Lorre Mill Double Knot v3: Experimental Two-Voice Generative Synthesizer

A Dual-Voice Experimental Machine

The Lorre Mill Double Knot v3 stands out as a unique approach to generative synthesis. This small but powerful instrument features two complete voices, each with its own oscillator, shift register sequencer, and envelope generator. What makes it special is how these elements can interact through creative patching.

Each voice includes a triangle/square wave oscillator with a wide frequency range, from sub-audio to nearly ultrasonic frequencies. The shift registers act as 5-8 step sequencers that can create rhythmic patterns or generate random sequences based on interference patterns.

Creative Patching System

The real magic happens through the patch points. While the voices are pre-wired in a linear chain, the banana jack connections let you route modulations between different sections. You can create feedback loops by patching shift register outputs back to oscillator inputs, or use one voice to modulate another.

FM and Cross-Modulation

The FM section between the two oscillators creates complex timbral changes. It has four modes: off, full cross-modulation where both oscillators modulate each other, and two one-way modulation modes. This creates inharmonic wave generation and rich sonic textures.

Shift Register Sequencing

The orange and white data buttons let you manually enter patterns into the shift registers. For looping sequences, you patch one of the data outputs back to the data input. The system also supports "rungler" patches - a concept from Rob Hordijk where oscillator outputs feed shift registers that then modulate the oscillators back, creating evolving rhythmic patterns.

Envelopes and VCA/Slew Circuits

Each voice has a zero-attack envelope with voltage-controlled decay. The velocity control sets the starting voltage, while the sink control determines decay time - from short clicks to many-second fades. The yellow buttons enable gated loop mode for rhythmic envelope cycling.

Two independent VCA/slew circuits provide additional signal processing. These can work as voltage-controlled amplifiers or slew limiters, depending on the dip switch settings on the back panel.

Technical Specifications

The Double Knot v3 runs on +12V power with at least 600mA current requirement. Audio output is line level for connection to mixers or speakers. The internal clock runs from 1Hz to 60Hz, but external clock input is also supported via a 3.5mm jack.

All banana inputs can handle signals up to +/-8V safely, while outputs provide 0-9V signals through 1k limiting resistors. The unit includes various dip switches on the back for configuring envelope behavior and VCA/slew modes.

Who Should Consider the Double Knot v3

This experimental synthesizer rewards patience and exploration. Its simple architecture can produce surprisingly complex results when you discover the relationships between its elements through knobs, switches, and creative patching.

The Double Knot v3 appeals to musicians who enjoy unpredictable results and generative processes. It's perfect for ambient artists seeking evolving textures, electronic musicians wanting organic-sounding rhythms, and sound designers looking for unique sonic material. The instrument works well in live performance situations where you want sounds that develop and change over time without constant input.

Modular synth enthusiasts will appreciate how it integrates with Eurorack systems through its banana jack connections. The shift register sequencers make it valuable for creating polyrhythmic patterns that would be difficult to program on traditional step sequencers. It's also ideal for experimental musicians who want to step away from conventional songwriting approaches and let the machine guide the creative process.