Shift register sequencer circuit

Description: The mechanics of the Quantized Random Voltage function are intriguing. Instead of having fixed quantization steps for each output of the 4006 shift register, it is proposed to make the voltages adjustable through potentiometers. The Quantized Random Voltage function utilizes a pseudo-random sequence that naturally repeats after a certain number of steps. To enhance the randomness and reduce the pseudo-randomness, Ken Stone's gated comparator concept is employed, allowing a signal input to derive high or low bits in the shift register. The register is then enabled to loop a stored sequence of high and low bits through a simple switch setup that routes the output of the shift register back to the input.

Furthermore, if switches are arranged on the parallel inputs of a CD4034, a pattern can be saved by setting the switches to high or low, with an LED display indicating the status of each bit. This realization led to the understanding that the switches could be utilized to "program" the Klee Sequencer, rather than relying solely on random data input. This was a pivotal moment in the perception of the Klee Sequencer, as random input programming became merely a minor aspect of the broader Klee functionality. An additional important feature introduced by the bit-for-bit parallel outputs of the CD4034 is the capability to connect each output to its own potentiometer. While the original Shift Register Sequencer had only four pots linked to the outputs of the sixteen-bit register, the Klee design incorporates a more extensive configuration. The CD4006 has a significantly larger internal shift register, capable of up to 18 bits (with Model 1 utilizing only 16 bits), whereas the CD4034 is limited to an eight-bit shift register.

The circuit design incorporates a CD4006 shift register, which allows for a more extensive range of quantization steps due to its 18-bit capacity. This enables a greater diversity of output voltages, which can be finely tuned via individual potentiometers connected to each output. The integration of the gated comparator allows for dynamic input control, where external signals can influence the high and low states of the bits within the shift register. This approach enhances the overall functionality of the sequencer by introducing a method for users to set specific patterns, rather than relying on the inherent limitations of a pseudo-random sequence.

The CD4034's parallel inputs can be configured with toggle switches, facilitating a user-friendly interface for programming desired output patterns. The incorporation of an LED display provides real-time feedback on the state of each bit, allowing for intuitive adjustments and programming. This design not only enhances the usability of the Klee Sequencer but also expands its capabilities, allowing for both random and user-defined sequences to coexist, thus creating a versatile tool for electronic music production.

In summary, the proposed modifications to the Klee Sequencer using the CD4006 and CD4034 shift registers, along with the implementation of potentiometers and toggle switches, result in a sophisticated and flexible electronic circuit. This design enables users to explore a wide range of quantized voltage outputs while maintaining the ability to program specific sequences, ultimately enhancing the creative potential of the device. I was particularly enamored over the mechanics of the Quantized Random Voltage function. The thought occurred to me that, instead of having fixed quantization steps for each output of of the 4006 shift register, it might be fun to actually make the voltages adjustable through pots. The Quantized Random Voltage function uses a pseudo-random sequence, which naturally would repeat after so many steps.

In order to make the function more random and less pseudo-random, I turned to Ken Stone's gated comparator idea so that a signal input could be used to derive high or low bits in the shift register. I then enabled the register to loop a stored number of high and low bits ad nauseum through a simple switch setup that routed the output of the shift register back to the input.

But, if switches were arranged on the parallel inputs of a CD4034, then one could save any pattern by setting the switches high or low, and one could use the LED display to determine which bits were high or low at any given time. It wasn't until a bit later that the fact dawned on me that the switches could be used to "program" the Klee instead of relying on random data input.

This was a watershed moment in how I regarded the Klee Sequencer - random input programming from that point on was really just a small "feature" of the larger Klee functionality. Another vital element introduced by the bit-for-bit parallel outputs of the CD4034 was the ability to apply each of the outputs to its own pot.

The original Shift Register Sequencer had only four pots tied to the outputs that processed the sixteen bit register as it cycled through. Klee Breadboard Later On The CD4006 has a much larger internal shift register than the CD4034; the CD4006 shift register can be up to 18 bits long (the Model 1 only used 16 bits of this register) but the CD4034 has only an eight bit shift register.