Syntonie - Courbes

- Order number: 240667
Courbes — Triple Expo Log Shaper from Syntonie.
Courbes brings together three identical channels for shaping video signals through exponential and logarithmic curves. Each channel lets you smoothly shift between exponential, linear, and logarithmic responses using both hands-on controls and voltage modulation.
When processing basic waveforms like ramps and oscillators, the module creates distinctive geometric patterns - exponential curves can generate four-branched star shapes while logarithmic settings have the ability to produce elliptical forms. For complex video signals, the shaping works similarly to gamma adjustment: exponential mode expands contrast by deepening dark areas, while logarithmic mode compresses contrast by bringing up shadow detail. Unlike brightness controls that can clip signals at black or white levels, this approach preserves signal information throughout the range.
An interesting technique involves patching the same signal to both the input and CV input. This creates sine wave shaping when the CV attenuverter is maxed, and inverse sine shaping at minimum settings. On complex signals, sine shaping intensifies both dark and light areas, while inverse sine reverses this effect.
With three independent channels available, the module does a great job at processing RGB video signals, allowing individual gamma adjustment per color. The channels can alternatively shape horizontal and vertical signals separately for precise geometric control.
Features:
- Three identical exponential/logarithmic shapers
- Manual and CV control over curve response
- Smooth transitions between exponential, linear and logarithmic curves
- Sine/inverse sine wave shaping capability
- Independent channel operation for RGB processing
- Geometric pattern generation
- Non-destructive contrast manipulation
- Input impedance: 100kΩ
- Output impedance: 75Ω
- Voltage range: 0-1V
HE: | 3 |
Bastien Lavaud is behind the French manufacturer Syntonie. His modules cover all the needs of video synthesis nerds.