I've got the chips and artwork to build a Hyperflange + Chorus, but I'm trying to decide if I should direct my efforts that way, or use the SAD-1024A to clone an A/DA or MXR Flanger. Has anyone here ever heard a Hyperflange + Chorus to compare them and help me decide?
I'm trying to figure out my next project and, since it takes me six months to finish something, I have to be a little careful. :)
Input is appreciated!
Mine is sitting all populated and about 60% wired up, with a nice rackmount-sized chassis painted and mostly legended. I keep trying to get to it and finish the damn thing. So, I can't tell you anything about how it sounds. Given that it uses a compander, I thnk it is safe to say it will be quieter than the MXR or A/DA. Given the range of controls it includes, it will also be more flexible than either of those. I'd be happy to sdend anyone here a scan of the PCB pattern so they can make their own (PAiA doesn't support it anymore so I don't mind), but the problem is that the CEM3340, which forms the heart of the sweep circuitry, is virtually unobtainable. If you thought you had a hard time finding an SAD1024, just TRY finding a 3340 for less than the price of a fully built flanger.
I used to own an MXR unit, and quite frankly, it never did anything for me, but that's my own personal bias. The A/DA has a really lovely wide sweep, and probably comes as close as anything will to the ultrawide sweep the Hyperflange is capable of. So, for a decent-sounding unit that depends on only ONE hard-to-find component, the A/DA is the better path to pursue. Note as well that the A/DA has a control-voltage input for controlling the sweep (with Manual and Depth rotated fully) so you can always try out alternate LFO waveforms post-build....something you couldn't do with the MXR.
I would agree with Mark there, and I would go on to say that because the Hyperflange has a compander it loses some of the guts of the SAD 1024 sound, so I would go for the ADA, particularly with Mike Irwin's mods.
Just a note to make you laugh/cringe: Sequential circuits has CEM3340 in "limited quantities" for the princely price of (drum roll...) $75 apiece. Plus $8 S/H. I am just stating facts. NOT making judgements...
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QuoteSequential circuits has CEM3340 in "limited quantities" for the princely price of (drum roll...) $75 apiece. Plus $8 S/H.
Fortunately, I bought mine from Paia in the mid-80's for $10. The SAD-1024A was purchased at Radio Shack around the same time. Like Mark, I've been sitting on this one a good long while.
Ah, well then if you are suitably equipped, I can send you some useful scans. Pop me a PM.