Vocoder

Hold the value knob and short-press 14/A6/Sampler button to access the sampler. If needed, repeat this until you are in vocoder ("VCdr") mode.

NOTE: if you wish to use an unamplified microphone for the modulator signal (for example as included with the Woovebox PRO), switch to mic mode (turn value knob to the right).

A vocoder works by splitting the input signal into frequency bands, extracting the amplitude envelope from each band, and applying it to a corresponding carrier signal to produce a synthesized output. This allows for the modulation of one sound source (usually a synthesized note) by the characteristics of another (typically vocals), resulting in the distinctive robotic or synthesized voice effect.

The vocoder will use the sound and pitch from the last played note (or chord) from the last used track. E.g. if you played a chord on the chord track, it will use that sound and chord. If you played a lead, it will use that sound and note pitch, etc. This will be your carrier.

To record a vocoded phrase or word using your voice as a modulator and the previously played sound/note/chord as a carrier, switch to the vocoder and - just like the sampler - hold write + the slice slot 1-16 you wish to record into. Say something through the mic while doing so. Upon releasing the buttons, you should now have a vocoded sample at the specified pitch.

A monitoring function is also available, just like in the sampler, press the play button to activate and deactivate it. Sample editing functionality is identical to regular sampler mode, and you may seamlessly switch between the sampler and vocoder mode.

What makes a good carrier

Not all sounds or patches will yield satisfactory results. A good carrier patch has;

• lots of harmonic content for the vocoder to modulate - think "sharp" sounds like super saws, saw waves, white noise, or chords
• a clearly audible sustain component, e.g. short sounds with an immediate decay (such as percussion sounds) typically won't work well as they won't give you much time to imprint your voice before they decay away