Buchla 281e Quad Function Generator

Quad Function Generator with four function generators, all generators can operate independently or can be linked in pairs to generate complex output voltages.

The 281e Quad Function Generator comprises four function generators organized in two pairs. All four generators can operate independently or can be linked in pairs to generate more complex output voltages.
A momentary switch selects one of three modes: Transient, Sustained, and Cyclic. An illuminated LED indicates the selected mode.

Upon receiving a pulse, a generator’s output voltage ramps up to 10V at a rate determined by the sum of an applied control voltage and the setting of the attack time knob. When in Sustained mode, the voltage will stay high as long as the input pulse is maintained; when not in the Sustained mode, or when the input pulse terminates, the output ramps down to 0V at a rate determined by the sum of the decay voltage and the setting of the decay knob.

At the end of the Decay segment, a transient pulse appears at the pulse output. If the 281e is in Cyclic mode, the cycle now repeats.

The time range for both Attack and Decay is from .001 to 10 seconds.

In the Quadrature mode, generators A and B (or C and D) operate in tandem with their functions shifted by ninety degrees in relation to each other. An OR function can be invoked to generate more complex envelopes (ADSR).

The 281e can respond directly to MIDI messages received via the 225e MIDI interface. 281e setting can be saved and recalled using the 225e or the 206e Preset Manager.