Constructional difficulty: Moderate, but its a big project with many parts.
The first prototype in a half rack width metal case. The production PCBs are slightly different in that they have a slightly different layout and use 0.1" headers for all the input and output connectors.
The TM3030 is a midi controlled bassline clone that is designed to sound good, be easy to build and use no really difficult to get parts. The design features the same controls as the little sliver box we have all come to love: tune, waveshape, cut-off, resonance, envelope sweep, decay time, accent and volume.
Unlike the Oakley TB3030 and TB3031, this project has its own midi interface on board. This interface has been especially designed for us by Sequentix, the creators of the P3 Sequencer and midibass TB303 midi interface. By careful analysis of the original unit, Sequentix have created a midi interface that allows the TM3030 to behave as a real unit would do if you could feed it midi messages. Slides and accents are faithfully reproduced.
This unit contains no internal sequencer. Now we know part of the sound of those famous acid riffs come from the sequencer, but with careful programming on your favourite computer or hardware sequencer, it is possible to create those wonderful fluid lines that are so recognisable.
The PCB contains, in several key areas, places where the builder can chose to use modern or original Japanese parts. We believe that the modern parts sound as good as the originals, but the option is there if you have the parts and want authenticity.
The prototype from the rear. The rear panel houses the audio output, AC/DC input, power switch, midi through and midi input sockets.
The front panel pots are Alpha or Alps 16mm devices. These are available from many places and offer long life and feel good. They can be soldered directly to the board to minimise wiring and errors. Special pot brackets are available to allow the PCB to be mounted on to front panels without any further mounting requirements. The board is designed to fit into either a half rack case, or in a 1U rack case. It would be possible to have two TM3030's side by side in one 1U rack.
Like the pots, the LEDs and switch can also be board mounted. Input and output sockets are mounted to the rear of the case and are connected to the PCB with flying leads.
The front panel LEDs show slide, gate, accent and power on conditions.
The power requirements are 15V AC or 18 to 24V DC. Current consumption is less than 100mA.
The midi interface is controlled by a pre-programmed microcontroller chip.
Board size is 201mm [front] x 130mm [sides].
Sound Samples
Some short snippets of the TM3030 in action. The TM3030 was being driven by a Sequentix P3 and the output of the TM3030 was recorded without any further processing. It has to be said that mp3 are not the best format in which to listen for the nuances of sound design, but you should get the general idea.
Downloads
User's and Builder's Guide Full building instructions and parts list.
TM3030 MIDI specification The TM3030 midi interface commands and specifications
The schematic is provided only to purchasers of the printed circuit board. This will be sent to you as a PDF file with your shipping confirmation e-mail.
Please note that neither Tony at Oakley Sound or Oakley Modular are able to provide individual building support for this project. All requests for help must be via the Oakley-synths Yahoo group.
Parts Prices
TM3030 PCB Issue 1 and pre-programmed PIC
........ 35GBP
TM3030 Pot Bracket Kit
................................................... 2GBP
1K +3500ppm/K temp co resistor
................................... 5GBP
THAT300P NPN array
...................................................... 6GBP
TM3030 PIC Only ............................................................ 12GBP
Please note the PCB is only available with the pre-programmed PIC. The PCB is not available separately. The TM3030 PIC is available separately for spares purposes only.
The TM3030 pot bracket kit contains seven special pot brackets. The brackets are used to hold the PCB mounted Alpha and ALPS pots safely to the PCBs. They are not required if you are using different types of pots or hand wiring any pots to the board.
Most of the other parts can be purchased from you usual electronic component supplier. However, some of the more special parts can be obtained from Senso at Vintage Planet. Please see the User's and Builder's Guide for more details.
See the prices page for ordering information, shipping charges and payment methods.
All prices include VAT at UK rates. Shipping/postage is additional to these prices. See also the FAQ page.
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