A suggestion: check out Temple Audio's line of modular pedalboards, which allow for some extra user-definable submodules in spaces along the sides. One of these is a 1-3 mult, which would easily allow you to parallel some of this instead of straight-lining the entire rig. They also have an active buffer submodule that would make for an excellent buffering option for that.
Maybe a Tiptop Mantis, then? Pretty cost-effective for a powered 2 x 104 cab. Also, check Erica's stuff; they make some great cabs that're more studio-oriented that have serious PSes and even some major depth (like 90mm in their deep 126 hp stuff).
I have been using multi-effects for about a year now, but I wanted something more. I just assembled my first pedalboard. What do you guys think?
|Polytune Mini
Signal Path: Guitar--->Dyna Comp--->Timmy--->Palisades--->VPJR---<
|Memory Lane Jr---> DD-5 w/Tap Tempo switch--->RV-5
Funny enough I almost considered one of those PM desktop cases for a while, but just couldn't justify it with the transporting I will most likely be doing. That whole line is really nice looking though. I would probably go with the Intellijel 7U hands down if it wasn't for the significant price difference from the RackBrute. It's the only reason why I'm still undecided.
I started with a Minibrute 2s, so this made the Rackbrute more appealing to me, and bought a 3U to link to the Minibrute. When I out grew the 83HP in the 3U, I seriously considered the Intellijel 7U 104HP, but went with a Rackbrute 6U (the link feature is nice, particularly linking 2x6U). With the Rackbrute 6U, power distribution can become a balancing issue across both power buses (not an issue with the 3U). Also, the Rackbrute was 24 months no interest at Sweetwater, so that allowed me to buy a couple of them ;-) You can't go wrong with the Intellijel as a first case, and that would probably be my recommendation. If you're not concerned about portability, look at the Pittsburgh Modular 420 (great power, great price per hp ratio, and sliding nuts aren't that bad, just use a toothpick to position the nuts). A 2x6U Rackbrute is fairly portable (would take it on a car vacation, would not send it via air transport), and so is the Intellijel (I like to doodle on the porch). The PM 420 wants to sit in one place and be worshipped ;-)
Thanks @Anrilov for the CYMBL909! All perfect, whit original box and mint condition. Reliable seller!
That's not a bad idea, either...you could make use of those new 4ms powered Pods that came out recently. Very cost-effective...the only drawback being module depths, as they only have a 34 mm depth, meaning that anything above 30 mm is going to start getting really tight when you add the ribbons and so on into the mix.
-- Lugia
how about to change tempi anda rene for other modules and use an octatrack ( i have) for sequencer¿ I have too an analog 4
in that case ,what other module do you add with erbverb?
That's great info, Ed. Thanks! I'm still been waving a little between the RackBrute and spending the extra money upfront and getting an Intellijel 7U. In the long run the portability, expansion possibility and extra 1U rack for those Intellijel utilities looks tempting. At the same time you can expand on the RackBrute too. Decisions, decisions.
Rackbrute is 89 hp. A rackbrute 6U has (2x89)-5 (for power) = 173 useable hp. I own several. Keep in mind that the power on the Rackbrute 3U is the same as the power on the Rackbrute 6U. Arturia recommends no more than 640 mAmps on each bus of the Rackbrute 6U (and 1280mAmps on the single rail of the 3U). I've stuck to that 640mAmps recommendation and so far haven't had any power glitches.
Thanks for the catch, Lugia. I had it at 88 per row but had extended it at some point just to fit a few modules so I wouldn't forget about them. Looks like I forgot to change it back after I posted. It should be updated in the link now.
Well, first up, if this is supposed to be in a Rackbrute 6U, isn't it a good bit too wide? That's an 88 hp x 2 cab. You might want to try this again in the correct cab size.
Hi all,
I have been on verge of diving into eurorack for a while and have finally decided to jump in. After playing around in VCV Rack for a while, spending some time on YouTube and reading through the forums here, I feel like I'm finally becoming a little more comfortable actually making a few purchases. Before I do however, I was wondering if any of you fine people would be willing to take a look at the rack I put together and provide any suggestions as to where I should start with my first purchases. Because I'm new to the whole thing, I'm sure there are some obvious holes or redundancies in this build so any critique would be super helpful.
Ultimately, I have about $2k to spend so I'm looking for the best places to start and then build out from there later. A little bit of info into what I'm looking to do:
I already have an 0-Coast that I've been digging into and am looking to include it with my build. I will also probably be doing most of my clocking and sequencing in my DAW to start until my build is fleshed out a bit more so those are not urgent.
The only required purchases for me to start would be a rack (looking at the RackBrute 6u) and a Morphagene (I thought a long while about using just this as a standalone as well). This leaves about $1100 to play with. My thoughts to start were the Veils (for the Quad VCA), Batumi (for the Quad LFO), ES Disting MK4 (for the flexibility), Erica Synths Black Wavetable VCO (to be a complimentary voice to the 0-Coast) and probably a simple mult as well.
I know the 0-Coast itself provides me with a bit of flexibility as it has a lot of the basics already built in, but I would like to make sure my first few purchases will be as musically compatible as possible. I would also like to make sure the build compliments the Morphagene as much as possible too. This probably sounds a little broad, but in general I am looking for a build that can do some interesting textural ambience as well as have some grit if it needs to go into a more industrial sounding direction.
In addition, if there are any modules you think would be a cheaper replacement but do the job better or just as well, I am open to that. And vice versa, if there is a more expensive one.
Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated and super helpful! You all seem like a welcoming group and everything that I've seen in this forum makes me feel confident I'll end up going down a road I'll be happy with.
Thanks in advance!
That's not a bad idea, either...you could make use of those new 4ms powered Pods that came out recently. Very cost-effective...the only drawback being module depths, as they only have a 34 mm depth, meaning that anything above 30 mm is going to start getting really tight when you add the ribbons and so on into the mix.
Ahhh...yes, this makes way more sense. MG has a weird glitch where you need to make sure your Screenshot view is loading the same way as your actual build before posting anything with the build page's link in it. Probably explains the Rene-laden atrocity that was up previously.
This build only has a couple of things I'd consider making changes to. For one thing, you might want to find a way to add another oscillator (Plaits might be a good match to the Braids) so that you can thicken up the single-oscillator sound with a bit of detuning, mixing waveforms, that sort of thing. The other is something the combo of the Zadar and QPAS open up, and for that you'd want a second Quad VCA. Here's what I have in mind...
Let's say you had the above combo of modules. Now, given that the QPAS has the stereo pairs of all of its outputs, with two Quad VCAs you would then have the ability to set up a patch in which a few (or all?) of the QPAS outputs go to individual VCA inputs, with one Quad VCA being a "left" and the other a "right", and then by various configurations of Zadar output patching, you could create Zadar settings that would allow the various VCAs to have differing envelopes, morphing across the QPAS response outputs to create sounds that can change in timbre and spatialization across time. Given that the intent of the build is for ambient work, that would fit right in with your plans, potentially creating patches that can evolve across time depending on the envelope rates programmed into the Zadar. You would have to lose something to get this and the Plaits in, though...hmmmmm...
OK...this. Note that some of the modules from your build are missing, most notably the Erbe-verb. I would actually suggest going with either an external FX unit for this (more flexibility) or using some of the Clouds' potential for reverberant-type effects. I also removed the Pam's and went with a Tempi due to the fact that the Rene has the ability to work directly with it for some additional Rene functionality. You'd not have that with the Pam's.Other changes...removed the Bastl VCF (sort of redundant with the QPAS) and the PICO DSP (again, an external FX unit being preferable here). There are also no mults; in this case, having jammed the cab with as much function as possible, I opted for a build that requires inline mult "widgets" or stackcables. In smaller cabs where every hp needs to be pure functionality, those optimize space more than one might suspect.
Added: obviously, the Plaits and the second Quad VCA. I also dropped in a Doepfer A-184-1, which gives you a ring modulator, slew limiter, and extra sample & hold in 4 hp. The Plaits and Braids are set up to split the outputs to two channels each of the Doepfer A-138s, which allows you to set up a separate right and left mix for the QPAS's stereo ins. I also added a 2hp MIDI module to allow very basic MIDI control, but more importantly, it also adds clock lockup to MIDI so that your Tempi/Rene combo can run in sync with external MIDI processes. I also put in a PICO OUT, which gives you a stereo output stepdown via a 3.5mm TRS jack, plus a headphone amp. Last added bit, since I had 1 hp left over, was a Konstant Labs power check module...the very best way to use a 1 hp space, I think.
This seems more "instrument-like", ultimately. The functionality is a bit dedicated, but within that there's a lot of leeway for sonic complexity.
-- Lugia
thanks! noted!. will try to fit the erbverb because is one of the modules i received for free so... you know.. maybe i can make another little case only with 2 or 3 fx modules....
thanks again for all the info!
Also, pick up a copy of Patch and Tweak, great overview of just about everything, and google "Northern Coast Synthesis Part 2" for some good reasons to not get into eurocrack (the whole series is worth reading when starting out - it is written by someone who designs modules).
I've recently caught the eurocrack habit and have ordered from Perfect Circuit Audio, Detroit Modular (ordering can be flaky using Paypal, twice I had to call to straighten things out - but they ship timely and answer questions quickly - and track reward points for small additional discounts), Analogue Haven, Vintage King Audio, Control, Sweetwater, and Control Voltage with no issues. Many give 10% discounts on holidays. Sign up for their newsletters to get occasional additional discounts. I have not had to return anything, so I can't speak for return hassles. Most, but not all, give free shipping for orders over 100$. Vintage King and Sweetwater both allow 0% no interest over various times and various manufacturers if you use their Synchrony credit cards (just don't miss a payment, as their normal interest rate is something like 25%). I will say that initially I was storing credit card info on various vendor sites as I splurged on module after module (not a good approach), but I was hit with a rash of fraudulent credit card charges, so use Paypal exclusively to hide your credit card details and never store credit card info on vendor sites (I went a decade with no credit card fraud charges, and then bam had to cancel 4 separate cards in a 4 month span - since switching to Paypal no issues). Good luck.
I bought a module from @Ideo, and everything went smooth :)
Ahhh...yes, this makes way more sense. MG has a weird glitch where you need to make sure your Screenshot view is loading the same way as your actual build before posting anything with the build page's link in it. Probably explains the Rene-laden atrocity that was up previously.
This build only has a couple of things I'd consider making changes to. For one thing, you might want to find a way to add another oscillator (Plaits might be a good match to the Braids) so that you can thicken up the single-oscillator sound with a bit of detuning, mixing waveforms, that sort of thing. The other is something the combo of the Zadar and QPAS open up, and for that you'd want a second Quad VCA. Here's what I have in mind...
Let's say you had the above combo of modules. Now, given that the QPAS has the stereo pairs of all of its outputs, with two Quad VCAs you would then have the ability to set up a patch in which a few (or all?) of the QPAS outputs go to individual VCA inputs, with one Quad VCA being a "left" and the other a "right", and then by various configurations of Zadar output patching, you could create Zadar settings that would allow the various VCAs to have differing envelopes, morphing across the QPAS response outputs to create sounds that can change in timbre and spatialization across time. Given that the intent of the build is for ambient work, that would fit right in with your plans, potentially creating patches that can evolve across time depending on the envelope rates programmed into the Zadar. You would have to lose something to get this and the Plaits in, though...hmmmmm...
OK...this. Note that some of the modules from your build are missing, most notably the Erbe-verb. I would actually suggest going with either an external FX unit for this (more flexibility) or using some of the Clouds' potential for reverberant-type effects. I also removed the Pam's and went with a Tempi due to the fact that the Rene has the ability to work directly with it for some additional Rene functionality. You'd not have that with the Pam's.
Other changes...removed the Bastl VCF (sort of redundant with the QPAS) and the PICO DSP (again, an external FX unit being preferable here). There are also no mults; in this case, having jammed the cab with as much function as possible, I opted for a build that requires inline mult "widgets" or stackcables. In smaller cabs where every hp needs to be pure functionality, those optimize space more than one might suspect.
Added: obviously, the Plaits and the second Quad VCA. I also dropped in a Doepfer A-184-1, which gives you a ring modulator, slew limiter, and extra sample & hold in 4 hp. The Plaits and Braids are set up to split the outputs to two channels each of the Doepfer A-138s, which allows you to set up a separate right and left mix for the QPAS's stereo ins. I also added a 2hp MIDI module to allow very basic MIDI control, but more importantly, it also adds clock lockup to MIDI so that your Tempi/Rene combo can run in sync with external MIDI processes. I also put in a PICO OUT, which gives you a stereo output stepdown via a 3.5mm TRS jack, plus a headphone amp. Last added bit, since I had 1 hp left over, was a Konstant Labs power check module...the very best way to use a 1 hp space, I think.
This seems more "instrument-like", ultimately. The functionality is a bit dedicated, but within that there's a lot of leeway for sonic complexity.
I bought a module from @memoire-de-futur. Smooth process. Module in great condition. Recommended.
Not sure if you still need a reply, but I have a Morpheus installed in that exact spot in my KB37. It fits just fine.
The entire FORUMS.
When sorting by the latest post, the results aren't so. I'm expecting to see the thread with the newest post at the top, followed by the second newest, third, etc. It seems almost random. Is it being sorted by the latest VIEWED rather than posted? It should be fixed right away as new forum messages and replies are getting buried by older posts.
The above build with all of the Renes doesn't strike me as a very well-considered idea. I see no VCAs, for starters, and a lot of the other necessary items are totally missing.
If you want this many sequencers, you either need a MUCH bigger cab, or you should just chuck the idea of using sequencers in the synth altogether and get something that's a dedicated sequencer device, such as a KOMA Komplex. Occupying this much room with Renes...especially with what's NOT here...seems like a recipe for an expensive and unusable disaster.
-- Lugia
sorry, there is a glitch with that image, dunno why all of the Renes... didnt notice too that when i make some changes,the pic changes... anyway,
here is the last testing of my module :
Go back to the top page of the Forum and you'll see links for the moderators at the bottom. Click on modulargrid's link then send him a PM via the boxed link you'll see at the top of his user page.
The above build with all of the Renes doesn't strike me as a very well-considered idea. I see no VCAs, for starters, and a lot of the other necessary items are totally missing.
If you want this many sequencers, you either need a MUCH bigger cab, or you should just chuck the idea of using sequencers in the synth altogether and get something that's a dedicated sequencer device, such as a KOMA Komplex. Occupying this much room with Renes...especially with what's NOT here...seems like a recipe for an expensive and unusable disaster.
I’m assuming that he modules remaining constant are the ones you have?
Adding Rene and Batumi is great, but you need a clock for Rene to work (Tempi or Pamela’s New Workout would do). A filter is great, but look also at QPAS or a state variable filter. You’ll also need an envelope module (Malekko Quad Envelope or XAOC Zadar) and at least one power module. Consider an Intellijel 7U case with Intellijel 1U modules, as you’ll want an audio I/O and some attenuverters.
-- liquid_air
maths can be the clock of Rene?
This module uses a Jumper to control 5V rail power, so it either draws 100/60/150 or 250/60/0 (according to latest manual for the latest firmware). Possible to add another variation for 100/60/150 (current module shows 250/60/0 - which wasn't the default on the module I purchased)? The 150 mAmps difference on the +12v rail can make a huge difference when trying to add this module to a power constrained setup. Thanks.
I’m assuming that he modules remaining constant are the ones you have?
Adding Rene and Batumi is great, but you need a clock for Rene to work (Tempi or Pamela’s New Workout would do). A filter is great, but look also at QPAS or a state variable filter. You’ll also need an envelope module (Malekko Quad Envelope or XAOC Zadar) and at least one power module. Consider an Intellijel 7U case with Intellijel 1U modules, as you’ll want an audio I/O and some attenuverters.
I had a great transaction with @yrn1, perfect communication and modules in great shape! Thanks!
I recently contemplated a layout of a “portable” sub-rack and settled on an Intellijel 7U case, such as you did. I had a few design iterations with some Muffwiggler FB group input and some trying out. Turns out: I didn’t think the Mimetic Digitalis is well suited to controlling categorical CV (say the b/s/l on a Manis), so I needed a bit more immediate control.
I found that I took a liking to using my modular to complement a sampler (drums, percussion) with harsher basslines and additional percussion. I also quite like the sonic possibilities of combining the Ataraxic Iteritas with a uPlaits for LPF bass, especially using a sequenced mix via Plancks (uFrames) for more timbral control.
So, the underlying design concept was: Manis for percussion, Ataraxic+Beehive for bass. I wanted CV control and sequencing ability for both feeds independently, delay and reverb are essential to the sound I am after. Some distortion would be nice, too.
In this setup you see Manis, MLSC, Verb Form a percussion chain. I opted for two Quadratt 1U as sub-mixers and that works great.
One audio stream will be a side chain feed for the MLSC compressor and a second a utility reverb via the verb.
Plancks will blend Beehive, Ataraxic, and a delay-reverb using the Black Hole DSP2 and Erbeverb chain under full CV control (reverb solo and delay solo can be mixed in via the second Quadratt).
The Voltage block will allow extensive control over the mix (Plancks), Delay (Black Hole), and reverb (Erbeverb).
Pam’s offers up to 8 LFOs (I’m a sucker for those) and Rene two direct control gate/CV channels for Manis and Beehive/Ataraxic. Manis has its own Envelope, and Tallin offers two VCAs with distortion for Hive and Ataraxic. A quad envelope can control both VCAs and still offer two envelopes for filter control. I opted for the Morgasmatron as a SVF with pleasant distortion (I love how this filter clips and the built in Rat distortion is neat as well) and Three Sisters owing to sonic capabilities and HP demand (vs QPAS). Tempi has the immediacy of well laid out performance features, which allows for on the fly clock division changes controlling the Quad Env and Voltage Block. Ornament & Crime combined with an ARP module just round it out nicely.
Thoughts?
I know I’m missing a logic module and really pondered swapping the o_C with a WMD Triple Bipolar, but feel that I should be able to do-opt one Quadratt for CV duty.
Here’s the rig:
Hello,
Currently the manufacturer Warm Star Electronics (http://www.warmstarelectronics.com/) is listed under 'Other/unknown' on the Module Finder. I looked, but couldn't find a way to send this information directly to an admin, but if someone could help me out that would be great.
Thank You
Looks tasty. Though, with that little space you'd be better off loosing the (great) Akemie's for a couple more narrow osc/vcf and utilities. Doing that would give you a more useful rack, IMHO.
thanks! im going to use my idea of the new setup in that software,maybe it Works.
My idea to complete the stuff i posted is something like this...
Actually, the Zadar is a really good idea as a companion for the Akemie's Castle! Coupling that with the Pams and the Varigate could yield some really interesting FM results...nice!
Here is a follow-up and my current thinking:
What I have so far:
1u row except for the Zeroscope, BIA, Ripples, Maths, Quad VCA, Pamela's New Workout, Akemie's Castle, Atlantis and a Beatstep Pro. The Zadar is pre-ordered.
Modules were bought in stages and in my first pass I used Ableton to sequence thru the uMIDI. That was great for getting up to speed, but after considering the 3 primary sound sources, I decided to hold off on sequencing in the case and picked up a BSP, which works great and is close enough to being a physical experience rather than a computer driven one since there is no mouse tempting me to tweak something minuscule in the sequencing.
For the time being, I am mostly running only two things at a time (e.g., a BIA/Atlantis duet or a Akemie/Atlantis duet) with each taking an out channel in the case. The two channels go into an audio interface into two tracks in Live for effects, mostly delay and reverb. Live can also supply the drum machine or other accompaniment.
The goal is still to have the option to move entirely out of the computer for playing. I am probably going to go the route of an external mixer and per this thread I posted:
https://www.modulargrid.net/e/forum/posts/index/3696
(As an aside, there is a great link there to a Muff Wiggler forum thread on the technical details about the audio levels...)
I am going to look at something with lots of headroom and see if it can handle the signal strength of the modular. If not, I'll probably follow Lugia's advice in that thread and look into supplementing the Intellijel case's outs with Ladik P-530s. If that is needed, it would likely take up some/all of the space of the Varigate 4+ in this latest iteration.
I am grateful for all the advice here, but a few points that I have acted on are Lugia's note that the Akemie's Castle will eat up modulation and envelopes and Ronin's comments about letting the case tell you what it wants next (in so many words). Since I was compelled to get my hands on the tactile FM that is AC, but also mindful of these comments, I got the Pamela. It's is a great source of timed modulation in a relatively small space and I can't wait for the Zadar to show up.
Thanks for all the feedback so far and keep them coming if you have any comments about the current iteration.
So I frequently use modulargrid on my phone
What kind of phone are you using?
Oooh, idea: mobile app?
There will be no dedicated native mobile app. I try to make sure that MG runs in most mobile browsers, therefore your bug report is greatly appreciated.
-- modulargrid
I use a lite app shell called Hermit for this (and many other sites) it works really well and allows you to have a couple sites as lite apps before you have to purchase a license.
Getting your hands on free gear is awesome. But you're going to need to add a lot more things to make them useful. My first thought is that you should get a better understanding of how basic modular modules work. There's a free eurorack simulator known as VCV rack. There's a virtual version of Clouds and Braids in it. You will also find a lot of other modules like VCAs, envelope generators, etc.
Learn how to build a basic set-up in VCV first. It costs nothing so you can make as many mistakes as you like and experiment recklessly. Get a good understanding of how it works and you'll find that making decisions on which pieces of kit to add to be a lot less daunting.
traded a Magneto with @tomlaan - perfect condition, great module, highly recommended seller, trader.
traded an Erbe Verbe with @zvuku, all went smooth and module arrived in good condition! thanks!
hi there! im gonna start this adventure and have some modules i received for free, so i would like some advices to complete it.
Will make ambient stuff, and here is what i have for know.
Maybe i need to add MATHS? people says that is a must, but for the moment i dont know anything about it.
Maybe elements?
Any mixer or vca?
let me know please! thanks a lot.
Bought MI Marbles from @yari. Everything was ok. The item was exactly as he described, communication and delivery were also satisfying. Thanks! :)
I am not sure what's going on, I never heard of this problems. But I agree there should be a simple option to set the location, so this feature will come.
-- modulargrid
Thanks, this feature will make spending my hard earned money on modules much easier again.
I still get all the module shops / offers in the "Buy Online"-bar from Canada, US and Japan despite being in EU.
Tried wiping the browser cookies and cache clean, switching the currency to € and listing the offers only from EU and cross-checking with another browser and in private mode, but this behaviour persists. My VPN is set to EU as well so it shouldn't mess with geolocation if there's such. Also tried completely turning off VPN to see if it affects the functionality.
Is there a setting somewhere or is this a bug am seeing here?
-- pkkkkknn
I am not sure what's going on, I never heard of this problems. But I agree there should be a simple option to set the location, so this feature will come.
Beep, Bopp, Bleep: info@modulargrid.net