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this seems at least respectful
-- pointandclicksystems

it's always wise to remember that respect is something to be earned and not just expected... what you're really saying is that that post was not critical!!

just like it's a good thing to be able to tell the difference between flippant and/or witty banter, opinion, criticism and insult...

especially when you are promoting a product... you can either 'show good grace' or behave like Uli...

NB where I come from, to a large extent, we reserve insults for our friends - it's how we express our love for them!!

for the record - I use a computer a lot of the time & for a myriad of purposes... including, but not limited to: multitrack recording, video synth front end and back end, programming etc

my use of the terms 'modular synthesis' and 'synthesis with modules' is both descriptive and philosophical...

by 'modular synthesis' I mean the use of fundamentally basic building block modules - such as vcos, vcas, vcfs, simple utilities etc that are patched together using patch cables to achieve synthesis - ie "traditional" modular synthesis

by 'synthesis with modules' I mean the use of extremely complex modules that do a lot of these things for you and maybe similar to fixed architecture or semi-modular synthesizers within a module... or in the extreme 'computer as module' ie your modules, ZOIA and Hector

often I describe racks as "less 'modular synthesis' and more 'synthesis with modules'" - in that they comprise of mainly voice and effect modules with modulation and utilities (often the most important/interesting components of a modular synthesizer) as at best afterthoughts...

neither of these are particularly good or bad, just different, nor are they to be taken as binary - there is a wide spectrum between them and to a large extent from what I can see, most modular "users" also fall somewhere between the 2 - I certainly do...

a lot of people get into modular as a way of avoiding computer screens (I didm't) and I don't think these extreme 'computer in a module' modules really appeal to them, and in terms of interface design... well let's just say I think vcv rack is 1000 times better, despite the drawback of the interface - mouse = single parameter at a time change - midi controller = better, but still llimited...

they seem to me to be for people who want a modular synthesizer, but don't really like modular synthesizers... or at least the usage paradigm - at it's best - knob per function/function per knob, patch programmability (with actual physical patch cables etc

your module is in lots of ways (or at least in my impressions) much better, although, at least in my opinion, it's a bit redundant...

as a module with a screen:
in a studio: not only does it take up valuable rack space (& power i suspect), but it's doing something that's often already there - the "studio" computer - which only needs an interface (I use an es8/es6 combo to connect to my MacBook Pro), which (given the pre-existing MBP) takes up less rack space and costs less... and is just as, if not more, useful - I can carry my MBP to somewhere else and use it for other prurposes...

as a portable: it takes up valuable rack space (& power) and probably adds more weight - my MBP is about 1.2kg... but and this is the only downside - I'd have to take my MBP and some cables etc with me

as a module without a screen:
in practice I suspect (& it's only a suspicion, I might be wrong) your module is near unusable without a screen... so:
in a studio: the user needs to add a screen, taking up effectively the same space as an external computer, in a lot of cases...

as a portable: the user would have to transport an external screen in able to see what's going on... and a screen is far more cumbersome and awkward to transport than a laptop...

as such whilst I truely think that your module (and ZOIA & Hector) are all really clever devices (& much kudos for you and their creators for coming up with them), I also think they are 'awful' modules and I wouldn't want them in my rack... in exactly the same way I appreciate that there are some clever theists and neo-liberals, but I think they have awful, misguided opinions and wouldn't want them in my house...

I'm sure there are many, many people who think differently... and that's great - as always posts express my opinions and are not intended to cause offence (remember in English: offence can only be taken and not given!)

I really hope you sell loads (same goes for ZOIA and Hector) - I wish you the greatest of successes in your endeavours...

a friendly bit of advice: try to stop taking yourself so seriously & learn to take other people's opinions and criticism for what they are... opinions and criticisms.. NOT insults... it's not binary LOVE/HATE (& I know social media and hyperbole are often to blame for this binary type of thinking) but there are almost always places in between - LOVE/LIKE/COULDN'T GIVE A DAMN/DISLIKE/HATE - and all places in between all of those...

I'm all for continuing this as a friendly, thoughtful and intelligent debate about the philosophy of 'modular synthesis' v ' synthesis with modules' and the usefulness/UI etc but maybe it should be somewhere else???

EDITED Sep 7th 2023, 15:36

Hello everyone,

I'm a newbie looking to buy my first modular rig. My emphasis is less on the standard VCO, VCF, VCA type stuff and more along the lines of found sound, experimental, textural and generative ideas. Despite my lack of knowledge on all things modular, I've put together what I consider to be a comprehensive setup on Modulargrid,net, aptly named 'I have no idea what I'm doing.'

You can see it here and give me feedback on it if you wish:

It features many popular modules from well-known manufacturers that I've come across in my research. I included these modules because they are widely used, reviewed, and have abundant learning resources on YouTube and the like. I have to start somewhere! I've also been experimenting with VCV Rack quite a bit, which heavily emphasises Mutable Instruments modules, so I've added some MI clones to my list since the originals are scarce, expensive and I have no idea what condition they might be in if I buy and ship them here. There is also no prominent modular supplier in the country I live in (South Africa), so I will have to import everything and would prefer to do so from one supplier like a Perfect Circuit or Sweetwater who I’ve used before (reputability, after sales, returns, shipping costs, import tax, etc.)

So, while I'd love to go for the full 3-row setup (who wouldn't), everything I've read suggests that it might be overwhelming. Despite wanting all those shiny modules now, I fully agree. As such I'm currently considering the Make Noise Tape and Microsound Machine, which complements my existing gear, including synths, controllers, mics, and preamps. This unit seems more manageable, interesting, powerful and includes all the modules from my larger rack, making it ideal for creating unique found sound textures and serving multiple purposes, now and in the future (hopefully). I have a long history of incorporating unconventional sounds into my music, ranging from home-made drum kits to mangled family chatter to delightful guinea pig squeals, so I think it will suit my style. Lastly, I'm also contemplating expanding it with a Tempi module later for enhanced clocking and modulation options.

Now, I have a few questions:

1. Despite having been in audio production and synths for 20+ years, how hard is this system and modules to learn?
2. Is this system a good starting point for a modular noob and my objectives?
3. Can I easily sync Tempi with my DAW (Cubase) to start/stop my modular rig with my arrangement?
4. Is it possible to reset the units clock when starting, stopping and resetting the playhead position?
5. Can this rig somehow accept other types of MIDI, like notes from my NI S88 keyboard? What options are available or what additional equipment is needed to do this?
6. Are there real risks of damaging any unit/s through improper patching (e.g., outputs into outputs)?

I can’t think of any other questions right now, but I'm sure more will come up. If you've read this far, thanks for indulging me.

Any feedback welcome!

Darclinc

EDITED Sep 7th 2023, 15:03

still learning and playing...
I can create some nice sounds and sequences experimenting all the modules togheter

Plaits is nice for the sounds and also wavetable add more depth when lowering the octave

Math is used as controller of some effect , it is a complicated LFO in my hands.

Mother 32 is so good and clean, maybe because was the first one in my hands and now I can control it better.

still thinking what module to add at my rack...
I like to play ambient and soundscapes, no drums for the moment...
Generative is also a direction

what you suggest?

This unit is running at some pretty high frequencies. How does EMI from this module affect neighboring modules? I'm guessing all those fans means this thing generates a lot of heat. Wouldn't the case you put it in need to be vented? I didn't see a mention of that in the description.
I'm one of the recent converts to using an external device for the final mix. So now I need to see a good reason to put something in a eurorack case that can be done just as well outside. What advantage does this unit have over just getting a laptop, or even an MPC One (which I currently own) that is a DAW with sampler, other instruments, has MIDI and 8 configurable CV outputs but is less than half the price?
-- PragmaticusMax

there is ventilation, forced air and ducting that removes hot air directly to the front of the panel. lattepanda sigma doesnt get super hot, their product page has plenty of info on this subject. emi has not been an issue. my practical modules are smaller at 14hp, 26hp and 48hp, . the advantage to having a DAW in the case should be obvious but 'in case' (nyuk nyuk) its not, the space taken is diminished, it looks cool, can be a meta module and fulfill a myriad of roles while not focussing on anything but music, meaning this doesnt have to.perform other tasks like browsing or your homework assinment. it keeps your focus in the rack, requires no spaghetti. the advantages should be obvious. they are to me at least. but i like the dick tracy style.

if youre concerned about price... all i can say is i know its expensive. im also not akai or korg or yamaha or roland. your mpc does not run reaper or ableton live etc. is it worth it to you? only you can answer that. my other modules are much cheaper and do much of the same things, but lack the DSP power. even my smallest module 'PAC BOT 1' can do a lot and its way cheaper. i actually love using it almost as much as my big one. i do use PAC BOT 2 the most since it has the basics, some decent DSP power and is a moderate size. but who am i kidding, i love to drive the lamborghini that i made so i cant say its anything but a pleasure to pile on the plugins and integrate it with the rest of my hardware at the same time. thats just my preference.

EDITED Sep 9th 2023, 02:47

Hi,
Respecting the freedom of each person to buy/use what they want in the way they want, I personally do not see it as very wise to spend 84hp to include the PC in a Eurorack case...
It is as if we adapted the speakers to the eurorack format, occupying 12Ux64hp.
If anyone wants to do it...ok. go ahead with it.
There is already enough discussion about whether to include the main mixer in the rack or use an external mixing console...not to mention effects modules vs pedals...sequencers...etc...
BR
-- ferranadsr

its a luxury to have this in the case. my biggest module is more of an attention getter and is about as practical as a lamborghini, yet people buy those.

Peace!

‘Aimer est le grand point, qu’importe la maîtresse ?
Qu’importe le flacon, pourvu qu’on ait l’ivresse ?’
(Alfred de Musset - La Coupe et les Lèvres - 1831).

Which can be approximately translated by:
‘To love is the great point, what does the mistress matter?
Does the bottle matter, if we can achieve drunkenness?’

The only thing that matters is the pleasure we can experience when listening to music.
Whatever the instrument, as long as it remains that tool at the service of musicians and audiences.

(That said, sometimes, some mixtures... well, you know... ;)
-- Sweelinck

well thank you. this seems at least respectful

This unit is running at some pretty high frequencies. How does EMI from this module affect neighboring modules? I'm guessing all those fans means this thing generates a lot of heat. Wouldn't the case you put it in need to be vented? I didn't see a mention of that in the description.
I'm one of the recent converts to using an external device for the final mix. So now I need to see a good reason to put something in a eurorack case that can be done just as well outside. What advantage does this unit have over just getting a laptop, or even an MPC One (which I currently own) that is a DAW with sampler, other instruments, has MIDI and 8 configurable CV outputs but is less than half the price?

pay for a unicorn account and it's there...

the only thing that's missing is that it doesn't reflect duplicates... for example if you have 3 xpo, or whatever module, it only shows 1

Hi,
Respecting the freedom of each person to buy/use what they want in the way they want, I personally do not see it as very wise to spend 84hp to include the PC in a Eurorack case...
It is as if we adapted the speakers to the eurorack format, occupying 12Ux64hp.
If anyone wants to do it...ok. go ahead with it.
There is already enough discussion about whether to include the main mixer in the rack or use an external mixing console...not to mention effects modules vs pedals...sequencers...etc...
BR

Hi all!

My new solo LP 'Etudes' composed with eurorack modular is ready!
It will out on amazing US label Whited Sepulchre Records in November on vinyl and digital!

You can already listen first single and make a pre-order here: https://yalivec.bandcamp.com/album/etudes

Peace!

‘Aimer est le grand point, qu’importe la maîtresse ?
Qu’importe le flacon, pourvu qu’on ait l’ivresse ?’
(Alfred de Musset - La Coupe et les Lèvres - 1831).

Which can be approximately translated by:
‘To love is the great point, what does the mistress matter?
Does the bottle matter, if we can achieve drunkenness?’

The only thing that matters is the pleasure we can experience when listening to music.
Whatever the instrument, as long as it remains that tool at the service of musicians and audiences.

(That said, sometimes, some mixtures... well, you know... ;)

@pointandclicksystems At least some concede us some decency by not removing your post. I strongly suggest you to invest the few dimes you'll make with sales with a professional psychotherapy help. You're putting in my mouth words and intentions which are just inside your little world. From the show you're giving here to your potential clients, I'm afraid you won't last long, even if you might have good some product ideas.

I recently released a matrix mixer; not as small as some of the others you mention, I'm afraid, though it does have built in passive mults on all ports which should help save some routing space, or splitters at least.
happy-hardware.com

EDITED Sep 12th 2023, 09:12

Recession?
-- macio

been a long time since the last one.> > Just saw that the Noise Engineering Basimilus Iteritas Alter is being discontinued. I thought, ok, maybe

an upgrade coming, but who knows, maybe the market is flooded and they are cutting their losses.
-- halbroome

No, I think the processor/CPU thingie that series is built on is being discontinued so they won't be able to make them anymore. I'm sure they have cool new stuff in the pipeline

-- farkas

They need a better CPU, things just break apart and sound thin when they are modulated by too many sources.

EDITED Sep 7th 2023, 02:58

Recession?
-- macio

been a long time since the last one.

It would be great to be able to have a list/bank of modules we own for configuring cases.
Perhaps we can and I'm just missing it?
Thanks!!!

@pointandclicksystems - it's an opinion... not an insult...

they're just not in the spirit of 'modular synthesis'... they're 'synthesis with modules' to the extreme...

I actually think they're very clever, same as your module, well done for putting a full blown computer behind a panel!

but good luck to you... I hope you (and they) sell loads... just not to me...

-- JimHowell1970

@pointandclicksystems The post you wrote and then erased as an "answer" to my question does classify you. Good luck with your hobby.
-- TRAME

right. what do you think these modules are good for? do you think they do only one thing? can you make an open ended module your own without needing it to be so defined? can you define it or do you need it to define you? spirit of a modular synth? says who? yeah thank you for the big ups. all synthesists are not doing it the way you suggest. would you ever use a computer to record a performance or stream a performance or score video or make a sample collection or prepare and SCSI transfer samples to your vintage EMU sampler or use software for a lightshow you control with a euro LFO or a euro sequencer or do your taxes or automate your home security or watch star wars or make up for hundreds worth of utility modules or record cv or mix live synths or apply dynamics processes without breaking the bank or play wavetables without the thin nasal tone quality most euro wavetable modules have or convert mm to inches or kg to pounds or fuck it, check your email or chat on your beloved discord group about watever is so important to you? no? well good for you! i dont hate you for doing it wrong. i love myself for making these super cool tools that people with common sense dont simply dismiss. the world is full of musicians and music that isnt the style youre making, and there should be a bridge to unite their methods and here it is. will you adapt to the times? no? ah well theres a name for that... i cant think of it right now. anyway, these modules i make work very well for a multitude of needs that every musician is likely to face. keep an open mind maybe? you might see the worth at some point. but if you dont, too bad so sad, go on with ya bad self and have it your way at burger king. oh and soon there will be one of my modules without a screen so you can look like youre DAWless and still have the massive advantage a computer provides. oh but maybe you are not aware of what i speak of. its ok, you do you. you wont catch me insulting you or asking snide moot questions about your modules. dont be afraid that ill take buyers away from your products, im here to co-exist. arent you all about co-existing? no? well to be honest i cant say you have demonstrated that here in this thread. think before you post your passive aggressive questions. im here ready for inspection and someone will like what i offer, as i do. i did this for me first and foremost. if you like it, welcome! welcome to my studio! if you hate it then haters gonna hate. i dont really care. ill still be here doing me.

EDITED Sep 7th 2023, 02:40

Lot's of really good advice here. I've been going at the generative stuff for 3+ years now and other than the general rule of creating modulation and ways to trigger events from it (comparators) IMO the real key lies in the ability to 'tune' the randomness - i.e. lots and lots of attenuation + offset.

Looking at your rack so far, I'd say it really needs random sources and ways to tune it.

For modules, a few more recommendations:
Caudal from Vult. Soon to be released in physical form (it's a module in VCV rack currently). It will provide two rows four smooth randon voltage outputs. Each row can be clocked to give stepped random output (S/H) and all in 1oHP.

S/H: RND STEP from SSF/Divkid. 3 cascading S/Hs but gives uni and bi-polar outputs - uni so you can use it better for sound sculpting.

Zadar from Xaoc. Says it's an envelope generator but it's not - it's an LFO machine that's particularly good for generative in that you can loop them and CV one paramter for each of the 4 LFOs (2 if you get the 3HP expander and totally worth it).

AxB+C from Befaco. My favorite module for attentuation and offset. Also a ring mod. The dials just make it really easy for me - especially for dialing in LFOs or smooth random that then go on to feed into a function generator for Krell patches. I have a Caudal protype with a Befaco on either side for this very purpose :)

@JimHowell1970
You are absolutely right. That’s why, for example, I plugged the ADDAC207 and the Fold 6 on my row 3, while they are physically screwed (and therefore seem installed) on row 4 in my second RackBrute. See the link.

We are all here to share and remember each other the right practices :)

EDITED Sep 6th 2023, 21:02

@pointandclicksystems The post you wrote and then erased as an "answer" to my question does classify you. Good luck with your hobby.

@pointandclicksystems - it's an opinion... not an insult...

they're just not in the spirit of 'modular synthesis'... they're 'synthesis with modules' to the extreme...

I actually think they're very clever, same as your module, well done for putting a full blown computer behind a panel!

but good luck to you... I hope you (and they) sell loads... just not to me...

well it's kind of the same as those awful - ZOIA and Hector 'modules', isn't it...

I don't understand anyone wanting one of those either...

-- JimHowell1970

yeah so what did emperess effects say when you insulted his module?

i know several people who own his stuff.

Lots of interesting thoughts and good suggestions from @HGsynth.

But be careful, you should not ideally exceed 640mA on +12V and on -12V (per each row) in a RackBrute 6U, that is to say 80% of the 800mA available (for +12V and the same for -12V, there are four separate circuits of 800mA in two rows): and this in order to leave enough headroom for voltage peaks!
However the data sheet of the rack proposed here (in MG) indicates 743mA on the row2 (for +12V), which would be very risky...

Also, you only have 12 slots in the row2, and I see here 13 modules.
-- Sweelinck

physical location does not necessarilly need to reflect where power is plugged in... longer power cables are available (& easily made)

well it's kind of the same as those awful - ZOIA and Hector 'modules', isn't it...

I don't understand anyone wanting one of those either...

hmm - I have a couple of the smaller 10hp matrix mixers... tbh I'd rather have bigger ones... or at least a bigger one - completely due to ergonomics...

so maybe the problem is not that the matrix mixers are too big, it' s that the case is too small ... maybe it's time for another case!

Ochd, Ikarie: two great choices.
I listened to your generative piece. It seems you were moving quickly in the right direction.
Perfect!

why would anyone need this in his eurorack setup?
-- TRAME

need? did i read that correctly?

People shy away from CVilization because it looks like it might be difficult to program, but really that couldn't be farther from the truth IMO...but if you want something smallish HP that is a great matrix mixer but can do much more as well, its worth a look for sure: https://u-he.com/products/cvilization/

Hi guys!

After your feedback I haved added OCHD and Ikarie to my rack. Both are graet! Interested in the result? Enjoy!

Cheers, Ben

Hi,

I have got 3 negative reviews, all from users I have never transacted with, just because I was on vacation and did not reply in time. One got even to a point of harrasment and verbal violence because I promised him I would send him the Paypal, although decided to blovk him cause he was abusive. The other one, I was on vacation and didnt reply in time... LoL

My question is why I have to have negative reviews from people I never even agreed to receive money or made a final deal with, because also I dont want to transact with stressful and abusive people.

Thanks

why would anyone need this in his eurorack setup?

Thanks for embedding the video, Sweelinck! And for your kind comment!

If I may:

Very interesting, congratulations!

This video explores some possibilities for using Eurorack (in particular the Disting EX) as a polyphonic sound engine for your standard digital piano – and to add some effects from Mutable Instruments’ Beads without taking your fingers off the keyboard.
Allemande, from J. S. Bach's French Suite No. 4 in E-flat, BWV 815. Further patch notes in the video:
https://youtu.be/HZhtNBh71Sc

Reading over all your comments, i defo know i need more VCAs so 1st is another quad VCA (probably another Quad VCAfrom intellijel) and ive also ordered MOSKWA ii and selling the cellz. I watched a few vids on Monorail tech talk on youtube for some advice on utiliti mods and was thinking of the malstrom Arkan module along with a shakmat medusa module.

As for comupter integration ive never thought of it. I did plan on buying an es9 casue thhey appear in a ton of online videos and tutorials.

Thanks again guys for all the suggestions and help very much appreiceated

Recently I bought https://www.modulargrid.net/e/st-modular-matrico. Only 3 channels but sum output and polarizer switches

I've got the AI008 and I love it - fitted it with full sized pots and Bastl style knobs from Thonk

A 7mm hand reamer like this is perfect for making the panel holes slightly larger https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Straight-Groove-Reamer-Alloy-Tolerance/dp/B08JGM36J3?th=1

Sounds VERY good :)
80 mA +12V
40 mA -12V
0 mA 5V

AI008 Eurorack Matrix Mixer looks like a good solution...
https://www.modulargrid.net/e/ai-synthesis-ai008-eurorack-matrix-mixer

I consider to go for a matrix mixer.
I want to get two, 1. for mixing cvs and 2. for mixing audio to fx modules.

Wyrd from Nordular (10 hp) has caught my attention for now, because I doesn't have much rackspace left.

The bear modules matrix mixer is also an option. I get 2 for the price of 1 Wyrd, but its much more space.

Some other ideas for a good (small hp) matrix mixer?

EDITED Sep 5th 2023, 14:03

Patch a random from Pams (or an LFO from Maths) into Plaits Model input while triggering Plaits at a rythmic interval

+1 on utilities to get more out of this rack. Some suggestions below

Adding some random always makes things more interesting. MI Marbles, SSF Ultra Random or Frap Tools Sapel are just a few of the best at random. A sequencer like Mimetic Digitales that can be randomized would be a great source to add stepped modulation and interest to all the voices

There are some great multi-fuction modules that encourage creative patching. Maths is one, but Muxlicer, Stages and Tides also pack a bunch of different capabilities into a single module

If you're looking to work more 'in-the-box' Expert Sleepers ES9 audio interface is awesome for building a hybrid system with VCV rack. VCV alone will open a world of possibilities. Bonus ES9 feature is the MPC can use it to expand it's audio I/O and sample directly from the modular (depending upon the MPC firmware)

Lots of little utilities add flavour, consider adding things like a sample & hold, clock multiplier/divider, sequential switch and CV attenuation/inversion/mixing

Sorry if that's TMI
-- adamj

not at all.... thanks for the insight!

this is a 'known' feature of some electrical items... including modules... it's called 'inrush'

if it's only when plugged into certain places, I'd move it - possibly some busboards have limits...

-- JimHowell1970

Its a phenomena where a capacitor with very low ESR is demanding very high current (becaus of the super low resistance) during startup and therefore the PSU is driven into saturation. That will probably cause trouble initializing digital modules... So yes, moving it would be a good idea... especially considering the lifespan of your PSU

I'll second this. Asking which tool they use for the jack nuts and got talked to like a complete moron. Zero help, rude condescending replies. There are nice ways of saying no or not being able to help out a customer....

Ah so that's why they were awful and condescending when i asked support about PNW's expander pinout recently...
-- justarandomgeek

Cheers for all the info guys....
As you mentioned very sound heavy but im selling a few modules (TT filter, The Evelopes and Cellz) and got a couple on order intellijel quadrax and another quad VCA. Ill read trough te bulk of the comment tonigt and have check on some suggestions.

thanks again guys

as much as I love my eurorack gear, for serious stuff in limited time, I fire up my Virus TI2 keyboard synth that has incredible sound and workflow. Easy to run 16 multi timbral polyphonic dozens of voices with many types of synthesis models from wave table to granular and tons of filter types and effects. Yes, it is digital but does polyphony well. I also love to jam on my Oberheim OB X8 if I want analog polyphony at simple keyboard level. Met a pro level pianist who wants me to teach her how to use Nord piano synthesizers and while I am not a keys player I do know synthesis.

The power thing is something you have to be aware of even with Mantis cases. The +12v power supply provides 3A, but split into three zones of 1A each. It's small enough space-wise, though, that it would take some really beefy modules to hit the max on any one zone.
-- PragmaticusMax

my big problem with the mantis is the -12v... but I am using it for video...

this happens a lot on all sizes of cases... a lot of small cases are underpowered...

the doepfer 9u cases are often underpwered... they have the same psu as the 6u (which the psu is fine for).. & the 9u are fine if you are using predominantly doepfer (or similar) analog modules, but start putting in small digital ones and...

Third, just a quick observation: you have a lot of oscillators and filters and not too much else, so it's not really a surprise that your patching is feeling repetative. You have many impressive sound sources (more than you may realize, with self-patching), but not much to play with them and manipulate them. I suppose you have the computer at your disposal (VCV rack has some great free modules), but I'm not seeing the midi 0r other interfaces to connect? In any case, you should consider a few additions (everyone likes buying more gear, right?). Your patching options open up exponentially as you get more modules and patchpoints.

this!!!

Consider for example, VCAs. You have the Quad VCA, which is a great module, but doesn't even give you enough channels for the voices you already have, and it certainly doesn't give you enough channels to play around with, such as modulating an LFO with another LFO to come up with more interesting cv. A Veils clone or Doepfer's quad mixer vca might be of more value than you realize.

get the veils clone... a much more versatile vca than the doepfer - not that the doepfer is not good, just less versatile...

I also always advocate for more modulation options, like Ochd or Batumi, so you can have motion. Finally, you're missing the essential architecture, utilities. There's been a few good analogies floating around the comments about utilities, but in the end, the unsung utilities are what enable you to actually use the big-ticket modules like VCOs.

an extra modulation source would be good - depending on how you are using Pams... if you are using that a lot for modulatiojn at the moment I'd prioritise a matrix mixer... probably less. expensive than a worthwhile an inexpensive modulation source

You might want to consider a mutli-utility module, such as a Disting EX or uOrnament and Crime, which gives you a taste of a lot of types of utility modules so you can figure out what's useful (again, VCV rack gives you plenty for free if you're already using a computer, but you need to be able to interact with it). For example, until you play with a clock divider, how would you know you can use it as a sub-osc? Or a that comparator can be amazing for taking LFOs and making rhythms, or just how fun switches can be?

I'd be more towards getting some basic utility modules - you can research more interestin things later... although something to interface with vcv rack is a great idea - es9 is probably best of breed - unless you already have a decent audio interface with ADAT I/O

In my mind, it's the ability to access these architectural circuits that makes modular unique. Plenty of standalone synths give you deep rawring sounds and luscious pads, but how many of them can create modulation and movement over time that can be controlled by other parameters? I'd say watch some videos about the modules you already have (look up that MATHS manual!) and about different utilities, and you'll get a good sense of where to go next with your patching.

architectural circuits ? more like the plumbing - no point in building a house (or any building) without the making sure the plumbing is properly there...

Edited: Just saw the link has already been posted. Ignore point 1.
-- HGsynth

classic cross posting!

First off, if you copy and past the link to the rack, we'll get to look at the rack itself and not a jpg, which really isn't useful.

Second, other folks can give you specific recommendations to patch the sounds you're looking for, but don't forget about self-patching (looking at you MATHS and QPAS). In fact, look up the MATHS Illustrated manual for a ton of patching examples. Also, many module manuals provide patching ideas; it may be worth menu-diving and watching some videos.

Third, just a quick observation: you have a lot of oscillators and filters and not too much else, so it's not really a surprise that your patching is feeling repetative. You have many impressive sound sources (more than you may realize, with self-patching), but not much to play with them and manipulate them. I suppose you have the computer at your disposal (VCV rack has some great free modules), but I'm not seeing the midi 0r other interfaces to connect? In any case, you should consider a few additions (everyone likes buying more gear, right?). Your patching options open up exponentially as you get more modules and patchpoints.

Consider for example, VCAs. You have the Quad VCA, which is a great module, but doesn't even give you enough channels for the voices you already have, and it certainly doesn't give you enough channels to play around with, such as modulating an LFO with another LFO to come up with more interesting cv. A Veils clone or Doepfer's quad mixer vca might be of more value than you realize.

I also always advocate for more modulation options, like Ochd or Batumi, so you can have motion. Finally, you're missing the essential architecture, utilities. There's been a few good analogies floating around the comments about utilities, but in the end, the unsung utilities are what enable you to actually use the big-ticket modules like VCOs. You might want to consider a mutli-utility module, such as a Disting EX or uOrnament and Crime, which gives you a taste of a lot of types of utility modules so you can figure out what's useful (again, VCV rack gives you plenty for free if you're already using a computer, but you need to be able to interact with it). For example, until you play with a clock divider, how would you know you can use it as a sub-osc? Or a that comparator can be amazing for taking LFOs and making rhythms, or just how fun switches can be?

In my mind, it's the ability to access these architectural circuits that makes modular unique. Plenty of standalone synths give you deep rawring sounds and luscious pads, but how many of them can create modulation and movement over time that can be controlled by other parameters? I'd say watch some videos about the modules you already have (look up that MATHS manual!) and about different utilities, and you'll get a good sense of where to go next with your patching.

Edited: Just saw the link has already been posted. Ignore point 1.

EDITED Sep 4th 2023, 15:19

actual link - cos jpgs are crap!!!

well I'd want more utilities - a matrix mixer would be a good start - and probably some attenuators....

seems far too sound source heavy... see my signature for hints...

patch ideas - work your way through the 'maths illustrated supplement', use the fx directly after the sound source and before filtering...

write a python script on that MBP - to generate random patches - if you search there's an example one floating about online... if you can read and do basic maths it'll be easy to adapt for your rack...

write some selection tables on a pad and use dice to generate patches...

mix outputs of sound sources, before doing anything else...

tune your sound sources to different intervals...

mix & modulate your modulation!

hope this helps!

EDITED Sep 4th 2023, 15:23