The Molten Voltage CV-SYNC is a Control Voltage Synchronizer: a small pedal that takes MIDI Clock at its MIDI IN and turns it into two simultaneous control voltage outputs, each swinging 0 to 5 volts DC. Its ratio controls multiply or divide the outputs against the incoming clock into one of nine musical ratios, so a player can sync CV-driven devices, such as tremolos, delays and modular gear, to a tempo without tapping anything12.
Molten Voltage marks the CV-SYNC as discontinued on its product page1. The unit was hand built in Oregon, USA by Molten Voltage, and its owner's manual dates from 201412.
The ratios, switch and MIDI settings
The heart of the CV-SYNC is its pair of ratio controls. Each multiplies or divides its output against the incoming MIDI Clock, choosing from nine musical subdivisions2:
| Subdivision | Ratio |
|---|---|
| Sixteenth note | 1:4 |
| Eighth note triplet | 1:3 |
| Eighth note | 1:2 |
| Quarter note triplet | 2:3 |
| Quarter note | tap speed |
| Half note triplet | 4:3 |
| Half note | 2:1 |
| Whole note | 4:1 |
| Two whole notes | 8:1 |
Each program stores and recalls a distinct output ratio for each of the two outputs, and the unit offers 128 program storage1.
The single PGM Switch does the storing. Programs are stored by toggling the PGM Switch down then up again. The same switch, used at power-up, sets the Output Mode and the MIDI Channel2.
On MIDI, programs are recalled upon receipt of MIDI Program Change messages on the CV-SYNC's MIDI Channel, which defaults to 15 and can also be set to 1. MIDI Clock itself is not channel-specific, so clock sync works whatever the channel setting2. Connection is by a standard 5-pin MIDI cable into the MIDI IN jack2.
The CV-SYNC is discontinued, so it is no longer in production. Molten Voltage's manual directs repair enquiries to Service@MoltenVoltage.com and general questions to questions@MoltenVoltage.com2.
Power, build and warranty
The CV-SYNC is powered by a standard "BOSS" type 9-volt DC, 2.1mm, tip negative power supply with a minimum of 200mA, sold separately. Current draw is approximately 120mA1. With a draw around 120mA, a supply or daisy-chain output rated below the 200mA minimum is not appropriate for this unit.
The 200mA minimum supply rating and roughly 120mA draw mean the CV-SYNC needs its own adequate supply output; a low-current daisy chain output will not do.
Molten Voltage describes the build as solid, professional-grade construction, including riveted steel MIDI jacks, with a compact design that assists discrete modular pedalboard construction. The maker's marketing calls it "Bomb-proof design ensures flawless functioning. Road-ready MIDI Machinery"12.
The warranty covers two years from the date of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service, with an approved power supply. Proof of purchase is required, and user repair attempts void the warranty2.
Where it fits
The CV-SYNC is part of Molten Voltage's line of MIDI and control-voltage gear, hand built in Oregon, USA1. Players building a MIDI-controlled board around it may also want a controller such as the MASTER CONTROL MV-58B to send it Program Change messages3.
Questions
Is the Molten Voltage CV-SYNC discontinued?
Yes. Molten Voltage marks the CV-SYNC as discontinued on its product page. The unit was hand built in Oregon, USA by Molten Voltage, and the company's manual for it dates from 2014. Used units are the only way a player would encounter one today, and the maker's support addresses remain the contact points for questions and repairs.
What power supply does the CV-SYNC need?
The CV-SYNC is powered by a standard BOSS type 9-volt DC, 2.1mm, tip negative power supply with a minimum of 200mA, sold separately. Its current draw is approximately 120mA. Because of that draw, a supply rated below 200mA is not appropriate, and the unit has no battery option described in its documentation.
How many CV outputs does the CV-SYNC have?
The CV-SYNC provides two simultaneous CV outputs, each swinging from 0 to 5 volts DC. Each output can be set to its own output ratio, and programs store and recall a distinct ratio for each output.
What MIDI channel does the CV-SYNC respond to?
The CV-SYNC responds to MIDI Program Change messages on MIDI Channel 1 or 15, with Channel 15 as the default. MIDI Clock itself is not channel-specific, so clock sync works regardless of the channel setting. The channel can be set using the PGM Switch at power-up.
How many programs can the CV-SYNC store?
The CV-SYNC offers 128 program storage. Each program stores and recalls a distinct output ratio for each of the two CV outputs. Programs are recalled by MIDI Program Change messages and stored by toggling the PGM Switch down then up again.
Sources (3)
- CV-SYNC™ .:. Control Voltage Synchronizer to MIDI Clock .:. by Molten Voltage .:. Footswitch Controller with Presets and Ratios, Molten Voltage
- CV-Sync_-_Molten_Voltage_Control_Voltage_Synchronizer_-_Owners_Manual.pdf, Molten Voltage, 2014
- Master_Control_MV-58B_-_PedalBoard_MIDI_Controller_and _Clock_-_Owners_Manual_by_Molten_Voltage.pdf, Molten Voltage (moltenvoltage.com), 2015
