New modular jam with melodies (!) and structure (!!)..

PHP7

More server updates. This time moved to PHP7, everything should be faster again.

Listen IO will be officially announced and released soon; please stay tuned for more details including pricing and availability!
-- 4ms_Company

Hi guys, 9 weeks later now - any news on ETA?

EDITED Dec 3rd 2018, 09:35

In the last weeks I made good deals with @rsillsley and @Slight79 - thanks a lot!

About the tempo of Arabesque, kinda sounded alarm-ish, once sounded airhorn-y. 2 is half of 1, which is at its "original" speed plus some. Mod is to add some interesting effect, 5 same speed of 2 OR 1.

again please click on the rack to see the most current version. I'm asking for help in what might be some good options for the rest of the HP in this configuration. The shuttle control is used to sequence from Digitakt and Op-1. What more would you add in the 24 hp left? My only thought is an optomix and another filter, possibly Belgrad...

Thanks for your replies wigglers!!

//If MG users protest I will bring it back, but that did not happen yet ...

Yes, I DO protest! please bring it back!

I look for suggestions on how to make some cool FM-kind percussive sounds
Starting from the simplest patch possible

be able to ..
show modules from manufacturer xxAxx and xxBxx and xxCxx and xxDxx both currently available and unassigned for example.

https://soundcloud.com/ironism_tw/ocrings

Hey, can anybody give me some advice on how I should fill this rack in?

My purpose in building this is mainly to use as a sound processor for my other more standard synth.

If I have two sequencers, do I need two timetables? I suppose the two sequencers can be synchronized I guess with the CLK input?
Even though there is a VCA in the Synth Box, is another individual VCA of any real use?
I think you can use one to change the envelope of the wave, but then on the way to final audio amplification the other VCA would probably make the sound better?

I know Pittsburgh Modular made other sound effects modules, but they are not on modular grid.
1. VILFO or voltage influenced low frequency oscillator
2. VC Bend
3. Generator and Genxpander
4. Dual Ring Modulator

The Phase Shifter was there, but I didn't think that a very good effect to have within the synth since it mostly seemed like an outboard type of effect. But maybe it would be good there.

https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_772253.jpg

That would depend on what you're trying to do, musically. Right now, you have a fairly 'general purpose' module set. Before going nuts with the Magic Plastic, though, you'd better take some time to sort out where you want to go, musically, and how you think you can best get there. What musical elements do you prefer to work with? What sort of sound are you aiming for? What's your creative 'comfort zone'? Actually, these should've been on your mind when getting the initial setup, along with the question of WHY is it necessary to make use of a modular rig in your work?

Hello,
I'm new at this but I've put together the beginnings of a 104HP rack. It currently has the 4MS Row Power 30; the Moog Mother 32; the MusicThing Turing Machine; a Synthrotek passive DIY mult; and a Befaco Output V3 DIY.

I know I need multiple new, additional modules, but what I'd like your opinion on is: what would be a good NEXT module?

EDITED Oct 27th 2018, 22:51

Short feedback - current setup looks like that, super happy so far. Thanks again for the very helpful advice concernig my rig!

The URL is bad. Should be https://www.ericasynths.lv/shop/b-stock/pico-Alogic/

Hi
Please send a message with your order number so we can clear the matter.

Br
Jan

@modulargrid Since 4ms is introducing the Pods, can we lower the minimum case size in Eurorack to 3U 20hp ?

EDITED Oct 26th 2018, 10:08

Absolutely. Since that VCA module has no input attenuation, it's a good bet that some audio sources are overloading it as not everything in Eurorack is exactly the same as far as peak-to-peak voltages go. Also, given that these are exponential VCAs, there's also a good possibility that deeper swings in CV will also push the VCAs into overdriven ranges since the linear curves of the LFOs are going to be 'misinterpreted' as exponential-type signals. Exponential VCAs really are best controlled with envelopes, and offer a quick and dirty way of using linear EGs to get exponential responses.

A big thumbs up to @Plexusgel and @synthetictheory !

So I have been building my first modular system dollar by dollar and finally added some VCA's, the Doepfer A-132-4 quad VCA module. I have a seriously distorted signal when I patch in some sound sources (Chord Organ, Pluck) but not on all sources (STO works fine). I am using the Doepfer A-143-3 quad LFO for cv into the VCA. Can anyone help me figure out if I need some kind of attenuation in line with these source signals perhaps, or am I doing something else wrong? I am very new to this and appreciate any help.

I suggest to ban janost from this forum: he has uploaded a number of attractive modules recently that are marked as "available" and that can be purchased through his linked shop (payment by Visa Card). I have ordered a larger number of modules and kits through his Webpage. After several weeks, however, I have not received the modules nor have I received a response to emails. My feeling now is that he is advertising modules that do not exist or that he cannot deliver. While this is associated with a painful financial loss, it also negatively effects the modular grid community, which I otherwise have experienced as trustworthy and helpful. It should be in the interest of modular users and Producers to ban such activity from this platform. Of notice, I became only aware of his website/shop through ModularGrid.

HTTP/2

Sorry for the hickups, I upgraded the server today. We have HTTP/2 now, it should make the site load a bit faster.

Thanks for effortless buying from:
@freestate - bought a Verbos HO
@phinland - for Humback Filter
@PinPinKula - for uClouds
@Fabinhouse - for uFold II
@Chris_Da_Break - purchased Atlantis
@smashtv - bought Rings

All these people shipped fast and items arrived in condition as described. Thanks again.

EDITED Oct 25th 2018, 12:19

Hi guys,

Good traders in the marketplace:

@anal og : https://www.modulargrid.net/e/users/view/44826 Great seller! Good communication and everything as discussed.
@Bobje : https://www.modulargrid.net/e/synthesis-technology-e350-morphing-terrarium Good communication and no problem at all with the sale
@lewisinspace : https://www.modulargrid.net/e/rossum-electro-music-morpheus very good communication, easy and fast shipment

---

@PinPinKula : i do NOT recommend doing business with this user. Very rude and unreliable user. I ordered a micro Ornaments and Crime on 16th of August and today, 21st of October, I still haven't received what i paid for: a micro Ornaments and Crime with black knobs and buttons. On top i had to pay twice the delivery costs (13,5 EUR when it was actually 8 EUR) due to some problems with the delivery (according to DHL the address was wrong). When i finally received the module on 9th of October (!!) to exactly the same address it was sent on the first time it was white buttons and knobs. After contacting him to ask why was that he confirmed to send them and after 12 days i received the following answer from him: "...you might as well go make music then worry about color scheme of your modules, but thats me.. you do what you want.". This user made me regret using Friends & Family when paying through PayPal.
Please check the following discussion of the group "Modular Synthesizer Sales and Trade (Europe)" about him of the 30th of September on Facebook, it seems there is a lot of people unhappy with his way of doing business: https://www.facebook.com/groups/698742386919180/permalink/1917748588351881/?sale_post_id=1917748588351881

-- asdfqwer

asdfqwer For gods sake, how unappreciative people can be, so sad, really. I have sent this customer a module he bought right away, then the package got lost or misplaced in Berlin for a month and a half or so. I filed for an investigation at the post office, followed it through and before the results of the investigation came back package moved and postman tried to deliver it to his address - that is per tracking info (obviously the address was right, i have shown the customer a picture of the package). He didnt pick the module up and the module came back to me stamped as if it couldnt be delivered. So of course shipment had to be paid again at the cost price if the module was to be sent the second time. I actually proposed for us to find out how and why it didnt get to him in the first place on account of it happening also the second time but in the end customer complied with trying his luck again without getting to the bottom of things.

All in all, I cared about this package a lot, went to post office numerous times, filed documentation, had conversations with the dispute department at the posts headquarters, was checking tracking regularly if it moved, basically everything i could and much more then the customer could or would. So in the end module came to him and he found out i have mistakenly mounted the knobs of the wrong color. He warned me about that and told me to send the correct color to which i said i will and I did that a day latter. 5 business days latter he comes back asking me if i have sent them, to which i replied that i did and then he suspiciously asked me when this had occurred to which i replied the day after he warned me about it and with a comment that since this was agreed on and it was confirmed that the knobs were sent he might as well make music with the module rather then worry about the color scheme of the module which he already knew will get sorted out.

I mean, for real, it seemed like the module was unusable if it didnt have the correct color of knobs. Based on that impression i think the comment is fair and actually positive - it surely does focus on whats important here, does it not? In no way did i not follow through with the deal and do my best to recover the misplaced package or rectify my mistake which is, lets be frank, a surface kind of mistake . That doesnt preclude it from being respected which it was, however it precludes it from being a point of such vicious accusations which are represented in this writing to which i am replying. The module works as it should, is built like a tank, i have a gazillion of happy campers and i still think that if you got the wrong knob colors and if you got confirmed the right knob colors are coming your way you might as well use the module and not get worked up about the color scheme. Amen.

Pinpinkula

EDITED Nov 2nd 2018, 05:04

Was doing some light module browsing recently, and it appears as though everyone's favorite web-based modular synthesizer has disappeared. In addition, modules can no longer be sorted by "Playable in TrueGrid" anymore. What gives?

Any specifics on this?

Hi,

I use my ES-8 and can't figure how to get proper octaves out of my keyboard octaves.

My chain is the following : midi keyboard -> yarns -> ES-8 -> virtual VCO in VCV -> ES-8 ->

When I plug the VCV virtual output to a virtual VCO (all had the same problem : EvenVCO, MacroOscillator, ...), the octaves I hear are always +/- a semitone too short.
Keyboard or Yarns problem ? -> When I change my chain to midi keyboard -> yarns -> real vcos like braids, quadnic, plaits, ... : everything ok.

I even tried this chain : midi keyboard -> yarns -> ES-8 in -> ES-8 out directly -> real vcos : the problem even occurs.

The weakest link is the ES-8 right ? How can I fine tune it so the tracking is proper ?

https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_763577.jpg

Drone rack. After my research, I just want to hear opinions and see if these modules make sense for packing as much control as possible into this small rack.

Are there any modules here that do not make sense with the digital oscillator I've chosen? I'm fuzzy on the Happy Nerding 3X MIA and the touch pad.

Thanks for any pointers.

Ronin thanks for your response. I agree with all your points. Honestly I only create for myself and have no illusions about creating anything good for a long while. I still have a lot to learn on the GM before I get any more gear. It’s a great learning synth to practice on!

That's been my biggest hurdle is trying to learn what I think looks appealing on youtube videos, vs what actually works for me. I've gone through things, bought, sold, rebought, resold more things than I'd like to remember, and it does get a bit tiring.

I concur, VCV is great for really getting a feel for what what certain manufacturers do, I.E. Befaco and Mutable. I learned how Clouds and Tides worked using VCV.

Looks like a lot of fun! Have you thought of a function generator, instead of Pamela's Workout? Something like "Function", or even "Mod Tools" might give you a bit more by way of modulation. I was always under the impression that Pamela's Workout was akin to a clock generator, not so much mod source -- just my understanding on it, though.

When I started building my rack(s), I based them on systems that were already existing, and I know Perfect Circuit has some small systems like this that might serve as a good template.

Keep it up!

Before buying any physical gear, you may want to explore creating percussion, bass lines, leads, etc. in another format. VCV is a free modular synthesizer simulator. I would recommend exploring that and creating the sounds you're after. VCV is no replacement for the real deal. However, it's a great way to learn.

Once you understand how to make something, you'll do better with evaluating if the Mother 32 and DFAM are right for you. The sounds, the workflow, the features may or may not be what you're looking for in YOUR own music. Eurorack is very expensive in terms of TIME. It takes longer to get the results you're looking for and those results only exist for as long as you keep the patch. If you're willing to accept the candle-in-the-wind limitations of modular and the slow work-pace, you're on the right track. But you have to be the judge of that.

I've been involved with synths and electronic music since around 1990. I'm basically new to modular but not new to the game. From my own personal experience, the one thing I would recommend that you do is to PLAY and PRACTICE. The notion that you're going to jump right in and make something "good" is kind of laughable (personal experience).

I come home from work every other day and create scenarios for myself to patch up. The goal is to become more familiar with my OWN modules and explore features that I might ignore because of habitual patching rather than exploration.

I stopped buying modules for the most part... not because I can't find a use for them but because A) I have no more room in my current case. B) Buying more modules means adding to the stack I'm currently learning.

By learning, I'm not speaking of making basic connections. I'm speaking of using those connections in a way that I personally find musical and expressive.

At this point, I'm not looking to incorporate any of my patches into a song or project. If I hit on anything that's interesting, I might record it into a DAW for later manipulation. But I don't put myself under any pressure to get any value out of my Eurorack at this stage. I keep the humble mentality that I'm learning. I'm making mistakes but fumbling towards a greater understanding.

The other takeaway is that Eurorack play gives me a fresh perspective WITH my DAW. I look at modulation very differently inside the DAW now.

That's my $0.02 to add to Luigi's $10 post. Everyone's journey is different so take it all with a grain of salt... a little lime... and a healthy pour of tequila.

Here is my build.

As you can see it's pretty simple, built around Plaits and Clouds which looks like a good match.

¼" line outs to record with my interface and headphone out. (needed)

FX loop to use external pedals. (exchangeable if better function)

Pamela's to put everything to work.

Midi in because I can't find better use for 2hp left. I have some nice Midi controller apps and could also use Ableton or my Cosmic Music Box to trigger things. (exchangeable if better function)

I was also considering Ears by MI to use my guitar or synths with clouds but I think S.B.G can do that already, am I right?

I plan to fit this into a Doepfer A-100 LC1.

Any module/function I should consider changing or adding onto a bigger case?

Thanks in advance!

EDITED Oct 24th 2018, 13:17

I could probably use some more modulation and utility modules... attenuation, slew... but I don't wanna move anything :(

why is this junking up MG?

Okay maybe i can explain this a little better. I have looped material going with my dry/wet set at 50%. I want to fade in a new part, so when i turn it to dry, the volume of the new layer seems to be around 30-40% louder than the material already recorded. I guess instead of having the D/W set at 50% ill have to set it set all the way wet or all the way dry to get the full signal volume.

To make that secure from both sides the escrow must handle both the money and the modules which means double shipping costs. MG is in Germany, so that would not work in the US. We don't have a stockroom and I think people would not pay for the additional fees. They are to high in relation to the cost of most used modules.
May be there is a third party service users can use?

Yes, when you have a loop going this is the wet signal, and new material coming in is the dry signal. The dry/wet knob will crossfade between them. Maybe I'm not getting the question...

Awesome, simplest answer ive gotten to date and i think i got it now! Thanks so much! One thing i did notice is that the levels get louder (say when i have a loop going, D/W mix is at 50percent, and i go to fade in another part, the volume increases of the new part when getting closer to dry. And vice versa, the volume drops when i go from Dry to 50/50 dry/wet, Is this just how the machine works? Thanks again btw.

I used the Brain Surgery feature via Hex Inverter's website to create the SysEx file, but I don't see a space on there that specifies Omni-Mode. Did I overlook it? The clock tick works fine, but the MB registers it even before I hit play on Cubase. Is that normal?

Is the Mutant Brain set to receive in Omni-Mode? (ignores MIDI channel and passes everything it encounters).

I believe this is called "escrow." A third party handles the exchange of merchandise and money... verifying that both parties have satisfied the transaction before releasing monies and merchandise to the recipients. This system of trade does work. But it's much more labor intensive than eBay, etc. The bottom line is that escrow will add more to the cost than eBay.

My plan for this rack is kind of textural ambient sounds and a drum machine.

I really like this configuration. the only thing that I feel like I would really like would be a morphagene.
I could get rid of plaits, ears and a radio music and, while not ideal, would give me the room for a morphagene and not lose too much functionality.

OR I could put the terminal tedium into a 4ms pod if it fits, or just a tiny diy case for that and more video stuff. The terminal tedium in this rig plays video clips and visualizations triggered / modulated by the rest of the system.

This is my first attempt to compile a portable modular system for sound exploration and experimentation. I am interesting to create modulated drone style audio spaces by using oscillators and external audio input. Any ideas and comments are very welcome.

My wife tried to buy this module from the manufacturer for my birthday, and it never arrived. After several emails the problem has not been resolved and they're not responsive via email.

I guess I'm using the DLD similarly. Clock it with your master clock to the ping input. If your master clock, for example, is a quarter note, and you play a 4 by 4 beat, then setting the DLD time to 4 and the switch in the middle will give you delays of one bar. Now, feedback CCW, delay feed CW, and mix CCW. When you want to lock the input hit the hold button. Use the mix knob to crossfade between the live input and the recorded 1 bar loop.

Hope it helps,
Tom

How is he getting such accurate loop start/end times with the DLD ive been trying to figure this out to no avail....

Variation on Shared System Plus with Black and Gold System Cartesian; now with correct number of modules for each row's available power

EDITED Oct 21st 2018, 17:16

I just picked up a Mutant Brains, and like many folks interested in the module, I'm hoping to use it to allow my digitakt to control my eurorack rig. I've installed the module and I've sent a sysex file to it via Midi-OX. The lights on top of the unit blinked, but something's still off. To test it, I'm sending a basic midi track from Cubase out of my Scarlet 18i8 and into the Mutant Brains. (I'm sending it on ch 6.) The patch is mutant brains cv out to STO, mutant brains gate to Quadra, Quadra envelope to Quad VCA cv in, STO sub out to Quadra in, Quadra out to my output module.

The sound I'm getting is glitchy. When a single sustained midi note plays in the Cubase sequence, I'm getting lots of random notes that play from the STO. The Sysex settings are all pretty basic (inputs on ch 5-8, CV outs all set to "first note pitch," and then gates 1-4 all set to "first note on" and gate. Any guidance is much appreciated.