Exactly on schedule, Expert Sleepers is now shipping the ES-3 Lightpipe / CV Interface, a Eurorack-format module that converts eight channels of ADAT Lightpipe input to DC coupled outputs on 3.5 mm jacks. The new module offers convenient options for the direct connection of a digital audio workstation (DAW) to analog synthesizers.

With the ES-3 Lightpipe / CV Interface, outputs can be used as control voltages (CVs) -- with software such as the Expert Sleepers Silent Way suite of plugins, for example -- and can also be used as audio outputs at high, modular synth-compatible levels. Likewise, the ES-3 module allows you to use just a single optical cable to get direct CV control from your DAW right into the heart of a modular system. Expert Sleepers first announced the ES-3 in January of 2011.

The ES-3 Lightpipe / CV Interface is available as standard with a black aluminium or translucent black acrylic front panel. Expert Sleepers also intends to release a limited-edition run of 25 individually numbered modules with an orange acrylic panel to match the company's ES-1 / ES-2-2 modules.

Expert Sleepers ES-3 Lightpipe / CV Interface features:

• Panel width: 8HP
• Module depth: 53 mm
• Input connection: optical, ADAT Lightpipe standard, 44.1 / 48 kHz
• D / A conversion: 24-bit, 105 dB SNR typical
• Output connections: 8x 3.5 mm jacks, DC-coupled
• Maximum output voltage: approximately ± 10V DC
• Indicators: LED for ADAT clock sync; 2 LEDs per channel indicate output voltage (+ve / -ve)

Now available direct from Expert Sleepers, the ES-3 Lightpipe / CV Interface is priced at 186 GBP including VAT and delivery (approximately $300, though pricing might be slightly different for U.S. customers).

For more information on the new ES-3, please visit the Expert Sleepers Web site, expert-sleepers.co.uk.