Synthesizers.com Q960 User Manual

Q960 Sequential Controller
Sep 2014
The Q960 is an 8 stage, 3 row sequencer with an internal oscillator. Each row can control any volt-
age-controlled module such as an oscillator, filter, etc. A 9th stage provides a place for the se-
quencer to stop. A lamp for each stage indicates when it's active.
The front panel is divided into 3 sections: Oscillator, Stages, and Output. Each stage has 3 knobs
which determine the voltage at the 3 row outputs (A, B, C). The row outputs can be scaled using the
'X' switches (X1, X2, X4). A mode switch for each stage selects Skip, Normal, or Stop. A trigger
(Gate) input signal will select a particular stage, as does the manual push button. A trigger (Gate)
output signal is available when a stage is active.
The oscillator has 6 ranges and a variable control. A lamp indicates when the oscillator is on.
Both manual and Triggers (Gates) can control the oscillator's on/off condition. Voltage control of the
oscillator frequency is also available with an accurate temperature compensated 1V/Octave re-
sponse. An external shift input and manual button provide additional control of stage activation.
Specifications
Panel Size: Single width 17"w x 8.75"h.
Trigger, Shift, Control Input Signals: Fast rising 0-3 volts minimum, active high
Output Voltage Levels: 0 to 8V
Internal Oscillator: .1 to 2Khz +, 1V/Octave Response
External Oscillator Speed: 2Khz maximum
Power: +15V@120ma, -15V@30ma, +5@5ma.
The Q960 Sequential Controller is a recreation of Bob Moog's famous 960 module. Built using modern
components yet retaining the 960's unique functionality including the highly sought-after skip function, 3rd
row timing control, trigger in/out for each stage, etc. The Q960 consumes 8 spaces (17" wide) just as the
Moog 960, and uses the standard Synthesizers.com power supply (+15,-15,+5).

Synthesizers.com Q960 Specifications

General

Type	Analog Sequencer
Format	Modular
Voltage Standard	+/-15V
Channels	3
Steps	8 per channel
Voltage Control	Yes
Voltage Range	0 to +5V
CV Outputs	3
Clock Input	Yes
Width	8.75 inches
Control Inputs	Reset
Power	15V DC

Summary

Q960 Sequential Controller Introduction

Front Panel Overview

Divides the panel into Oscillator, Stages, and Output sections for control.

Core Functionality

Explains the 8-stage, 3-row sequencer with internal oscillator and timing control.

Controls and Connectors

Oscillator Controls

Covers oscillator lamp, range selection, frequency vernier, on/off controls, and output.

Stage Controls

Details stage lamps, control knobs, mode switches, set buttons, and trigger I/O.

Key Operational Features

Stage 9 and Stop Functionality

Describes the special 'Stop' stage that turns off the oscillator when active.

Row 'X' Output Scaling

Determines the voltage range of the row outputs for scaling control.

Timing Control Switches

Details 3rd row timing and shift input/button controls for sequence timing.

Usage and Patching Strategies

Triggers, Gates, and Envelope Control

Using triggers/gates and oscillator/stage outputs to control generators.

Advanced Patching Techniques

Covers Q961 interface, cross-triggering, and stage timing control methods.

Advanced Configurations and Maintenance

Extended Sequencer Configurations

Describes 24-stage operation, multi-sequencer triggering, and Q128 usage.

Module Calibration and Power

Procedures for calibrating oscillator and voltage reference, plus power connector details.