5.3. Oscillator Section
How much can you do with two oscillators? Given how many keyboardists seek after
classic Prophets, a lot!
♪ In both Oscillators, all waveforms can be activated simultaneously.
5.3.1. Oscillator 1
Oscillator 1 features sawtooth and square/pulse waves, the latter having variable pulse
width. The controls are as follows:
• Frequency: Sets the oscillator pitch in semitones.
• Saw On/Off: Turns the sawtooth wave on or off.
• Square On/Off: Turns the square/pulse wave on or off.
• Pulse Width: Adjusts the pulse width for the square wave only.
• Sync: When active, the pitch and phase of Oscillator 1 is locked to that of
Oscillator 2.
♪ Varying the pulse width of a square wave makes that wave’s positive cycle asymmetrical with it’s
negative cycle. In visual terms, the upwards phase of the waveform becomes “fatter” or “skinnier.” The
musical result is subtle harmonic change, and modulating the pulse width is a great way to add a sense
of motion before even touching a filter.
♪ Oscillator sync (not to be confused with tempo sync) was a key ingredient in getting the
aggressive, squawky sounds associated with The Cars. Try the Vintage Factory bank Presets Sync I and
Sync II to hear this in action.
Arturia - User Manual Prophet-5 V - Main Synth Panel 44
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