Unfortunately my local modular shop turned out to not be open on weekends, but thanks to you I feel like I have a good game plan anyway. Here's my current plan:
https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_1067379.jpg?1575840756
I might switch out some of these for good DIY builds I find. My dad and I concluded that the uO_c kit would be a little too complex unless I ordered the kit populated, which kinda starts to defeat the purpose. But I feel confident about the AI synthesis kit, and so anything of a similar level I'll gobble right up. Thanks again for all your help, I'll check back in on modular grid once my rig is coming along, hopefully I'll be making music by then.