XAOC Devices - Tallin

Tallin is a dual VCA with character. Contrary to the often neutral amplification circuits made by other manufacturers, this module provides warm sound coloring. – Including rich distortion in the style of classic fuzz or tube pedals, if desired. Thanks to a signal amplification of up to +18 dB, Tallin can be utilized to integrate line equipment into modular setups. Linear and exponential CV inputs are usable simultaneously.

Tallin is composed of two independent, functionally identical VCAs. The circuits are based on a “modern vintage design” with a discrete core and matched transistors. Their control ranges go from -80 dB to +18 dB. Per VCA, there is a linear and an exponential CV input, which are usable either individually or in combination. Control voltages in the range of 0 V to +10 V can be fed to the module. The CV inputs are optimized for signals in the range of 0 V to +8 V, though. For adjusting the VCA levels manually, potentiometers were implemented. As the CV inputs are normalized to +8 V when nothing is patched, the knobs can not only be used to scale incoming control voltages, but stand-alone as well.

The Tallin’s basic character is warm and soothing. Soft-clipping stages protect against harsh distortion. The circuits become active at a level of 18 Vpp. Using the module’s three-way switches, it is possible to choose one of two overdrive modes per VCA. The linear response delivers harmonic content similar to a Fuzz pedal. In asymmetric mode, sound colorations reminiscent of classic tube circuits are produced.

The Tallin’s signal inputs are DC coupled, meaning besides audio material it is also possible to process control voltages.