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Hello,
I got into modular world quite recently; I started with a Neutron and DFAM and added few things.
I work a with a computer and also stand alone; anything from experimental/IDM to Dark/industrial techno
My actual set up looks like this:

But I decided to sell the Neutron (despite people complaining about behringer is what got me into modular),; although has lots of patching options the overall sound is not for me . I even end up using the DFAM more for synth sounds. I will also sell the hexinverter Mutant brain; 0-coast has midi, I also own a Korg SQ-1 and my audio interface (presonus studio 1810) can send CV. So I am served (Mutant brain was the first one of these).
I also own a Bastl Kastle V1.5 I am selling too; I barely use it.

I have just bought an 0-coast ( I really like the way it sounds) and a mutable instruments links

I am considering two options, either move to a smaller 84hp case or keep the 104hp one (although there will be quite a lot of empty space for a while)

So, so far I own and will keep DFAM, 0-coast, Maths, ALM-06 (really useful if you own guitar pedals) Disting MK4, and links. I also own a Korg SQ-1, Volca Kick and Volca Drum and¡ a Kaoss Pad 3. The mixer is a Behringer QX1204USB
I will probably add a behringer crave (low cost alternative to Mother 32, which pairs well with DFAM) and a Roland TR8S(I prefer a Drum Machine over a sampler like Digitakt, and can not afford Analog Rytm)

I plan to add a VCA (either Intellijel uVCA/Quad VCA or Veils), maybe kinks. I do not want to add many modules at once, I have just scratched the surface of maths and Disting Mk4.

What modules do you think I should or could add to this set up first (I hear Pamela´s workout, ModDemix, and other)..maybe add the VCA/quad VCA or wait, what other utilities ..maybe another filter?
I do not mind (In fact I prefer) to buy second hand and/or old/mkI versions

Regards
Javier

EDITED Aug 5th 2019, 15:04

Actually, you could possibly use some more VCAs...the Veils is obviously for the audio, but having a few more linear/DC-coupled ones for CV level modulation would be useful here since you've got an ample amount of modulation sources. Other than that, I'd reorder everything so that your power supplies aren't next to audio path modules...especially not next to the Ears, which stands the highest chance of susceptibility to noise/garbage.
-- Lugia

Hmmm.. originally I thought 2*104hp would be very much sufficient, but now I can see the 3rd row is alluring me...I was actually thinking to get a MI Blinds for the CV modulation, and perhaps some noise generators, more effects modules like the Erica Synths Black Hole DSP v2, the “everyone’s favourite” disting mk4.....(that’s half of the 3rd row already)

I never thought audio sources next to power supplies would cause noise, thanks for letting me know!

Please clap.

Yes the EMW switch interface 1 is just about exactly what I was looking for! Thanks as always , Lugia.

Actually, you could possibly use some more VCAs...the Veils is obviously for the audio, but having a few more linear/DC-coupled ones for CV level modulation would be useful here since you've got an ample amount of modulation sources. Other than that, I'd reorder everything so that your power supplies aren't next to audio path modules...especially not next to the Ears, which stands the highest chance of susceptibility to noise/garbage.

Doepfer A-182-1, EMW Switch Interface 2, ph Multiple Dual Channel, ph 2xAB, EMW Switched Patch, EMW Matrix Patch.

I know it exist. It’s so basic that it has to.
I’m looking for a module with 4 or so inputs and 2 outputs for each inputs with a switch for each channel so I can send a voltage to either output 1 or output 2 depending on the position of the switch

Well, if that's the case, have a look at KOMA's Strom+ and Strom Passive instead. The active Strom+ supply gives you 1.5A @ +12V, 1A @ -12V, and 1.5A @ 5V, and then the Passive is simply a connector between the KOMA power jumper from the Strom+ and your busboard. So with that, you still only have one P/S generating heat; the skiff with the Passive doesn't have that issue. And then there's price: 2 x Row Power 40 = $310, this KOMA solution = $191. Cost-wise, much more effective.
-- Lugia

I just checked these KOMA module on their website, looks nice and definitely a better solution for the Moog cases..But since I already got the two ROW powers and I didn't seem to find any reseller for KOMA Storm+ in the UK, I might eventually upgrade to a proper powered-case later..

Apart from that, would you also recommend any module that's probably missing in my rack or could potentially add on it? Thanks.

Looking for feedback as I expand my rack. Currently have O-Coast, Maths, Rings, Clouds, and Rosie. Also have Beat Step Pro and Matrix Brute.

Too much or not enough of something here?

The addiction is real.....

EDITED Aug 6th 2019, 00:42

Well, if that's the case, have a look at KOMA's Strom+ and Strom Passive instead. The active Strom+ supply gives you 1.5A @ +12V, 1A @ -12V, and 1.5A @ 5V, and then the Passive is simply a connector between the KOMA power jumper from the Strom+ and your busboard. So with that, you still only have one P/S generating heat; the skiff with the Passive doesn't have that issue. And then there's price: 2 x Row Power 40 = $310, this KOMA solution = $191. Cost-wise, much more effective.

After a lot of help in this forum I now have bought my first modules.
The rack is based on a Minibrute 2S that I wanted to expand for making the synth more powerful and fun.
I hope it now will be a base for some ambient experimentation and maybe suitable for learning the first steps in generative patching. But I am sure I need some more modules for that purpose. So I hope I will get som advice how to proceed.
I guess the sequencer is not the best choice but I already have it and it has been a good tool for sequencing my Moog Werkstatt. But I guess that I later will remove it for making space for new modules as I also have the Korg SQ-1 and Arturia Beatstep and Keystep.

EDITED Aug 8th 2019, 13:31

I had a Tune at one point - they work great. I recommend adding an Expert Sleepers Disting Mk 4, it has dual a quantizer along with shift registers (Turing Machine) and whole lot more. It’s a really useful module for under $200 and only 4hp. You could ditch the Tune or just have more quantizer for other vcos

Hi,

I'm just starting to begin looking at Eurorack gear, and ModularGrid has been insanely helpful for researching and discovering modules, but one thing that is still missing is researching and discovering cases.

For this, I'm left with either googling, finding random MW or lines posts, or looking at Thomann, Sweetwater, and Schneidersladen.

I'm sure there are more case manufacturers out there than show up in these searches (I saw some of them at superbooth), but there's no database or index anywhere of which manufacturers make which cases.

Is this something that could be added to ModularGrid any time in the future?

Thanks!

One thing I'd consider is that if you don't need the second Row Power 40, don't put it in. As long as your total current draw in the build is between 2/3rds to 3/4ths of the rated amperage of a single Row Power 40's rails, you'd probably be better off running the single power supply to both busboards. This also means there'll be less heat buildup in the case...and lots of heat + analog circuits = generally not so good, so if that's avoidable, definitely avoid it.
-- Lugia

Hi Lugia,

Thanks for your reply. That's definitely a thing, I also feel that the extra ROW power is not very efficient and it takes some hp space...but the reason for putting one for each row and not using busboards instead is because I'm using 2 Moog 104hp cases (got them 2nd hand on ebay), which basically only works using daisy-chained power modules to link them together :< I might consider upgrading to a proper suitcase-style case later.

Any Eurorack except for early Analogue Systems modules, which have a slightly different power connection setup. These can be made to work with an adapter power cable, but then you face the issue of their earlier modules not lining up with the mounting spacing. More recent Analogue Systems modules now have the proper connection for the Eurorack standard, plus these use oval mounting holes to allow them to line up with both AS-Euro cabs and more typical Eurorack cabs.

One thing I'd consider is that if you don't need the second Row Power 40, don't put it in. As long as your total current draw in the build is between 2/3rds to 3/4ths of the rated amperage of a single Row Power 40's rails, you'd probably be better off running the single power supply to both busboards. This also means there'll be less heat buildup in the case...and lots of heat + analog circuits = generally not so good, so if that's avoidable, definitely avoid it.

Hello there,
I recemtly get an a-100 low cost case and reading the manual says tha accept Doepfer modules or 100% compatible, so im wondering which other providers or modules can i use with this case. Thanks in advance.

Hey all, so this is my planned rack in progress, upgrade from m32 and DFAM. I'm using an external Mackie 802 mixer for audio output from MI Veils and mixing, I feel the need to have an onboard oscilloscope to better learn what's going on.

Would anyone recommend to change anything? or anything to add for the possible 3rd 104hp row in the future?

Thanks in advance!

EDITED Aug 2nd 2019, 16:25

Hi Ronin

Thank you for the reply.
Your advices are welcome and I'll make the rack you suggested.

Thank you!

Hi, love the software.
Feature requests:
- Download/ save option of Datasheet

I have optimized the print view. Workaround on Mac OS is to hit print and save as PDF.

• Datasheet option for all modules i own

Just put all modules in one rack is not an option?

• Option to select multiple modules to add to specific rack

That is a common request and may come at some time.

-- Haus_Sonsbeeck

-- modulargrid
Thanks! Super helpfull

Hi! I'm new to modular synthesis. After spending sometime with mother 32 I wanted to add more sample experimentation so I started building this rack. The idea was to make it an all around workstation for creating long, slow evolving melodic synth & sample passages, play with rhythmic dynamics and FX. I'd love to hear more recommendations for modules that could enhance the modules I already have, as well as any other tips that could be relevant.

EDITED Aug 2nd 2019, 05:39

Plus, the Chronoblobs all have a very unusual (for Eurorack delays) feature: an insert point in the feedback path. Lots of abuse potential...everything from filtering the echo returns to pitch-shift-whirl insanity ala the Butthole Surfers' "Creep In the Cellar", etc. Much fun.

One other device, sort of delay-ish, that might come in handy in there would be a Morphagene. This would allow for not only stereo delay-type actions, but quite a bit of on-the-fly sample looping/manipulation/damage.

EDITED Aug 2nd 2019, 05:27

That's my rack! You pasted the wrong link..
-- naught101

That's everybody's rack :)
-- modulargrid

;)

FWIW, it might be worth adding some validation to forum posts to prevent people posting those links - I've noticed it a handful of times in just the last week.

IF USING WITH PRO TOOLS:

Set Yarns TE to EXTERNAL
Set Yarns B-- to INFINITY
Set

EDITED Aug 1st 2019, 20:54

I'm entertaining buying an Alright Devices Chronoblob 2. It hits all the high-marks for a dedicated delay unit for me.

Thanks Ronin, please report back if you can!

I went ahead and purchased a quantizer. Now my problem is that I probably need to get another rack to keep this addiction going. I thought I was finished.

Update on my Rackbuild.

For the last days I was looking for a Option to Sequence in a Small HP Format. And I have to admit Ronin was Right.
The O&C running the Sequins App seems to be the best Option :-) Also the Copier Machine look interesting.

I also was able to sell my Clouds and get a used Monsoon Clouds. I know the µBurst Version is even smaller, but I think 12HP for the Monsoon is nice. It saves me 6HP and I like the Sliders :-)

I also added the Disting MK4 the 2HP Pluck and Erica Dual FX.

What do yo think?

I was also looking into the Chords V2. When I discovered Modular Synths the Chords was (besides the Clouds) the module that I really liked. Maybe replacing the E350 with the Chords V2?

I am very happy with my current setup:
https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_934095.jpg

I know I'd like to get a delay for certain. Perhaps more voices/filters and some day an Orthogonal Devices ER-101 to do chords.

That said, I'd love some opinions about what you would add to this setup. I tend to make multi-voice techno loops and some random Krell like patches, but don't really have a strong direction, so any advice goes!

Thanks in advance,
Chris

I got the weird problem that sometimes (like just a few minutes ago) almost all of my modules disappear from the grid and i have to add them again.
-- Quantum_Eraser

The adblock problem should be fixed so this might be an other problem.
In general if you are missing modules try to just reload the page...

Hi, love the software.
Feature requests:
- Download/ save option of Datasheet

I have optimized the print view. Workaround on Mac OS is to hit print and save as PDF.

• Datasheet option for all modules i own

Just put all modules in one rack is not an option?

• Option to select multiple modules to add to specific rack

That is a common request and may come at some time.

-- Haus_Sonsbeeck

I got the weird problem that sometimes (like just a few minutes ago) almost all of my modules disappear from the grid and i have to add them again.

EDITED Aug 1st 2019, 12:28

I think you can use M32 and DFAM VCA out for eurorack signal out your synths but you'll need some kind of line level common output. I really like Nearness and simply use dedicated volumes for attenuating with my M32s but there's also other mixing solutions. One thing you'll realize is you'll need to convert the CV of Mother 32 if you wish to use a sequencer module (unless youre just using with MIDI through Keystep) something like Erica synths mscale to get full range.
-- lvelazquez

Thanks for the reply! I added a line level output in the rack. I was planning on keeping the separate outs from the mother and dfam straight to a mixer. I was planning on using the keystep to control the eurorack, do i need MIDI or can i just plug out the cv/Gate to controll it?

Ah i never thought on the cv converter for the mother, great Idea!

This is the updated rack https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_967898.jpg?1564651789

That's my rack! You pasted the wrong link..
-- naught101

That's everybody's rack :)

https://www.modulargrid.net/e/racks/view
-- Circuit78

That's my rack! You pasted the wrong link..

Hi i am noob to modular world. So i am buying my first semi-modular Synth behringer neutron. I have a soundcard, novation launchkey 49 and volca sample what else i might need to get started ? I love melodic and dark techno.
Also i want expand my neutron to eurorack so what modules do i need. I have planned to buy a midi to CV(mutant brains), pamelas workout, a vco and a 2HP sequencer.
I even like maths,clouds,plonk,euclid but right now low on budget so i will buy it later. So please guide me what should i buy step by step. Please answer all question.
Thank u

I think you can use M32 and DFAM VCA out for eurorack signal out your synths but you'll need some kind of line level common output. I really like Nearness and simply use dedicated volumes for attenuating with my M32s but there's also other mixing solutions. One thing you'll realize is you'll need to convert the CV of Mother 32 if you wish to use a sequencer module (unless youre just using with MIDI through Keystep) something like Erica synths mscale to get full range.

EDITED Aug 1st 2019, 02:53

If you want TM to generate melodies in the chromatic scale then yes you need a quantizer.

I was curious if anyone has had any experience with the 2hp TM. I’m going to enclose my current skiff diagram. Do I really need a quantizer? I thought the turning machine was like a random step sequencer and didn’t purchase one. Supposed to have the Turing machine next Monday. I should also mention that I have a Moog Mother 32, DFAM, and Grandmother that I use with my eurorack. Thanks for any help. Trying to post rack once more.

https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_874982.jpg

EDITED Aug 1st 2019, 15:45

be great to have those I/Os on top! Looks great

Thanks for the input folks.

I will look into the Allen&Heath Mixers.

So here's a shameless Crosspost from the MW Forum :-)

I already told that I ditched the Dual ADSR and added the Zadar. But
the Zadar can't do a normal ADSR. But even if it could tho ADSR I think it would be a waste to use it just for that.

So i only have the Maths for Envelopes. Would it be a good Idea to add something like the Intellijel Quadra? I know it only does AD and AHR or do I need a "standard" ADSR?

Read up on synth levels versus line level. The Eurorack signal is a LOT hotter than line level.

How you handle it is up to you and depends a lot on your gear. There are line level mixers and audio interfaces that can handle synth level without distorting. But there's no guarantee that everything will.

There are quite a few choices when it comes to interfacing.
You can buy a Eurorack interface like the Expert Sleepers ES-8.
You can buy a Eurorack module that converts synth level to line level.
You can buy an external mixer that has enough headroom at the input level to handle Eurorack.
You can attenuate the signal in Eurorack going out to your audio interface.

I use a synth to line level Eurorack module. I find that to be the easiest solution without the worries.

The biggest issue is going the other way around: line level to synth level. That requires boosting the signal and has to be done with active electronics. Using a non-specific piece of Eurorack to boost the signal can add lots of noise.

-- Ronin1973

Thanks for the reply! i added a external out for the simplicity of things.

I would think a DC coupled digital delay set to 0% feedback could handle the job. Looks like I have an assignment to do when I get home tonight.

EDITED Jul 31st 2019, 16:45

Read up on synth levels versus line level. The Eurorack signal is a LOT hotter than line level.

How you handle it is up to you and depends a lot on your gear. There are line level mixers and audio interfaces that can handle synth level without distorting. But there's no guarantee that everything will.

There are quite a few choices when it comes to interfacing.
You can buy a Eurorack interface like the Expert Sleepers ES-8.
You can buy a Eurorack module that converts synth level to line level.
You can buy an external mixer that has enough headroom at the input level to handle Eurorack.
You can attenuate the signal in Eurorack going out to your audio interface.

I use a synth to line level Eurorack module. I find that to be the easiest solution without the worries.

The biggest issue is going the other way around: line level to synth level. That requires boosting the signal and has to be done with active electronics. Using a non-specific piece of Eurorack to boost the signal can add lots of noise.

Hey everyone! IM about to start my Journey in the eurorack world and IM so stoked to spend absurd amount of time (and money..) on this new-found love! I have a mother 32 and a DFAM in a twotier rack and IM planning on keeping it that way, but to expand this system with 2 84hp Tiptop HE racks in a custom made box.

https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_967898.jpg

The Idea is that the top rack is More towards modulation and effects. The lower rack is focusing More to be a kind of a standalone ”synth” or as a complement to the mother 32. Beacause IM totalt new to this i just wanted to check of a
Few thing First..

1. Is it worth having an additional vca? I was thinking about ditching rings for like a Veils or Blinds.
2. I was planning on controlling the lower rack with a keystep, is this do-able or should i go for a sequencer? I was in that case looking on the malekko varigate 4+ or PML Microsequencer.
3. Do i need like a external module to get a balanced stereo out to a soundcard or can i go directly out from say the Quad-vca or monsoon out?
4. Is there something obvious i missed or havent thought about? Like IM Said IM totally new to this!

Thank you. I abandon this idea already.

Hi Alan, old thread I know but shouldn't your patch be STO sub out to Quad VCA in not Quadra in?

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.
-- alan_smythee

I’d suggest grabbing an Arturia Keystep or Beatstep Pro for sequencing and save your Space for more modulation sources. For about $120 you get a solid keyboard controller with a built in arpeggiator, sequencer and you can switch MIDI channels while the sequencer keeps playing and play live over another channel. Great performance tool. You could also drop in a Mutant Brain and use any MIDI device for control like a Novation Circuit, MPC or Digtakt. The Mutant Brain is completely customizable giving you plenty of cv/gate/trigger and even clock division options for output. Using an external sequencer is going to result in far more control over compositions at a much lower cost. If you want a more randomized or more generative composition, try a shift register and quantizer combo along with a keystep to enter root notes that the system can then transpose or riff off of.

As far as stereo goes, I think it’s worth it if you can find the right mixer module that fits your system without taking up a lot of space. The intellijel Mixup is a great little stereo mixer with plenty of inputs and stereo output in 6 hp.

Also, I tell this to everyone: get an Expert Sleepers Disting Mk 4. It’s an amazing module in a very small package. It’s probably the best wav player/sampler/Swiss army knife for the price and keeps getting better and better every update(which is very regularly).

I started with these cases but ..if you have to buy a power supply new I wouldn’t recommend the investment at that point you’re better off getting a 3U rackbrute which gives you 83hp instead of 60-56hp. They’re too small but as with anything you could probably do fit smaller digital clone modules and such and make a complete system. I had a leftover case and I’m currently using it to expand a m32/dfam rig. Would really look in nearness for a compact stereo mix solution.

I can whole-heartedly recommend @bj_gzp who not only was a quick and friendly person to do this business with, spent (as I can only imagine) countless hours navigating through the nine circles of UPS customer service for me when the forces of parcel shipping were stacked against me. Thank you!