So, I'm gradually assembling something along these lines. I've done a load of research and think I'm fairly settled on the 'voice' modules, though I'm open to suggestions on the Erica Hats, the knit (plaits) and the Sample Drum in particular.

My main question though, is what utility type modules have I missed? 'VCAs' is the obvious answer, but I'm not sure where they'd be of particular value here - am I wrong? And what else do I need that I haven't thought of?

Also, I'm by no means sure about the Steppy. I've been impressed by what Ricky Tinez has got out of it and reckon it could be useful clocked to 1/4 speed (or something) and used to sequence the Ensemble Oscillator, for example. But with the Eloquencer already in place (that's fixed, for now), is the Steppy surplus to requirements?

Oh, and is there a more elegant mixing solution which retains the aux possibility and the flexibility of the sources (the drive is a bonus but not a deal-breaker)?

ModularGrid Rack


"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


Well, let's see...I'm presuming this is based on a pair of Intellijel 7U cases joined by the Joiners.

First up, there were a number of modules in this that just didn't fit or make a lot of sense. For example, using the AJH Mini Mod when, fact is, you can get the same general functionality out of adding Intellijel's Noise Tools tile + the Quantum Rainbow that was already in there, and save money in the process. I also chucked out the extra buffered mults (not necessary...you really only need the one, up by the VCOs; the rest can be UNbuffered inlines), the force sensor and the tandem I/O tile.

Also, Maths stayed as well as the PanMix...I'll explain why when I get to those...
ModularGrid Rack
Top tile row: MIDI interface added here, using the cab's USB port for the DAW connection. Then the buffered mult and Zeroscope, followed by the QuadrATT. After that, there's one of the two Dual VCAs, primarily for controlling output levels to or from the Panharmonium, then I also put in an FX send/return with an extra pair of jacks.

Top 3U row: The little white sliver is a Konstant Labs PWRcheckr, which gives you some visual indications of your DC rails' health while operating. Then the next thing is Shakmat's SumDif CV adder/subtractor for tinkering with CVs directed toward the oscillators. Then your Cs-L and Odessa, followed by the Quad VCA...and then, the XPan. What this pair does NOW is that it provides a number of CV-controlled stereo ins and outs that feed the stereo input of the Panharmonium, allowing you to generate a stereo mix to that module's stereo input. The XPan also has sufficient inputs to allow a "backflow path" from your mixing section below BACK to the oscillator row.

Second 3U row: A Plankton ENVF got added to provide an envelope follower for one channel of the Stereo In below. After that is the Quantum Rainbow 2, which can feed all sorts of noise signals to various points, but which is mainly for providing a more complex noise source for the Intellijel Noise Tools if needed. Poti/Batumi, Contour1, Qx/Quadrax...and then I took care of the ADSR needs with a Xaoc Zadar + its expander; this is, in fact, what happened to the Instruo ADSR gen, as it made very little sense to have only ONE EG in the same space that could be occupied by a far more capable QUAD EG instead. Following this are your main timbral modifiers: Evolution, Blades, and the dual LPG.

Lower tile row: The Input module is here, then Noise Tools to provide S&H, slew, clocking, etc. After that is Ritual's Pointeuse, which is a bidirectional CVable switch. Next is the other QuadrATT, then an Intellijel Stereo Mix...added to allow you to manually sum the Arbhar, Magneto, as well as other stereo signals back into your main mix, as if you had a stereo return on the PanMix (which it doesn't have, but which this tile DOES take care of). Another Dual VCA then provides either levels for this, or for other modules inputting into the mixing chain. And the Output is last here.

Third 3U row: Modulation fun...Sloths first, then the Morph4 for global-ish modulation processing. But I also put in a Frap 321 for this, which can make for a useful "internal" modulation modifier/mixer for just the Maths, or for anything mod-wise. Right after this is a dual VCA from After Later, based on the Veils VCA design, which again provides CVable level control and/or mixing for your modulation signals. Then Maths...and all of the stuff before, I should note, are there to REALLY complicate what Maths is capable of. That's one thing people overlook about Maths; since it's billed as a "be-all, do-all", most people don't always consider modifiers for it...but when you DO, and when you set things up right, Maths can REALLY shine. So, between the left side of Row 2 and this end of Row 3, plus the extra widgets, NOW this has a serious modulation section, VERY capable of outputting some very complex voltage curves! After this, your Arbhar and Magneto are located above the PanMix and below the output stereo submixer.

Bottom 3U row: There's the second cab's PWRchekr, then Pam's. But after Pam's, there's several modules that optimize what your Plog is capable of turning out. The 2 hp thing is a clock counter which ticks off 1-8 (actually, 1-7, as your thruputted pulse is always the "0"). After this, you've got a 1-in 4-out clock delay, then a probabilistic clock skip for adding semi-randomized clock "dropouts". And all of that provides more complex signals for the Plog to chew on, so that IT can output lots of potential rearrangements of your clocking. I also put the dual comparator and that Ladik Derivator next to the Plog so that they can input their gates to the Plog as well. Both sequencers are next, and they're followed by the Harmonaig and Shifty for quantization and arabesque processing. Then the PanMix returns...and here's why: First of all, this NEEDS a proper stereo mixer with panning and with VCAs at the output stage. Secondly, the XPan just doesn't do this in the "right" way, as it's mainly designed for stereo input/output situations, and some of what you'll be mixing is mono...ergo, panning (with CV control) is pretty useful. And having your final VCAs in the final mixer is a great way to combine functionalities to save space AND up the build's potential.

This isn't TOO much more complex than your initial design...but I put in quite a bit of "sneaky" functionality that, if and when it's needed, can take this to another level altogether. Much of this is going on in the modulation sections in rows 2 and 3; adding the 321 as a "pre-processor" to feed a composite modulation signal in with the Morph 4's processing of other signals just adds mod signal complexity...plus you also have that dual VCA/mixer in that slot. By adding these, the modulation really gets kicked up to another level by just 12 hp of panel space. And there's several points in the build where that sort of sneak happens...so even though this primarily uses most of your present modules as well as the ones indicated in the second speculative build, there's little bits here and there that synergize in that sort of manner. In the end, there's not all that much ADDED...but what was added really stitches the whole build together.


Yeah I think a lot of categories are missing and should be added. I'd love to see a Feedback category


Wow! @JimHowell1970 - thats amazing.

JB


I have different presets saved to different tracks/gates on the Varigate. Recalling gate 1, 2, 3 etc. works perfectly. However, when I try to use song mode, nothing happens. The Varigate simply plays the first track button I press while in song mode on repeat.

I tried updating the firmware -- this solved a different issue I was having with the clock, but no luck with song mode. Here's an example of what I'm doing:

  • Press and hold song mode button

  • Press gate one, then gate two, while holding song mode

  • Release song mode

  • Press and release song mode so that it lights up

  • Run sequencer

It just plays the first track that I selected. I'm having the exact same problem when I try this while the sequencer is running, and it doesn't make a difference if I try to reprogram the saved song while the light is already on or not.

I'm at a loss here. Is the module broken?


this is one of the better outcomes of Waver that i have heard. i picked one up myself feeling really excited over the idea of it, but i’ll admit to not really gelling with it yet. haven’t given up on it, but i don’t feel that i ever really love what i am able to get out of it so far.

any advice? tips?


Hi,
I am a eurorack user for more than a year now and I am planning now to fill my second case.
This my current rack :
ModularGrid Rack

I also own a Waldorf Iridium and a Korg Minilogue xd for some poly, digital and fm stuff.
My music style is lush, athmospheric, relaxing, beautiful ambient/new age. Normally I only record one sound at the time, layer the recordings and do some eq and some mixing in my daw. But i also like to just jam arround and explore my setup ( 90% of the time). My plan is to to multitrack record 4 channels (2* stereo) into my daw at the time.
My plan is to make my rack more generative and maybe expand my soundpalette, but I am open for any cool Ideas and modules which benefit from beeing eurorack.

This is my current future rack after planning it for a few months and reading a lot of threads.
ModularGrid Rack

I want to replace maths and expend my utillities with some AR/ADSR, tripple sloth for chaos, a shift register( S&H), a linear vca and a sequenzer ( 2 smaller ones to influence each other and a quantizer)
I also need another audio mixer, because Panmix is way to big for me, I want a smaller mixer with less channels, but i need panning and a stereo in for some live jamming. Maybe something like the MN Xpan
I also need a stereo filter after my effects/ granular and I am thinking of replacing my evo with something more special.

What module would you miss/replace in my rack?
I don’t need end of chain effects like fxaid or something, for this I have my daw, but I am looking for „special eurorack“ effects to feed it in into my granluar/panharmonium.
Thank you!
Flolu


sounds beautifull

https://www.facebook.com/BrokenFormAudio

Got a Mantis Case and a Grandterminal+expander for sale,PM Me


It would be great if the search field allowed for Boolean operators: AND, OR, NOT.

This way, I could do a search like "fm AND sine" to find modules that include both 'fm' and 'sine' anywhere in the description, rather than the literal string of "fm sine" with both words together.

I can use Google and enter something like:
"fm" "sine" site:modulargrid.net/e/

However, if I do the search through Google, then I don't get to additionally leverage the Function and Secondary Function dropdown fields. What I'd like to do is make selections in both Function and Secondary Function and also enter search terms with Boolean operators.


These are not feature requests, because the feature (Function and Secondary Function) exist. I only want to start a thread for requests to add more options to the master list.

I have several at this time to start the thread with:

'Triple' — There's already 'Dual/Stereo' and 'Quad' but no option for three or a trio or triple or trinary in Function/Secondary Function, and yet several modules exist based around three channels or functions. The need is not so strong with above four, so by adding 'Triple' we'd have the ability to search for 2, 3 and 4, and that would do it.

'Analog' — There's already 'Digital' but no option to narrow Function/Secondary Function to analog-only circuitry, and yet it matters to some users (such as myself, in certain searches).

'FM' — for modules that have an input for FM, or modules that feature internal frequency cross-modulation.

'AM' — for modules that have an input for AM, or modules that feature internal amplitude cross-modulation.

The following two additional ones are more specific to oscillators and LFOs and as such may not have the same importance as the preceding four.

'triangle core' — for triangle core oscillators and LFOs

'saw core' — for saw core oscillators and LFOs


I am spending the late hours with a sleepy cat, sparkling wine and my Five12 Vector Sequencer manual. Who said the pandemic can’t be exciting!

FYI p.6 says Vector supports any custom tuning in the MTS (midi tuning specification) format. So Vector would offer you a very powerful sequencer that supports custom tunings. Not only could this give you your fundamental pitch values but because Vector supports multiple independent parts, you could use the additional part pitch information to drive settings for your upper timbral partials. So maybe all you need is a great sequencer that supports multiple parts in nonstandard tunings, some OSCS with great pitch tracking, a tuner to help you tune OSCS to get your initial timbre, and a MST tuning file that supports your desired timbre and complementary scale. This might save you the need of finding very specialized oscillators. An option worth thinking about anyway.

Cheers!


Howdy,

I have a Turing Machine with the extra modules. Would having a Rotating Divider add anything? Should mention I have a Hermod for clock source. Thx from a newb.

GD


I don’t know of options in the modular domain, but an interesting VST option is Infinite Pro http://wolfgangpalm.com/infinitepro.html
I believe all the Palm VSTs are being transitioned over to Plugin Alliance / Brainworx

(Later) ... so I went back and watched that video. Very interesting and also well done. Personally if I was to work musically in the directions implied by the video I would do that in software with supporting Excel calculations (like the video author) for precision and confidence in nonstandard tunings that complement a given timbre. I finding getting tuning and timbre stability in modular hard enough with conventional tunings; I can’t imagine trying to pull off what’s done in the video in modular. But of course that’s my view only.

Interesting stuff. Thanks for sharing! Good luck.
-- nickgreenberg

Well In some ways, I'd like to try for the rougher approximations that go on in Javansese Gamelan, but with different tuning systems. If that happens with modular, I see it as a feature not a bug. I'll look into all these software solutions too, and perhaps even try my hand at developing a software solution.

Hi, I also dabble in inharmonic sounds and got two modules for it:
2) Dreadbox Antiphon
This comes with 8 sinus oscillators which you can use to build up complex sounds by mixing them together and adjusting the frequency of each harmonic to your liking. However, you need to tune the range and offset for all 8 oscillators which is really difficult and time consuming and you need some external tuner or spectrum viewer to do that properly.
-- oOCc

I can't seem to find the antiphon for sale anywhere atm, I am a bit confused at how dreadbox is marketing it. Not it's functions, but like whether it's a long term product, or a kit etc.


ModularGrid Rack

anything that's upside down is either in the DIY backlog, on order or pre-order (chromagnon), out for repair or 'wish list'

it's currently 6 cases 29u/104hp, 29u/84hp, a mantis (6u/104hp) and a 6u/72hp - those are the top 6 rows and the bottom 2 rows and I've just got the rails and brackets for a couple of 6u 19" cabs I'm getting out of storage soon - which make up the 7th and 8th rows and the last row is just 'blind panel storage'

the arrangement of modules is for the future (I'm moving) - not on how they actually are at the moment - which is a bit less structured and a lot more spread out - the top 3 rows will be mounted on the wall with the next 3 rows at a slight angle on top of the 19" rack cases - and the last 2 cases will probably live on a desk to the side , whereas at the moment the 2 of the cases area on guitar stands and the other 4 are on the floor in front of the TV (which will also be wall mounted in the new house)

"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


the reason I would buy an effect over quadrax is that you will then have 2 modulation sources (Maths and Quadrax) - whereas I would suggest reasonably early on adding something that is modulatable and will process the audio from your other synths - you may find you want something like quadrax next!

Awesome, thanks for the explanation and the recommendation based on my goal of using this with my Hydra and Minibrute 2

whilst I think Lugia's recommendations are always excellent, I would suggest taking them, and mine (and other people's, for that matter) with a little salt - they are much more about functionality, than specific modules, even when specific modules are suggested/recommended - except Maths and Veils!!! hahahaha

I get and appreciate that...honestly tho, taking module recommedations is probably my best option since I don't have a lot of experience with anything yet.

Part of modular is about having your own custom synthesizer - mine for example has 11 sound sources, one of which is polyphonic, and synthesizes both audio and video - it is quite large, I suppose, @ nearly 1500hp - NB the most common manufacturers in my modular are Doepfer, LZX (video) and Mutable Instruments (although some of both the LZX and mutable are DIY)

Do you have your system posted in the racks section of Modular Grid?

JB


yeah :) I love me some bargains, I got the Korgasmatron, Braids and Jupiter Filter super cheap too in Eurorack price terms. I picked these up along with the weedyWhizz case for about £600 along with 3 or 4 other Doepfer modules.

That Jupiter 8 filter is beautiful and I don't think I'd ever remove it from the case. I pretty much always pair it with my plaits

Thanks
Greenfly


definitely can't complain about £35 for a dual vca
I rarely buy anything other than DIY or Doepfer these days! At least in terms off audio modules -

"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


the reason I would buy an effect over quadrax is that you will then have 2 modulation sources (Maths and Quadrax) - whereas I would suggest reasonably early on adding something that is modulatable and will process the audio from your other synths - you may find you want something like quadrax next!

whilst I think Lugia's recommendations are always excellent, I would suggest taking them, and mine (and other people's, for that matter) with a little salt - they are much more about functionality, than specific modules, even when specific modules are suggested/recommended - except Maths and Veils!!! hahahaha

Part of modular is about having your own custom synthesizer - mine for example has 11 sound sources, one of which is polyphonic, and synthesizes both audio and video - it is quite large, I suppose, @ nearly 1500hp - NB the most common manufacturers in my modular are Doepfer, LZX (video) and Mutable Instruments (although some of both the LZX and mutable are DIY)

Even if you do buy all of Lugia's suggested modules, there's nothing wrong with swapping something out for something else, either if you don't get along with the specific module or can't find it due to availability issues and desperately need a XYZ module immediately

"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


Maths is a brilliant starter module - google the "Maths illlustrated manual" - which has illustrations of 32 self patching programs for maths - which is a great primer not only for Maths, but also for patching modular synths in general - it would be top of my list for adding more functionality to semi-modular synths
A quad cascading vca, such as Veils, would be second on that list
I'd probably replace quadrax with one of the effects though - either fx aid xl or warps
I'd also recommend grabbing a few stackcables - being able to use the same signal a couple of times is really handy especially in a small system - and they don't take up rack space
the next modules on my list would be Kinks and Shades or similar - they both add extremely useful functionality

Thanks for the feedback @JimHowell1970 - I just placed my order for the Maths last night and will be ordering again the first weekend in June to get the Veils...sounds like you're recommending to get either fx aid xl or warps instead of the Quadrax, not sure I understand completely what the Quadrax brings to the table, but I'll read up some more on it...again, my idea is to build what Lugia has recommended but do so gradually with what makes sense to start with...thanks for your recommendation!

JB


this user has left ModularGrid

As usual, smart communication and nice transaction with @RTFM.
Grazie Pierpaolo !


I'd probably think about consolidating the vcas - veils replacing both would get you another 6hp in the larger case

Branches is perfect for hi-hats - I patch mine with one of the outs from the top section feeding the bottom section - that way you can add some skips - I often patch the other output from the top section to trigger something else too
-- JimHowell1970

HI Jim, thanks for this. yes I agree about consolidating the Doepfer vca's and I will get the veils later, perhaps when I get a bigger case. It was too good of an opportunity to pass up on these modules as I got them for £35 each second hard.

I will definitely try the patchy recommended for the hi hats :)

Thanks
Greenfly


Hi LYFoulidis,

Glad I could help with that link :-)

I wasn't aware of the fact that as from July every EU country can do whatever they want (regarding this matter I mean), that's for most of the countries I am afraid bad news. Thank you for sharing this.

Kind regards, Garfield.

For review reports of Eurorack modules, please refer to https://garfieldmodular.net/ for PDF formatted downloads


I'd probably think about consolidating the vcas - veils replacing both would get you another 6hp in the larger case

Branches is perfect for hi-hats - I patch mine with one of the outs from the top section feeding the bottom section - that way you can add some skips - I often patch the other output from the top section to trigger something else too

"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


Waver is a SUPER undervalued module.


@nickgreenberg

Which website would you recommend to get modules at a good price with some discount hopefully? Since I have a somewhat decent idea of what modules to get I might go ahead and get a few of them at once, including case and power so hoping here is some dealer who would provide some discount. And thanks for the heads-up, I have duplicated that rack!

-V


@JimHowell1970

mutant brain is a midi->cv converter - what you want is a cv->midi converter - there are not so many to choose from - befaco do a couple and addac - the doepfer one that I have has been discontinued and the current one is a single note and gate iirc

max/msp - are you using ableton? if so use I would have thought that using the cv tools in that and output to the es3 would be the simplest solution>

-- JimHowell1970

Right, I will look more into CV/Trig/Gate to Midi convertors.
And yes I am using Ableton. I will look into the ES3 as well, thanks for your suggestions!


Expensive indeed, and I feel the financial strain is not the only one, Eurorack is demanding in terms of time and discipline as well, there is less hand-holding and easy roads than with other synths so it takes way more time to master one's instrument, especially since it may be evolving as we swap out modules.
But the payback is superb: near infinite possibilities if you build your rack right, and continuous gratification from every point of view - sound, user interface, community surrounding it, modular is a gift that keeps on giving.
Glad we get to enjoy it together ;-)

How do you like the Maestro ? I had assumed that's a module one would almost always rack in the lowest row to play the buttons, but I see you haven't, no problem dialing in LFO's on the fly, or are you only using it for random voltages ? Being able to "design" synchronized LFO on the fly is something I think I could really use, but my lowest row I use for 'control' modules is sorta full, I'd have to shuffle things around a bit to include it, looks dope though, especially since now they finally included that internal attenuation that was preventing me from jumping on it... Looking forward to your (and anyone else's) perspective on this :)

--- Voltage control all the things ---


this user has left ModularGrid

Awesome thanks @toodee! Will look at the O&C for 1u as that would really fill in the gaps and 1u is superb. I like distortion as well and will check those modules out as well. I have a 1u Quadratt and it is super useful. Yeah my 14u MLDR case has good sequencers with Metron and Stillson Hammer and I can use the Maestro for random modulation type stuff. Mosaic looks interesting will keep eye on it.

Modular/eurorack ticks my boxes for the most fun in dance and experimental music creation albeit very expensive.


I second that request. That would make an awesome poster! If this rack is real it's got to be the best looking I've ever seen. So much eye candy. You'd hope the ear-candy factor would be just as high.


Hey all

I have about 19 hp left in my main case and about 3 hp left in my nifty case which I am trying to focus on drum duties. I have moved some of the modules out of my main case into the nifty case because every time I come on this site I start thinking about how I could use my modules better so this is my latest mindset. I am thinking the Bernoulli gate would be good for open and closed hi hats and hence why I moved it.

I would be interesting in seeing some different configs and what you would add in the missing space and why please?

Its my birthday next month so may treat myself :)

ModularGrid Rack

ModularGrid Rack

Thanks
Greenfly


Do you have any videos of this? Super curious to hear some stuff.


Thanks, another shop with some good options :)

The €20 rule does apply (isn’t it €22?) across the until July. From that point on each country will have its own rules..


Thanks Garfield,

Yes that is my MDLR 14u case. I am trying to figure out what 1u modules would be worth getting- any recommendations?
Rossum modules are fun and very powerful yet steep learning curve.
-- sacguy71

I have the same case, Arjan really is a great case maker! And I'm in the same boat, sort of, I still have a lot of 1U space to fill :-)

I think the most used 1U module in my case is the 1U Ornaments&Crime by Plum Audio (https://www.modulargrid.net/e/plum-audio-1uo-c-4robots), it's awesome they managed to find a way to fit O&C into that format, it's pretty large (30H) but definitely worth the space in a 14U in my opinion. If you don't have an O&C in your rack yet, you may want to get into that, I'm sure you would love it. If I remember well, you don't exactly need more clocking but for others, Plum Audio also makes a 1U version of Temps Utile, pretty cool. And if you want MI Peaks, they also make a module based on that in 1U called Apex. Highly recommend manufacturer, Shay is a super nice person on top of being a good engineer...

I'm really into distortion so I'm a big fan of Ritual Electronics's Guillotine (https://www.modulargrid.net/e/ritual-electronics-guillotine), 2 channels of powerful and tasty distortion with a character switch, I love it. They also make a few other modules in 1U I haven't tried, like some noise, comparator, analog switch, etc.

There is of course the obvious ones from Intellijel, I don't think I could operate my rack without at least one Quadratt and I'll add a Noise Tools as soon as I can, just too useful. If you didn't have a Metron, I'd recommend the Steppy, it's dangerously fun, but you probably don't need yet another gate sequencer...

Finally, you may want to wait for reports on Mosaic modules (https://www.modulargrid.net/e/modules/browser?SearchName=&SearchVendor=933&SearchFunction=&SearchSecondaryfunction=&SearchHeight=&SearchTe=&SearchTemethod=max&SearchBuildtype=&SearchLifecycle=&SearchSet=all&SearchMarketplace=&SearchIsmodeled=0&SearchShowothers=0&order=newest&direction=asc). I just saw those appear and the line up looks interesting, I could use a playable ADSR in 1U for example, I'll definitely keep an eye on that myself.

Hopefully that will be of some help, take care !
D.

--- Voltage control all the things ---


I don’t know of options in the modular domain, but an interesting VST option is Infinite Pro http://wolfgangpalm.com/infinitepro.html
I believe all the Palm VSTs are being transitioned over to Plugin Alliance / Brainworx

(Later) ... so I went back and watched that video. Very interesting and also well done. Personally if I was to work musically in the directions implied by the video I would do that in software with supporting Excel calculations (like the video author) for precision and confidence in nonstandard tunings that complement a given timbre. I finding getting tuning and timbre stability in modular hard enough with conventional tunings; I can’t imagine trying to pull off what’s done in the video in modular. But of course that’s my view only.

Interesting stuff. Thanks for sharing! Good luck.


It's definitely NOT modular...but from my experiences in both hardware and the present-day software versions, the Synclavier is the sine qua non for this sort of harmonic series tinkerage. And nowadays, it's no more expensive than a typical multi-VCO module: https://www.arturia.com/synclavier-v/overview

And if you MUST make it part of a modular setup, then you can either cobble up a way for Silent Way/Volta or Ableton CV Tools to talk to it...or you can use VCV Rack and the included Host modules. Definitely loads easier to integrate as software than it EVER was in hardware, from my experiences.


Hi Sacguy71,

I used to have a list of 1 U modules I was interested in and I wanted to have a look at that to see if I can advice any to you however I lost that list :-( The only module left I see is the one from Intelllijel - 1U Digiverb if you don't have enough reverb modules yet.

Generally 1 U can be used nicely for some (rather simple) utility modules that saves you some space in the 3U part of your rack.

Have fun with your sequencers and kind regards, Garfield.

For review reports of Eurorack modules, please refer to https://garfieldmodular.net/ for PDF formatted downloads


Hi LYFoulidis,

Or have a look at www.3u-shop.de they might perhaps have a few things that might interest you? Look at "parts" menu and then "Knöpfe" (which is German for knobs).

I am facing the same issues as you do regarding buying stuff from the UK :-( Weird that in Belgium that below Euro 20 rule doesn't apply, since I thought this would be valid for the entire EU. Anyway, any item+mail over twenty Euro causes already costums duty :-(

Good luck with the search and kind regards, Garfield.

For review reports of Eurorack modules, please refer to https://garfieldmodular.net/ for PDF formatted downloads


this user has left ModularGrid

Thanks Garfield,

Yes that is my MDLR 14u case. I am trying to figure out what 1u modules would be worth getting- any recommendations?
Rossum modules are fun and very powerful yet steep learning curve.


Hi Toodee and Funbun,

Yes I fully agree here with Toodee, really nice films and I am so jealous about the sceneries :-)

Ha, ha, looks like that B&B idea might be something worth chasing for? ;-)

Cheers, Garfield.

For review reports of Eurorack modules, please refer to https://garfieldmodular.net/ for PDF formatted downloads


Hi Funbun,

Oh wow! That sounds quite ambitious your plans regarding building your own Komso/5 U synth. Very interesting too, please keep us updated on those great plans, I am really curious about it :-)

Good luck with that project, meanwhile I hope you will be able to catch enough fish to keep you going and kind regards, Garfield.

For review reports of Eurorack modules, please refer to https://garfieldmodular.net/ for PDF formatted downloads


Hi Sacguy71,

That's a nice video, that's your MDLR case, right? Looks like you still have plenty of 1 U space left ;-)

Nice to watch many of your modules in this overview video. I definitely need to start to save some money for one or two Rossum modules!

Thanks a lot for sharing this and kind regards, Garfield.

For review reports of Eurorack modules, please refer to https://garfieldmodular.net/ for PDF formatted downloads


*** Current Build 2021 ***
Case: AMALGAMOD Light Weight Foldable 2020 + 4ms Powered Pod 48 HP
Peripherals: Hydra synth Desktop


@timmy373, glad my comments are helping.

In response to your latest post:

-- if you stick the modules above in a case with considerable extra room for a few more adds (like you mentioned) then I think the modules you've picked so far are reasonable. That said, I have the same reservations about QPAS as mentioned previously, I'm not sure it's the strongest choice for a primary filter.

-- regarding utilities, I learned a lot about these by scanning the full module lists for Doepfer, Ladik, Intellijel, Joranalogue and ADDAC. I looked for anything that wasn't a sound source, sound shaper (filter, waveshaper) or CV source, figuring those "other" modules would be mostly utilities. That gave me a good idea of other module types, and helped me think concretely about what utilities might play well in my setup.

-- when you're ready, why don't you update your draft rack IN the intended (larger) case size, make any module adds / deletes you're considering, and ask the forum for feedback what might be beneficially added / changed? Trying to leave ~25% or more empty space in your next draft rack would be advisable, if possible.

Cheers,

NG


Hello Nick,
Thanks a lot for a very detailed reply. Im actually already eyeing up another case. To be honest i think i wanna get something like a 9u 208hp (which will be HUGE in comparison to what i have now). I have decides to post the first rig as a 2nd review to see if I have made any progress. I agree that it is still very light on utilities, i wanna get a slew limiter, lpg, a ladder filter, more vcas (obv) and more attenuating/verting options even though triplatt being really good is an extremely tiny module that can only do so much.

I picked the addac mixer because it fit my rig hp wise so im not fixed on it. I do have a massive issue with using my vca/attenuverter in a way thats auxillary to its main purpose which just handicaps me atm. Since also having a few stereo modules/outs I have been eyeing up a138s as well.

Sequencer wise I played around with black seq and I liked it. It felt like an elektron style seq that was more intuitive with a very simple layout. Anyways its much better than what i have now which is bloom (a nightmare to tune)

And regarding the layout.. whilst i was putting it together i pressed maximise hp button (or smth among those lines) and all my module just swapped around non sensically. I do generally follow the signal flow of ready/packaged synths.


I received today knobs from Thonk (via Postmail).
If your order is ≤20€, no tax from UK. But (not sure) the limit will be ≤50€ in July.

In Belgium the threshold for customs charges will be €0 unfortunately. But I can also ship to friends in the Netherlands, thanks for the inspiration!

Banzai looks cool. Not so many options for different shafts, but there might be something useful in there!


this user has left ModularGrid

I received today knobs from Thonk (via Postmail).
If your order is ≤20€, no tax from UK. But (not sure) the limit will be ≤50€ in July.

In Germany, Banzai Music (http://www.banzaimusic.com/Knobs/), but their Davis clones are without brass inserts.

@ Banzai, I order Turnado knobs (http://www.banzaimusic.com/Tournado/) and Synthie 2 knobs (http://www.banzaimusic.com/Synthie-2/).
@ Thonk, I order Davis clones and trimmers toppers (https://www.thonk.co.uk/shop/tall-trimmer-toppers/).


good you went with the 6u! personally I don't like the rackbrute cases - rackwart, why?

but they do make sense with the minibrute 2

I'm not madly keen on the angle of the connection, but get the bag and you can cart the whole thing round as one thing

Thanks @toodee, I have been reviewing Lugia's reply and opened up browser tabs to each module to dig deeper into what each does...at least as much as you can by just reading about it :) and looking closer now at the "Quadrax + Maths + Veils" that you recommended as starting points in my build. One question on your starting recommendations...beings that one of the goals of my build is to extend the capabilities of my Hydrasynth and MiniBrute 2, would you still recommend those three as the starting point knowing i want to be able to patch into/integrate/etc with those two synths?

-- jb61264

Yes

Quadrax - quad modulation source - good - you have voices - with limited modulation sources... - but there's also Maths... which I would pick over Quadrax as starter moodule

Maths is a brilliant starter module - google the "Maths illlustrated manual" - which has illustrations of 32 self patching programs for maths - which is a great primer not only for Maths, but also for patching modular synths in general - it would be top of my list for adding more functionality to semi-modular synths

A quad cascading vca, such as Veils, would be second on that list

I'd probably replace quadrax with one of the effects though - either fx aid xl or warps

I'd also recommend grabbing a few stackcables - being able to use the same signal a couple of times is really handy especially in a small system - and they don't take up rack space

the next modules on my list would be Kinks and Shades or similar - they both add extremely useful functionality

"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


small orders from Tayda usually get through ok - always take the low shipping - they do pots and knobs - some of them are cheap looking/feel compared to the Thonk ones though - the Davies clones don't have brass inserts - but everything works ok so far

there are a few stores in Germany - Banzai for example - that stock some things - Banzai at least do some pots and knobs

"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


Totally makes sense, in fact that is what I would recommend you do, no need to rush into spending cash, you already have fun machines so adding to it little by little should be enough and allow for proper learning. Try and pick modules that will immediately bring something to the table, you'd have to seriously look at the patchbay on your existing synths but I'd probably go for Quadrax + Maths + Veils, those 3 alone have the power to rock !
Take your time to study Lugia's answer as well, not only here but other builds he did if you have time, loads of learning to do there as well. Ah, and don't forget to copy the proposed build, Lugia did comment some time ago that he won't be able to keep everyone's builds on his account forever so if you want to keep the work done for you, do copy the rack into your racks ;-)

-- toodee

Thanks @toodee, I have been reviewing Lugia's reply and opened up browser tabs to each module to dig deeper into what each does...at least as much as you can by just reading about it :) and looking closer now at the "Quadrax + Maths + Veils" that you recommended as starting points in my build. One question on your starting recommendations...beings that one of the goals of my build is to extend the capabilities of my Hydrasynth and MiniBrute 2, would you still recommend those three as the starting point knowing i want to be able to patch into/integrate/etc with those two synths?

JB