While the Moog Etherwave Pro® is commonly known among thereminists as one of the best actual theremins, many players complain its non-optimal volume response which is often described as "snappy". That means that even delicate hand movements above the volume loop don't allow to play continuous crescendi/decrescendi from/to zero volume but silence is followed by a jump in volume from zero to a starting level of about -40dB. The consequences are not only a reduced dynamic range but also the impracticality of sophisticated expression at very low volume.Based on a modification Dr. Robert Moog himself designed to solve this problem, Thierry Frenkel designed the EPVM1345 module. The EPVM1345 module comprises 4 different circuits, each giving another volume response characteristic: The original circuit, snappy, giving a limited dynamic range of ~40dB The modified circuit developed by Dr. R. Moog, less snappy, giving a dynamic range of ~54dB A circuit developed by Thierry Frenkel, no perceptible snappiness, giving a dynamic range of ~61dB. The subjective impression which I had when testing the prototype was a volume response similar to that of my very well tuned and adjusted Etherwave Standard®. Another circuit developed by Thierry, with a still smoother response, giving a dynamic range of ~67dB. It allows a very sophisticated expression at extremely low volume but exceeds important left hand movement when using the whole dynamic range. The preferred response is set inside the theremin, so no need to drill holes in your instrument. Please not, the EPVM1345 module only works in the Moog Etherwave PRO theremin. Not in any of the other Etherwave models. (Standard, Plus, or otherwise) If you have additional questions, please contact us via email: [email protected]
