I have a lot of success with Pique (various makers) which is a 4hp clone of Mutable Instruments Peaks. I almost always use it as a dual envelope generator -- the envelopes are very snappy -- but it can also be a 4-step sequencer, LFOs, or various drum synths. It's an excellent module for a small case.
As an EG its main advantage over Pams is you can tweak the envelope shape quickly and easily by hand... this requires some menu diving in Pams. Also ADSR is available, which Pamela's New Workout doesn't have (I don't know about Pams Pro.)
I would add some effects, a nice delay or any different kind of effect you like; a wavefolder; envelope and LFO module & 1-2 multis. Do you use an external mixer? Pams Pro is always great.
Marco Bonetti, aka @taryksorb from Bologna, is no longer responding to my follow-ups regarding an amicable refund agreement for a package that has been missing for about a week, even though the international shipment should be automatically insured and therefore reimbursable to him.
Hello! Intend to build this small case only to build industrial drone phrases , but also rhythmic/percussive gates...therefore i wonder what would you choose for an envelope generator! I intend to use the Pons from Noise Engineering ...i didnt have the chance to try several modules ( EG's)...any other suggestions to fit both droney and percussive territories? I'll have to stick with this case size, unfortunatelly ! I have to use a line level output...especially for headphones
I have a Moog Sound Studio with
* 1 x DFAM
* 2 x Mother 32
* 1 x Subharmonicon
* 1 x Labyrinth
I want to expand this with Eurorack Modules to experiment different modulation sources and I want to add more flexibility. I already bought an additional 60 HP case and an ALM Pamela's Pro Workout. I could expand with another 60 HP case, thats the limit (apart from the money of course). I did put my current ideas in a rack named "Wishlist" but these are just my current thoughts.
Which modules do you think I need to complement my Moog semi-modulars? And why do you think so? I am open to any suggestion.
Last time I posted a clip with the BIA doing the heavy lifting supported by Bastl Crust. This time it's the other way. The Crust is the bassline, the kick, and the hats. BIA is doing the other percussion, mostly using its "metal" mode.
Pleased that the Crust can do sonic workhorse duties, although I find its sweet spots are a bit harder to locate than BIA. Of course, I thought of a much better way to modulate this after I had recorded it...next time!
Thanks for taking the time to examine my planned rack!
Let me clarify a bit. These are the modules I currently have, and some of them weren’t the best choices because I don’t really like or use them much:
A-135-2 Quad VCA / VC Mixer (Doepfer)
Maths (Make Noise)
A-143-3 (Doepfer)
Crush Delay v2 (Befaco)
A-106-1 (Doepfer)
Pamela’s NEW Workout (ALM Busy Circuits)
(Digitakt mk1)
I’ll probably sell the Befaco Crush Delay v2 and the Doepfer A-143-3.
First impression is too many sound sources, filters, and effects, and not enough utilities.
I don’t fully get the first part of this statement. I only have one complex oscillator with two oscillators in it. Okay, it has lots of outputs, but I don’t see how I could or should change that. CS-L seems like a long-term module/investment to me.
About filters: I want to use Polaris as my main filter after the CS-L output. Blades would be used in effects/feedback loops. The Doepfer filter isn’t really necessary, but since I already have one, I can use it creatively in one of the signal paths. I think that the Doepfer filter probably isn’t the best choice as a main filter or in the effects chain.
If you're in love with the effects modules, fine, but I'd rather free up a lot of HP by ditching at least one of the delays and the reverb module in exchange for a smaller multi-fx module such as ALM MFX, Disting mk4 or EX, Happy Nerding FX Aid or FX Aid XL, or the like.
Yep, you’re right! I should get rid of the Crush Delay. I want a dedicated delay and reverb because they’d be useful with the matrix mixer, but maybe a multi-fx instead of a dedicated reverb is a good idea. Thanks for suggesting that!
I'd also get a different output module that gives you more control over panning, crossfading, and volume (e.g., Make Noise X-Pan). This will help funnel your matrix mixer outputs with better control.
Good idea!
I'd think about freeing up space to add utilities such as (in no particular order): more mixing, attenuversion, multiples, switches, noise/random sources, sample & hold, logic, crossfading, etc. I'd also add clock dividers but I think that's mostly covered by Pam’s & Digitakt.
I think with Zadar, Pam’s, and Maths I already have enough modulation sources with built-in attenuation. Still, I’d really appreciate it if you could suggest some concrete modules for the utilities you mentioned (attenuversion, switches, noise/random sources, sample & hold, logic, crossfading). That would make it easier for me to explore the missing functionality in my rack.
Finally, thanks again for taking the time and for the really useful tips!
First impression is too many sound sources, filters, and effects, and not enough utilities.
Specificially:
Nothing wrong with Doepfer modules, but I'd swap the A-143-3 for a Xaoc Batumi II. Covers everything the A-143-3 can do, plus lots more, in 4 less HP.
If you're in love with the effects modules, fine, but I'd rather free up a lot of HP by ditching at least one of the delays and the reverb module in exchange for a smaller multi fx module such as ALM MFX, Disting mk4 or EX, Happy Nerding FX Aid or FX Aid XL, or the like.
Clouds and Blades are discontinued, and while you might be able to pick them up used, be aware that companies (e.g., Cal Synths) create clones that you can purchase new. Often, these will also save you some space in slightly smaller forms and/or come with additional optional firmware that extends capabilites.
I'd also get a different output module that gives you more control over panning, crossfading, and volume (e.g., Make Noise X Pan). This will help funnel your matrix mixer outputs with better control.
More generally:
I'd think about freeing up space to add utilities such as (in no particular order): more mixing, attenuversion, multiples, switches, noise/random sources, sample & hold, logic, crossfading, etc. I'd also add clock dividers but I think that's mostly like covered by Pam's & Digitakt.
Best of luck!!
Edit: Correction: X Pan is a mixer not an output module...I was thinking XOH, but they're both good modules for funneling several stereo outputs to extermal gear, especially when used together.
“You must have chaos within you to give birth to a dancing star.”
― Friedrich Nietzsche
I’m planning my future rack for hypnotic/dub-ish techno, mainly for leads, risers, textures, pads, and sound exploration/fun. I’d really appreciate your opinions, corrections, and suggestions for better alternatives or fits.
I think a complex oscillator would provide a lot of fun, and I really like its waveshaping capabilities and sound.
I plan to use the Polaris filter as my main filter for the oscillator, and Blades for filtering effects and feedback.
mmMidi would handle syncing with my Digitakt (which provides drums) or sequencing the rack.
I want to use the matrix mixer with these inputs:
* Main sound (oscillators, maybe with one effect)
* Clouds output
* Dual Looping Delay output
* Reverb output
And these outputs:
* Main output to speakers
* Clouds send
* Dual Looping Delay send
* Reverb send
I really like the mixing possibilities this setup offers.
For modulation, I think I have enough free channels from Pam’s, plus 12 free-running LFOs and Maths (also useful for attenuation).
I’m unsure about the number of VCAs, but I think it’s probably okay, more would be nice, but I’m out of space, and I can use the mixer manually for some of that.
I'm getting the Unrecoverable Boot Error, when running the test, it shows SRAM failure. Module is out of warranty, so I'm considering trying the repair myself. Is there anyone who have successfully fixed this? I'm thinking the SRAM has to be either replaced or reseated.
If you're curious about the kinds of sounds Beads can make, here's a track that makes extensive use of the module. Just vanilla waveforms going in - a lot of distinct clicky sounds, great for percussion
Yup, Stolperbeats is right. I don't own one and therefore can't evaluate how it differs from the competition, but I can tell you that almost any digital sequencer on the market right now has some form of microtiming, i.e. per-step swing. I use the Vector sequencer a lot, I'm sure the Hermod family has it, too. All Elektron products have parameter locking, which includes microtiming.
On the Stolperbeats this seems to be solved algorithmically with a single encoder, whereas on the examples I mentioned, you have to edit the swing on each step manually.
I remember seeing maybe in 2021-2022 a new (sequencer) module that offered a lot of power for producing heavy swing or heavy groove in Eurorack drum triggering.
I can't for the life of me remember the name of the module, find it, or anything like it presently. I think I recall it was released 2021-2022, was 400-600 ($s, USD) at list price, and in the 24-36HP size range. It was also being marketed for Eurorack-based hiphop and related genres.
Anyone remember that module and/or know of a great current module for acheiving custom & heavy grooves in Eurorack rhythm sequencing?
El-Ma Ørsted V2
El-Ma Ørsted takes its name from Hans Christian Ørsted, the physicist and chemist known for his discoveries in the field of electromagnetism.
“El-Ma” is an abbreviation of the term electromagnetic field.
There are countless electromagnetic waves around us that we cannot notice, hear, or see. With El-Ma Ørsted, you can listen to this invisible world, transform these signals into sound, and create music from them.
El-Ma Ørsted can detect radio waves, electromagnetic fields, signals emitted by electronic devices, and environmental electromagnetic interactions. Its main difference from a conventional radio is that it allows you to listen to a much wider frequency range. This makes it possible to experience not only broadcasts, but the entire electromagnetic activity of your surroundings.
Taking a walk in the city, wandering in nature, or rediscovering the electronic world of everyday life with El-Ma Ørsted is extremely exciting. Electronic circuits, cables, phones, modems, power outlets, computers, hard drives, refrigerators, and LCD screens all seem to regain their sound through El-Ma Ørsted.
V2 Design and Construction
El-Ma Ørsted V2 has been redesigned in a much more compact, elegant, and portable form while preserving exactly the same electronic architecture and sound character of the previous version.
Instead of the wooden enclosure used in the V1 model, V2 is housed in a specially designed plastic enclosure that is durable, lightweight, and small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. This significantly improves portability and makes daily use much more practical.
In the new model, a convenient battery cover located on the back allows the 9V battery to be easily removed and replaced. The threaded mechanism of the cover enables quick and secure battery changes.
From an electronic standpoint, El-Ma Ørsted V2 offers the same sound sensitivity and detection capability as the previous version, using the same high-quality components and coils. The new version adopts a more compact and modern production approach.
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.
Hello MG-Board,
Is it possible to create a 196 TE Rack? Is there perhaps a premium feature or something similar available? I wanted to create my new rack (12U, 196TE), but there seems to be a restriction on the width of the rack. :(
I am putting this one together at the moment. A few modules are back ordered but will be here in a month or so. I have a bit of space left either for a new module or I can put in some from my other 2 layer case. Anyway, curious what one might add to this if it was your rack. Thanks for the comments.. I am also looking for modular folks in Central Portugal.
peace
scott aka Dr Space
I'm interested in adding a live generative music element to a rock opera I'm working on. I'm having trouble understanding what sequencer and/or quantizer would be best for this.
This is all very theoretical right now, I am just starting to write this thing. But for my ideal wants, the system would be able to:
Generatively select pitches from a scale or key
Change which scale/chord it's selecting notes from on a fairly arbitrary rhythm (odd time signatures)
Edit the pattern of chords and rhythms in real time, without distracting the player from their main expression of creativity, which is through changing the sound of the instrument
And it would be kind of nice if I could speed up or slow down to match the speed of live musicians.
Anything come to mind? I looked at a few sequencers but I'm kind of drawing a blank. I don't think I'm experienced enough with sequencers to tell if they're able to change stuff around in real time or not.
i have one. i like it. its useful because i dont have all the money in the world. intellijel have no right to be selling at the prices they are. sue me.
I would rather have a 18 years old that can afford a Behringer modular set up than a 18 years old that is looking at youtube videos about Makenoise modules.
Does anyone sell a Malekko Voltage Block?
- or any idea for a good alternative?
Purpose: Sequencing and modulating drum voices, like BIA and similar.
I use Pams and mimetic digitalis + lapsus Os at the moment,.
but I need pams for other stuff and I dont like the mimetic digitalis so much.
I need more channels, so I guess I would need like 2-3 Mimetic digitalis + attenuation etc
Voltage Block seems to be a good idea to me, but I see no one around.
You just want to send the output of voice1 or voice2 to the looper, yes?
Is it ok if they're both 'active'? Is just routing the audio ok?
Routing cv and gate is harder.
With two Doepfer 182-2's, you need two cv/gate pairs, the trigger for each, and reset for each to sync them.
At least 8 wires vs. 2 wires if it's just audio. Plus 2x 4hp in the rack.
There are advantages though to routing cv/gate. Both voices can interplay,
and you can have long sustains without cutoffs or clicks when you switch, but it gets complicated quickly.
Look at the Doepfer A-133-2 Dual Voltage Controlled VCA/Polarizer/Inverter or the cheaper A-130-2 dual VCA.
It'll sound better.
There's also the Doepfer 182-2, a quad passive manual switch. I'm imagining some fun uses to put two different cv/gate signals into two of the switches, route those to the inputs of the other two switches to send to your two synth voices, and you've got a lot of variety without needing to repatch! No voltage control over switching though, but if you don't care about that it could work for you. Pretty cheap too!
it really depends on what you want to achieve.
for simple switch duties the simple doepfer dual vc switch is just good.
for more complex ideas, the WMD SSM is ace. Fun and immediate.
I also have a Qu-Bit Synapse, and I really use it for many things. This is a very powerful module. The LED are very nicely displaying the module behavior. This has been my favorite switch.
A common technique for making a kick is to take a low-frequency sine wave and apply a short envelope (with zero or near-zero attack) to both frequency and volume. So you start out with a high pitch that rapidly goes back down again. Most envelope generators have an exponential decay shape rather than a 1/x shape, but they're pretty similar (1/x in red, exp decay in blue):
Setting the topologist's sin curve to have a fixed frequency doesn't look like it works, since the curve is a sin with a constantly decreasing frequency. Also, its frequency at the origin approaches infinity, so you might have to find some workaround for that.
I don't really understand the topology aspect of it but I bet you could get a decent audio version out of Desmos.
New module yay! Been working on this in the past 5 years. Made of ~900 components, including 44 VCA, 146 opamp & 36 switch channels spread on two 6 layer PCBs, this is going to be one of the most complex eurorack modules...
It is a fully analogue modular compressor built to go far beyond traditional dynamics control. Complexor combines low-noise, high-quality compression with advanced sidechain processing, multiple topologies, and dual-band / dynamic EQ modes with audio feedback and 1V/O CV inputs that invite experimentation.
It can be clean and polite.
It can be aggressive and unstable.
It can be played and modulated.
With feedback-capable routing and frequency-dependent dynamics, complexor behaves less like a utility and more like an instrument inside your system. It delivers the depth and flexibility often associated with digital compressors, but without aliasing or digital artifacts, thanks to its entirely analogue signal path.
Why did I make it in the first place? I started working on complexor because I kept running into the same wall.
Digital compressors had the flexibility I wanted.
Analogue compressors had the sound I liked.
None of them really let me play the dynamics.
So I started sketching a compressor where the sidechain wasn’t just a detector, but a place you could patch, filter, split, recombine, and even feed back into itself. Somewhere along the way it stopped being “a compressor design” and started behaving like a small system of its own.
Complexor is the result of that process. It’s fully analogue, not because of nostalgia, but because nonlinear analogue behaviour still does things I don’t hear in digital. Especially when pushed into feedback, saturation, and time-varying control.
I’m building this as a single-person operation under modmonk dot eu
If you’re looking for a clean utility compressor, this might be excessive. But it covers that too.
If you’re looking for a dynamics processor that can be gentle, violent, unstable, and musical, often in the same patch, then this is probably for you...
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