This is an introduction and overview of the VCA Expander for Time Machine by Olivia Artz Modular (OAM), available at Takazudo Modular.
The VCA Expander is a 2HP expander module for the OAM Time Machine (including the Tiny Time Machine). It adds an independent VCA stage to each Time Machine tap so you can fine-tune the volume of every channel. Each CV input acts as an attenuator over the slider value.
This product is available for purchase below.
Product Photos
Features of the VCA Expander
Nine Linear VCAs
The VCA Expander is equipped with nine linear VCAs. The Time Machine has eight delay tap channels plus the dry stereo input signal — a total of nine — each of which can be controlled independently by CV.
These VCAs are not independent attenuators added after the final output, though: each sounding delay tap also feeds the Time Machine's feedback path, so each tap's level also affects what is fed back. Moving a tap's level with its VCA changes the fed-back sound along with it.
Each VCA has a linear response and functions as a CV input that reaches unity gain at +5V. Voltages above +5V are clipped, as are voltages below 0V. This voltage-clamping behavior interacts with the Time Machine's volume normalization to produce distinctive temporal sound phenomena.
Sliders as Attenuators
The VCA Expander provides the CV input for each VCA, while the sliders that set each channel's level are on the Time Machine itself (knobs on the Tiny Time Machine). These sliders behave differently depending on whether a cable is patched into the VCA Expander's CV input.
With no cable patched, the CV input is treated as receiving +5V, so each Time Machine channel functions normally at the volume set by its slider.
With a cable patched, the Time Machine's slider (knob on the Tiny Time Machine) acts as an attenuator for the incoming CV signal. In this mode, the slider controls both the channel volume and the modulation depth simultaneously. For example, patching an envelope or LFO and pulling the slider down proportionally reduces both volume and modulation depth, enabling fine-grained texture control.
Connecting to the Time Machine
The VCA Expander connects to the Time Machine using an 8-pin cable. The PCB silkscreen does not clearly indicate cable orientation, so please refer to the connection example in the "Product Photos" section above (the fourth photo) when wiring it up.
Like any other module, the VCA Expander needs to be connected to a Eurorack power source. The included cable lets you power both the Time Machine and the VCA Expander from a single busboard slot.
About the Firmware
To use the VCA Expander, the Time Machine must be running firmware v1.1.1 or later.
For instructions on updating the firmware, see:
Note: if your Time Machine's PCB backside is marked "v1.1.1", expander-compatible firmware was already flashed at the factory and no upgrade is needed.
Compatibility Note
The VCA Expander is compatible with the Time Machine (assembled and DIY) and the Tiny Time Machine, per the manufacturer. Other Time Machine variants are supported only if they run the default firmware and have all the expander pins. Note that it cannot be used at the same time as Timo Rozendal's expander.
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Specifications
Width: 2HP
Depth: 37mm
Power consumption: +12V 10mA / -12V 10mA / +5V 0mA
About Olivia Artz Modular
Olivia Artz Modular (OAM) is a modular synth and synth-related module brand run by Kate, Rosette, and Olivia Artz, based in North America. Alongside designing and building their own original, experimental modules like "Time Machine" and "Uncertainty," they also help bring other creators' ideas to market. They see themselves as a creative space that reaches beyond Eurorack — a place to give shape to the "dreams" they want to make real.
Bonus: Modular Accessory Set by 電氣美術研究會 (Denki Bijutsu Kenkyukai) Included
In the hope that more people will get hands-on with modular synths, we have teamed up with 電氣美術研究會 to bundle a modular accessory set with this product.
The contents vary by season — patch cables, power cables, a dress-nut sample set, a mono splitter, and more. The set is included with the product, so please give it a try!
That concludes our introduction of the Olivia Artz Modular VCA Expander for Time Machine.
We hope you find this helpful.