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Hey guys,

I'm becoming more and more interested in modular synthesizers and spending a lot of my time trying setups on this site at the moment. I want to build a system focused on sound design so I mainly look at complex oscillators and function generators that you don't find in the traditionnal desktop synth world. The problem is that I will not be able to buy every module at once, and morover, I read everywhere that the best way to do things is to go step by step, so I'm wondering what would be the best way to proceed. Here are three options I'm condisering and I would love to have your input!

Quick precision, I'm interested in this since I've read that Blawan had designed most of the sounds on his last album/EPs with a few modules. My intention is to have a nice sound design station with randomnes, unusual modulations, happy accidents and techno in mind.

First, buying small modules over time:

With this setup, I would start with a very basic synth voice (something like STO, Pip Slope, Ripples, Shades and 2hp VCA) and add small modules with time. This would be super simple at the beginning and become more complex with each module I hope.

Second, starting with a 0-coast

With this setup, I start with a 0-coast, which would be the initial budget, and then add modules depending on what I need. This seems cool because the 0-coast looks like and already complex synth with a lot of exotic possibilities. And it would also be the cheapest option :)

Third, big modules:

This seems like the most interesting setup from a sound design point of view, but it seems like a "buy everything at once" system as everything seems important for it to work properly (except the sequencer)

What do you think? What would be the most intelligent choice? In what order would you buy modules? Are there missing ones? Or useless ones?

(I have not decided on the specific modules yet, like which oscillators/function generators/filters, the question is more focused on the best method to build a system and what kind of modules I want to place in it, but if you have recommendations on modules I should change or consider instead, please say! :) )

Thanks a lot!

EDITED Aug 8th 2019, 09:47

hi I built this rack with the goal of making a live techno, with the experience I was thinking of adding a distortion 308 or a Dusting mk4 and replace Rings by Honda Piston Mk3.
What do you think?

-- PCHMR

Hey PCHMR!

If live playing is your focus, I might suggest you think twice about the Disting (depending what you’re intentions are). While it’s great to have a Swiss Army knife in a small system, the Disting is the worst interface I’ve ever come across in eurorack, and you will always need a manual or cheat sheet out unless you just have one setting you love and set-and-forget. But if you if do set and forget, you’re more than likely to find a module that does that thing way better than the Disting.

Here’s my pitch for keeping it though: if you’re in a learning/growing phase and you’d like to have it to better understand different functions of modules, and also to have something which will make you realize “oooohhhh, if I had this kind of thing I could do X”, then maybe it’s a good thing to start with.

I say all this because I have one and this has been my journey with it.

I'm not too jazzed about the drum module choices, tbh. While the Tiptop Hats909 module is a good choice, the Jomox just strikes me as pointlessly expensive and a space-hog for what it does. Erica's Bass Drum would be a better choice if you need that level of control over the kicks...it's less than half the cost, takes up 6 hp less. And the Basimilac Erectus Blovio or whatever nonsense it calls itself is, again, expensive for what it does and...sorry, but I'm of the opinion that the panel looks like utter shite and poses issues if you want to use this effectively in a live, low-light venue. Having done plenty of that exact sort of thing back in the 1990s, I can speak from experience when I say that you want clean, clear panel layouts, not something that requires excessive squinting and puzzling over. Lastly, you might find programming easier if you use a multitrack trigger sequencer such as Tiptop's Circadian Rhythms for the drum programming alone, leaving the Hermod to deal with bass/bleep/pads/leads and clocking in general.

One way I would suggest making ample use of a separate trigger sequencer, btw, would be to go with a Delptronics LDB-2e/2x pair. That would then give you much of the TR-808/TR-606/CR-78-type soundset, with the 2x expander allowing some extra control tricks like CV pitch over several of the sounds, etc.

Another point: you should find a way to set this up as a stereo device. Right now, it's not really that, despite the Rosie having a stereo out (of a sort). Drums/percussives are much more effective when spatialized across a stereo field as opposed to all coming out of one point. If this is in an Intellijel 7U cab, you need to implement the stereo I/O in the tile row as well as putting a QuadrATT in there for mixing/attenuation duties. Plus, if the Circadian Rhythms is limiting in capabilities, you can add a Steppy 1U up there for four additional trigger lanes.

Lastly, envelopes. There's no EGs in here, unless you count the Maths (which I don't...it has much better uses here, especially considering the lack of any other modulation sources), and you have plenty of things that NEED envelope control, such as your VCAs, VCFs and...yep...the Rings, which you probably should keep, as it would make a nice resonating cavity-type effect before your Clouds clone, and also do some to help out the stereo imaging as a result.

Main riff is Plaits, modulating the model input to switch between all the melodic and some of the percussion algorithms. The melody and "electric piano" towards the end is Arturia MicroFreak. Klavis Twin Waves does the bassline and Elektron Rytm the drums.

You should definitely check out Strymon AA.1
Works very well with guitar pedals

hi I built this rack with the goal of making a live techno, with the experience I was thinking of adding a distortion 308 or a Dusting mk4 and replace Rings by Honda Piston Mk3.
What do you think?

EDITED Aug 8th 2019, 07:04

My new generative patch to learn the melodic possibilities of Mutable Instruments Marbles and two Plaits.
I love classical nocturnes by Frederic Chopin and Claude Debussy, so this one is inspired by their works.
Hope you will like it.

Bought my first Modules today.

My dealer had some of them in Stock:

Chords V2
ALM Tangle Quartet
2HP Pluck
Xaoc Batumi
Maths
Morphagene
MI Marbles

Also the Ladik arrived today.

So I still need a small mixer in my Rack to mix the Soundsources together. Would the Bastl ABC be good?

We are discussing this a while. It's a good idea and absolutely makes sense but it's also quite some work. Might come at some point...

so with some luck I’ve traded into modular. I’m just looking for opinions on what will be coming in the mail in the next few days. I’m looking to take this into ambient territory and also add some drum modules. As of right now I will just be clocking with sq-1. Thanks in advance for any opinions. https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_973182.jpg

so with some luck I’ve traded into modular. I’m just looking for opinions on what will be coming in the mail in the next few days. I’m looking to take this into ambient territory and also add some drum modules. As of right now I will just be clocking with sq-1. Thanks in advance for any opinions. https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_973182.jpg

Maybe one day this will be a problem but for now I already have a 6U104HP DIY flightcase (260€) and lots of room (because the neutron goes). Main reason I prefer to rack these semimodular synths is for transport and to keep the system as compact and tidy as possible. If one day I end up needing more room I can always put them back in their case.
The expensive part of eurorack is not the case, is the modules. A 6U104hp full of eurorack modules goes for around 4000-5000€, the 270€ spent on the case is just a 5%

As has come up on here numerous times, putting patchables that already have a powered case into another case for which you need power isn't a very economical move. Basically, you're paying to case and power these patchables twice...and given the cost per hp of space in a Eurorack cab with power, that's costing you perhaps a few hundred to do in terms of loss of Eurorack cab space.

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..