Modular synthesizer enthusiasts in search of an affordable compact yet powerful-sounding fully analog modular synthesizer system will be thrilled with the erica synths Pico System III, a pint-sized powerhouse of a desktop modular synthesizer with Eurorack compatibility. The Pico System III uses a multifunctional design (instead of single-function modules found in the Pico System II), which is intended to encourage creativity in modular patching.

The system has 31 inputs and 20 outputs (master output is duplicated) + 7 switches. It features a set of modules for advanced sound design, experiments in modular patching and educational purposes. The system includes a 2-3-4 step sequencer, two VCOs, a VCO controller/VCA module, three mixers that work both with CV and audio signals, a modulator (syncable LFO, random CV, and noise source), two voltage-controlled ASR envelope generators, two low-pass gates, and a BBD delay.

The voicecard patch system allows users to change patches instantly and radically, which makes the system well suited for experimental live performances. The system comes with 5 great-sounding factory preset voicecards, and 5 DIY voicecards that are empty for users who wish to develop their own patches. The Pico System III also includes 20 patch cables, a stackable patch cable, patch notes, and a power supply.

Fully Modular System for Studio & Stage    Voice Card Patch System for Fast Recall    31 Inputs and 20 Output + 7 Switches    2-3-4 Step Sequencer, Two VCOs    VCO Controller / VCA    Three Audio and CV Mixers + BBD Delay    Modulator (Sync LFO, Random CV, Noise)    Two VC ASR Envelopes    Two Resonant Low-Pass Gates    Includes Power Supply and Patch Cables

• 2-3-4 step sequencer
• Two VCOs
• VCO controller/VCA module
• several mixers that work both with CV and audio signals
• Modulator (syncable LFO, random CV and noise source)
• Two voltage-controlled ASR envelope generators
• Two resonant low-pass gates
• BBD delay

• Sequencer: Straightforward fully analog 2-3-4 step sequencer/waveshaper with adjustable sequence length. A particularly interesting use of the SEQ2 is waveshaping—just apply any audio source to the Clock CV input, tweak the knobs, and be amazed
• VCO1: Powerful, fully analog VCO with great tracking over 8 octaves with simultaneous triangle and pulsewave outputs, pulse-width modulation and exponential frequency modulation.
• VCO2: Fully analog VCO with built in waveshaper of unique functionality—it continuously morphs a triangle wave into a pulse wave with adjustable pulse-width, adding harmonics to the signal on the output. The waveshape is manually and CV controlled. VCO2 has manually and CV-controlled linear FM for experiments in FM synthesis.
• VCO Controller / VCA: Intended to control FM levels of the VCOs. It also features a VCA that can be used for manual and CV controlled Linear FM depth control, or it can be used as regular DC-coupled VCA for other applications.
• Modulator: Combined clock/LFO/random voltage-source module. It generates sine and pulse LFO waves, white noise, S&H CV, and random triggers; basically, everything you need to bring some uncertainty in your modular setup.
• VC EG: Versatile looping AD/ASR envelope generator with voltage control over attack and decay times. It has automatic Trigger/Gate detection, as well as drone mode—at full clockwise setting of the Decay knob, the envelope is fully open. In the Loop mode, you can retrigger envelopes for even more interesting modulations
• Low-pass Gate: Classic Don Buchla LPG designs with vactrols in the circuit for that signature sound, plus added resonance control of the LPG circuit. When resonance is full CW, the module goes into self-oscillation and can be used as a sound source.
• BBD: Fully analog 4092 stage bucket-brigade delay module. Besides nice and clean flanger and delay effects, full CV settings of time and feedback can produce extreme sonic artefacts
• Mixers: Two independent DC-coupled mixers for mixing audio and CV signals with individual outputs and shared outputs, where signals from both mixers are mixed together.

The Pico System III comes with 5 factory preset voicecards:

• LPG Techno
• Synthesizer
• Space Computer
• Drone Master
• Droid Breakdance

DIY Voice Card

• The DIY voicecard allows you to build a custom patch by soldering small wires on the voicecard. The voicecard replicates the layout of the system, so, building a patch on the voicecard is similar to patching the system. You will need a soldering iron and small wires to build a patch on the voicecard (if you do not have soldering tools, ask a friend). You can mimic stackable patch cables by routing the same output to several inputs on the voicecard. And don’t forget to name the voicecard—invent a name for the patch and use a permanent marker to write the name on the white area of the voicecard.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Can I couple the Stanmore III with the Stanmore II?

A: I am not seeing outputs available on either the Stanmore III or the Stanmore II model to be able to use them together. There are made to bluetooth pair to 1 source, or connect to 1 source, with no additional output.

Q: 2. Is this device POE capable?

A: It is not POE compatible.

Q: 3. Since I bought this speaker In the US, I'm a little concerned if it switches from 110 to 240 volt by itself? I live In Europe.

A: The Marshall Acton III Bluetooth Speaker System (Black), BH # MAACTIONIII, will auto-switch for 100 to 240 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz voltage. Just adapt the North American, twin-bladed AC wall plug to your local configuration.

Q: 4. How well does this fit the Mk III?

A: This bracket will fit well with the EM-1 MK3.

Q: 5. Does this bracket work with the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mirrorless Camera?

A: No, the Really Right Stuff L-Plate Set for Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and Mark III is not compatible for use with the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mirrorless Camera.

Q: 6. Is this the full L-bracket as shown or just the base plate?

A: It is a base plate not a full L-bracket.

Q: 7. Anyone have issues with the magnets affecting the camera in anyway? Thanks, Ben

A: There have been no reports to our knowledge regarding the magnets in this plate causing issues.

Q: 8. is this l bracket compatible with Manfrotto MK290XTA3-3WUS 290 Xtra Aluminum Tripod with 804 3-Way Pan/Tilt Head ?

A: Unfortunately Really Right Stuff L-Plate Set for Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and Mark III is not compatible with that Manfrotto 804 tripod head.

Q: 9. Does this require power or dedicted ground?

A: Power is not required, however the unit must be properly grounded to operate correctly, and safely.

Q: 10. Is there an L-bracket compatible with the manfrotto 290 dual tripod? If not, is there a plate that can be used with this L-bracket and the manfrotto tripod? Thank you!

A: The Manfrotto 290-dual uses Manfrotto's 200PL proprietary plate and there currently isn't an L-bracket designed to work with them. You are able to attach a 200PL to the bottom of the L-bracket but not the L-component. In both cases, this defeats the purposes of the RRS L-bracket set for the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mk II/III.