Doepfer - A-198-2 Ribbon Controller (Module and Controller)

The ribbon controller is a classic interface for expressive control, offering a fluid alternative to the discrete steps of a keyboard. Doepfer's A-198-2 takes this concept, historically linked to the Trautonium, and equips it with a host of modern features centered around a new digital brain and a clear OLED display. The result is a performance controller that is both immediate in its feel and deeply configurable in its function.

The system consists of two parts: the control module and the manual, a nearly 60cm long position and pressure-sensitive ribbon strip. As your finger glides along its length and varies in pressure, the module translates these movements into two pairs of CV and Gate signals. Position generates CV1 and Gate1, typically for pitch and note-on events, while pressure creates CV2 and Gate2, ideal for modulating parameters like filter cutoff or VCA level.

What makes the A-198-2 different from its predecessor is the sheer depth of control now available. A nice new addition is the programmable quantizer. While the ribbon excels at continuous, unquantized glides, you can now impose order by activating one of nine user-defined scales. These are easily programmed and visualized on the display as a small keyboard. This quantization can be toggled on and off with a button push or, more interestingly for performance, via an external gate signal—great for using a footswitch to jump between precise notes and freeform slides.

Further performance-focused details include a selectable retrigger function, which determines if a new gate is fired as you slide between quantized notes, and the ability to save all your settings. The module allows fine-tuning of the CV output ranges for both position (up to 5 octaves) and pressure, programmable offsets, and an adjustable threshold for the pressure-activated gate. For those looking to integrate beyond CV, an optional MIDI output can be configured, sending Note On/Off and Aftertouch data. All told, the A-198-2 is a comprehensive and well-considered system for expressive control.

Features:

• Complete system with controller module and manual (position and pressure sensor)
• Module OLED display for parameter feedback and programming
• Nine user-programmable quantizations with keyboard-style display
• Quantization can be switched on/off via front panel button or external gate/CV
• Retrigger function for quantized notes, switchable via button or external gate/CV
• Adjustable CV1 (Position) output range in 5 steps (e.g., 1 to 5 octaves)
• Adjustable CV2 (Pressure) output range in 7 steps
• Threshold for Gate 2 (Pressure) is user-programmable
• Programmable offset voltages for both CV1 and CV2
• Optional MIDI output for Note On/Off (Position) and Aftertouch (Pressure)
• All settings, including custom scales, can be stored in non-volatile memory
• Dual operating modes: Performance and Config
• Manual controller connects via a 4-pin cable