4 Introduction
(PL2) Synthesizer - English Manual
Overview of Technology 5
(PL2) Synthesizer - English Manual
Introduction
We are pleased that you have chosen a Ploytec
(
Pi Lambda squared 2
or simply PL2) synthesizer system for your musical
endeavors and would like to congratulate you on your decision. We’re convinced this innovative development will prove ex-
tremely useful to you in the coming years and, above all, provide you with a great deal of entertainment.
We hope you find this manual both informative and entertaining to read, and hope you find lots of pleasure in the Ploytec PL2
synthesizer system.
… Your Ploytec-Team!
The PL2 can generally be powered from the MIDI port without the need for a power adapter. You should ensure,
however, that the external MIDI device connected to this port can provide the required current. If this isn’t the case
you can use a common 5 Volt DC (100mA min.) USB power adapter (e.g. as commonly used for mobile phones)
and connect to the PL2 USB mini port. Of course a standard PC or HUB USB port can provide the needed power
as well.
Power supply adapter and USB cables are not part of the scope of delivery.
Important Notes about Power Supply
Overview of Technology
Despite its small housing the PL2 is a complete duophonic mono synthesizer. The PL2 generates an enormous variety of sounds
with the help of two square wave (pulse) oscillators which can be interconnected in variable and innovative ways - these are
fun to experiment with. Not only the classic waveforms such as saw-, sine- or pulse-waves will be simulated, rather newly and
interesting sounds - from warm to destructive - are also generated.
The PL2 receives its data always via MIDI channel 1 and all setting parameters can be edited by MIDI controller commandos. Up
to 32 of your own self-programmed sounds can be stored in the user memory area. In addition, further 32 factory sounds are
located within a fixed memory area which provides ideal starting material to experiment with.
Generally the PL2 follows the principle of subtractive synthesis in which the waveform (generated by the oscillators) first runs
through a wide range adjustable digital filter stage (low- high- and band-pass) to edit the frequency spectrum and/or amplify
the resonance area if desired. After the digital filter an additional analog low-pass filter follows which particularly ensures the
necessary warmth especially for destructive- and digital-like sounds.
Wait, there’s more: a dedicated analog saturation stage at the output provides dynamic compression and therefore a respect-
able bass punch is created.
Of course the PL2 includes several additional options in terms of sound and playing manipulation like LFO modulation, PWM,
ADSR envelope and various play modes. Another interesting detail: LFO- and envelope-speed synchronise automatically to an
external applied MIDI clock - whereby the PL2 perfectly adjust to your song tempo.
Thanks to the memory flash technology: future PL2 synthesizer extensions or new features can be integrated by updating the
firmware via MIDI system exclusive (SysEx) transmission.
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