Joranalogue Audio Design Mix 3 User manual

MIX 3
3+1 CHANNEL VOLTAGE CONTROLLED AUDIO
MIXER
1
INTRODUCTION
By combining a mixer and four VCAs in a single
module, Mix 3 manages to provide a unique
combination of compact size and functionality in
just 6 HP. High-end signal paths ensure
extremely low noise and distortion, wide
headroom and precise gain control, despite the
small form factor.
Each of the three main channels has an
exponential response, which is more natural for
audio than linear, as it matches the human
hearing. However, all signal paths are DC-
coupled, so control voltage (CV) signals can be
processed as well.
What truly sets Mix 3 apart from other compact
mixing modules are the three CV inputs,
providing voltage control over the signal levels.
This even allows you to go beyond unity gain and
reach up to +20 dB of amplification. Once a CV
input is used, the corresponding channel knob
becomes a CV attenuator.
When clipping, Mix 3 does so in a clean,
symmetrical way. This yields a very pure
overdriven sound, only containing odd
harmonics, and allows the module to be used as
a triple voltage controlled distortion.
Additional features include audio indicator LEDs,
a fourth auxiliary input, voltage control over the
output level and a line output jumper setting.
CONTENTS
In the Mix 3 box, you’ll find:
Product card, stating serial number and
production batch.
16-to-10-pin Eurorack power cable.
Mounting hardware: two black M3 x 6 mm
hex screws, two black nylon washers and a
hex key.
And finally, the module itself, in a protective
cotton bag.
If any of these items are missing, please contact
your dealer or [e-mail].

MIX 3
3+1 CHANNEL VOLTAGE CONTROLLED AUDIO
MIXER
2
CONTROLS & CONNECTIONS
1 CHANNEL KNOBS
The channel knobs provide manual control over
the signal levels. The response is exponential:
−60 dB at minimum and 0 dB (unity gain) at
maximum. They also function as CV attenuators
once the corresponding channel CV input is
used.
2 CHANNEL INDICATOR LEDS
Each channel also features an audio indicator
LED with a VU-like decay. This makes Mix 3 very
convenient in use, especially in large patches
and/or during performance. The LEDs are most
useful for quickly identifying rhythmic signals. As
these are pure audio indicators, slow CV signals
or DC offsets are ignored.
3 CHANNEL SIGNAL INPUTS
Connect your input signals to these sockets.
While designed for audio use, the signal paths
are non-inverting DC-coupled, so control voltage
(CV) signals can be processed as well.
4 CHANNEL CV INPUTS
The channel CV inputs enable exponential
voltage control over each channel’s signal level.
Once a jack is plugged in, the corresponding
channel knob becomes an attenuator for the CV
input. With the attenuator at maximum, the
response is −60 dB at 0 V, and 0 dB (unity gain)
at +5 V. This corresponds to +12 dB/V. It is even
possible to go far beyond the normal range using
the CV input: from −100 dB at −3.33 V, to +20 dB
at +6.66 V.
5 D SIGNAL INPUT
The ‘D’ auxiliary signal input allows you to mix in
a fourth signal with the three main channels. It is
DC-coupled, unity gain, inverting.

MIX 3
3+1 CHANNEL VOLTAGE CONTROLLED AUDIO
MIXER
3
6 LEVEL CV INPUT
An additional CV input is provided to control the
total level of the mix signal. It has the same
response as the channel CV inputs. If unused, the
mix signal level is 0 dB (unity gain).
7 SIGNAL OUTPUT
The mix signal is available at this output socket.
8 OUTPUT LEVEL JUMPER
On the module’s rear, you’ll find a three-pin
header with a jumper to select the output level.
When the jumper is placed over the left and
centre pin (position ‘L’), the output level is
lowered by 20 dB. This setting is useful for
connecting the Mix 3 output directly to a regular
line input, and offers 20 dB of additional
headroom. Otherwise, the mix signal output
remains full strength. This jumper setting is
independent from the level CV input.

MIX 3
3+1 CHANNEL VOLTAGE CONTROLLED AUDIO
MIXER
4
PATCH IDEAS
WAVEFORM MIXER
Patch three waveform outputs from a single
VCO to the signal inputs and use the channel
knobs to shape a new compound waveform.
The CV inputs provide voltage control over the
individual components.
TRIPLE AMPLITUDE MODULATOR
Using multiples, connect the same audio signal
to each of the signal inputs. Generate
modulation signals using three audio frequency
oscillators and plug them into the channel CV
inputs. The result is a complex timbre, controlled
by the waveforms and frequencies of the input
signals and the Mix 3 knob settings. Sweep the
main input signal’s frequency to hear it beat
against the various modulation frequencies.
TRIPLE OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION
While Mix 3 is designed to sound as clear and
transparent as possible, overdriving it can bring a
lot of character to your patches. Connect a
constant voltage of about +6.66 V to a channel
CV input. From 75 % of the knob range onwards,
the channel will now begin to amplify rather
than attenuate. Going further, the signal will get
clipped, generating ever more odd harmonics.
Unlike most Eurorack modules, Mix 3 clips
symmetrically, so no even harmonics are formed.
This results in a purer distortion sound.
PERCUSSION GENERATOR
In this patch idea, the distortion feature is used
to create percussive sounds. Connect a sine wave
source to a channel input, and an envelope
generator to the corresponding CV input. Use an
EG which generates high enough voltages to
attain clipping, for example the Doepfer A-140
which reaches +8 V. Set it to zero attack time and
sustain level, and moderate decay and release
time. Provide the EG with a clock to repeatedly
trigger it.
The attack of the resulting percussive sound will
be crisp, high in harmonic content. As the
envelope falls, the signal becomes both duller
and quieter in a very smooth way. Adjust the tone
of the sound using the channel knob.
Using three sine wave sources and three
envelopes, different percussion instruments can
be emulated (for example, a kick drum and two
toms).

MIX 3
3+1 CHANNEL VOLTAGE CONTROLLED AUDIO
MIXER
5
SPECIFICATIONS
FORMAT
Doepfer A-100 ‘Eurorack’ compatible module
3 U, 6 HP, 30 mm deep (inc. power cable)
Milled 2 mm aluminium front panel with non-
erasable graphics
MAXIMUM CURRENT DRAW
+12 V: 30 mA
−12 V: 25 mA
POWER PROTECTION
Reverse polarity (MOSFET)
I/O IMPEDANCE
All inputs: 100 kΩ
Output: 0 Ω (compensated)
UNITY GAIN ERROR
0.5 dB maximum
BANDWIDTH
36 kHz (−1 dB)
OUTER DIMENSIONS
128.5 x 30 x 43 mm (H x W x D)
MASS
Module: 90 g
Including packaging and accessories: 175 g
SUPPORT
As all Joranalogue Audio Design products, Mix 3
is designed, manufactured and tested with the
highest standards, to provide the performance
and reliability music professionals expect.
In case your module isn’t functioning as it should,
make sure to check your Eurorack power supply
and all connections first.
If the problem persists, contact your dealer or
send an email to [e-mail].
Please mention your serial number, which can be
found on the product card or on the module’s
rear side.
REVISION HISTORY
Revision C: initial release

With compliments to the following fine people,
who helped to make Mix 3 a reality!
Björn Jauss Boris Uytterhaegen
Gregory Delabelle Jan D’Hooghe
Jens Van Daele Vincent Vanesse
Everyone at Wired Electronics
Mix 3 User Manual
version 2017-06-20
© 2017
[e-mail]
https://joranalogue.com/
Designed & made in Belgium