

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Specification

Weight:

4.5Kg

Size:

45 x 14 x 30cm

Rack Size:

7U.
This is a desktop unit.
Rack ears are optional and not included.

Power:

External mains adaptor:

18V DC output

2.1mm plug, centre positive

800mA or higher.

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Warranty
FUSEBOX X comes with a 1 year (from purchase date) back to base
warranty, (i.e. customer must arrange and pay for carriage to and from Analogue
Solutions or the dealer from which purchased).

This warranty shall not apply where the product has been subject to alteration,
misuse accident, neglect (such as extremes of temperature and/or moisture) or
to wear resulting from normal use.

At the sole discretion of Analogue Solutions, the warranty is deemed to be void

should the unit be or considered to have been opened or any other modifications
or tampering be carried out by unauthorised parties.

CE COMPLIANCE
This unit complies with EU Directives 73/23/EEC and 89/336/EEC.
Standards: EN55103-1, EN55103-2, EN60065

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