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This was my very first modular setup, and I thought I had it planned perfect but then GAS.........

If you are looking to get a part-time quantizer, you might want to consider Ornament and Crime instead of scales, you can get more use out of this module when your Metropolis arrives and don't need the dedicated 4 channel quantizer.

Created this setup to focus all of my sequencing and cv-generating modules, because I thought for some reason it would be a good idea to put them all together in one case. I still love the concept but in practice it didn't seem as intuitive to have them so separate from sound generating/modulation modules so as of March 2021 I broke up the group and spread them around my cases a bit, waiting to see if that feels more natural in the long run. This case is currently home to sampling modules (Play Me v1 2021).

EDITED Mar 29th 2021, 07:06

Jim, thanks for the ideas above!

Brief response:
-- Links is a great idea, I will likely add that to the rack plan. Same for the Batumi expander.
-- Scales is presently included for two reasons. First, I'm intrigued by the concept of a quantizer in a modular rig and would like to get my hands on one to learn its various uses. Second, it may be weeks or months before my Metropolix gets delivered. IMO Scales (fed by LFO, EG etc) will get me by on pitch control while I'm waiting for Metropolix, and still have plenty of uses / interest after my sequencer arrives.
-- many interesting other ideas, I will continue to chew on those

I'm on a tablet now so will.keep the response short.

Thanks!!

I'd read the spec again - it's a mixer with outputs for each channel - which is really handy - especially as they are post fader

it could be used to feed nicely into an es9, but not an audio interface
-- JimHowell1970

ahh so i still need the es-9?i cant just connect the outputs of the mixer to inputs on my presonus studiolive 16,0,2,the studiolive is dc coupled?

it would help us help you if you made your rack public - so we can click through and get infomatics etc

I think 4 voices is too many for a 6u

how are you intending on sequencing if not with the minibrute

I'd read the spec again - it's a mixer with outputs for each channel - which is really handy - especially as they are post fader

it could be used to feed nicely into an es9, but not an audio interface

Hi Nicholas

things I've noticed

you can probably drop the quantizer - metropolix already has one built in - so unless you have a specific use case I'd leave it out (at least for now)

the expander for batumi is useful

you probably don't need a pair of buffered mults - I would opt for a links instead as it will give you a couple of simple mixers too - the top one of which can be used as a buffered mult too (and as a precision adder) - often all you want for a mixer is to add a couple of things together gates for example and these are perfect for that too

i'd go slowly with mixers - get the quad vca to start with and then work out what you actually need as you need it - I started with a veils and a rebel technology mix02 - which was a fantastic combination especially as I also got a headphone out - so it really depends on what else you are getting in your first batch of modules - if it were me these would be plaits, stages, metropolix, the quad vca and the black hole dsp (but I'd substitute a fx aid xl, personally) with kinks and the triplatt hot on their heels - it's possible that the next module you will want will be a mixer of some description

other than that I don't think I would plan any further - you will work out what you want/need as you patch

utilising utilities: take a modulation source patch it into a utility - to multiply, modify or mix it with other modulation sources in order to make more interesting modulation sources - slow lfo mixed with fast lfo, a slow lfo opening and closing a vca that allows a faster lfo through, mix this with an envelope that is opening a vca for a vco to get a tremolo effect at the end of each note, attenuate an lfo or envelope so that it's effects are less, invert it so it does the opposite - ie closing a vca instead of opening it etc etc

Hi ModLifeCrisis,

Yes, a nice video from you again! :-) Ha, ha, yes it took me a while as well before I realised what the Model CV input did ;-)

I love the end of your track, the way you finish it, that has a nice touch to it! Thank you very much for sharing this and kind regards, Garfield.

Hi Gabor,

This a lovely track, I love the way you play with the drums & percussions here, really nice!

I wish every spring starts like this :-) Thank you very much and kind regards, Garfield.

OK, that clarified a lot...so, I banged around with this a bit, added some mojo, dropped the older-style Doepfer modules (definite depth issue with one of them, and the single EG was replaced with the dual ADSR because...well, more ADSR) and the mult (use some stackcables or inline mults instead...saves the cab space for function). I also kicked the Contour for some space to drop in a Quadrax/Qx, which ups THAT game x4.

OK...I presumed this was an Intellijel case from your description, so I went with Intellijel tiles. Your MIDI interface is now up there, then a Noise Tools which gives you clocking, S&H, noise, and a slew limiter. The QuadrATT gives you a utility mixer and/or attenuverters. FOUR more VCAs come next for anything you might need some extra VCAs for (like stereo output level control, level control for your FX, etc). After those, you've got a 2-in stereo summing mixer which allows you to parallel the FX Aid below it instead of having to feed through it and using the wet/dry control. After that, your cab's stereo out.

Middle row: STO, Dixie II+...then the REAL missing complex VCO part thanks to Happy Nerding: their FM Aid, which allows thru-zero FM between the two VCOs. Crossfader's after that, then your Bifold. But, continuing with the TZFM thing, I put in Intellijel's take on a complex analog VCO, the Rubicon2. You now have MAD west-coast-style generation going on! Then the Quad VCA lets you impose modulation on four different sources before feeding the Dual Borg. Then, for some fun, I paired the Optomix with an SSF Noise Rainbow 2 so that you now ALSO have a little extra electronic percussion...rather Krautrock-ish style. After this, an Alyseum QMix gives you four channels of level/panning into a stereo sum. But then the OUTPUT fun starts, as you'd use a pair of stackcables to split out your stereo. One pair goes to the Stereo Mixer directly, and the other to the FX Aid XL, then you feed the fully-wet FX Aid's output to the other Stereo Mixer tile's input, and you've got a proper parallel stereo FX return.

Bottom row: Pam's, then a Ladik dual pulse delay allows you to "slip" a couple of clock outputs' timing against a couple of others, letting some neat flam, syncopation, etc activity happen easily. And to make that work in that way (and a few others), I put in a pair of Erica Pico logic gates. Wogglebug, Batumi, then a Frap 321, which is a neat little utility mixer/attenuverter/offset gen-type device that lets you throw different modulation signals at each other to get even more complex modulation signals. A Veils clone is next to give you some modulation-specific VCAs. After that, Maths, then the Qx and Quadrax gives you what the Contour was up to...times four, and then some. And the single ADSR got tossed in favor of the dual ADSR. The O&c follows, then the little sliver on the end is a Konstant Labs PWRcheckr, because it's a good idea to have SOME way to monitor your DC rails' behavior inside the cab.

Result: Majorly beefed-up sound generation, for starters. Having the extra FM capabilities for the two single VCOs will majorly kick them into west-coast turf. And the Rubicon2 complements this arrangement really nicely. And, two voices of noise + LPG percussives, too! Plus, stereo mixing, stereo FX, and parallel FX return ability. Now THAT'S a serious voice row! And the modulation and control...also, massive beef-up. You went from one two-stage to four, then one ADSR to two. Add to that the 321's ability to flip/mangle/alter your modulation, plus the quad VCA...that's ready, too. You could even do basic generative with this, although it's lacking some of the gate pick-offs like comparators, etc. But the Pico Logic actually gives you some very different timing options than just the Pam's alone can. Definitely worth rocking out on now...and complex enough that there's loads of patching options, but not to the point that it's impossible to sort out what's going on. As for the few modules I pulled...well, hey, there's always the next rack, right?

EDITED Mar 28th 2021, 22:28

Hi folks,

I'm new to modular, but a longtime musician, and experienced with VST-based synthesis. I've gotten into the modular scene for about a month now. I'm really enjoying it, lots of exploration and learning!

See below my current "mid-size / portable" rack design. I'm making a rack with the goals of i) it can make rich and evolving EDM style leads or basses ii) it has enough CV to be internally sequenced / controlled iii) it is a platform with real sonic / musical DEPTH that is a fun and exciting way for me to explore and learn sound design and modular techniques iv) it is a medium-sized format I can easily move. I'm not trying to make a "forever" rig, just one that will meet the above purposes for a while and really help me learn core modular techniques.

Thanks to JimH, Lugia, Farkas, Troux, Zuggamasta and others who've given interesting and helpful feedback on my prior posts. I DO basically understand and agree with Jim's guidance of having module #s in the following proportions: "sound sources < sound modifiers < modulation sources < utilities." I would say in the longer term, I will try to have my rigs generally reflect that proportion. In the shorter term, I still have a lot to learn about what utilities are useful for my aims, and the specific techniques for using them.

So, I will ask of any of you who care to contribute some rack feedback, what might YOU add to the rig below if you were using it for rich & evolving EDM leads / basses (basically as a powerful monosynth for a pitched voice)?

My comments on the rack design so far:
-- it will have 1-2 oscillators: FSS OSC2 and likely one other (presently Plaits)
-- it will have at least 2 filter options, plus waveshaping available via Kinks and Fold6
-- the FX I'm pretty set with Kamieniec and Black Hole DSP for now
-- I definitely want some submixing available (with Link2 mult, and A138n + A138s Doepfer mixers). The intention is to be able to i) get multiple timbres out of my OSCs ii) have some parallel routings to & from filters, waveshapers etc. iii) have stereo mix and panning at relevant places in the signal chain iv) have CV driving interesting sonic changes to all of the above v) all of that would likely be summed to stereo for "finishing FX" with the Black Hole DSP2. In other words, the ideas is to have multiple parallel routes to get a rich, evolving EDM lead or bass.
-- the CV section presently planned includes Metropolix, Stages, Envy, Batumi, plus Scales for quantizing. I do not yet have a great plan for mults / mix / logic etc. from the existing CV modules.
-- the utilities (sigh) section is fairly sparse, mainly because I don't yet have a firm understanding of these. Triplatt, Quad VCA, Kinks and Link2 give some basic utility function. I'm just unsure the # and variety of additional utility modules needed to really extend the sound design depth of this draft rig.

For your comments / suggestions, please assume 35-70 HP to work with for additional modules (anything over 35 HP, I would have to yank out some of the current draft rig, which would be okay). What would you add or change to "superpower" this rig as an EDM monosynth?

Some of you have already responded to my prior, more "open ended" posts. Thank you! I continue to revisit those and try to "digest" the info that is new to me. Moving towards a more specific vision, this post presents a concrete "draft rack" above, and I will welcome any suggestions / comments that could improve it. Layout can also likely be improved, though I would want to have a clearer idea of what the remaining modules would be before trying to improve positioning.

I will be interested to hear your ideas. Thanks!

Nicholas

EDITED Mar 28th 2021, 21:17

I've made three stupendous discoveries this week.

First, I learned how to transpose a sequence on the SQ-1. I love the SQ-1 but I've always been a bit frustrated that you can't easily transpose a set of notes up and down. But I've discovered that if you stick to 8-note sequences you can use the A and B channels to shift the sequence about by using the FM input on Plaits, or the Varispeed on the Morphagene. Great stuff.

Second, and best of all, I've downloaded an app that lets me swing the sequencer. The SyncKontrol from Korg plugs into the Sync in on the SQ-1 and has a swing function. This is great for giving your modular a bit of a shuffle. Really pleased to have discovered this.

And finally, and I'm embarrassed not to have known this, I've learned what the Model input on Plaits does... doh!

The idea of this rack is to have a small modular system which I can use for bassline + one or two melodies. I may also use it for drones and textures and it would be paired with an external drum machine.

I've been thinking of a system with two complex voices or up to four simpler voices, which I would use to produce slow techno / dub techno and to allow the exploration of more ambient / drone territories.

I also tried to use as many of the modules I already own, that's why I'm using a 6U rack instead of a larger case too. From the modules I own there are a couple I wouldn't mind replacing as I'll probably sell them at some point anyway, the plaits and the zadar.

Plaits is a fantastic module and can produce a wide range of sounds, but working with it sometimes feels like going through presets instead of creating something new from scratch, I find much more enjoyable using analog VCOs. Something similar with the zadar, great module with tons of functionality built in, but I've learnt that menu-diving doesn't suit my workflow.

So this is my current rack, which is currently paired with a minibrute 2s.

And this is what I've been thinking to do, this one would be standalone and not using the minibrute, just a desktop drum machine:

Is there enough modulation? do I need more VCAs? Would this work for my goal? can it be improved?

Thanks. I’m trying to keep it compact and versatile. And aesthetically pleasing (I buy black faceplates from magpie and switch them out) it’s been nice for what I use it for. But yeah, I’m not really seeing the benefit of MScale and it’s taking up space.

It's all sunny here on our end so I went with the title 'tavasz', Hungarian for 'spring'. Patch info in the video description.

The top half is my very first 104hp skiff that I'm building now.
the bottom half will be another 104hp skiff that I want to build next year after I asses my needs with the first skiff.

I'm sure I can do better, I think I need more utilities but I honestly have no clue what I want to get because I have no clue what most utilities do. I need to do more research in that aspect.

Skiff 1 (Top): I went back to basics with this skiff. Mainly cause I keep straying further away from what I want to do with my rack, which was patch sounds that will compliment my music. I know 3 sound sources might be a bit much, but I wanted lots of options while patching traditional synth sounds, and experimental sounds including weird electronic sounding riffs and kick drums. I thought about adding a modulation source but then realized that Pam's NEW Workout could be used as an LFO so I changed my mind on that, plus I thought that adding some modulation sources later would be more effective than now, seeing as how I don't really know what I might be missing just yet. Ill play with it first and then decide...

...Which brings us to skiff 2 (bottom)

I tried to think carefully about what I might want in order to give my system some tasty flavor.
A couple more sound sources and some utilities I guess.
A Varigate 4+ sequencer for flexibility in my melodies, Stages for lots of different modulation, A micro Ornament and Crime, The Basimilus Iteritas Alter (because I don't want to miss out on it), the micro Grids for more percussion sequencing options, a Monsoon which is just a micro Clouds for some effects, a ripples filter (even though I already have a Polaris), the Maths (because I decided to change it to a Quadra in my first skiff to save room), and a vnlcursal 6 channel VCA for fun.

I dunno. I just chose things I wanted just to give myself an idea. It will change of course ;)

EDITED Mar 28th 2021, 20:22

havent heard about this mixer before,have anyone used it?

was thinking about getting a ES-9 to be able to record into my DAW,but seems this could beused for the same purpose

https://patchwerks.com/collections/mixers/products/blood-cells-audio-d-o-mixx-mono-to-stereo-mixer-with-direct-outputs

This skiff probably makes no sense, but i can imagine the sounds you'd get out of it.

I know there are blind panels available to cover the empty space of your modular and to protect it against external factors. Now I was thinking of the following:

Having some kind of panel that makes use of the depth of your modular. It would look like some kind of “U” shape and enables you to store (small and handy or decorative) stuff in it. The unit in fact becomes a tiny closet. You could store short patchcables in it, laminated cards with references to modules, the small passive multiples or even just a nice artifact. Perhaps there is even room to create a (horizontal) row for a passive multiple.

Maybe it’s not interesting/worthwhile (or it already exist) but would just like to share the basic idea. Also created a mock-up to illustrate the idea based upon a 16HP module. The sides of the module should be covered too.
https://imgshare.io/image/pn7D4g

Eloquencer: Bank A3
Fx Aid XL: Bank1 Effect 4
A-111-6: 3.5, 2, 3, 3, 2, 3, 1, 6, 3, 5
Drum Boy: 1pm, 11am, Midday
Smog: 11am, 11am, 11am, 11 am, 11am, 11am, 2pm
Baker: 10.30am x 4
Ensemble: Scale Midday; Spread 11am; Pitch 11.30am; Balance 0, Root 7.30am, Cross 0,Twist 2pm, Warp 8am

Honestly I had no need to for an mscale to get my m32 to play nice w plaits. Just shifted the m32 up a couple octaves. That’s said, I can’t answer your question about the disting.

Awesome looking rig btw.

Hi Funbun,

Wow, about 2.5 hours of music. Not sure if I am going to finish that by tonight, it's good that tomorrow is Sunday, enough time left to check out all your music! :-)

Thank you very much for sharing this and kind regards, Garfield.

You're going to have problems. The idea that anyone can just step up and create a build that can work on styles from one end of the spectrum to the other is pretty much a fallacy, unless you're up for something in the 4 x 168 zone. This is because the modules that work well for, say generative music really aren't likely to be the ones that'll do the same for synthpop. Mind you, there ARE exceptions...but as I noted, this isn't something that can easily be done even WITH extensive experience. Anyway, the result is that you'd need a BIG system in order to house and power all of the modules that you WON'T be using on one project or another. So unless you've got piles of ca$h, I'd suggest you either try and find a "lane" for this build to drive in, or try and put together something rather basic that you can use with external processing. Except for generative...it's very much a "special case", and requires more than usual in terms of modulation and modulation pick-off modules to create the complex-order control needed for that.

Secondly, you mention that this should be in a 7u cab. I don't see that here. What I DO see, however, is a huge no-no on that bottom row. If you have something that's in a case, and that gets powered by that case, LEAVE IT IN THAT CASE unless you have some urgent, must-do rationale for putting it in the Eurorack cab. For one thing, it kills space that needs to be there for modules that have NO power and NO case. Secondly, once you factor in the cost of housing and powering those devices TWICE, you'll find that you're paying considerably more for the 0-Ctrl and DFAM than you paid when you bought 'em. Anyway, without a tile row in the layout, you're going to have some problems working out the configuration for it.

Now, as for that "complex oscillator" idea...it's not bad. My AE system has six of these sorts of assemblages, consisting of two basic digital oscillators, two VCAs, two full VCOs, a 4-in mixer, and a wavefolder. They work. But with AE's prices, they're very doable. Now, the price for your configuration comes out to $767 and it takes up 28 hp. However, this: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/make-noise-dpo-white-knobs ...is a Make Noise DPO, which is a fo-realz, no-foolin' complex oscillator based on typical Buchla signal flow concepts. And it costs $599, which comes out to $168 LESS. Clearly, the way you've implemented this isn't the right way to proceed unless, like I said before, piles of ca$h, etc.

Stop. Stop right now. You need to take some deep, cleansing breaths and have a seat.

For one thing, NO ONE AT ALL, EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER comes onto Modulargrid and whips out a perfect first build. It doesn't happen. Period. Even if you've got extensive experience in synthesis, there is simply too much here to process rapidly, especially in Eurorack. Secondly, there's some major differences between prebuilt (even patchable) synths and true modular architecture, most notably in that you can totally define your instrument and tailor it for your music's needs. But that's a double-edged sword, tbh...mainly because, if you don't know that your music has a "deficiency" that modular SPECIFICALLY can correct, you're more apt to build a hella expensive closet-warmer.

Instead of continuing down a path that WILL result in the horrific detonation of your Magic Plastic, I suggest...

1) Spend time on here studying other, more experienced users' builds. Just go through there, and when you see a name you recognize from their work (and you will!), see how and why they do what they're doing. Gradually, you'll start to notice certain patterns in module complements, signal flow, ergonomics, etc.

2) Get a copy of VCV Rack. VCV is a software emulator for Eurorack (more or less) and contains a huge range of module emulations, some of which are 1:1 software takes on existing Eurorack hardware (Mutable, Instruo, et al). Mind you, it doesn't like to run on underpowered systems, so keep that in mind (and change your computer's power profile to "maximum performance", however you do that on the OS you use)...but that's more or less the sole drawback. You'll find everything at https://vcvrack.com/

3) After that, proceed SLOWLY. Make a build. Remake it. Then remake the remake, and so on. Work toward a refined end-result, not a fast slap-together; Modulargrid ain't a video game, and trying to "speed-run" it will invariably end in disaster, especially when first starting in modular system design. There are simply far more potential "errors" than proper solutions on MG, depending on what you're trying to do. And...

4) Avoid "sexy module syndrome". Yeah, I know...lots of blinkenlichts und tvistenknobs LOOKS cool AF, but unless you make sure to put the right "boring stuff" (VCAs, attenuverters, timing modifiers, etc etc etc) into the build in the right proportions and of the right types, you're guaranteed to wind up with a very expensive albeit pretty to look at noisemaker. The build above is already well on its way to that disastrous end-result, so...yeah, stop. Get to know the right "whats" and "whys" FIRST, and THEN go back to setting up a build that you can whittle into a fine final result. It's very doable, but it doesn't involve instant gratification...and if you've worked with music for any length of time, you should know better than to try and look for that illusion, as it simply doesn't exist. Or rather, it DOES...but the "gratification" only lasts for as long as you're unaware of the mistakes.
-- Lugia

Hey Lugia! I’m stoked to have you reply to my post. I’ve ran into many of your posts in the years that I have lurked modular grid, and have definitely internalized a lot of the advice.

As it stands, I already have the rig pictured here. The DFAM and 0-Coast are unracked, but I included them in the post in order to show that they are a part of my setup. I also have a Strega and Subharmonicon coming in soon. And no worries for the credit card, it’s all bought with cash :)

My main purpose in making this post was to get some feedback on the utility of my 7u case. I mainly want the 7u case to supplement my setup with lots of modulation. I do want the case to be able to generate voices on its own, however.

My main reasoning for opting to create my own complex oscillator was so that I could have a wave folder accessible to my other voices. The DPO has a little work around to this, but I’m not sure it would be wise to rely on that.

The rig will mainly be used for Pop/IDM. The generative stuff is not a priority, but I value the option.

Please don’t misunderstand—I very much want the boring modules. I want the precision adder, the logic, the switch mults, etc. But I would also appreciate some help in module selection.

edit: i forgot to mention that i do have some 1u modules (oscilloscope, out, and buffered mult). Modular grid limited me to three rows :(

EDITED Mar 27th 2021, 23:07

You're going to have problems. The idea that anyone can just step up and create a build that can work on styles from one end of the spectrum to the other is pretty much a fallacy, unless you're up for something in the 4 x 168 zone. This is because the modules that work well for, say generative music really aren't likely to be the ones that'll do the same for synthpop. Mind you, there ARE exceptions...but as I noted, this isn't something that can easily be done even WITH extensive experience. Anyway, the result is that you'd need a BIG system in order to house and power all of the modules that you WON'T be using on one project or another. So unless you've got piles of ca$h, I'd suggest you either try and find a "lane" for this build to drive in, or try and put together something rather basic that you can use with external processing. Except for generative...it's very much a "special case", and requires more than usual in terms of modulation and modulation pick-off modules to create the complex-order control needed for that.

Secondly, you mention that this should be in a 7u cab. I don't see that here. What I DO see, however, is a huge no-no on that bottom row. If you have something that's in a case, and that gets powered by that case, LEAVE IT IN THAT CASE unless you have some urgent, must-do rationale for putting it in the Eurorack cab. For one thing, it kills space that needs to be there for modules that have NO power and NO case. Secondly, once you factor in the cost of housing and powering those devices TWICE, you'll find that you're paying considerably more for the 0-Ctrl and DFAM than you paid when you bought 'em. Anyway, without a tile row in the layout, you're going to have some problems working out the configuration for it.

Now, as for that "complex oscillator" idea...it's not bad. My AE system has six of these sorts of assemblages, consisting of two basic digital oscillators, two VCAs, two full VCOs, a 4-in mixer, and a wavefolder. They work. But with AE's prices, they're very doable. Now, the price for your configuration comes out to $767 and it takes up 28 hp. However, this: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/make-noise-dpo-white-knobs ...is a Make Noise DPO, which is a fo-realz, no-foolin' complex oscillator based on typical Buchla signal flow concepts. And it costs $599, which comes out to $168 LESS. Clearly, the way you've implemented this isn't the right way to proceed unless, like I said before, piles of ca$h, etc.

Stop. Stop right now. You need to take some deep, cleansing breaths and have a seat.

For one thing, NO ONE AT ALL, EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER comes onto Modulargrid and whips out a perfect first build. It doesn't happen. Period. Even if you've got extensive experience in synthesis, there is simply too much here to process rapidly, especially in Eurorack. Secondly, there's some major differences between prebuilt (even patchable) synths and true modular architecture, most notably in that you can totally define your instrument and tailor it for your music's needs. But that's a double-edged sword, tbh...mainly because, if you don't know that your music has a "deficiency" that modular SPECIFICALLY can correct, you're more apt to build a hella expensive closet-warmer.

Instead of continuing down a path that WILL result in the horrific detonation of your Magic Plastic, I suggest...

1) Spend time on here studying other, more experienced users' builds. Just go through there, and when you see a name you recognize from their work (and you will!), see how and why they do what they're doing. Gradually, you'll start to notice certain patterns in module complements, signal flow, ergonomics, etc.

2) Get a copy of VCV Rack. VCV is a software emulator for Eurorack (more or less) and contains a huge range of module emulations, some of which are 1:1 software takes on existing Eurorack hardware (Mutable, Instruo, et al). Mind you, it doesn't like to run on underpowered systems, so keep that in mind (and change your computer's power profile to "maximum performance", however you do that on the OS you use)...but that's more or less the sole drawback. You'll find everything at https://vcvrack.com/

3) After that, proceed SLOWLY. Make a build. Remake it. Then remake the remake, and so on. Work toward a refined end-result, not a fast slap-together; Modulargrid ain't a video game, and trying to "speed-run" it will invariably end in disaster, especially when first starting in modular system design. There are simply far more potential "errors" than proper solutions on MG, depending on what you're trying to do. And...

4) Avoid "sexy module syndrome". Yeah, I know...lots of blinkenlichts und tvistenknobs LOOKS cool AF, but unless you make sure to put the right "boring stuff" (VCAs, attenuverters, timing modifiers, etc etc etc) into the build in the right proportions and of the right types, you're guaranteed to wind up with a very expensive albeit pretty to look at noisemaker. The build above is already well on its way to that disastrous end-result, so...yeah, stop. Get to know the right "whats" and "whys" FIRST, and THEN go back to setting up a build that you can whittle into a fine final result. It's very doable, but it doesn't involve instant gratification...and if you've worked with music for any length of time, you should know better than to try and look for that illusion, as it simply doesn't exist. Or rather, it DOES...but the "gratification" only lasts for as long as you're unaware of the mistakes.

Hello I'm working with a small setup. I know it's limiting, but I really enjoy the size because I move it from my home and office often and I built a nice mahogany stand for it that I'm happy with.
I've based the size off the 60hp of the Mother 32 and I have an MScale to deal with the voltage transfers due to a recommendation.
I'm wondering if I been sleeping (haha) on the Disting MK4 though. It says it functions as a precision adder and also has a lot of other capabilities- it also fits more snugly in my case than the 1hp I annoyingly have left over.
I haven't been able to find any comments on how it reacts with +5/-5 output of the Mother 32 however. Would it be worth it to replace the MScale for a Disting?

Hey guys !

Thank you for taking time to help me ! Really appreciate.

So i've started to study what you said and tried to make some changes with suggestions i liked.
I feel like it's a bit better but i also think it can be better.

a delay would be useful - consider an fx aid xl - it'll add delays, more 'normal' reverbs, lofi, phasers etc - definitely good for all stated genres - make sure to get the xl it has more modulation inputs and better ergonomics than the standard version

There was already a delay in the rack, Sarawejo. It looks cool to me but im not 100% sure for this one, i have to do more resarch. For now i work with external delays on my mixer.

a matrix mixer for mixing bits of modulation together to generate more interesting modulation - I like the doepfer (as it has full size knobs and space and is inexpensive) - but the instruo lion looks interesting

Very cool idea indeed, matrix mixers was still kind of blury to me. Would prefer the doepfer over the "touché-coulé" lion. Will definitely put one of those matrix mixer in my rack.

1) Serge Wave Multiplier >>>>>>>>> Serge Wave Shaper, stick with the former (I noticed it had fallen out of the rack)

Yes everybody says the VCM is better sounding and more polyvalent than the TWS, but to my ears i think the TWS will fit better with what i do, it looks more subtle, but i will also try the VCM for sure.

4) Disting rules, added one here.

Not for me :D I try to avoid this kind of modules, this is really not for me. I really dont like modules who can do everything or menu / sub menu modules, and i think i have enough menus with my eloquencer and pamela, so no Zadar too.

Last changes:

Again thank you guys !

EDITED Mar 28th 2021, 22:37

After years of GASing for a eurorack, I have finally delved in. The journey has been a blast so far, and my only regret is that I didn’t start sooner!

At the moment, I am having some issues deciding on how I should proceed with my build. I am looking to make my 7u case a versatile build that can do everything from generative drones and techno, to IDM/Pop. A “swiss army knife” build, of sorts...

My setup currently consists of the DFAM and 0-Coast (both unracked), two sequencers (0-Ctrl, OP-Z) along with a 7u case. The 7u case in question consists of the top two rows of the build linked.

In this build, I have attempted to create my own complex oscillator, with the dixie, sto, fade, and bifold. Also, I am currently unsure how I should proceed with my utility selection. I want to include switches, precision adders, logic modules...but the selection of modules is rather overwhelming. In fact, I am open to replacement suggestions for any of the modules I have. Being that I am a noob, I know my module knowledge is rather limited.

Also, since productions are largely driven by a computer, I can’t help but feel I would do well with an FH-2 or ES-3/ES-6 combo, rather than the intellijel module. I have two hardware synths (Moog Grandmother and DSI Tempest) that I use slaved to ableton, so being able to sync the modular with it all would be rad.

I am also wondering if I should get a dedicated quantizer module such as the intellijel scales. I know o_c has a quantizer function, but the immediacy of a dedicated quantizer module is not lost on me.

edit: 1u row added!

EDITED Mar 29th 2021, 09:11

https://blackwarriorlures.bandcamp.com/album/the-light-divine

This album I wanted to explore more generative patches. Mostly can the machine improvise, improvise in the same way a jazz musician or how most folks musician improvise over chord structures.

thanks for the suggestion Lugia,for now though i need to settle with a smaller module

Great tunes here. Somehow I long for the Plumbutter and especially the Double Knot again (both of which I used to have).

Loved this a lot.

Just discovered this space and need to mention I bought an ES-9 from @nikkore about two weeks ago. Good and clear communication, received the module in good condition and everything seems to work fine! Before this deal I had contact with another guy from Switzerland about an ES-8 (forgot his name) but although the communication seemed to be good, Unfortunately I never heard back from him.

Hi The-Erc,

Good question... it has a syncable LFO, question is if that's a hard sync (which I don't want) or one that follows one of those clock signals. Difficult to answer that question without owning the module, I think.

Now I have already the Time Wizard from Shakmat Modular, so it might not make too much sense to get the Pamela. If it's possible, I rather prefer to look for an LFO on its own that has this functionality.

Interesting thought though, I will keep this in mind. Thank you very much and kind regards, Garfield.

@GarfieldModular -- does Pamela's New Workout do what you want?

Hi Farkas, Lugia and JimHowell1970,

Farkas: I got the Octasource, it's indeed a great module so I can strongly recommend it however it doesn't have this functionality what I need that seems to be called at 4 ms as Pingable LFO. What I expect from this kind of pingable LFO is that if you use the "pingable" clock input (for example from a clock divider or multiplier) that the LFO "follows" in the rhythm of let's say the main voice.

Lugia: Yes indeed a big pity because I was just so extremely happy to know it exists what I want, till I discovered it's sold out as a ready-made module. I will have a look into Mutable's Tides to see if that one can help me out, thank you.

JimHowell1970: Pity that 4 ms decided to release it now only as a DIY module :-( Due to the serious lack of time, DIY is not the best option for me at the moment, I will keep it in mind though. Thank you!

All: Thank you very much, should you know of any other LFO that's kind of pingable or as described as above then please do let me know. Kind regards, Garfield.

This version is the original idea I had in mind with a few changes.
I know 3 sound sources is a crowd, but I felt like three options for different sounds was key in order to sequence externally with my computer using Ableton live. Perfect for writing bass, leads, experimental stuff, even making my own kick drums.

I think QPLFO is DIY only now - Exploding Shed just got them in - so still available - you just have to build it or find someone to build it for you!

@RichardDevine

I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one very interested in looking what you are doing these days with the Flux sequencer

Probably don't remember this:

I would like to move the effect module Stasis Leak in another old Doepfer LC3 1 row case with somethings else (other effects and a module drum). I was thinking of filling those 6 hp with a simple oscillator to mix with the Complex, (I can recover another 2 hp moving ENVF to the third row because for now I haven't used yet - with volca beats?).
Do you think this is a good idea? Are there better ways to fill that possible space?
I control this rack with a keystep pro.

EDITED Mar 27th 2021, 07:45

Hmmm...that's a shame, as it was sort of unique in that you had four independent LFOs, each under their own "tap tempo" via the "ping". However, the Mutable Tides shares some of this, and Ginko has their TTLFO which pretty much replicates a single section of the QPLFO. But losing a four-in-one like that...not good.

My Rack :) What do you think?

Hi Garfield. Maybe check out the Erica Octasource? That is the LFO module that has interested me.

Smooth and perfect transaction with @cv_hate ! I only can recommend him. Enjoy ambient and Panharmonium ! Best

I saw you'd started to make some of Jim's suggested changes and I had 5 minutes so I took a crack at this:

Quick thoughts:
1) Serge Wave Multiplier >>>>>>>>> Serge Wave Shaper, stick with the former (I noticed it had fallen out of the rack)
2) I like my DUSG but would probably take a second Maths over it so I swapped em here (and also switched to the white knobs which is what seems to be available).
3) Added a Links on top of your Kinks and dropped the various buffered mults as you can get stack cables and mostly be ok.
4) Disting rules, added one here.
5) Added an MCO because a digital oscillator would be a nice change of pace here and it does a lot.
6) Swapped the Doepfer matrix mixer with a 4MS VCA Matrix since you have a lot of CV sources. FWIW I don't actually love this module but I think it's my fault since I try to keep my racks focused and it's pretty big, but I think it could shine for you here.
7) Zadar + Nin rule, added them here as both envelope generators and as long running control sources for ambient.
8) Added the NCOM you had outside the rack cause it rules super hard, great fat suboscillator sounds and useful for utility stuff too.
9) Dropped in a Scales so you can forget about sequencing sometimes and do some CV driven generative stuff.
10) Added an Intellijel Unity mixer in 2Hp for both CV (fun!) and audio mixing.
11) Dropped the Extended ADSR since we added a Zadar.
12) Added a Ladik folding LFO, very cool module.
13) Added an OCHD, big fav of mine and will free up your Maths for example from driving long running LFOs.
14) Added a 4MS Rotating Clock to drive periodic changes around the system as your base clock keeps ticking.
15) Added another switch by 2HP.
15) Not totally sold on this idea just yet, but I dropped the HexMix VCA for a Jumble Henge. You already have a good number of VCAs and attenuators, and while more generally doesn't hurt Jumble Henge (or Soundstage) help clarify a mix a lot without you having to fiddle with it too much, not to mention something like the VCA Matrix and the XPan into a Jumble Henge open up a lot of interesting possibilities.

Hope this provides some ideas and insight, let us know where you end up!

EDITED Mar 26th 2021, 15:10

Digging this!

Thank you both! Beads is such a great module.

sound terrifying and awesome!
-- Lugia

Haha, don't play this when your Kids are near. They never sleep again.

That's sound really scary

Many thanks to @ezra , I just got a module from him, smart communication great transaction and very nice person!!!

Thanks to @Robocoder, who sold me an assimil8or in perfect shape and updated (ok i should have been able to do that myself).
It was a really smooth transaction, and communication !