Concept

The ATOV 16n Rework is aimed at solving a problem specific to modular synthesis. As a patch gets increasingly complex, a forest of cables grows over your system before you know it. The 16n allows you to take control of a modular system with a very ergonomic controller that integrates perfectly into a modern studio.

The ATOV 16n Rework can be used either as a Eurorack module or as a standalone unit using the bundled enclosure.

The ATOV 16n Rework is a faderbank sending CV, I2C, MIDI jack compatible with all standards, and USB MIDI (compatible with PC, Mac, iPad, etc.). This makes it the ultimate all-in-one controller for any of your hardware and software!

Interface

1 - Faders

The ATOV 16n Rework has 16 faders. Each fader controls the voltage of a CV output, a MIDI CC (jack output), a USB MIDI CC and i2c controller data.

2 - CV output

3.5mm jack Eurorack-compatible outputs can send analog control voltage. The range can be configured to be either 0–5V or 0–10V using dip switches on the back of the unit (see Configuration). The voltage generation is fully analogue, giving you step-free control over your modular gear. The circuitry has been heavily modified compared to the original 16n to provide maximum voltage stability and minimum noise.

3 – USB

The USB connector is on the left side of the unit. It is used to transmit MIDI data, for configuration and for firmware updates. USB is also used for power when the unit is in standalone mode. When connected to a computer the unit appears as "16n". Each fader can then be used to send MIDI CC controller data. The MIDI channel and CC number can be modified using the online editor. The channels and CC numbers sent by each fader can be different for USB and MIDI jack.

Note: Since firmware V2.1.0, MIDI data sent to the 16n through USB is echoed to the hardware MIDI output jack.

4 – MIDI output

The MIDI 3.5mm stereo jack allows the 16n to output MIDI CC controller data. The MIDI channel and CC number can be modified using the online editor. The polarity of the jack can be switched using the MIDI Mode switch on the back of the unit (see Configuration). The supplied 3.5mm jack to MIDI DIN adapter follows the standard described by the MIDI Association. All MIDI configuration is accessible in the online editor.

Note: Since firmware V2.1.0, MIDI data sent to the 16n through USB is echoed to the hardware MIDI output jack.

5 – i2c

i2c is a digital communication protocol used by modules such as the Orthogonal Devices ER301, Monome Teletype, Expert Sleepers Disting EX, etc. The 16n can be set to Master or Slave. All i2c configuration is accessible in the online editor under the "Device Options" tab. The i2c bus in this unit has pull-up resistors already installed.

16n as Master (Leader)

If the device you want to send data to is set as Slave (Follower) (e.g. ER301, Ansible, TXo), set the 16n as Master (Leader).

• 0x31 (hex) / 49 (decimal) — standard for ER301
• 0x20 (hex) / 32 (decimal) — standard for Ansible
• 0x60 (hex) / 96 (decimal) — standard for TXo

If your device is not receiving data properly, please change the address of the receiving device and refer to its user manual.

16n as Slave (Follower)

If you are connecting to a Master (Leader) device, the 16n needs to be set as Slave (Follower). This is required to use the 16n with the Monome Teletype. The i2c address of the 16n is 0x34 (hex) / 52 (decimal).

6 - Status LED

This LED can be configured in a few ways (see Software configuration). Note: LED configuration is not possible on units with serial numbers between 00002 and 00006.

• The LED can be permanently on when the unit is powered
• The LED can be set to flash with MIDI activity

Rear side

1 - CV output voltage switches

These 16 switches allow you to change the voltage range of each CV output from 0–5V to 0–10V. Flick the corresponding switch down for 0–10V or up for 0–5V. These switches remain accessible when the optional enclosure is installed — just remove the dust covers using a flat screwdriver or a small coin.

2 - i2c connector

This connector allows you to connect the ATOV 16n Rework to other i2c modules, keeping the connection inside the Eurorack case. Cables for these pins are called Dupont cables. Please contact us if you need one.

3 - Eurorack power connector

Use this connector to power the ATOV 16n Rework using a Eurorack power supply. The -12V rail is at the bottom of the connector — this is where the red stripe should be. This unit is equipped with diode protection to protect both the unit and your power supply in case of incorrect connection.

4 - MIDI Mode Switch

The polarity of the jack can be switched using the MIDI Mode switch on the back of the unit. If the device you want to control follows the Type A mini-jack MIDI standard, set the switch to the left. If it follows the Type B standard, set the switch to the right.

The provided jack to MIDI DIN adapter follows the MIDI Association standard (Type A) — the switch must be set to the left.

5 - Power mode switch

This switch selects the power source. Set it to Eurorack if you are using the 16n as a Eurorack module. Set it to USB if you are using the 16n in its optional aluminium enclosure powered by USB.

Warning! If set incorrectly the unit will not work properly — maximum MIDI and CV values will not be reached. If your unit appears not to function properly, please check the position of this switch.

Software configuration

To use the online editor you need a MIDI-compatible browser (e.g. Chrome). Access the editor at: https://16n-faderbank.github.io/editor/. The 16n must be connected to your computer for the editor to be active.

The editor will warn you if the firmware of your unit is out of date.

MIDI Monitor page

When first opening the editor, you will see a monitor page displaying the position and the USB MIDI CC channel, number and values sent by each fader. Clicking the TRS Jack tab displays the MIDI CC channels and numbers sent through the TRS MIDI jack.

1 - Edit Config

Clicking the Edit Config button (top right) allows you to edit which CC channel and CC number to assign to each fader. This configuration is independent for USB MIDI and TRS Jack MIDI. The MIDI signal is sent simultaneously on each connector.

2 - Device Options

This tab allows you to set numerous software options for the 16n.

LED options

Choose how the LED behaves: remain illuminated when the device is on, and/or flash with MIDI activity. (This setting has no effect on units with serial numbers between 00002 and 00006.)

Fader Minimum/Maximum calibration

This calibration ensures the faders act across their full length and that maximum and minimum MIDI values are reached. If your ATOV 16n Rework is a factory-built unit, this calibration was performed during manufacturing.

i2c Leader/Follower

Choose whether the 16n acts as Leader (Master) or Follower (Slave) in the i2c connection. Please refer to the i2c section of this manual.

Software Update

The most reliable way to install 16n firmware is to load a compiled binary with Teensy Loader.

https://www.pjrc.com/teensy/loader.html

Pick the version for your OS — you only need the "Teensy Loader application". Run Teensy Loader.

Download a firmware hex file from the GitHub releases page of the original 16n project. Please download the firmware for 16n using Teensy LC, as the ATOV 16n Rework uses this microcontroller.

Open the firmware hex file in Teensy Loader (drag it onto the loader, or use File → Open Hex File). Click the "Auto" button on the toolbar so it lights up green.

Connect your 16n over USB. In most cases the firmware will be uploaded automatically on plug-in.

In some cases the firmware will not upload automatically. In this case you need to press the button on the Teensy LC — it is the button at the far right of the Teensy board, easy to press with a flat object such as a screwdriver blade or ruler. When you press the button, the firmware will flash and the 16n will reboot.