Description

Macbeth X-Series MKII – Dual Oscillator Module

Product Description

The Macbeth X-Series MKII Dual Oscillator is a fully analog dual VCO module featuring an integrated ring modulator based on the legendary MC1496 balanced modulator IC, a component widely used in vintage synthesizer designs of the 1970s.

Designed for extensive sound-shaping possibilities, the X-Series MKII offers cross-modulation, linear FM, multiple waveform outputs, and powerful sub-oscillator capabilities. Its versatile architecture makes it possible to create everything from rich analog tones and complex harmonic textures to aggressive, experimental sounds.

With an impressive array of controls and features packed into just 42HP, this module delivers an exceptionally powerful analog sound source. When paired with the Macbeth backend filter, it forms a complete, high-quality synthesizer voice with the distinctive character and depth associated with Macbeth instruments.

Key Features

• Fully analog dual voltage-controlled oscillator design
• Integrated MC1496-based balanced ring modulator
• Cross-modulation and linear FM capabilities
• Multiple waveform outputs per oscillator
• Two sub-octave outputs per oscillator
• Integrated white and pink noise generator
• Precision multi-turn tuning potentiometers
• Improved oscillator tracking and tuning stability
• High-quality components throughout the signal path
• Upgraded jack sockets for enhanced durability and reliability
• 42HP Eurorack format

Improvements Over the Original MKI

The MKII version introduces several significant refinements to the original X-Series design, improving tuning accuracy, stability, component quality, and overall functionality.

Improved Tuning Stability and Tracking

Carefully matched transistor pairs provide greater tuning stability and more accurate oscillator tracking.

Precision Calibration

High-precision multi-turn potentiometers allow for finer adjustments, more accurate calibration, and improved oscillator stability. The 10-turn potentiometers are retained, eliminating the need for separate fine-tune controls.

Upgraded Component Selection

The entire signal path benefits from carefully selected, high-quality components, including significant improvements in capacitor selection.

Expanded Oscillator Outputs

The MKII features an enhanced output configuration for each oscillator:

• Sawtooth
• Square
• Triangle
• Sine
• Sub-Octave One
• Sub-Octave Two

Compared with the MKI, which offered six traditional waveform outputs (SAW, RAMP, SQU, RECT, TRI, and SINE), the MKII introduces two dedicated sub-octave outputs per oscillator for even bigger and more powerful sounds.

Enhanced Noise Generator

The noise generator now features a dual potentiometer and an integrated summing amplifier/mixer circuit, providing convenient control over the white and pink noise outputs.

Proven Ring Modulator Design

The integrated ring modulator remains based on the MC1496 balanced modulator IC, preserving the original design and its distinctive sonic capabilities.

Additional CV Bus Connectivity

Alongside the standard 16-pin Doepfer power bus connector, the MKII also incorporates the less commonly used CV bus.

Upgraded Jack Sockets

The original X-Series used conventional box-style jack sockets. For the MKII, these have been replaced with higher-quality connectors designed to provide improved mechanical durability, longer service life, and greater connection reliability.

Technical Overview

• Manufacturer: Macbeth
• Series: X-Series MKII
• Module Type: Dual Analog Oscillator
• Oscillator Architecture: Fully Analog
• Ring Modulator: MC1496 Balanced Modulator
• Modulation: Cross-Modulation and Linear FM
• Waveform Outputs: Sawtooth, Square, Triangle, Sine
• Additional Outputs: Two Sub-Octave Outputs per Oscillator
• Noise Generator: White and Pink Noise
• Module Width: 42HP
• Power Connection: 16-pin Doepfer Standard Bus with CV Bus Support

A Powerful Analog Sound Source

The Macbeth X-Series MKII is a substantial evolution of the original X-Series oscillator, combining classic analog oscillator architecture with carefully considered improvements in stability, precision, and sound-shaping capabilities.

With its extensive modulation options, integrated ring modulator, expanded sub-oscillator outputs, and upgraded component quality, the X-Series MKII is an exceptionally versatile instrument for musicians and sound designers seeking rich, complex, and unmistakably analog sound.