Xaoc Devices Batumi II: Updated Quad LFO powerhouse

06 Nov 2023 by Robin Vincent |

4,3 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 2 Minutes

Xaoc Batumi II and Poti II · Source: Xaoc

Previous Next

The classic 4-channel LFO module gets some major improvements to bring us the Batumi II and Poti II expander for all your modulation needs.

Batumi II

The Model of 1974 Quadruple Low-Frequency Oscillator, or Batumi, has been a staple source of modulation for many years. One could see that it’s overdue for a bit of a spruce up, but it’s probably fair to say that it took the prompting of a mass-market clone to push Xaoc into putting in the work for a full redesign.

The new version follows the same idea and form factor as the original in giving us 4 independent and yet thoroughly linkable LFOs. The LFOs can act on their own merits or linked together for a bit of phase-shifting or time-synced to the first channel. In addition to the original time divider mode, there’s now a multiply option.

A further rework of the hardware has enabled the LFOs to track to 1v/oct up into audio rates. This means that, if you want, you could use it as 4 VCOs.

Xaoc Batumi II and Poti II · Source: Xaoc

Originally, the Batumi offered sine wave and pulse wave outputs with an extra assignable out that could handle ramps and trapezoid shapes that was set by a jumper on the back. Along with the Sync Mode, the assignable output is now switchable from the front and Xaoc has added the popular random output option that was available in an alternative firmware. This essentially incorporates the features of the original Poti expander directly into the main module.

Poti II

Which brings us nicely to the new Poti expander. The Poti II offers input and output attenuators for the Sine and assignable channels. The bottom section adds wave folding, shape-shifting and pulse width modulation depending on the chosen destination.

Honestly, to look at the Batumi II, you would be hard-pressed to notice the difference. However, the smoothing and expansion of functionality in this module is quite epic. Along with the Poti II it’s undoubtedly a worthy successor to the original.