It's an "unofficial" port of the Eurorack version, apparently. There's quite a few of those in the MU format pages. I'd suggest checking the "usual suspects" in 5U DIY to see if someone's got this as a kit, although my bet is that that listing is of a "one shot" porting of the original circuit.
Is this actually going to happen in 5U or just a pipe dream?
Couple of suggestions...first up, you might have a look at Adventure Audio's Merge. This is a module specifically designed for working with guitar, etc signals. It's got a send/return path for external FX, plus a proper instrument preamp that feeds into an envelope follower. And that last bit there is how you can use the guitar's amplitude curves to control pretty much anything that you'd feed that signal to...filters, VCAs, all sorts of possibilities. Right now, this is what the Ears is for, but the Merge offers way more flexibility and modulation potential.
Second: you can tighten up the tile row by removing the buffered mult (you really don't need it, as you don't have enough pitch CV destinations to cause voltage sag) and then adding that regained space with the gaps, and maybe by removing the USB jack tile. That would give you 20 more hp in the tile row. And you could even strip out the headphone preamp tile by going with a performance mixer that has a headphone output. Plus, you can get these with some very useful functions, such as Toppobrillo's Stereomix2, which has CV over level (and these would serve as your final audio level VCAs), panning, and each strip's AUX level. It has a mono AUX send with a stereo return, which is perfect for "global" effects such as reverb, etc. Oh, and clickless mutes, plus a CUE function associated with them that'll let you audition a channel separately via the headphones, which can be invaluable if you have a tuning mishap live. That's a far better solution, IMHO!
+1 on dumping the mults. When you've got smaller builds like this, the better strategy is to use inline mult widgets or stackcables. And with the space, you can drop in another 4 hp per row. So, down in the bottom row, I'd recommend a Ladik J-120 comparator. This module will let you generate gates depending on the voltage level it's reading, so you can use that modulation-derived gate to fire off other processes in the patch, which is super-useful in generative patches. And up top, Konstant Labs has their Baxandall EQ module that'll be super-useful at the very end of the audio chain for "sweetening" the modular's output just before it goes to the output tile.
DO keep the second set of Veils, however. I can see one immediate use for it with the Doepfer Quad LFO, feeding an LFO to each VCA and then firing off the VCAs with some sawtooth wave LFOs or envelope generators. That way, you get level control over those LFOs which the Veils can then sum to give you some VERY complex modulation curves. And there's more than that, as well.
Otherwise, TOUCH NOTHING!!! Aside of the multiples issue, everything here is SPOT-ON. The module order is kinda in need of streamlining, but I wouldn't change any of the modules themselves. You did it right!
Very good choices! For sequencing in a small format, I love Erica Pico Seq in 3HP, with up to 16 steps. Also a 4 HP version of Turing Machine would be good for sequencing, and your Disting can perform that function. Plaits or Braids are excellent choices for VCO in a skiff, because they produce a huge variety of sounds. For such a skiff, I am very fond of the 8HP versions of these modules. Plaits and Rings are completely different--I use them both all the time. NanoRand v2 is only 4HP and is a terrific source of random voltage. A small texture synth such as an 8HP version of Clouds, or and effects module such as FX-AID or 2hp Verb would be nice.
Here is an updated current rig (with the sole exception of the Morgasmatron) -- constantly and quickly evolving. :)
Many thanks to all for your input and advice! Happy New Year!
@toodee - thanks for the additional Wasp info!
@M01C - I've been looking at the Doepfler stuff... good suggestions (is the MN FXDF retired?), though leaning to dual VCF for first filter.
@sacguy71 - I like Erica Synths stuff... the Polivoks looks good, but I think I am looking for a dual VCF unit as the first thing. Not sure this is the best idea, but it's what I'm leaning toward.
@gil909 - I bought the MIDI unit and have been using with my Akai Force (which has CV) and also Arturia MiniLab MkII and OP-1 (which don't). But I think educationally-speaking, I want to learn how to generate entirely within the modular rack itself. I can always fall back on those tools (and sell off whatever sequencers I end up not jelling with).
@Zeta_fxn - thanks for the feedback! I was up late a couple nights ago and ended up impulse-purchasing a Mordax Data. :) It arrived today and I can already see the utility. Being able to visualize signals as well as hear them (when I audible) is extremely helpful as I learn the basics.
You have made EXCELLENT choices. My feedback:
Voices: Qu-Bit Surface--I use this all the time, and like it much more than Rings, but I love Rings also. The 2HP Pluck is also incredible, but only does one model (Rings has 3 and Surface has 5)
Sequencing: Qu-Bit Bloom--my favorite sequencer--2 tracks of up to 32 steps each, with variations.
MI Stages--fantastic, love it!
Utilities: Maths*, Disting MK4--yes, and yes. I also highly recommend Ornament & Crime, which does different functions than Disting, especially if you use the Hemispheres Suite alternative firmware.
Mults--I would recommend one or two buffered mults in 2 HP--put in the middle of the two 3U rows. I configure my cases with two 1U buffered mult tiles at the extreme R and L of the 1U row, and than one 2HP buff mult in the middle of the bottom 3U row, so I'm never patching far away from one. Don't waste HP with passive mults.
Effects: Beads--YES, or a 8HP version of Clouds--I love them both.
Mixing: Quadratt--I use Quadratt for attenuation of audio or CV, and use Mixup to mix up to 4 tracks (2 mono, 2 stereo) to the 1/4" stereo outs that are built into the side or back of my cases. Thank you for reminding me that it can serve as a mixer!
In-Out: Intellijel Line In Out--YES, or use Mixup or something like it.
Well done. Get just one Veils, and then see what you need as you patch. Enjoy!
You've made good choices! I agree with the advice to get a filter. My first was Three Sisters, and it is still the one I use the most, although I also have and recommend the Doepfer A-124 Wasp, Make Noise QPAS, Erica VCF1 and MMF by 2hp. Also, get yourself an LPG--for delicious organic VCF/VCA functions. I love both Optomix and LxD, but there must be many more out there.
Since you are interested in modular synth education, you will benefit greatly from an oscilloscope. You can buy a free-standing oscilloscope that won't suck up HP in your case, but it will clutter your work station. I really like the ZeroScope Oscilloscope which I use all the time, to study audio waves, envelopes, and other CV.
It is brilliant that you have included the Disting Mk-4, which is a Swiss Army Knife (or Leatherman). I use an 8 HP version of Ornament & Crime much more than my three Distings. They provide different functions. Consider getting an O&C with the Hemisphere Suite alternative firmware.
One last addition to your case would be a source of random voltage and S/H. Yes, PNW will put out random CV, but the workflow and responsiveness is not at all the same as with Ultra Random Analog, Richter Wogglebug, or NanoRand v2. I recommend all of those, and URA is my favorite by far.
Then, patch like crazy for six months, and keep notes on what functions you are missing (effects, delay, sequencing). I have the Arturia Keystep, and never use it. Have fun!
p.s. Get a 1U x 6 HP Chaos tile from Nonlinearcircuits. Your 1U module choices are also brilliant.
In the near future, I would get a Arturia keystep pro. Take the drums and note sequencing out of the rack to save space. I would replace steppy with some 1u drum modules.
Agreed on the mults. Veils x2 might be overkill, consider replacing one with a 3xMIA or similar. You might want a quantizer.
I was pretty sure you were not. There were no post operative blood trails in the post. LOL
Haha. I wonder how much a kidney goes for these days?
Just for the record, I'm not the seller.
Pretty sure this thing isn't 60 HP, but rather 59 HP.
I have one installed in an Arturia Rack brute which is has room for 88 HP. I have installed:
- The power supply (5PH)
- Erica Synths Black Dual EG/LFO (10HP)
- Erica Synths Black Double Bass (10HP)
- BEFACO OUT V3 (4 HP)5 + 60 + 10 +10 + 4 = 89
-- leewaa
The RackBrute’s official specs are 88HP width, and their rails are 88HP wide, but the rack itself has 89HP of space.
Pretty sure this thing isn't 60 HP, but rather 59 HP.
I have one installed in an Arturia Rack brute which is has room for 88 HP. I have installed:
- The power supply (5PH)
- Erica Synths Black Dual EG/LFO (10HP)
- Erica Synths Black Double Bass (10HP)
- BEFACO OUT V3 (4 HP)
5 + 60 + 10 +10 + 4 = 89
EDIT: As megarat pointed out, Arturia offically states the Rack Brute as being 88Hp, but in reality it has 89!
OK, farkas ... I just need to decide which leg to saw off. I don't have a first son.
Eric Synths Polivoks is a nice filter as well and pretty basic to use and has the ability to use as a low pass or band pass filter.
Morpheus is great. But I would not consider it for educational purposes. For educational purposes, besides a "normal" MMF, I would recommend a fixed filterbank.
-- M01CAre there any specific ones you'd recommend?
-- canyllyr
That really depends on space and budget.
Really like the ADDAC601, but for now maybe overkill.
Smaller and cheaper: Verbos Noise&Filter or the MakeNoise Fxdf combined with a VCA (patch all the individual outs to the ins of the VCA and you can scan the different frequencies)
Pure for education, the Doepfer fixed filter could do the job.
Space and money no issue: Fumana!
I'm just here to state the obvious... Hope you don't mind :)
You might not need to take up 8hp with Passive mults unless you really don't want to use Stackables or 0hp floating mults, I have 1x 4hp 4x4x4 Manhattan Analogue passive mult and thats usually more than I need.
Enjoy your spare HP, don't rush to fill every last space, this is not like filling sticker books. Resist the urge to 'complete' your rack, its never complete so just relax.
For a basic filter, the Doepfer Wasp is great filter than can self oscillate and get wild or be tamed down. Filters are loads of fun.
-- sacguy71
For completeness, I need to mention that this is actually not true of the Wasp filter as it is sold by Doepfer, self-oscillation is possible but not without modding the module or using other tricks past simply turning up the resonance...It's actually the only one in my rack that doesn't self-oscillate, but it sure can get wild and filters are sure to be fun as well :-)
--- Voltage control all the things ---
Morpheus is great. But I would not consider it for educational purposes. For educational purposes, besides a "normal" MMF, I would recommend a fixed filterbank.
-- M01C
Are there any specific ones you'd recommend?
One of the uMIDI listings was set up by Intellijel...who locked it.
Besides the Manufacturer approved stamp is a button Message the Manufacturer. They should receive the message.
Beep, Bopp, Bleep: info@modulargrid.net
Hi! Did you try it for modulation stereo output, like reverb or feedback?
Morpheus is great. But I would not consider it for educational purposes. For educational purposes, besides a "normal" MMF, I would recommend a fixed filterbank.
Ah, great! Thanks Lugia for setting my GAS on fire ;)
Am hooked on DFAM and Subharmonicon for quite a while now.
But the Spectravox sounds just awesome! Totally blown away :D
Please, Moog!!!!
Smart comm and fine transaction with @titifoufou
Merci Tim.
Hi,
I have been in this world for over 1.5 years, and I feel like what excites me the most is the generative music, so I am preparing a rack - 104 hp 7u -, based on some modules I already have (marked with an *) plus some new modules to come.
.
This is my idea (some modules can be in more than one category):
Thoughts? I feel like I might lack some extra effects, specially when I use the Disting for other purposes, but any suggestion of type of modules or specific modules for this type of music is more than welcome.
Thank you all for your time and help!
Some thoughts...
Using an Octatrack, consider a MI Ears (or two). Than you can process samples through your modular. Rings as a resonator can be lots of fun, but the Octatrack also has a resonator.
When using CV.OCD, Pam's could be redundant (except for LFO's). So maybe instead of Pam's a Batumi?
Rack Depth is 70mm and (above Power Supply): 62mm. I've been double checking the few modules I've ordered to be sure everything clears. I was looking at the EX seems super powerful. One issue I have is the case I got is a little low on power 850mA. I got such a good deal on the case and 2 modules I can't complain. The EX needs lots of power. So hard to get around that one.
remember to allow for inrush - leave 25%+ headroom on all the rails - so if the rail is rated at 850mA you should be aiming at about 650mA
I was really hoping to avoid screens, but the o_C seems far too useful. Also has a sequencer! Quad Quantizer and all kinds of goodies. Seems like a great fit for a small case.
remember it can only do 1 thing at a time (or 2 with hemispheres installed)
have fun!
"some of the best base-level info to remember can be found in Jim's sigfile" @Lugia
Utility modules are the dull polish that makes the shiny modules actually shine!!!
sound sources < sound modifiers < modulation sources < utilities
Just get a DFAM. That was what the BFAM developed into, probably with quite a bit of information gathered from those who built the BFAMs at Moogfest 2016.
The one we're REALLY waiting on is the Spectravox. This is a small variation on their huge Vocoder, with the same form factor as the other 60 hp Moogs. Given the amazing results that you can get from that $5k one, I and lots of others would love to get our hands on the variant.
That is a bummer!!! I doubt it, but, ... Maybe if enough of us are interested it may come back. I'm not gonna hold my breath... when companies don't want to do something they won't and it's sad because then it's lost forever.. We all lose then.
I like Falistri a lot, but it's only slightly smaller than Maths, and more expensive, so hard to justify in a case this size with power constraints! Have you already bought the case and starter modules? If not, consider a Tiptop Mantis.
I was checking out Falistri. Seems like a great option, and sounds nice as a VCO. Also just looks super cool! I’ll check out the link.
PS 850mA is low for 104hp, digital modules will eat into that. Remember that you need 20-25% overhead for startup surges! Also I have a number of Elektron boxes, so if you want to talk about integration, I might be able to help.
Been trying to figure out what I would be missing by going with the Delta-V. Mixer, attenuverters?
Yes, though 3xMIA or other modules can compensate. Also if you use the built-in VCAs in Delta-V, you have no access to the envelope. And you don't have the EOR/EOC outputs which in a larger rack can be a useful source of gates.
The "Maths illustrated supplement" illustrates how to do many tasks on Maths, but not why. That you have to ferret out for yourself. It is a little like learning by rote; some manage to go beyond, but many do not. In the link in my signature I try to take a more generalizable approach to that learning using another module (Falistri), in the hopes that the lessons should transfer to other modules such as Delta-V and Maths.
I have Pam's, it is terrific, and µO_c is on my watch list. I don't think you can go wrong with those. There is a choice of firmwares with µO_c. Hemisphere allows for two independent halves, but with a simpler set of functions. I am more tempted by the original firmware, which looks deeper. You don't have to choose except if your supplier asks which firmware you want loaded initially; you can reflash the module yourself.
Maths is a good choice if you are interested in learning modular synthesis - see the 'maths illustrated supplement' - as opposed to synthesis with modules, if you see what I mean! delta v is also a good choice, but doesn't have the learning resources...
I'd go for veils over the dual vca - you can never have too many vcas!!!
Rings is not particularly similar to plaits - plaits has a couple of Rings-ish settings, but has a lot more besides (and vice versa)
otherwise @ronin1973 and @plragde have you covered
for mults - if you have 2 sound sources and 2 v/oct sequencing channels - then buffering is superfluous - as it is only really needed for pitch, otherwise passive is fine & in a tiny case such as this, stackcables or headphone splitters are a better option as they won't take space
-- JimHowell1970
I see! :) If I can fit maths I will. Does seem to be a great learning tool. Been trying to figure out what I would be missing by going with the Delta-V. Mixer, attenuverters?
Veils 2020 seems like the way to go for VCAs.
Switch to a passive mult as well, cheaper is better!
Thanks for the input!
Good job on your first post. The link the rack was done exactly as it should be.
First and foremost, what is the depth of your rack? If your power rails or anything else is bolted to the floor in some parts, you'll have to be aware of that too.
The Disting IV is a good choice. But the EX is like getting two IVs in one unit. It's worth it if you're going so small.
The Noise Engineering Mimetic Digitalis is a great micro-sequencer to pair with your Pam's. There will be times when you want to just jam without messing around with your external gear. It's a thought.
The buffered mult is a bit of a waste on a rack this small. It's only 2HP. But that might be the difference between getting a future module you want or settling for something less.
Getting a Dixie + isn't a bad idea at all. Oscillators also make great modulators. I believe the Dixie can also get down to LFO rates. So it'll serve double duty if you like.
If there's room, I'd add a micro Ornaments & Crime. I think a Pam's, a Disting EX, and an O&C make a great backbone for lots and lots of "Swiss Army Knife" functionality.
-- Ronin1973
Thanks so much for the reply!
Rack Depth is 70mm and (above Power Supply): 62mm. I've been double checking the few modules I've ordered to be sure everything clears. I was looking at the EX seems super powerful. One issue I have is the case I got is a little low on power 850mA. I got such a good deal on the case and 2 modules I can't complain. The EX needs lots of power. So hard to get around that one.
I was really hoping to avoid screens, but the o_C seems far too useful. Also has a sequencer! Quad Quantizer and all kinds of goodies. Seems like a great fit for a small case.
Dixie + seems like it would be a good contrast to Plaits. One digital and one analog VCO.
Thanks again!
Maths is a good choice if you are interested in learning modular synthesis - see the 'maths illustrated supplement' - as opposed to synthesis with modules, if you see what I mean! delta v is also a good choice, but doesn't have the learning resources...
I'd go for veils over the dual vca - you can never have too many vcas!!!
Rings is not particularly similar to plaits - plaits has a couple of Rings-ish settings, but has a lot more besides (and vice versa)
otherwise @ronin1973 and @plragde have you covered
for mults - if you have 2 sound sources and 2 v/oct sequencing channels - then buffering is superfluous - as it is only really needed for pitch, otherwise passive is fine & in a tiny case such as this, stackcables or headphone splitters are a better option as they won't take space
"some of the best base-level info to remember can be found in Jim's sigfile" @Lugia
Utility modules are the dull polish that makes the shiny modules actually shine!!!
sound sources < sound modifiers < modulation sources < utilities
Good job on your first post. The link the rack was done exactly as it should be.
First and foremost, what is the depth of your rack? If your power rails or anything else is bolted to the floor in some parts, you'll have to be aware of that too.
The Disting IV is a good choice. But the EX is like getting two IVs in one unit. It's worth it if you're going so small.
The Noise Engineering Mimetic Digitalis is a great micro-sequencer to pair with your Pam's. There will be times when you want to just jam without messing around with your external gear. It's a thought.
The buffered mult is a bit of a waste on a rack this small. It's only 2HP. But that might be the difference between getting a future module you want or settling for something less.
Getting a Dixie + isn't a bad idea at all. Oscillators also make great modulators. I believe the Dixie can also get down to LFO rates. So it'll serve double duty if you like.
If there's room, I'd add a micro Ornaments & Crime. I think a Pam's, a Disting EX, and an O&C make a great backbone for lots and lots of "Swiss Army Knife" functionality.
Agreed, on its own it would be modulation thirsty. This was half of an existing 12u so modulation was from maths, batumi & a links in opposite case. However, I came to find that envelopes, as you suggested, were more useful so I second an EG. The doepfer quad adsr was great but i'm intrigued by the radar since you mention it, looks very powerful. I only wish it was diy.
Blip as well.
An nlc sloths x & y ouputs multiplied throughout the system is a blast with this one.
The best part of this system is harmonaig's 4 outputs to 4 akemies channels.
It could really use a beasts chalkboard.
I sold the noise engineering tonnetz sequent & 4ms QCD & miss both.
It's true that Ornament & Crime has a similar mode but it's a lot of fun & worth a dedicated module, always loved this one!
Pedal Order:
- Plug guitar into Tech 21 Fly Rig
- Plug bass into Tech 21Bass Driver
- Plug microphone (or line level signal) into JHS Colour Box
- All of the above feed into the Morley ABC
- EHX Canyon
- Hologram Microcosm
- EHX 45000
Signal Flow:
- Instrument plugged into Friedman Buffer Bay's buffer input, output routed to "Return A" of LS-2
- JHS Colour Box (acting as a mic pre) to "Return B" of LS-2
- Boss LS-2 acts as a switcher between the instrument and mic (or whatever is going into the Colour Box)
- LS-2 output to ISP Deci-mate input
- Deci-mate output to Tech 21 Fly Rig input
- Tech 21 Bass Driver is in fx loop of Fly Rig
- output of Fly Rig is sent to the Hologram Microcosm
- then to the EHX 45000
- then if necessary to the Harley Benton Thunder 99
There's a definite problem here, and that's a lack of modulation sources for the two Akemie's to chew on. These are at their best when you can use various envelopes and other mod sources into the various level and index inputs to create very complex textures. Using them this way, you miss out on much of that capability.
I would suggest dropping the second Akemie's altogether, then putting in Erogenous Tones' RADAR and Blip modules instead. The RADAR module gives you eight AR envelopes with a lot of abuse potential, and the Blip works as something of a sequential controller for the RADAR, plus it provides some global controls you don't necessarily get with the RADAR alone. THAT pair would be more than sufficient to get the remaining Akemie's into its full capabilities.
I personally would recommend Delta-V for a skiff this small, but others cannot imagine modular without Maths, so you have a decision to make. With the space you save, you can upgrade your uVCA to Veils 2020, and add 3xMIA, which is quite useful. You may not need S&H right away. If you get CV.OCD, you don't need mmMIDI.
Congratulations on the album release! Nice stuff, enjoyed "The Playful Ocean" and the different moods of all the selections. All the best.
