What is Control Voltage?

Control Voltage (CV) is an analog signal used to control parameters in electronic musical equipment. It is known for enabling direct, continuous control of sound in modular and analog synthesizers.

The voltage typically corresponds to a specific parameter, such as pitch, filter cutoff, or amplitude, with changes in voltage producing changes in the sound.

Control Voltage emphasizes precision and flexibility, allowing different modules or devices to communicate and modulate each other in real time.

It is commonly used in modular synthesis systems, where cables route CV signals between oscillators, filters, envelopes, and other components.

Today, Control Voltage remains an important concept in analog and modular synthesis, valued for its hands-on control, interoperability, and expressive sound design capabilities.