Phantastron

Prices:

Kit - $195

Complete Instrument - $400-$600*

Buy it via Google Checkout or Paypal Below

*Complete instruments are custom assembled. Price depends on options, inclusions and modifications. Please inquire by email if you desire a complete Phantastron.

Features:

Kits and all models include:

~ Genuine, tested, NOS (New Old Stock) Vacuum Tubes. 6SJ7 and PL21/2D21

~ Solid Wooden Case, Copper Turret Board Top, Steel Panels

~ High Quality Parts (neutrik jacks, etc)

~ Compatibility with CV and Audio Signals.

Front View

~ CV on / off: disables CV input (useful if you're using sync and CV)

~ON / OFF: Turns on the device.

~ Pitch Range: Scales the CV input to three pitch ranges, HIGH, LOW and LOWEST.

~ Wafeform Select: Selects one of 3 unique output waveforms from teh Phantastron pentode.

~ Pitch Fine Tune: Changes the pitch within the range selected.

~ Intensity: Controls the output volume, as well as the "drive" of the Phantastron.

back view

~Sync / Audio Input: Matches pitch / phase to AC synth signals and audio signals. Works well with other analog synth outputs. Audi might need to be amplified a bit to work best. (See the phantastron processing voice video below to see this input in action)

~CV input: Responds to DC signals from a CV controller like a keyboard, midi-cv converter, pitch ribbon, etc. The CV is not normalized to V/oct or V/Hz, rather it is "in-between" and can work with both types of input if the pitch adjust and other settings are tweaked.

Phantastron Processing Voice (mic into preamp into Phantastron pentode sync input).

The majority of the instrument is based on a classic pentode circuit, "The Phantastron" No kidding, that's what it's really called.

The phantastron takes a sharp timing pulse from a gas thyratron and integrates and differentiates it between its grids. The suppressor grid acts as input, creating a drop between suppressor and plate, then the screen grid grabs some of electrons from the pulse (creating a sort of rounded pulse). The control grid, meanwhile, which is held high, above the low-biased cathode charges more slowly, introducing a very steady voltage ramp between the plate and cathode. I'm kind of oversimplifying here, maybe badly, but you get the picture.

The 5 unique points within the pentode all react differently to an incoming pulse, and generate different waves for each pulse. A sort of square, a very linear saw, and some very interesting asymetrical pulses. The pentode itself also acts as a bit of a tank and resonates the waveforms, creating some filtering, ringing and sync possibilities.

To alter the Phantastron to musical usage, I had to do some serious tweaking. Not many precedents apply to audio-rate signals (although Leon Theremin {Lev Termen} is rumored to have used the phantastron circuit as a basis in his "terpsitone".

Regardless, this module REALLY sings. There are soooo many tonal possibilities. Plus, the inputs and outputs interface very well with existing analog modulars, audio signals and CV driven equipment. It also functions alone as itâ€™s own instrument and could be hooked to far more sensors and controllers than just a knobâ€¦ Or you could simply play drums or guitar through it and process your music in this unique way.

This is a very special circuit and remind me of the old days playing with HeathKits in the basement. Iâ€™m very glad that I can offer this experience to you. It's a great way to learn about tubes, synthesis and extra-super-old-school synth-brewing.

The kit requires only basic tools: Soldering Iron, Solder, Drill or Dremel Tool. All hardware, accessories and tubes are provided. The power supply is pre-assembled for your safety and ease.

Baiscally, it is our mission to give you the best hands on, exciting, synth and tube wrangling experience and product possible. Beyond that, we have some standard fine print just to be clear to the lawyers and accountants:

Kit returns are accepted only if unnassembled. Parts mix-ups, missing parts or extra parts may be requested from ElectricWestern -- We will most likely replace parts at no additional cost. Free technical support via email, internet and phone is available. Hands on trouble shooting or kit repair / finishing will be available at a reasonable hourly rate from Lorin Parker. All replacements, refurbishment and extra supplies and support are provided gladly, but at the reasonable discretion of Electric Western. Electric Western, Lorin Parker, Sarah Seelig nor any other agents of this exchange are not responsible if an individual does anything dangerous with Kits, Parts, Tools or anything involved with this product and its assembly. Please, kids, don't poke your eye out or lick live electrical wires. Otherwise, dive in, learn, enjoy and make sounds! We appreciate your patronage!