New System Instruments Harmonic Shift Oscillator

The Harmonic Shift Oscillator from New System Instruments uses pure analogue circuitry to generate harmonic and inharmonic spectra. This provides similar functionality to FM synthesis but with a more direct relationship between the parameters and the resulting spectrum.

Usage:

Adjustable parameters include frequency, the level of harmonics (Level), and the distance between successive harmonics (Stride). Besides frequency, the FM, Level and Stride parameters have their own CV input with an attenuator. If Stride has an integer value, the result can sound classic waveforms like sine, triangle, sawtooth or square, although the waveform is different. If Stride is not an integer, the result is a complex inharmonic waveform.

The oscillator produces two outputs where all frequency components are phase shifted and 90°, resulting in different waveforms for the same harmonic content. However, since they peak differently, they distort differently. At higher harmonic levels, the module produces a subtle, warm distortion.