Using the ES2 Amplifier Parameters

The dynamic stage of a synthesizer defines the level—the perceived volume—of a played note. The change in level over time is controlled by an envelope generator. For more information about envelope generators, see Synthesizer Basics.

Using Envelope 3 to Control ES2 Levels

ENV 3 is hard-wired to the dynamic stage of the ES2—it is always used to control the level of each note. All envelope parameters are discussed in Getting to Know the ES2 Envelopes (ENV 1 to ENV 3), with specific information about Envelope 3 found in Getting to Know ENV 2 and ENV 3 in the ES2.

Modulating the Amp in the ES2 Router

The dynamic stage can be modulated by any router modulation source. To do this, choose the AMP modulation target in a modulation routing in the router.

For example, you can quickly create a tremolo effect by selecting AMP as the target, and LFO1 as the source (leave via set to Off) in a modulation routing. The level will change periodically, based on the current LFO 1 Rate value.

Thickening the ES2’s Sound with Sine Level

The Sine Level knob, located next to the Filter 2 section, allows a sine wave at the frequency of Oscillator 1 to be mixed directly into the dynamic stage, independent of the filters. Even if you have filtered away the basic partial tone of Oscillator 1 with a highpass filter, you can reconstitute it with this parameter.

Figure. Sine Level knob.
  • In cases where Oscillator 1 is frequency-modulated by Oscillator 2 (if you have turned up FM with the waveform selector), only the pure sine wave is mixed into the dynamic section, not the distorted FM waveform.

  • Any modulation of Oscillator 1’s pitch, set in the router, affects the frequency of the sine wave mixed in at this stage.

Note: The Sine Level knob is useful for adding warmth and a fat bass quality to the sound. Extra body can be added to thin sounds with this function, given that Oscillator 1 actually plays the basic pitch.