I tried to emulate a oscillator inside of VCV Rack. The osc is called „FM-OP“ from „Bogaudio“. You can think of it like a single operator/operator of a DX style FM synth(inclusive envelope generators, FM Feedback etc.).
If anyone knows a similar Osc in hardware form, please let me know.
I might should add that i have a MODX for the „serious“ FM stuff, so this project is more for my own pleasure :)
Hi Kari, which 4op synth exactly are you looking to emulate/improve on?
Your right, but i already have some of those modules, 1xQZVCO, Frames, Stages (1x), Shades(2x) and kinks. The Akemies Castle is pretty cool, and it would be faster to work with, but i like to be able to patch any possible algorithm. I probably won’t buy the Mordax Data, because i will get a Expert sleepers ES-8, so i will be able to use multiple oscilloscopes via VCV Rack.
Got to say the praise for @RTFM. Had several NLC modules built from him. Excellent build quality, several build options to choose from, even better customer support, both pre and post purchase. Close comms, speedy delivery (usually with a little extra in the box) and flawless quality make me come back for more. Thank you :-))
One thing to be clear about is this: there is no way to build a Eurorack that’s cheap AND capable.
Often you hear that a semi modular is a good entry point, as it will come with the essentials included. Not a bad start, but it may come down to how you want to integrate your Eurorack.
If you plan on using the DFAM as a sequencer, that’s one thing. If you want to use the Digitakt, then you’ll need a MIDI to CV module. Audio is at a much higher level, so you probably would want to consider an audio output module (unless the DFAM can accept 10V audio).
Module math: a cheap module is more expensive in the end.
Case in point is your STO, which runs you $199. It’s a single OSC. Now compare it to the DPO, where for $599 you not only get two OSC, but also internal sync and FM, but a waveshaper/folder to boot, so you’ll have to compare that cost to a dual STO + uFold or Fold Processor, where you’re now at the same cost, but still not quite the same function.
It’s even more obvious if you look at a quad LFO vs “cheap” 2hp LFO solutions.
But it always comes down to subtle differences in function (STO has a sub, DPO doesn’t).
For analog VCOs, I would recommend to look for dual VCOs or those single VCOs that can easily be synced. Beyond that, you might find wavetable digital OSCs interesting. Plaits is nice, so are many of the Noise Engineering modules, such as the Ataraxic Iteritas or Loquelic Iteritas.
Maths was among the first two modules I ever bought. As a straight up envelope generator or LFO, it doesn’t really convince. I’ve honestly put it aside for now, as it requires time to dedicate to it to make proper use of it. At the outset, I would suggest to go with simpler, but high function density modules. I’m a big fan of the XAOC Batumi + Zadar combo, which gives you Four LFOs and Envelopes (the latter loopable on timescales up to almost a hour). In a small system that gives you a lot of modulation power.
Add a multi mode filter and some FX and voila:
So far, so good. My preference for an external input module is actually the Doepfer A-119, as it gives you a better choice of external connections. Another thing you should consider would be some modules to extend the capabilities of the sequencers, such as logic, clock modulators, divide/multipliers and so on. I wrote about this at https://uk.edubirdie.com/do-my-assignment.
These will let you create some rather complex interactions between the hardware sequencers you already have. You might also double down on some basic modules here, such as VCAs, EGs and LFOs to add some modulation complexity, plus the use of linear VCAs to control/change CV/mod signal levels as needed. Last, look at getting one or two Erica PICO MScales so you can easily translate back and forth between the M32 and DFAM CVs and everything else, keeping everyone in the proper scaling.
-- Lugia
I was going to buy Erica PICO MScales for my set. Thank you for advice.
It is true! Retailers are getting more impudent now. What can we do?
It's interesting, but it also seems a bit much like overkill and unnecessary expense. Wouldn't it be simpler to use an ALM Akemie's Castle as the core of this, instead of the discrete quadrature VCOs, etc?
Actually, Thomann UK is giving me a UK price for the Quad VCA of UKP 170.43, with VAT included. The same thing in EUR is 199. And when you switch those to $, you get 224.19 and 225.05 respectively. But if I use Thomann USA, then the same module is $188. So what gives?
Simple: there are going to be taxes and tariffs that vary from place to place. Intellijel, for example, is a Canadian firm. So let's look at Moog Audio (based in Montreal) where we find that module at CDN$ 250, which comes out to be $186.75. So...that's different, too. Therefore, it should be considerably more in the USA, right? Well...no, as Perfect Circuit has 'em at $189.
Sooooo...it's not merely the taxes and tariffs. In some cases, it comes down to an agreed-upon price for a module between manufacturers and retailers, too. Perfect Circuit is nowhere as huge as Sweetwater...but there, too, we find the Quad VCA in question at the same $189. And when you look further, you'll tend to see the same "street" prices from continent to continent. Looking at one place in Asia that has serious tariffs, we find that Clock Face (Tokyo) has that very same module for JPY 22,900, which comes out to $207.02.
This gets screwy all over the place. If you think you're getting overcharged for new Intellijel stuff, have a look at what new Doepfer gear costs at Schneidersladen...and then check the same things at Perfect Circuit or Analogue Haven. This problem is just an endemic effect of having manufacturers all over the planet.
A bit late, but had a good transaction last year with @NU.
The idea is a four Operator FM Synth on a modular basis. You can patch any possible algorithm and its even possible to morph between carriers by using the MI "frames" modul.
FM Feedback can be patched with the MI "Shades" modul, which also allows may other usfull things. The MI "Stages" are in daisy chain and can be used for complex envelops, LFOs, or performance slider( combined with "shades" it allows control of CV's for further FM modifcations.
All the "important" modules (like Sequencers, FXs, EQ, VCOs, Filter, Joystick, Resonator....) are in my other racks.
I probalbly gonna buy a dedicated case just for this FM synth.
Any idea if this would work? Did i forgot anything? Would love to get some feedback! Thanks!
Perfect deal with @Virgil, selling his own gorgeous µo_c build. Thanks!
There is no standard path for your journey into Eurorack... only an entry point.
Here's some of what I discovered:
Buy a case that's much larger than you think you'll need. Shelling out cash for a case isn't a lot of fun. It doesn't make any noise. But having a case that will grow with you will save you a lot of grief in the long term. There are some really nice, albeit larger modules that you might want along the way. Finding space for them can be challenging in a smaller case. Your larger case should hold on to most of its value if you decide Eurorack isn't for you.
Piecing together your first system as you are learning is very, VERY challenging. If you miss out on key pieces and your case is too small, you won't be able to do all that much with your system. On the flip-side, you may want to start out with a preconfigured system. The Roland System 500 is pretty tasty. Pittsburgh Modular, Doepfer, Make Noise, etc. all make starter systems that are complete (relatively). That's always an option and you can just add a second case for auxillary modules. Confused yet? :)
My personal strategy: I put together a system with two oscillators, a two channel multimode filter, four VCAs, a quad LFO, and some mixers/attenuverters. I also added a delay, reverb, and a line to synth level input/output. A MIDI to CV converter and I was ready to hook up to my DAW for some fun. From there, I added a few multifunctional modules like a Disting Mk4, Ornaments & Crime, Temps Utile, etc. The multifunction modules allowed me experiment a lot with my system. If I used a function over and over then I'd consider getting a dedicated module for that purpose.
Don't forget about CV controllable FX. Dry sounds aren't very inspiring for the most part. A simple "bloop" with some delay and reverb can go very far verses a complex sound that's bone dry.
Okay... I've kind of meandered... but I'm still on my journey. I've already expanded into my second 208HP case and it's almost full. Go slow with adding more modules and try stuff. Watching Youtubers use the modules you've bought is great inspiration for creative patches you may not have thought of.
Eurorack modules aren't made in great numbers for the most part. There are a couple of really successful modules out there that are the exception.
The prices stay high because of limited availability. "Out of Stock" is pretty normal on most dealers' websites.
I typically avoid used modules because you just don't know who's been messing with them and if all of the features work on the day you receive it and try to test it. Saving 20% isn't enough of an incentive to risk my 80% on a dud module and all the hassles that come along with it. Dealers will simply exchange a defective new module. A one-time sale from a third party is a crap-shoot.
Nice start, indeed. Effects are a good suggestion. You’ll have to decide whether you want to use them as a utility or part of sound design, which will dictate the extent of CV control you’ll want.
Suggest you look at Chronoblob 2, Magneto, 4ms Dual Looping Delay, ErbeVerb, Black Hole DSP2, as well as 2hp delay and reverb.
Now, especially for the Morphagene, a CV sequencer would come in hand. I really like the Malekko Voltage Block.
A multi mode filter is also a fairly basic need. Erica Black VCF 2 is nice, and so is the Morgasmatron.
For everything MI, always consider the micro versions (e.g. Beehive vs Plaits).
And: Intellijel 7U case with the Audio I/O is always a great choice. You do need audio I/O, eventually.
Some LFOs would be nice: XAOC Batumi
More conventional envelopes, perhaps: XAOS Zadar
The standard convention is that the red stripe goes with the -12V pin. Most manufacturers hold this convention. But please note, there are a couple of a-hole outliers that insist on reversing the polarity because... reasons. So on their modules the red stripe goes with +12V. I won't name names but they are huge a-holes.
The first thing to do is to pop open the manual (hard copy or online). The manufacturer will usually explain the pin configurations for power. Now look at the manual for your power supply. Confirm that it matches or you make the correct configuration.
Once you have your modules plugged in (without plugging in the power supply to electricity), stop. Go have a coffee or a cup of tea and come back and confirm your work. Don't screw the modules into your case until you've gone back and confirmed the power ribbons are all the correct way around for the module. It's very easy to plug in your modules. It's even easier to mess up, plug one (or more) in backwards and simply fry hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of kit.
Think of plugging in modules to a power supply like handling a firearm. You slow down and confirm every single step and that you're doing things safely. It's not a difficult thing. But it's the third or fourth time you rearrange your modules that you get careless and fry something.
Here's a video on modules, power supplies, and a-hole manufacturers.
The thing about a Marketplace is that sellers can set the price they want and buyers can either choose to buy or not. If the prices stay high, it means there is sufficient demand for goods at that price.
Hi all. New to modular. Just took a glance at your marketplace in here.
Fx. Intellijel Quad VCA for 150£. That’s more than new price from Thomann?
It seems to be the case for more than 80% of the listings - they are all very close to the new price (5-10% cheaper, tops) Whats going on with that?
Bought a DFAM last week in here. Ended up costing me 450€ - new it can often be found for 520€. Seller tells me this was an unheard of price, and I was very lucky he was in a good mood.
Hi again - I spent some time with my Plaits, and as long as you adjust the coarse tuning, it actually works well with pretty much any voltage range that you throw at it, so positive or negative voltages, no problem.
If you should ever consider to buy something from Pierpaolo aka @RTFM, don 't hesitate.
I recently bought a Korb DVCA from him (this is a DIY module which was built by himself), and will di it again any time soon.
Neatly built, very friendly communication, prompt delivery - what can you ask more?!
The Joranalogue sounds pretty nice. I would feel the need to pair it with a more complex analog vco than my quad vco tho.
Thanks @mosorenson - That makes sense. Hopefully neither I, nor the module will explode. Here goes....
Warning: I don't have the Morphagene, and be very careful about attaching the ribbon cable the right way. As far as I can tell from your picture, the side of the ribbon with the "red stripe" is facing the same way on both pictures (it is down). In that case, both ways are equally fine. As long as the side with the "red stripe" goes to the same pins on the module, it doesn't matter if the cable sticks out on the left or right side of the connector. Just make sure to connect the side of the ribbon with the red stripe to the busboard in the right direction (usually the side with the red stripe goes to -12V).
Hi,
I just got a Morphagene but am confused about installation. The pic in the manual has the ribbon going the opposite way to how I think it ought to go on the actual module I have in my hand. Does that make sense? I've taken a photo but can't see any options to attach it to this thread, so hopefully someone knows what I mean.... Any help much appreciated!
A couple of points here: first of all, yes, lose the uZeus immediately. Never add a power supply to a powered rack (unless it's something for a specific module, such as for some tube modules). And more VCAs is good. The Optomix is actually a pair of low-pass gates, which consist of a tandemmed low-pass VCF and a VCA, and this is fine for controlling audio levels, but having a couple of linear, DC-coupled VCAs for controlling CV and modulation levels is also strongly advisable.
Beyond that, I would suggest looking into a couple of dedicated envelope generators, ADSRs in particular, plus a couple of LFOs. While the Maths can do both of these things, it's much better when it's used for complex modulation curves, using its own internal subsections to create complicated CV/modulation patterns that go beyond what basic EGs and LFOs do.
As for Rings and Clouds, keep in mind that Mutable discontinued Clouds quite some time ago, but they still make the Rings module. However, both are available as third-party builds from several manufacturers...which is a bit of a plus, as those companies offer these in smaller form factors than their originals.
Or maybe this: https://www.kvraudio.com/product/ctuner_by_c_plugs That offers you MIDI note, frequency counting, metering with deviation in cents, plus a per-cents calibration mode. The latter two features make this quite useable for microtonal work, as well.
NB: the markup syntax here sorta munges the URL above, but going to KVR and searching for CTuner should suffice.
Hi Janvf,
yes, this is a good start, I would say.
It's good to start with a small collection of modules and get to know them before you expand. And of course you will expand sooner or later ... so it is also a good idea to buy a sufficiently sized case now already. The Doepfer-case will be fine for that. With the included PSU you won't need the Uzeus, however.
So -- if you're interested in Rings or Clouds, why not watch one or two youtube-clips to find out what you could do with those? Maybe you'll then decide to swap the uzeus for one of them.
Or you might have a look at all those interesting filters out there... endless possibilities. But you're doing it just right, start with your planned combination and go slow. There's tons of cool stuff you can do with those modules already.
Have fun!
You are the master! Thanks. I'm glad I found out about this page. Your help is much appreciated.
I have no experience with the Grandmother, but on page 38 in the manual it says:
"KB OUT RANGE - The voltage range of Grandmother’s KB OUT (pitch CV) jack can be either -5 to +5 Volts, or 0 to 10 Volts. To adjust the KB OUT Range setting, press the (C#2) key, and then use the first two white keys to select -5V to +5V (F0), or 0V to 10V (G0). The Default is -5V to +5V."
So it looks like you can set the KB OUT to the 0-10V range, which works better with Plaits.
Mosorensen - Do you know if patching out with the Grandmother would create a similar issue as you described above? I should also mention that I also have a Make Noise O-Coast and Digitakt. I've had a couple of musical projects going on and I can finally put this thing together tonight after work.
Hello everyone, a few months ago i started to get this mental obsession about eurorack and modular synthesizers in general.
What i already have is a digitakt/Monologue/DFAM. And i want to expand.
As a case i'm thinking of a Doepfer A-100LC6 Low Cost case 6HE incl. A-100PSU2 (2 rows / 84 HP)
My goal is to learn more about modular and i just want to start out with something fun where i can practice and then expand from there.
I'm not really into a perticular genre.
The hing i have at the moment is this : https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_880539.jpg
Is this a good start ?
Do i have to get another VCA cause the optimix can be used as a VCA right ?
I'm also intrigued by the mutable instruments Rings / Clouds but don't really know what to do with it.
Thank you very much sorry for this newbie question
I only saw one filter, the Wasp? A multi-mode filter would be a nice addition. A Joranalogue filter would fit nicely and leave some HP for a small module or two like an Expert Sleepers Disting Mk4.
Thanks for the advice and the new rack idea.
I allready thought about getting the sample drum or a plaits, but wasn't sure about it.
Other modules i considered where Scanned and the BIA. The Batumi Zadar combo will be the next thing after i get a new soundsource (probably some stackables too) ^^
Hello
Of course, you can first buy a semimodular synthesizer. Personally, I would not urge you to buy a moog synthesizer. Nothing against moog. I also have a voyager. I just think that the moog sound is least well integrated into mixes coming from modular synthesizers. Arp, Korg, Roland etc., in my opinion, fit much better in terms of sound. I would put directly on modules. Doepfer has a huge catalog of modules and is comparatively cheap. By the way, Doepfer is often underestimated. If it's supposed to be a moog I would recommend you the Behringer Model D Clone. Sounds fantastic and is cheap and taxable via cv. In addition a nices sequencer module. Personally, I'm a big fan of Intellijel products.
Have fun with the patching.
Hi there
An ambient/drone track manly made with 2 shapeshifters. enjoy ;)
Shapeshifter 1 (1v oct controlled by Voltageblock) Output 1/2 -SystemX Filter IN 1/2 - uVCA (CV IN from Dual ADSR / Gate controlled by Vari Gate 8+) - 4ms DLD - A-138s Mixer - Befaco Out V3
Shapeshifter 2 (1v oct controlled by Voltageblock) Output 1/2 - Cwejman MMF 1 IN 1/2 - uVCA (CV IN from Dual ADSR / Gate controlled by Vari Gate 8+) - 4ms Tapographic Delay - A-138s Mixer - Befaco Out V3
Analogue Noise Source - Polaris - uVCA (CV IN from Dual ADSR / Gate controlled by Vari Gate 8+) - 4ms DLD - A-138s Mixer - Befaco Out V3
Mix to Lexicon Hall
I have the Boss tuner (I use it for electric bass), and it is fine. It is chromatic, and it can tune a "C", so it would work. I wouldn't recommend it, though.
For Eurorack, I would recommend a module with a built in Tuner instead. It is much easier to use in practice (I am not even sure the Boss pedal would work with modular signal levels). Two suggestions (I have both) are the Disting Mk 4 and the O'Tool+. Both are great, and both do a lot of other stuff. Personally, I use the O'Tool to tune. I can really recommend it, especially for the oscilloscope function. It is easy to dismiss a scope as being unnecessary when you are starting out (after all, it doesn't do anything to the sound), but it is fantastic for getting a window into what is actually going on in your modular.
In order to tune my VCO I want to invest in a decent tuner.
After some research I narrowed down to 2 options. The First one is one
mentioned a lot in various forums: the turbo tuner from Sonic Research.
The second one is the Boss pedal chromatic tuner.
https://www.boss.info/us/products/tu-3/
I choose for this one because I already own a lot of Boss pedals and this would be a nice addition to my pedal
collection. But this one is stated as "chromatic tuner" Are all tuners chromatic? Or can all tunes be used to tune
your instrument/system. I also would like to use the tuner to tune my other stand alone (semi/modular) synths.
Are both of these good choices? Which one is the most useful or should I pick none of both?
Thanks in Advance for your help!
Jazzy
More sound sources:
Piston Honda MKIII
4ms STS
Morphagene
Plaits
also really nice: Erica Sample Drum (not just for drums!)
I'd ditch that clunky A-143-3 and look into a XAOC Zadar + Batumi combo
You can also ditch the multiples as you can get in line splitters that'll work just fine. If you're sequencing externally, I also don't see a pressing need for a quantizer, especially since you're not using Random sources.
So, it could look something like this:
I need to get some new stuff to fill the empty space in my little rack. I'm sequencing and mixing externally.
What would you get if it was your rack?
cheers, slindor
I need a bit of help today and hope that some Eurorack wiz may have a good idea:
I am having trouble synchronizing my sequencers. I am using a Doepfer A-190-4 as a MIDI to CV clock and transport control interface. Clock works just fine, but transport is an issue. The Doepfer has a Reset out that responds with high voltage (constantly) to MIDI stop. My sequencers, on the other hand respond to voltage high as a clock reset or stop, so in a way the Doepfer does precisely the opposite of what I need it to do. I am using Rene MKII, Mimetic Digitalis, Pamela’s New Workout, and a Trigger Riot to sequence. I suppose I could use a logic module to put clock out only when no voltage is sent from the reset (advantage here: sequencing stops), but are there any better solutions? I’d have to get a suitable logic module with a NOT algo, so I might also consider an alternative MIDI to CV that is more suited to my needs.
Suggestions? Is there a way to solve the problem with what I have (includes a Deluge as master MIDI controller, which can put out clock and gate, and a Mutant Brain).
I guess I could just use a Gate and a CV output in the Deluge to directly send clock and Reset. The tricky thing is, that sending a reset via gate on end or start of sequence would hardwire a set cycle, which eliminates some of the neat abilities of the Trigger Riot. In fact, the Trigger Riot is causing me the most issues.
So, how does one send a single gate out only once upon a MIDI start signal?
Bought an Edges from @alibu, and everything was fantastic. Great packaging, great condition, fantastic communication, the works!
Recently purchased a Pittsburgh Primary Oscillator from @Tomah. Well packed and as new, thanks!
Hi great you found the answer yourself.
If you have te possibility to pan manually you also can have a look at this module:
https://www.modulargrid.net/e/happy-nerding-panmix-jr
or the more advanced version:
https://www.modulargrid.net/e/happy-nerding-panmix
Greets
Jazzy
Hi! I had very nice deals with @JeanMichelDan, @Lamouette and @Groove_Addict. Thanks to them!
Thanks so much for all the feedback. I was considering replacing pams with 4ms shuffle clock divide and the 2hp Euclid. Would this be a good idea? it would also give me an extra 2 hp..
clocking aside, I would love to get some opinions on the filter/modulation section. I have a few different versions right now and what I'm trying to work out is the envelope, the filter, and the VCA.
For filters I'm between the Morgasmatron, the harvestman polivoks, and the optomix. I realize these vary wildly in hp and functions, but they're all appealing to me. I have thought about having both the morgasmatron and the optomix, but that would mean losing STO and I'm not sure about that.
As far as envelopes go I'm between the XAOC zadar and the quadra. I thought about the intelijel dual adsr, but I figured it would be better to sacrifice the better control of the adsr for the two extra channels on the quadra. The zadar seems interesting, and I think it could also be an good source of modulation, but I'm not super into menu diving and I'll already have to deal with some of that with the disting and Pamela so...
The other thing I'm not too sure about is the uFOLD. I like the westcoast vibe of it and I've seen it make some cool sounds, but I'm wondering if I'll need it, especially if I have the morgasmatron and if I ditched the ufold I could do the 4 chanel intelijel vca instead of the uVCA which I think would probably be better (?).
Also the mixing capabilities of the brute are very poor so right now I'd be purely relying on optomix (is this sufficient? and if not would adding a 2 hp summing mixer be enough?)
I'm so sorry for bombarding you guys with so many questions! just a lot to figure out. Really appreciate all the help thus far.
Thanks!
For the ones interested I came up with a solution myself.
I changed the PanMix for the 6xMix so I can mix all my voices. Then the mono out goes to the left B input from the Bastl Ciao! The manual states that the signal is then normalled to all other channels which gives my a line level stereo output!
