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Videomancer

warning

This documentation is a work in progress, and all content is subject to change before the official documentation launch.

Videomancer front panel Videomancer rear connections

Overview​

Videomancer is a standalone instrument and development platform for video synthesis. Its open source hybrid digital/analog architecture leverages the best of both domains. With a full complement of inputs and outputs for every signal type, it integrates seamlessly with any studio or performance rig. Videomancer supports a wide range of standard and high definition video formats.

Due to its extraordinary versatility, Videomancer can perform many functions, such as:

  • Process HDMI or analog video
  • Generate video with internal pattern algorithms
  • Convert between video signal types:
    • HDMI YCbCr
    • DVI RGB (output only)
    • Component YPbPr
    • Component RGsB (sync on green)
    • Composite
    • S-Video (Y/C)
    • LZX 1V modular RGB
  • Modulate video with dozens of different Modulation Operators:
    • Direct modulation with external audio and control voltage
    • External signal shapers such as envelope follower, slew, quantizer
    • Internal algorithms such as oscillators and pattern generators
    • USB devices such as mouse, game controller, joystick
    • MIDI Continuous Controllers and Note messages
  • Control global modulation timing:
    • Synchronize modulation with MIDI Clock or MIDI Timecode
    • Set tempo with TAP button or numeric Beats Per Minute
  • Control external devices with MIDI

Each of Videomancer's twelve Parameters can be driven by any Modulation Operator. Modulation is unique per Parameter, so you can mix and match them. For example, drive Parameters 1 and 2 with independent oscillators, Parameter 3 with audio, Parameter 4 with MIDI, etc.

note

Videomancer does not convert between resolution formats or frame rates. It cannot upscale or downscale a video signal, or change the number of frames per second.

Architecture​

Under the hood, Videomancer is an embedded system, a special-purpose computer driven by a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). This is a type of processor that can be configured “in the field” to implement different circuits via firmware. That means Videomancer can perform many different functions with a level of efficiency that would otherwise require custom-designed hardware for each function. Instead of a different physical circuit, the FPGA simply loads a different firmware program. This approach diverges radically from conventional digital graphics that rely on parallel processing on a GPU. Videomancer's architecture imparts extraordinary versatility and power, while remaining affordable, portable, and energy-efficient.

Speed

Another benefit of Videomancer's FPGA architecture is ultra-low latency, in the range of 0.0001 to 0.0007 millisecond. Conventional digital video devices insert at least one frame of delay, which is 33 milliseconds at 30 frames per second. Videomancer is orders of magnitude faster. Latency is absolutely imperceptible, giving immediate feedback in applications such as audio reactivity.

Precision

All your bits are belong to us. Videomancer operates with 10-bit precision throughout. That includes each channel of video, and each continuous Parameter value. A dynamic range of 1024 possible values per Parameter. 30 bits for video. More than we need for faithful reproduction, total image deconstruction, or devastating annihilation.

Development

Videomancer's firmware is part of a code base shared with other instruments in development, such as Chromagnon, and planned for the future, such as Memory Palace Mk II. The open source Software Developer's Kit opens the door for third party community developers to contribute programs to Videomancer, enriching the creative possibilities for all artists who use the instrument.

Economics

LZX is committed to making video synthesis affordable to working artists, not just big studios. To keep costs down, Videomancer's design requires very little volatile memory. It can only hold a few lines of video in memory at a time. That's enough for certain effects that are impossible in the analog domain, such as vertical blurring. But it's not enough to store an entire frame, so Videomancer isn't a frame store. It can't convert resolutions or frame rates, or sync one video signal to another. For those capabilites, we offer the TBC2 Dual Video Input Eurorack module.

Legacy​

Videomancer is the second standalone instrument released by LZX, the first being the popular Vidiot. Videomancer shares very little DNA with Vidiot beyond support for the LZX 1V modular standard. Vidiot was envisioned as an entry-level semi-modular instrument with fixed functionality. In contrast, Videomancer is a development platform whose capabilities will continue to expand over time. 15 years of continuous design and manufacturing expertise have culminated in an instrument highly optimized for creativity, portability, expandability, and efficiency.

Key Specifications​

ParameterValue
Dimensions (mm)234.2 width / 178.1 depth / 75.44 height
Dimensions (inch)9.22 width / 7.01 depth / 2.97 height
Power Consumption12V @ 500 mA
Power Connectors2.1mm DC barrel
IncludedInternational power supply
Video SyncRear RCA Sync out, rear RCA Multi-format Analog in

Connectors, Controls, and Indicators​

Videomancer connectors and controls

Connectors​

  • HDMI digital video/audio in and out
    • Full-size HDMI jacks
    • Supporting a wide range of digital video formats
    • Output configurable as HDMI YCbCr or DVI RGB
  • Multi-format Analog video in and out
    • Triple RCA jacks configurable as:
      • CVBS composite
      • S-Video (Y/C) component
      • YPbPr component
      • RGB component with sync on green (RGsB / SoG)
  • Video Sync out
    • RCA jack
    • Genlock a modular system or other devices to Videomancer
  • 1v RGB video in and out
  • Audio/CV inputs
    • Four signal inputs on two TRS stereo mini-jacks
    • Configurable as control voltages or line level audio signals
  • MIDI in and out
    • TRS 3.5 mm (1/8”) mini-jacks
    • MIDI standard Type A
  • USB ports
    • Two USB-C jacks
    • Device port
      • Connect to MIDI host such as a PC
      • Firmware updates
    • Host port
      • Connect to class-compliant USB MIDI devices such as musical keyboard or fader box
      • Connect to Human Interface Devices such as mouse or game controller
  • microSD card slot for additional non-volatile storage
    • Additional Programs from LZX and the community
    • Presets for Programs stored on microSD card
    • Planned: library management with LZX Connect desktop application
  • DC Power
    • Barrel jack
      • 2.1 mm diameter center conductor
    • Power supply requirements:
      • 12 Volts, center positive
      • 500 mA

Controls​

Front Panel Controls

  • Rotary Encoder
    • Incremental digital data entry
    • Turn to choose an option from the menu
    • Push to execute
    • Define global SYSTEM settings
    • Choose Modulation Operator per Parameter
    • Load and save STATE presets
  • Navigation buttons
    • Press to access a function on the LCD display
    • White buttons: SYSTEM, MOTION, and STATE
    • Black buttons labeled 1 through * :
      • Press to switch focus to Parameter 1 through Parameter 12
      • Press repeatedly to cycle through the display of:
        • Modulation Operator menu
        • Current Manual value of Parameter Knobs, Switches, and Fader
        • Values of the Modulation properties controlled by the Time, Space, and Slope knobs
  • Modulation control knobs
    • Adjust modulation for the currently focused Parameter
  • Parameter control knobs
    • Manually adjust continuous Parameters 1 through 6
  • Toggle control switches
    • Manually enable / disable binary Parameters 7 though 11
  • Slider Parameter control
    • Manually adjust continuous Parameter 12
  • Transport buttons
    • Start and Stop modulation
    • Tap to set tempo in beats per minute

Rear Chassis Controls

Indicators​

Front Panel Indicators

  • LCD screen
    • User feedback for SYSTEM settings and functions, STATE Presets, Modulation modes, Parameter values, and MOTION Timecode / BPM
  • Front panel LED lights
    • Parameter knob, switch, and fader LEDs indicate the currently focused Parameter: 1 through 12
    • Modulation knob LEDs indicate the focused Modulation control: Time, Space, Slope
    • Start and Stop LEDs indicate transport playback status
    • Tap LED flashes during transport playback to indicate tempo

Rear Chassis Indicators

  • Power LED light
  • HDMI input and output LED lights
    • Illuminate when HDMI status is active and locked

Signal Paths​

Supported Formats and Standards​

Videomancer genlocks to incoming video, assuming the timing, resolution, and frame rate of the source. It can't convert raster formats, so there's no function to choose resolutions or frame rates.

Resolution and frame rate standards
NTSC 486i59
PAL 576i50
480p29
576p25
720p50
720p59
720p60
1080i50
1080i59
1080i60
1080p23
1080p24
1080p25
1080p29
1080p30

Videomancer can't convert resolutions or frame rates, but it can convert between color spaces and color encoding formats. Choose the input and output options via the System menu, as described in Video Route Modes below.

Color formats
HDMI YCbCr (YUV)
DVI (RGB)
Component YPbBr (YUV)
Component RGsB / SoG (Sync on Green)
Composite (CVBS)
S-Video (Y/C)

Video Inputs and Outputs​

Videomancer provides many options for video inputs and outputs, making it exceptionally flexible. It's compatible with nearly any video device with HDMI or analog connections.

Videomancer Vid Route Mode display

Video Routing

General procedure​

To choose from the available video inputs and outputs:

  • Press the SYSTEM button
  • Turn the rotary encoder to select the desired SYSTEM submenu:
    • Vid Route Mode
    • Analog In Mode
    • Analog Out Mode
    • HDMI Out Mode
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to edit the selected setting
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder to select an option
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to confirm the option
note

All of Videomancer's outputs are always active.

Video Route Modes​

The most fundamental SYSTEM property is how video is routed through Videomancer. The Vid Route Mode menu chooses which inputs are active, if any, and how they are routed to the processor.

Vid Route ModeSignal Path(s)
HDMI InSend HDMI digital video to Videomancer processor
Dual InSend HDMI to analog outputs and send analog inputs to processor
StandaloneDisable all inputs. Video format is set with SYSTEM → Preferred Timing.
Analog InSend analog video to processor
note

In every Vid Route Mode except Dual In, the same signal is sent to the HDMI and analog outputs.

Dual In Route Mode

Integrate Videomancer with analog devices such as a modular synthesizer with Dual In Mode. Videomancer routes incoming HDMI video to the active analog output. Process video with an external device, or chain of devices. Video connected to Videomancer's active analog input is routed to the processor.

Videomancer Dual In routing diagram showing connections to a modular synth

Dual In routing diagram showing connections to a modular synth

Dual In setup procedure:

  1. Connect Videomancer's analog output to the input of another device.
  2. Choose the output signal type from SYSTEM → Analog Out Mode.
  3. Connect the analog output of another device to Videomancer's analog input.
  4. Choose the input signal type from the SYSTEM → Analog In Mode menu.
tip

There's no law that says Videomancer's analog inputs and outputs have to form a single circuit with some other system. A signal can loop through something as an “effects send” and back to Videomancer, but it doesn't have to. You can connect whatever you want to the analog inputs. That signal can be completely independent of the HDMI input → analog output chain, giving you a high quality digital to analog converter for free.

Standalone Route Mode

Some Programs operate without a video input. Videomancer casts an algorithmic illusion to generate imagery. Eliminate the need for any external source device by invoking Standalone Mode.

Videomancer genlocks to incoming video, automatically switching to the resolution and frame rate of the source. If there is no source, then the video format standard is chosen from System → Pref. Timing.

Analog In Modes​

If Vid Route Mode is set to Dual In or Analog, choose the active physical input and signal type from the Analog In Modes menu.

ModeColor space / formatConnector(s)
YPbPrComponent YPbPr (YUV)Triple RCA jacks labeled Y/G/CVBS, PB/B, and PR/R
RGB SOGComponent RGsB (sync on green)Triple RCA jacks labeled Y/G/CVBS, PB/B, and PR/R
RGB 1VLZX modular standardTriple 3.5mm (1/8”) jacks labeled 1V R, 1v G, and 1V G
CVBS/S-VideoComposite NTSC or PAL (CVBS)RCA jack labeled Y/G/CVBS
CVBS/S-VideoY/C NTSC or PAL (S-Video)RCA jacks labeled PB/B (luminance) and PR/R (chrominance)

Analog Out Modes​

Choose the color space of the analog outputs from the Analog Out Modes menu. The options are YPbPr and RGB.

HDMI Out Modes​

Choose the color space of the HDMI output from the HDMI Out Modes menu. The options are YPbPr and RGB.

Input Configurations​

HDMI in​

  • Connect a source to the HDMI input
  • Set Video Route Mode to HDMI

Composite (CVBS) video in​

  • Connect a composite video signal to the Analog Y/CVBS input
  • Set Vid Route Mode to Analog
  • Set Analog In Mode to CVBS

S-Video in​

  • Using a Mini DIN-4 to dual RCA adapter, connect the Y (luminance) component to the Analog Pb/B input and the C (chroma) component to the Analog Pr/R input
  • Connect an S-Video source to the adapter with an S-Video cable
  • Set Vid Route Mode to Analog
  • Set Analog In Mode to S-Video

YPbPr component in​

  • Connect a YPbPr Component source to the Multi-format Analog inputs
  • Set Vid Route Mode to Analog
  • Set Analog In Mode to YPbPr

RGB Sync on Green (SoG) component in​

  • Connect an RGB SoG component source to the Multi-format Analog inputs
  • Set Vid Route Mode to Analog
  • Set Analog In Mode to RGB SoG

1V RGB + Sync in​

  • Connect 1V RGB signals to the 1V RGB inputs
  • Connect a sync signal to the Analog Y input
    • Take a sync output from the front or rear of any module
    • Or take any video output that includes embedded sync, and is in sync with the modular system. For example, the following RCA jacks of ESG3 all include sync:
      • CVBS
      • The Y output in YPbPr mode
      • The Green output in RGB / SoG mode
  • Set Vid Route Mode to Analog
  • Set Analog In Mode to RGB 1V
note

In any Video Route Mode other than Standalone, Videomancer needs to receive a sync reference. That can come from sync embedded in the HDMI or conventional analog video source. 1V modular RGB does not carry sync, so sync must be supplied separately. Sync can come directly from the modular system, or from some other video device that is in sync with the modular system.

Output Configurations​

HDMI out​

  • Connect the HDMI output to a monitor or capture device

Composite video out​

  • Connect the Y/G/CVBS output to a monitor or capture device
  • Set Analog Out Mode to CVBS/S-Video

S-Video out​

  • Using a Mini DIN-4 to dual RCA adapter, connect the Y component to the Analog Pb/B output and the C component to the Analog Pr/R output
  • Connect the adapter to a monitor or capture device using an S-Video cable
  • Set Analog Out Mode to CVBS/S-Video

YPbPr component out​

  • Connect the YPbPr outputs to a monitor or capture device
  • Set Analog Out Mode to YUV

RGB Sync on Green (SoG) component out​

  • Connect the RGB outputs to a monitor or capture device
  • Set Analog Out Mode to RGB

1V RGB + Sync out​

  • Connect the 1V RGB outputs to the modular system
  • Connect the SYNC output to the sync input of the modular system
  • Set Analog Out Mode to RGB
note

Videomancer automatically syncs to any conventional video signal patched to the HDMI or RCA inputs. However, it is not a frame store like TBC2. To use Videomancer as a decoder to convert to 1v modular video, patch the Videomancer Sync output to the sync input of the modular system.

warning

Videomancer is an ultra-low latency digital signal processing device, but it can never be as fast as a dedicated analog circuit.

Horizontal Phase Delay​

Any video going through Videomancer is delayed slightly. If Videomancer is patched into the middle of a modular system, between the modular decoder and the modular encoder, Videomancer's output will be shifted to the right relative to the rest of the modular system. The amount of horizontal shift depends on video resolution, frame rate, and the particular program loaded into Videomancer.

Therefore, inserting Videomancer between a modular decoder and encoder is not a recommended configuration. Using Videomancer as an “effects send” may be possible in exotic scenarios where the modular decoder, encoder, and/or sync generator are not sharing the same sync reference, but that would be a non-standard, advanced, experimental configuration.

On the other hand, there's no issue at all when integrating a modular system using Dual Mode. As long as the modular is receiving sync from Videomancer, the only phase delay will be from the analog patch.

Operation​

The following outline illustrates the overall structure of the Videomancer menus. Specific options per menu are listed or described in the corresponding sections of this User Guide, or in supplemental documents such as the Modulation Guide.

  • SYSTEM, MOTION, and STATE menus are chosen by pressing the labeled white Button, indicated by a circled bullet character:  ◉
  • Parameter menus are chosen by repeatedly pressing a black Parameter Button, labeled 1 through * (12), indicated by a hollow bullet character:  ○
  • Most menus are chosen by turning the Rotary Encoder, indicated by a left-right horizontal arrow:  ↔
  • Any menu accessed by pressing the Rotary Encoder is indicated by a down arrow:  ↓

Videomancer │ ├── SYSTEM ◉ │ ├─ Current Program, Video In, and format ↔ | | └─ Program Selection ↓ │ ├─ Video Route Mode ↔ │ ├─ Analog In Mode ↔ │ ├─ Analog Out Mode ↔ │ ├─ HDMI Out Mode ↔ │ ├─ MIDI Channel ↔ │ ├─ MIDI Out Mode ↔ │ ├─ Developer Mode ↔ │ ├─ Soft Pickup ↔ │ ├─ Language ↔ │ ├─ Preferred Timing ↔ | └─ Escape to Parameter menu ◉ │ ├── MOTION ◉ │ ├─ Timecode & Beats Per Minute │ ├─ Motion Overview ◉ | └─ Escape to Parameter menu ◉ │ ├── STATE ◉ │ ├─ Presets ↔ | └─ Escape to Parameter menu ◉ │ └── Parameter ○   ├─ Manual ○   ├─ Time ○   ├─ Space ○   ├─ Slope ○   └─ Modulation Selection ○ ↔

SYSTEM​

Press the SYSTEM button to access the System menus. By default, the current Program, video input, and format standard are displayed.

Videomancer System Status display

System Status

Turn the Rotary Encoder to cycle through the System menus:

MenuDisplay TextOptions
Video Route ModeVid Route ModeHDMI In, Dual In, Standalone, Analog In
Analog Input ModeAnalog In ModeYPbPr, RGB SOG, RGB 1V, CVBS/S-Video
Analog Output ModeAnalog Out ModeCVBS/S-Vid, YPbPr, RGB
HDMI Output ModeHDMI Out ModeHDMI, DVI
MIDI ChannelMIDI ChannelDisabled, Omni, CH 1 – CH 16
MIDI Output ModeMIDI Out ModeDisabled, Manual+Mod, Manual Only, Mod Only
Developer ModeDeveloper ModeDisabled, Enabled
Soft PickupSoft PickupDisabled, Enabled
LanguageLanguageEnglish, Deustch, Francais, Espanol, Dansk, Svenska, Suomi, Italiano, Portugues, Indonesia, Nederlands, Norsk, Turkce, Catala, Polski, Hrvatski, Romana, Cestina
Preferred TimingPref. TimingVideo Formats and Standards

System settings procedure:

  • Press the SYSTEM button
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder to choose a System submenu
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to move the cursor to the bottom row
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder to change the setting
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to confirm the setting

Programs​

Videomancer includes numerous Programs, which are firmware applications that can be loaded on the fly.

Each Program is seperately documented on its own Program Guide page. The complete list of all available Program Guides is found in the documentation navigation menu and on the Programs page.

Program loading procedure:

  • Press the SYSTEM button. The currently active Program name is displayed on the top row of the display.
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to enter Program selection mode. A right-facing angle bracket ( > ) is displayed on the far left of the display.
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder to scroll through the available Programs
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to load the Program
warning

When Videomancer loads a Program, all outputs are disabled for a few seconds. During Program load, no video or sync signal is present at the outputs. Any downstream video device does not receive a signal, so it may display black, a blue screen, or an error message such as "no signal detected". If this is an issue, such as during a live performance, send Videomancer through a device such as a mixer that always outputs a valid video signal.

note

Some Programs may default to a black output. Typically, the * Slider for Parameter 12 performs the function of fading to black, or luminance keying to black. After loading a Program, it may be necessary to move the Slider to its furthest extents in order to see an image.

Parameters​

Any Parameter 1 through 12 can be adjusted manually at any time via the Parameter Knobs, Switches, or Fader. If Videomancer is in Parameter display mode, then the Parameter number, name, and values of the focused Parameter are shown onscreen.

Videomancer Parameter Mode display

Parameter mode

To enter Parameter display mode, press any of the Parameter buttons labeled 1 through * (Parameters 1 through 12). The selected Parameter is given focus and its properties are displayed. The top row of the display lists the Parameter number and name.

The bottom row displays additional information:

  • Manual value of the physical control
  • Name and value of the Time Modulation Knob
  • Name and value of the Space Modulation Knob
  • Name and value of the Slope Modulation Knob
  • Modulation Operator assigned to the Parameter

Press the Parameter button repeatedly to cycle through all Parameter display modes.

If any Parameter display mode is active, simply moving a different Parameter control brings that Parameter into focus and its Manual value onscreen. Moving a Time, Space, or Slope control knob displays the associated Modulation property and its value.

If Videomancer is in SYSTEM, MOTION, or STATE mode, then the LCD display shows the menus for that mode. In this case, the properties of the focused Parameter are not displayed. However, all Parameter controls are still active. The Time, Space, and Slope Modulation controls for the focused Parameter are also active.

Soft Pickup

Parameter controls feature an optional soft takeover method for updating the value Parameter. When Soft Pickup is enabled, the physical control must be moved beyond the current Parameter value in order to take effect. When the Parameter value doesn't match the physical control position, an exclamation point ( ! ) is displayed on the left side of the value.

Soft Pickup is enabled or disabled from its submenu in the System menu.

Modulation​

Each Parameter can be separately modulated by its own individual chain of modulation sources. The Parameter value at any point in time is the sum of Manual control, a Modulation Operator, and incoming MIDI.

Parameter=Manual+Modulation+MIDI\textbf{Parameter} = \textbf{Manual} + \textbf{Modulation} + \textbf{MIDI}

Modulation Operators​

Videomancer features dozens of Modulation Operators of various types, ranging from raw control voltage input to generative algorithms. Modulation Operators are documented in full in the Modulation Guide.

note

MOTION transport playback usually needs to be running to apply modulation. Press the PLAY button to enable all Modulation Operators.

Modulation Operator sample rate is latched to the current video format. Values are usually constrained to the current frame/field rate. This prevents frame tearing that could occur if a modulation value changes in the middle of a frame. Additionally, some Modulation Operators, such as Audio In, are capable of operating at the higher sample rate of individual video scanlines.

Modulation Operators include:

  • External signals
    • Audio
    • Control voltages
    • Envelopes & Followers
    • Clocks and Logic
  • Internal generative algorithms
    • Oscillators
    • Sequencing & Rhythm
    • Random & Chaos
    • Physics
    • Spatial
  • USB devices
    • Mouse
    • Graphics tablet
    • Game controller
    • Joystick
    • Sensor
Videomancer Modulation Selection display

Modulation Selection

Modulation Operator selection procedure:

  • Give focus to the desired Parameter by pressing its button, or by adjusting its physical Knob, Switch, or Fader
  • Press the Rotary Encoder, or turn it by one increment, to display the current Modulation Operator
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder to cycle through the available Modulation Operators

Selection of a Modulation Operator takes place immediately. If the name of a Modulation Operator is displayed, it's active.

note

The MOTION button doesn't choose Modulation operators. Pressing the MOTION button displays the current Timecode and BPM (beats per minute).

Disabling Modulation

To change Parameter values with Manual controls and/or MIDI only, disable the Modulation operator. When the Modulation Operator name is displayed, turn the Rotary Encoder to set the Modulation mode to Disabled, or simply press the Rotary Encoder.

Modulation Control Knobs​

Modulation Operator properties are adjusted with the Time, Space, and Slope knobs. Adjusting one of those knobs brings the associated property into focus, and the property's value is displayed onscreen. The values can also be displayed without changing them by repeatedly pressing the desired Parameter button.

Space controls the Gain or amplitude of modulation. The range of the Gain property depends on the current Modulation Operator. For example, LFO modulators have a maximum Gain of 100%. CV and Audio modulators have a maximum Gain of 400% to accommodate sources with different voltage ranges.

Time and Slope knobs perform different functions depending on the active Modulation Operator, as described in the Modulation Guide. For example, Time adjusts the period of an oscillator, and Slope chooses the waveform type.

Videomancer Slope display

Slope display showing Sine LFO waveform selection

If Modulation is disabled, and no Modulation Operator is assigned to the focused Parameter, then the Time, Space, and Slope controls have no effect. The LCD screen merely displays the name of the active Knob and its value from 0 to 100.

MIDI Modulation​

All Parameters can be additionally controlled via MIDI Continuous Controllers or MIDI Note messages. MIDI Modulation is documented in full in the Modulation Guide. Controller and Note numbers can be assigned to Parameters manually or automatically via MIDI Learn. Any incoming MIDI is added to the Manual control value, and to any active Modulation Operator.

There's no Modulation operator for MIDI, it's always enabled.

MIDI Output​

Videomancer can control external devices via MIDI Continuous Controller messages. Send the values of Parameter Manual controls, active Modulation Operators, or their combined values. Choose the desired behavior from System → MIDI Out Mode.

OptionMIDI Out
DisabledNone
Manual+ModManual control + Modulation Operator
Manual OnlyManual control only
Mod OnlyModulation Operator only

MOTION​

Press the MOTION button to display the current values of Timecode (TC) and Beats Per Minute (BPM).

Videomancer Timecode and BPM display

Timecode and Beats Per Minute

Modulation within Videomancer is usually linked to the Timecode displayed in MOTION mode. Videomancer can generate timecode internally, or synchronize to MIDI.

Modulation is deterministic based on Videomancer's timecode. For example, oscillators begin with a phase of zero at timecode value 00:00:00:00. If the Time properties of Modulation Operators don't change, then the exact same Modulation patterns are generated each time playback begins from zero.

Internal Synchronization​

Press the START button to activate playback of internal Timecode.

Press the STOP button to deactivate playback of internal Timecode. The time index is reset to 00:00:00:00.

When the transport is stopped, a left arrow ( ← )appears on the lower left of the display. When the transport is running, a right arrow ( → ) is displayed.

note

Videomancer does not have a manual pause button. Stopping playback sends the timecode value to zero, resetting all modulation. Use MIDI Timecode if you wish to pause and resume playback.

Internal BPM Tempo​

To change the BPM value numerically:

  • Press the MOTION button
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder

To change the BPM value rhythmically while playback is stopped:

  • Press the MOTION button
  • Press the TAP button once to begin sampling the tempo
  • Press the TAP button again to finish sampling the tempo

To change the BPM value rhythmically during playback:

  • Press the TAP button once to begin sampling the tempo
  • Press the TAP button again to finish sampling the tempo

The new tempo takes effect immediately.

MOTION Overview​

Pressing the MOTION button a second time brings up the Motion Overview display.

Videomancer Motion Overview display

Motion Overview

The illustration above indicates the following:

  • Parameter 1 Modulation Operator is Free LFO
  • Parameter 3 Modulation Operator is Turing Machine
  • Playback is stopped
  • Beats Per Minute is 120.00
  • Two Modulation Operators are active

The top row lists all active Modulation Operators. Each character or symbol to the right of the word Mod represents one of the 12 Parameters, in numerical order from left to right. The first place is Parameter 1, the second is Parameter 2, etc. The table below lists which Modulation Operator is signified by each symbol.

SymbolModulation OperatorSymbolModulation Operator
•DisabledKComparator
LFree LFONPendulum
SSync LFOWDrift
CCV Input*Ring Mod
AAudio Input#Cellular
RRandomPPulse Width
EEnvelopeJPeak Hold
HSample & HoldIField Accum
TTrigger Envelope/Slew Limiter
QStep Sequencer~Perlin Noise
FFFT BandZWavefolder
DH DisplaceVClock Div
UTuring Machine?Prob Gate
BBouncing BallOQuantizer
XLogistic MapmMouse
YEuclidean RhythmkKeyboard
MMotion LFOgGamepad
GV GradienttTablet

The second row of the Motion Overview displays the state of the MOTION transport and the current Beats Per Minute. A left-facing arrow indicates that the transport is stopped, a right-facing arrow indicates that the transport is playing. To the right of the arrow, the current BPM value is displayed.

Also on the second row, the total number of active Modulation Operators is indicated by the word Act: followed by a number.

MIDI Synchronization​

A MIDI Clock or MIDI Timecode signal supplied to Videomancer automatically overrides the internal Timecode.

By default, Videomancer receives MIDI on all channels (Omni). Videomancer can also be configured to recognize only one of the 16 available MIDI channels, via SYSTEM > Midi Channel.

BPM setting is determined by incoming MIDI Clock or MIDI Timecode (MTC). Videomancer adopts the current incoming MIDI BPM tempo, even when the MIDI source is stopped. Any manual changes to BPM are overridden by incoming MIDI on the next beat.

Transport functions are also overridden by incoming MIDI Clock or MIDI Timecode. When the MIDI source starts or stops, Videomancer transport also starts or stops. However, if the MIDI source is stopped, Videomancer transport controls still function. We can press the START or STOP buttons to control playback while the MIDI source is not playing. However, we can't change the BPM as long as the MIDI source is transmitting MIDI Clock or MIDI Timecode.

MIDI Clock Start and Stop signals perform the same functions as the START and STOP buttons. MIDI Clock Stop resets the Videomancer timecode to 00:00:00:00, regardless of the timecode value of the MIDI source. As a result, MIDI Clock Continue and Song Pointer messages have no effect. Therefore, in the Videomancer implementation, MIDI Clock is a relative time index, not an absolute one.

MIDI Timecode is an absolute time reference. Videomancer timecode follows the current MIDI Timecode value, but only during playback. Stopping or pausing the MIDI source causes Videomancer timecode to stop, but does not reset to zero. Starting the MIDI source causes Videomancer timecode to update to the incoming MIDI Timecode value, so we can pause and resume playback without resetting oscillator phase. Any other transport controls on the MIDI source, such as rewind, fast forward, or skipping to a different timecode value, have no effect on Videomancer's timecode. Videomancer only responds when MIDI Timecode plays or stops.

If the MIDI source transmits both MIDI Clock and MIDI Timecode, Videomancer gives priority to MIDI Clock. Videomancer timecode is reset to zero when the MIDI source stops.

STATE Presets​

The STATE button accesses factory or user-defined Presets for a particular Program. All Modulation and Parameter values are stored in non-volatile internal flash memory. Videomancer will commit your spell to memory, and recall it even after a power failure or reboot.

Programs can include up to eight Factory Presets, indicated by the letter F. User Presets are signified by the letter U. The currently loaded Preset number is followed by a slash, then by the total number of Presets, either Factory or User. Internal storage provides a total of 32 Preset registers.

Videomancer Preset Selection display

Preset Selection display

To load a Preset:

  • Press the STATE button
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder to select a Preset number
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to confirm the load operation

To save a new User Preset :

  • Press the STATE button
  • Long-press and hold the Rotary Encoder for at least two seconds
  • Define the Preset name
    • Turn the Rotary Encoder to choose a character
    • Press the Rotary Encoder to advance to the next place
    • Repeat until the Preset name is completed
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to confirm the save operation

To overwrite an existing User Preset:

  • Press the STATE button
  • Turn the Rotary Encoder to select a User Preset
  • Long-press and hold the Rotary Encoder for at least two seconds
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to confirm overwrite
  • Define the Preset name
    • Turn the Rotary Encoder to choose a character
    • Press the Rotary Encoder to advance to the next place
    • Repeat until the Preset name is completed
  • Press the Rotary Encoder to confirm the save operation

MIDI Program Change

Presets can be recalled remotely with MIDI Program Change messages, as described in the Modulation Guide.

MicroSD Card​

Expand the storage capabilities of Videomancer with a microSD card. Load additional Programs and their associated Presets. In addition to the Programs provided by LZX, third party developers can create Programs with the Software Developer's Kit.

Compatibility​

All brands of microSD cards should be compatible with Videomancer. Storage capacities up to 2 TB are supported.

Format the microSD card on a personal computer. The FAT32 file system is recommended, but Videomancer also supports FAT12, FAT16, FAT32, and exFAT.

Functionality​

Presently, microSD card storage is limited to Programs and Presets. Additional functionality is planned, and intended to be integrated with the LZX Connect desktop application.

At boot time, Videomancer scans internal flash storage and microSD card for Program files with the extension .vmprog. In the case of duplicate filenames, Videomancer loads the highest version number, or the internally stored version.

note

By default, Videomancer ignores third party Programs or those with version numbers lower than 1.0.0. To load Programs developed by third parties, or currently in alpha or beta development stage, Developer Mode must be enabled. See below.

Currently, Videomancer recursively scans the entire file system of the microSD card, looking for .vmprog files. You can organize Programs in any folder structure you like, and Videomancer will find them. However, be aware that the number of files and folders affects the time it takes for Videomancer to boot up. We recommend keeping the microSD card free of any extraneous data to minimize boot times.

Presets​

Both Factory Presets and User Presets are stored in the same place from which the Program was loaded. Presets for internal Programs are stored in internal flash memory, Presets for microSD card Programs are stored on the card. Factory Presets are embedded in the .vmprog file. User Presets are stored in sidecar files with the extension .toml.

Developer Mode​

For testing purposes, Videomancer firmware may include Programs that are currently in development. These have version numbers lower than 1.0.0. Normally, they are hidden from the Videomancer Program Selection menu. To expose them, enable Developer Mode from the SYSTEM menu. When prompted to **Restart Device?**, choose **Yes** to reboot and rescan the internal and microSD file systems.

note

Any Programs in development may not have full functionality, will probably have bugs, and won't be publicly documented.

Firmware Update​

Keeping Videomancer updated with the latest firmware ensures access to the latest programs, features, and bug fixes. The process is very simple and only takes a few minutes. It can be performed manually through the computer's file browser, or via the LZX Connect desktop application.

Requirements​

  • Videomancer and power supply
  • Windows, Mac or Linux computer
  • USB-A to USB-C cable

Manual Update Procedure​

  • Download the desired firmware .UF2 file from the Videomancer firmware repository on GitHub
  • Connect Videomancer to power supply and switch power to the OFF position
  • Connect the computer's USB-A port to Videomancer's USB-C Device port (not the Host port)
  • Hold down Videomancer BOOT button
  • Switch Videomancer power to the ON position
  • Release the BOOT button
  • A new USB storage device is listed in the computer's file system. It shows up as a Raspberry Pi, because that's the control system for Videomancer's USB ports.
  • Copy the firmware .UF2 file to the newly detected storage device. Wait a few minutes for the transfer to complete.
  • Videomancer automatically reboots into the new firmware and displays the currently installed version

Developer Resources​

Videomancer is an open-source FPGA-based video synthesis platform. LZX Industries provides comprehensive development tools and community resources for creating custom video processing programs.

Videomancer SDK​

The official Software Developer's Kit provides everything needed to develop programs for Videomancer with the VHDL hardware description language. The SDK includes build tools, documentation, example programs, and utilities for creating signed .VMPROG packages.

Repository: github.com/lzxindustries/videomancer-sdk

Key features:

  • Complete FPGA development toolchain
  • Program development and TOML configuration guides
  • Example programs (passthrough, YUV amplifier)
  • Visual TOML editor and validation tools
  • Package signing with Ed25519 cryptography

Videomancer Community Programs​

A community repository for sharing FPGA video processing programs. This collection extends Videomancer's capabilities with effects, processors, and creative tools contributed by the community.

Repository: github.com/lzxindustries/videomancer-community-programs

Key features:

  • Community-contributed VHDL programs
  • Automated build scripts for compiling programs
  • Contributing guidelines for submitting your own programs
  • GPL-3.0 licensed open-source contributions

Both repositories are licensed under GPL-3.0 and welcome community contributions.