Larsech and Forum,
Thanks for the response! The duplicate Hermods were a mistake (I removed the Hermod+ because the original is quite a bit less expensive). I was originally going to put a Mutant Brain midi i/o module in the rack to get a midi signal in, but the price difference between that and a used Hermod seemed small enough that I thought I could get Midi In plus some Midi effects with the Hermod (though I can do everything I read about for midi effects in DAW too). I thought that since it accepts CV in also that I could use it for some kind of sequencing or weirness that I do not yet understand.
Also, you asked about an audio interface...I have an apollo twin that accepts line level, plus a guitar input. I hoped that if I reduce input gain on the apollo, I could probably get by with a signal from the rig without a dedicated output module (though I don't even know what part of the current rig would output into the apollo, frankly.
I have taken your feedback about randomness and an extra oscillator, and made two additions: Marbles (randomness with a gentler learning curve) and Dixie 2+ (well-reviewed analog oscillator).
Here is a link to the updated plan: https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_3025046.jpg
Questions:
1) Does this look about right in terms of introducing more randomness and oscillator source?
2) Because I can't afford all of this at once, could you suggest a sequence in which to buy so that I can learn as I grow the system? I was thinking Mantis case plus used modules going in order pretty much from left to right, but that is not a very scientific sequencing of module procurement...
Again, thanks for making the time to help a stranger out. Very much appreciated.
P.