Pittsburgh Modular revamps the Lifeforms SV-1 into the sublime SV-1b
5,0 / 5,0 | 
Pittsburgh Modular has finally let go of the old legendary Lifeforms SV-1 and moved into the new era of classy black design with the SV-1b in both Eurorack and Blackbox formats.
Lifeforms SV-1b
This new version keeps all of the throaty, fat and full goodness of the original modular synthesizer and takes the opportunity to tweak it, tune it and make countless adjustments to hone this machine into something even more special.
It combines 12 distinct analog synthesizer modules to create what has become Pittsburgh Modular’s most popular synthesizer. The layout is the same and everything is where you expect it to be. There are two VCOs with all the usual waveforms and one manually controlled LFO. Next you have a 4 channel or 2×2 channel mixer so you can mix lots of waveforms from one oscillator or a couple from each. There are also a pair of sib-oscillators to consider getting into the mix. A Sample & Hold module brings some interesting possibilities in stepped sequences or bit-crushing effects. The state variable multi-mode filter was inspired by the sound of Tom Oberheim’s early instruments and features that huge knob on the cutoff. And at the end you have an ADSR and VCA to shape the sound or filter.
As a 48HP Eurorack module it will drop straight into your case and integrate wonderfully with your other modules. Or you can get it as a Blackbox desktop unit with audio outputs and MIDI input for immediate use.
The SV-1b is a great synth and even better in this updated design. Makes for a great introduction to modular, a solid expansion to your system or something self-contained to enjoy.
The SV-1b is available now for $599 for Eurorack and $699 as a Blackbox version.
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