Lectric-FX Abacus 8-step Sequencer

SYLV9ST9R

Well-known member
This was a fun build that I did for my boys to have something to play with when we "make music" together (just got to be careful with those blinking lights though).

The Lectric-FX Abacus is a recreation of the Electro Harmonix Sequencer Drum. A nice basic 8-step sequencer with bleeps but interesting options (clock I/O; CV out; trigger in).
Since it uses pots instead of sliders like the original, I was puzzled at first as the pitch goes higher CCW (on the OG, the pitch would go up as the slider got down), but you get used to it pretty fast. I'm also not quite grasping the PAD mode yet (we found out labeling should be inverted on that switch), but it gives you one enveloppe for the 8 steps, so you have to play with the DECAY knob to get sounds of more steps, and it gets fun when you send it triggers (I used a simple snap sound from my MPC). In the CLOCK modes, there's an enveloppe for every step, as shown in my quick vid (à la normal sequencer behavior).
As for my use, it's going to be a tabletop unit so I used a push button for the momentary switch, which triggers the sequence.

IMG_0297.jpg IMG_0296.jpg

Here's a low fi vid to give you an idea, but once you add effects, it gets crazy and really shines (even just a tad of delay does wonders), so a lot of experimenting to do!

[EDIT]: On the UV print side, I used the offset path function in Illustrator to create a larger area for the gloss layer around each element as a test, and it came out pretty nicely. Kind of gives a "sticker" quality to it that looks good on the bare enclosure.
 
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Can’t wait to check the video out. I’ve been wanting to order the Abacus PCB for a while, but I’ve been trying to hold off on buying more PCBs. I think watching the the video will sway me to splurge though
 
Can’t wait to check the video out. I’ve been wanting to order the Abacus PCB for a while, but I’ve been trying to hold off on buying more PCBs. I think watching the the video will sway me to splurge though
This vid is pretty basic but will give you a good idea.
I'll try to make one with some effects tonight or tomorrow.
 
Can’t wait to check the video out. I’ve been wanting to order the Abacus PCB for a while, but I’ve been trying to hold off on buying more PCBs. I think watching the the video will sway me to splurge though
Just do it, you won’t regret it. Sounds dope with some fuzz and delay. Used a super heterodyne and a multiwave mega for extra synth craziness. Chorus is always a good choice for synth euphoria.
 
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