XAOC Devices Sofia
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XAOC Devices
Sofia
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
Sofia is a seriously interesting oscillator; it’s not your standard triangle or sawtooth. The formant-based ripple elements give it a voice unlike anything else, perfect for experimental sound design or adding subtle, organic textures to more conventional patches. It's a bit of a deep dive, but the results are well worth the effort.
Product Description
- XAOC Devices Sofia
- Eurorack Module
- Analogue VCO for complex waveforms
- Triangle-core oscillator with pitch control and octave selector switch
- Two ripple elements
- based on synthesis of formant sounds (FOF)
- Ratio
- warp
- damping and waveform (sine/rectangle) are adjustable per ripple element
- Element mix control with CV input
- Adjustable mix of sine fundamental tone and ripple elements (with CV input)
- CV inputs for all parameters
- Pitch CV input (1V/oct.)
- CV inputs with attenuators for Pitch FM and Global FM
- Outputs for the main signal
- fundamental tone
- ripple elements A&B
- impulses A&B (decay curve of the elements)
- Current consumption: 90mA (+12V) / 80mA (-12V)
- Width: 24 TE
- Depth: 30 mm
PROS
- • Exceptional formant synthesis creates truly unique and evolving timbres.
- • Ripple elements offer remarkably detailed harmonic complexity and character.
- • Comprehensive CV control allows for deep, nuanced modulation possibilities.
- • Solid build quality; XAOC’s reputation for robust construction holds true.
CONS
- • The learning curve is steep; mastering the ripple elements requires dedication.
- • Power consumption is moderate, potentially impacting larger systems’ headroom.
- • Limited fundamental waveform choices compared to some multi-wave oscillators.
Product Video
Key Features
Type
Analogue VCO
Waveforms
Sine, Rectangle, and complex formants via Ripple elements
HP Width
24HP
Depth
30mm
Power Draw
90mA (+12V) / 80mA (-12V)
CV Inputs
Pitch, Pitch FM, Global FM, Element Mix, Warp, Damping, Waveform, Ratio
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Frequently Asked Questions
Plaits offers a wider range of synthesis methods, while Sofia excels in formant-based textures and a more analog feel. Sofia’s ripple elements are more about evolving complexity than radical waveform shifts.
Yes, it can function as a standard VCO with its sine wave, but its real strength lies in exploring the ripple elements and their modulation possibilities. You’re buying it for the unique sound, not just basic oscillation.
They offer a balance; while you can shape them significantly with CV, the formant nature introduces an element of organic unpredictability, making them ideal for evolving soundscapes.
