Dual Sample / Track & Hold

Dual Sample / Track & Hold

Overview

The Dual Sample / Track & Hold module provides two independent voltage sampling circuits for control-voltage and audio applications. Each channel can operate as either a Sample & Hold or Track & Hold, allowing precise voltage capture, stepped modulation, rhythmic gating, and audio-rate processing.

Both channels operate independently and may be used simultaneously or in combination.

Panel Controls & Connections

Each channel includes the following controls and jacks:

IN: Signal input. Accepts both control voltages and audio signals.

OUT: Sampled or tracked output voltage. The output is buffered and may drive multiple destinations.

S/H INPUT: Control input used to trigger sampling or define tracking behavior, depending on the selected mode.

Mode Switch (S/H – T/H): Selects between Sample & Hold and Track & Hold operation for the channel.

Operation

Sample & Hold Mode

When the mode switch is set to S/H, the module samples the input voltage whenever the S/H Input goes high. The sampled voltage is held at the output until the next sampling event.

Typical uses include:

• Stepped random voltages

• Clocked modulation

• Pitch sampling

• Voltage capture on demand

Track & Hold Mode

When Track & Hold is selected, the output voltage follows the input as long as the input remains above approximately 1.3 V.
If the input drops below this threshold, the output enters hold and retains the previously tracked voltage.

The S/H Input may be left unpatched in Track mode, or used creatively to influence tracking behavior depending on the applied signal.

This mode is useful for:

• Threshold-based voltage capture

• Rhythmic modulation using envelopes or LFOs

• Dynamic gating effects

Audio-Rate Operation

The module supports audio-rate signals and fast control sources. When driven at high frequencies, the Sample / Track & Hold circuits can produce stepped audio effects, sample-rate reduction, and other lo-fi textures.

Patching an audio signal into IN and driving the S/H Input with an oscillator or pulse source will produce quantized or “bit-crushed” audio outputs.

Patch Examples

Stepped Random CV

Patch a noise or random voltage source into IN and a clock or pulse generator into S/H Input. Use OUT to drive oscillators, filters, or VCAs.

Rhythmic Voltage Capture

Patch an envelope or LFO into IN and set the mode to TRACK. The output will follow the signal until it falls below the internal threshold, creating gated or rhythmic modulation.

Audio Sampling

Patch an audio source into IN and drive the S/H Input at audio rate to generate stepped or degraded audio textures.

Notes

• Inputs and outputs are DC-coupled.

• Both channels may be used independently or patched together.

LGE005 DIY Build Documentation:
LGE005 Bill of Materials
LGE005 PCB Layout w/ Designators
LGE005 Schematic
LGE005C Wiring Diagram / Schematic
LGE005C Bill of Materials
LGE005C Layout w/ Designators
Mechanical Parts BOM generally required for building Low-Gain Electronics Modules

** 4U Modular is a term used for the format most commonly known as “Serge Format” or “Loudest Warning Format”. Out of respect for the ever growing format, 4U Modular is the easiest way to refer to it. More Specifically it refers to the panel height and mounting hole style. 4U Modular will patch up just fine with other 4U "Serge" formats such as "Random Source", but it will not mount in RS boats or Buchla Boats (or power off Buchla power for that matter). An info page about this will be added to the website soon to make this a lot more easy to understand.

Details:

• PCB Size: 6” x 2”

• Current Draw: TBD