Erica Synths - Black Polivoks VCF V2

The Black Polivoks VCF V2 is an authentic clone of the multimode filter known from the Russian Formanta Polivoks synthesizer. It can be used as either a low-pass or band-pass circuit. Input level, cutoff frequency and resonance are adjustable via potentiometers. Additionally, the module features two CV inputs plus attenuators. Compared to the classic circuit design, Erica Synths optimized their filter in many ways. For instance, the low-end behavior was enhanced. Despite such modifications, the sound is true to the original. – Thanks to old, Russian ICs, type K140UD12. The Black Polivoks VCF V2 delivers forceful results, with wet sounding, sometimes instable resonance.

The Black Polivoks VCF V2 is usable as either a band-pass with -6 dB edge steepness per octave or as a -12 dB low-pass. Unlike the original, switching between both filter characteristics does not result in clicks. Input level, cutoff frequency and resonance are adjustable via potentiometers. Two CV inputs plus attenuators allow users to modulate the cutoff parameter. All inputs are buffered to prevent crosstalk. Furthermore, compared to the classic circuit design, the module’s cutoff control range was enhanced. High resonance values lead to self-oscillation of the filter. Depending on the input level, the results vary from wet, yet straightforward, to instable and dirty.

The second version of the Black Polivoks VCF offers, compared to its predecessor, a more compact format, a keyed power connector as well as some other technical gimmicks. The result: Very clean, yet typically hot-blooded sound.