Topogram Soft Key Generator

LZX Industries Topogram

LZX's Topogram is a linear sequential soft key generator capable of creating complex, interrelated patterns and modulation. It splits an incoming signal into 14 keys, each with its own output. The behaviors of these keys are determined by the input source, gain, and upper and lower threshold settings.

The gain control determines how hard or soft the edges of the keyed image or pattern appear. The upper and lower thresholds define the keying range of the incoming signal. The outputs include two groups of five bands of window keys, defined by the controls. The lower bands provide an inverted version of their upper counterparts.

Additionally, Topogram has four outputs which provide the difference between upper and lower keys, indicated by the lines on the panel. When used in conjunction with the positive one and negative five outputs, these will split the signal into six discrete, non-overlapping bands. One application is to use these bands as a six-band complex colorizer for an external video source. This creates an extremely detailed and high fidelity image occupying a spectrum of colors defined by the Topogram and colorizer settings.

While Topogram can be used for video rate signals, it also excels as a low frequency modulation source. Patching an LFO into the source will create 14 interrelated LFOs of varying speeds and shapes. The gain, upper, and lower thresholds all have the ability to be voltage controlled, allowing for the creation of even more complex and animated patterns or modulation sources. Topogram is the first of the third generation of LZX modules, providing a new standard in video synthesis quality and functionality.

Topogram Features

• Sequential linear soft key generator
• Slices an input signal to 14 outputs
• Five key outputs with five corresponding inverted keys
• Four difference keys
• Gain, upper, and lower threshold settings with CV control
• Thru-output
• Can be used for low frequency, audio, or video rate signals
• Great for complex modulation or pattern generation