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I really appreciate this post. I'm certainly not an expert, but what helped me appreciate how useful utilities are in my rack was the Disting MK4. It's not very expensive and it let me try out so many different basic utilities and realize how important they are. I know folks hate the user interface, but I still think it's a great learning tool, especially for those that start out small.

Hi,
After almost two years in the world of modular synthesizers, I have finally had to accept that utilities are very important, I know that they are modules without very exciting functions, but without them, the rest of the modules do not work.
As I see that in these forums there are many "My First Rack" type questions, it occurred to me to set up a rack where I have collected the utilities that I have needed over time, and that have opened up many possibilities for me personally.
On the one hand I have included some that I personally have, and others adjusted in price, because that is what I think any beginner is looking for.

-Mixers: Matrix. Indispensable. The ST one works for me, it only has 3 channels but it is small in space. An auxiliary mixer, for example, mixing gates, or simply any CV
-Attenuators/Attenuverters/Polarizer. To fade or reverse CV. Useful to act on modules that do not have their own attenuators. I currently have an Intellijell Triatt but the one from Frapp tools will be my next purchase.
-Sequential Switch/Logics/Switched Multiple. Perfect for creating signal paths.
-Sample And Hold. A simple and efficient stepped CV generator.
-Precision Adder and Buffered Mult. To work and modify quantified CVs.
-VCA's, well, I like them if they can be cascade type (clone veils). I like the Nano module, I think it will be my next purchase. Useful to manage volume in audio sources as well as to modulate cv's
-Function generator. I put Rampage because it's the one I have and I'm very happy. But I imagine there are many more Maths fans. The comparator functions, Max, Min, cycle ends, etc. are very useful.
-Envelope generator. I have the Nano module and it works very well for me. A 4XAD with 3 speeds and LFO mode.
-LFO's. Bipolar modulation source. A module that I really like is the OCHD 8xLFO with its expansion.
According to my humble opinion, with this you can handle two voices, two effects modules and two filters.
It would be great if users with more experience than me (there are many here) would correct or add comments to this post.

Sounds lovely, I realy like the click's and ticks and the overal ambiance on your tracks thanx for sharing.

Some playing with the sample drum, pams, nebulæ, QPAS and Rainmaker.

That demo sounds georgeous! I'm a proud owner of a Xaoc Sarajewo and even though is really expensive I would certainly not change it for anything, I'm in love with those little artifacts and individual tap outputs :)

Kind Regards

Hi TumeniKnobs,

Thank you Garfield for the heavy compliments. What you describe sounds like "work" to me. Then I'd probably end up hating music. That, plus Hollywood is full of flakes, freaks and weirdos - I couldn't work with those folks, nor they with me. :-)

-- TumeniKnobs

Touché! Indeed that's the downside of Hollywood ;-)

Cheers, Garfield.

Great transaction and communciation with @delay007. Highly recommended seller.

Hi TumeniKnobs,

I think I have said this before, but I still don't understand why you are not working for the Holywood filming studios. Great music and overthere in Holywood they must be sleeping, not recognising the great music you are making every time again and again! :-)

Which program on your Mac are you using to do the screen recording?

Keep up the good work and thanks a lot for sharing this with us. Kind regards, Garfield.
-- GarfieldModular

Thank you Garfield for the heavy compliments. What you describe sounds like "work" to me. Then I'd probably end up hating music. That, plus Hollywood is full of flakes, freaks and weirdos - I couldn't work with those folks, nor they with me. :-)

The screen capture was done with QuickTime Player. I only noticed it a couple of weeks ago as an option in the File menu. It was super easy.

Cheers!

I'm using an external rackmount compressor (Focusrite Compounder) at the moment, which works pretty well for what I'm doing. I have been tempted many times to get the L-1 Stereo Discrete Microcompressor in my rack though (https://www.modulargrid.net/e/l-1-stereo-discrete-microcompressor). It takes up a good amount of rack space but seems to be the closest thing to a higher end compressor in sound quality and features that you can get without spending a crazy amount of money.
Have fun and good luck.

Checkout the Steady State Fate Autodyne:

hello, I absolutely need one if still available, but I'm in italy. can't find your contact infos.> > hello, I absolutely need one if still available, but I'm in italy. can't find your contact infos.

-- Musicaespressiva2

Hello, sorry currently sold out, expected back in stock Jan-Feb 2024. I will inform on website, twitter, instagram (account is ukyzky).
-- ukyzky

ok, following

I believe you have to have a Unicorn account. It's an annual subscription. Totally worth it to support the site.
Have fun and good luck!

hello, I absolutely need one if still available, but I'm in italy. can't find your contact infos.
-- Musicaespressiva2

Hello, sorry currently sold out, expected back in stock Jan-Feb 2024. I will inform on website, twitter, instagram (account is ukyzky).

hello,
how can i set my modular synth that have 10 rack?
(i tried but i can only create a 4 rack system)

hello, I absolutely need one if still available, but I'm in italy. can't find your contact infos.

Modular or external?

I have often dreamed of the Cwejman VC-FCS Stereo Compressor, I recently discovered the Erica Synths Drum Stereo Compressor, but I was especially ‘impressed’ by the Cosmotronic Messor...

In the meantime, I'm doing without it and using external compression software solutions: including the amazing PSP VintageWarmer2.

Hi Isolatediguana and Wishbonebrewery,

I am using this Shakmat Gemini's Path for quite some time now, never regretted that I bought it. A dual VCA with many extra options on just 6 HP. That's just fantastic! For me 8 HP would have been great too, I don't mind a bit more of panel-space however with the modern trend of going towards narrow panels, this module is just worth the investment.

Good luck with your VCA search and kind regards, Garfield.

Hi TumeniKnobs,

I think I have said this before, but I still don't understand why you are not working for the Holywood filming studios. Great music and overthere in Holywood they must be sleeping, not recognising the great music you are making every time again and again! :-)

Which program on your Mac are you using to do the screen recording?

Keep up the good work and thanks a lot for sharing this with us. Kind regards, Garfield.

Hi Thermal,

Wow, that's great. I wish you a lot of fun with those modules and please keep us informed about your experiences with these two modules.

Have fun (after the waiting time for delivery ;-) ) and kind regards, Garfield.

nice track, reminds me of pink floyd on some aspects !
-- davebrohl

Thank you! I'd be lying if I said I haven't been pretty heavily influenced by David Gilmour. :-).

nice track, reminds me of pink floyd on some aspects !

Pams:

1 - x4

2 - x2

3 - x4 rndm

4 - /2 sin

5 - x4

6 - /1.5 sin (lower pulse)

7 - x4

8 - x4 (main clock source)

I have just ordered the dual filter and dual adsr. The feature set and sound, as far as I can judge from the few available videos online, appear excellent for the price. Guess customs have their hands full at the moment, so I'm expecting to wait 3-4 weeks...

Somehow this turned into a rock tune. It started out as a regular old modular jam - then I pulled out my vintage Kramer to see what would happen... I probably should have called this Rusty Fingers, as evidenced by my guitar playing here. ;-). This track features the Moog Matriarch, assorted Eurorack and my old Kramer StageMaster Deluxe 1. Drums were pieced together with EZ Drummer. Time-keeping courtesy of the JMK ClockStep Multi ( StudioOne is the source syncing to CSM which then syncs Pamela's New Workout). As a side note, the ambient sections at the beginning, middle and end are exactly the same patch as the lead parts for the Matriarch, Rings and the Ensemble Oscillator - just with tempo slowed, envelopes lengthened and effects at full wet. It fascinating to me that you can get such huge changes with just a few knob turns. :-)

Instead of recording the modular all in one go like I usually do, I multi-tracked each part separately and "songified" it by fading tracks in an out in the DAW. I thought it might be interesting to see that, so I tried the screen recording feature of QuickTime and it seemed to work pretty well.

Cheers!

Great transaction with @born_a_kid. Recommended buyer.

be aware of a @nullste. he had a module on sale described as in a perfect condition. i got a module which has many dents and a bended knob. when i told him about this he says this is a perfect module in his books, and becuase we previously agreed on 10euros-bellow-the-price he was asking, he says this is a fair trade. be aware before making any deals with this scammer.
-- smardeli

1. You wrote my name wrong
2. You threatened me
   "i mean we can go other direction, not sure if you want that. you can see in my previous posts what i did to a guy a few years ago who did something similar. i have found you on linkedin, your social networks are all there. i will make your life really ugly, and im not joking. please dont scamm me, and dont force me do to this."
3. I sold module described as "perfect technical condition" unit is indeed in such state, calibrated, fully working
4. You didnt asked for pictures, videos or any additional question beforehand, you failed your due diligence. I was ready to provide all of that, as I did many times for other buyers here.
5. You got discount
6. I offered you return option, even though I dont have to do that, you refused.
7. I have history of dozen deals over few years here, all with positive feedback

Have a nice day, J.
-- nullset

how is a module with bent knobs and dents on a front panel a "perfect condition"??????

oh you were ready to provide pictures? why you didnt mention any of this stuff in then?

never heard of haggling when buying used stuff? this is now your excuse, you gave me a module for 10 euros less so you think its fine?

i'm happy to return you the module as soon as you transfer all the money + extra shipping costs, as a one of the two options I suggested.

and yes i will let everyone know about your actions.

be aware of a @nullste. he had a module on sale described as in a perfect condition. i got a module which has many dents and a bended knob. when i told him about this he says this is a perfect module in his books, and becuase we previously agreed on 10euros-bellow-the-price he was asking, he says this is a fair trade. be aware before making any deals with this scammer.
-- smardeli

1. You wrote my name wrong
2. You threatened me
   "i mean we can go other direction, not sure if you want that. you can see in my previous posts what i did to a guy a few years ago who did something similar. i have found you on linkedin, your social networks are all there. i will make your life really ugly, and im not joking. please dont scamm me, and dont force me do to this."
3. I sold module described as "perfect technical condition" unit is indeed in such state, calibrated, fully working
4. You didnt ask for pictures, videos or any additional question beforehand, you failed your due diligence. I was ready to provide all of that, as I did many times for other buyers here.
5. You got discount
6. I offered you return option, even though I dont have to do that, you refused.
7. I have history of dozen deals over few years here, all with positive feedback

Have a nice day, J.

EDITED Dec 16th 2023, 18:57

be aware of a @nullste. he had a module on sale described as in a perfect condition. i got a module which has many dents and a bended knob. when i told him about this he says this is a perfect module in his books, and becuase we previously agreed on 10euros-bellow-the-price he was asking, he says this is a fair trade. be aware before making any deals with this scammer.

Hello,
I know there's no API and not really the need/time to do one but I wonder if it's possible to get MG modules data? Without scrapping it obviously

For what you'll ask me? I'm planning a small app to helps peoples patching their rack and/or experimenting more. I'd like to generate some rules to evolve, improve or destruct a patch. A synchronization with the actuel physical rack would be awesome so MG is the best way to go. For the user you just have to enter your Rack ID and my app can start generating rules based on their modules. For example "Start patching your rack with Stages as a Sequencer" where "Stages" is a token and could be any module in the rack with "Sequencer" functionality.

So let me know if there's anything you can do that can help me
Best

1-The layout is just dumb. They didn't lay it out like a typical sequencer as a grid. HATE THAT.

-- tatsuchan

Of course they didnt. Its a mixer, ya goof!

The new A-147-5 looks like the perfect addition to my setup. Question for current owners - do the master and delta frequency controls still operate for a channel once an external CV source is plugged in?

Thanks!

When you compare the features and prices, on the one hand with eurorack mixer modules, and on the other hand with external mixers, things quickly become clear... But, especially in 'live' situations, it is difficult (or sporty :) to do without a mixing solution in the modular itself.

For my part, I adopted the following solution: if I want to stay warm, comfortably snuggled up on the modular side, it is a set of modules that will allow me to mix. Mono and/or stereo submixers (Doepfer A-138s and Befaco StMix), then a final hub (Erica Synths Black Stereo Mixer V3), and finally an output module (4ms Listen IO). Some other modules, which can be useful for other tasks, come in reinforcement if necessary (DivKid Mutes, Intellijell Tetrapad and Planar, Vcas, etc.)

If things become more serious, I believe that only an external mixing via a DAW, for example, will allow to work with precision (with Eqs, volume or filter automations, compressions, etc.) In this case, a module like the Expert Sleepers ES-9 (or ES-8) will be useful.

Everyone may freely work in their own way, only the pleasure of playing, and the result (sometimes also ;) count.

I came to the conclusion a while back that there are no perfect mixers out there in Eurorack.
I'm ending up with a hotch-potch of mixers to do the job, but this approach does work as you work on Sub-mixing before hitting a mixer you spent a bit more money on for the main outs.
You can get very well featured outboard mixers second hand on ebay etc for a fraction of the price of Eurorack that you would take up a full row of rack space, though I guess if you are doing a lot of Send-and-returns then you will end up filling rack space with modules to do that for the outboard gear.

Its a tough choice.

I am contemplating using a basic VCO to design my own kicks.

You can do that easily with any basic vco. Plug a decay into V/Oct and another decay for the vca. Trigger them together. Works pretty well! Using two separate decays gives you more flexibility to scale both level and length of the V/Oct decay.

That being said, I can recommend the Can I Kick It module from Skull&Circuits very highly. It has two of these circuits. You can control the V/Oct and VCA decays separately, but also cross-modulate them for more fun. It's a very good sounding modules with a bone piercing kick. There's also a pitch in. While it's not V/Oct, with some scaling I managed to use it as a bass synth

EDITED Dec 16th 2023, 08:05

I got this because for some reason there are no good eurorack mixers with effects sends and pans that are reasonably priced. This one fit exactly what I needed. The build quality is A+. There are 2 issues though.

1-The layout is just dumb. They didn't lay it out like a typical sequencer as a grid. HATE THAT.
2-The mute buttons are cramped in click switches. Not a major thing, but I can't really perform with mutes like that.

Good mixer for what it is otherwise. I'd recommend it just for the sends alone. If you have detailed needs, you're going to have to whip out a grand or simply use external gear.

Currently I don't honestly own any "opinionated" hardware unless you count the Moog Mavis. However, I did buy a Poly Beebo just to use the Marbles port on my samplers/synths, and I also use it a lot in VCV Rack. Despite all the options available with computers and other modules, Marbles is just a nice, simple, organized, yet highly distinct way to randomize stuff gently or intensely, and I'm not sick of it it.

EDITED Dec 15th 2023, 18:08

Would some granular stuff fit this 'category'? I have MISO Cornflakes and yes it does things you would expect, but you can get into some pretty wild territory with it too...probably the same for other granular modules.

-- jb61264

Speaking of Granular, and if I'm understanding renken correctly, I think a good comparison might be Morphagene and ADDAC112. They are both Granular modules but they feel very different. The ADDAC is like a supercomputer, it looks and feels analytical, it has a lot more functions and options for CV control, but that also means it can be harder to use. You can get lost with too many options and too many controls. Morphagene feels more like an "instrument" if that makes any sense. It's like some of the decisions you have to make with the ADDAC112 are already made for you by the Morphagene. It is not as capable but it is easier to "play". The ADDAC is a totally blank slate, the Morphagene carries with it some of the designer's artistic vision. And frankly I love them both.

I have had very little opportunity to play with them but right now the "opinionated" modules that interest me the most are from Bizarre Jezabel.

Smart communication and fine transaction with @dara
Recommended !

The SOMA lyra effects??

some sites say its a 52mm depth, and 39mm here, who's right ?

ㅇMaths: 부드러운 파형을 조각하여, 사운드 원소스로 활용
ㅇMilkyway: " SHIMMER REVERB" 선택

ㅇ사운드 주재료: Math, octave 밸브 강약조절 of Panharmonium

Would some granular stuff fit this 'category'? I have MISO Cornflakes and yes it does things you would expect, but you can get into some pretty wild territory with it too...probably the same for other granular modules.

Not sure how to update these specs since they're manufacturer-approved and MI has ceased operations, but the specs do not match the documentation. The actual specs from the updated documentation page:

Width 12hp (correct)
Depth 25mm (not 10mm!)
+12V 70mA (this is in a previous revision)
-12V 70mA (as above)

The depth one is probably worth noting, I don't think it hurts to assume a higher power draw in general.

I think I would miss all the other awesome sounds that Plaits is capable of if I had to use it for kicks. I have a Kickall and a Tea Kick. I like the great big fat bouncy deep kicks that those guys can do. But I would also like something that is tighter and punchier. 'Course, I'm always looking for something! LOL!

Hi :)
I am contemplating using a basic VCO to design my own kicks.
I am making mainly techno/dub techno/electro.
I am using a Michigan Synth SY0.5 and/or a MI Plaits to design my kicks and other hats/claps/percs.
Yet I am looking into more options for designing my kicks mainly. I am happy with Plaits and SY0.5 (or sometimes samples) for various other perc elements (hats/claps/perc).
I understand that using a basic VCO with various waveforms would also require a mixer (to eventually mix the various waveshapes), some EG (preferably ASR or ADSR) and some VCAs.
- I have a PipSlope Mk2, a Doepfer A-140 (ADSR with a Retrig input which can be interesting for adding some variation as well as an inverted out) and a XAOC Zadar for EGs.
- I also have a basic VCA (Doepfer A130-2)
I would need:
1) A basic mixer: would a Doepfer A-138n (basic 4 inputs) be good enough or a mixer/polarizer (more sound design options) like a Doepfer A-138j would be better?
2) A basic VCO: what should I look into? Bear in mind that this VCO would be used mainly for this purpose. Now I could also use it for other purposes :)
NOTE:
1) I am limited by space (as ever...).
2) I do processing outside my eurorack, therefore compression and saturation are not considered.
Any advice would be gladly appreciated.
Best,
L

-- Loersatz

I'm in almost the same boat as you at the moment...trying to decide which way to go with drums (and especially bass/kick). I also am interested in rolling my own kicks, but use Plaits as well. Unfortunately, no advice to give, but I will certainly keep an eye on this thread to see what wisdom others are able to provide, and which direction you choose after consideration. Best of luck! :)

There is the Shakmat Gemini's Path which I'm considering getting, for keeping things in the rack but giving you full Pump Control!

Hi @Jukeshoe,
Thanks for your feedback, much appreciated.
I have a relatively small setup as well but enough to have fun (9U 84hp).
Here is the link:
I am still unsure which way I am going in terms of drums: I do like the idea of patching my own kick but again, space IS crucial, as you can see :) I am in no rush though and with Plaits and SY0.5, I am good to go.

Hey @Jukeshoe,
Would you mind sharing what type of (basic?) oscillator to choose to design a kick?
I posted something here: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/forum/posts/index/12677
Not sure this is the right place :)
Thank you,
L
-- Loersatz

Happily!

I use a Dixie II+.

That said, while I will often patch my kick from scratch (also use Plaits), one of the things I find most lacking in my current small setup (other than ASDR) is a quick and easy bass drum that doesn't burn maths and 3-4 channels of vca and/or Plaits.

If your setup can support it, though, might be worth it.

So, while capable of getting a good kick sound, maybe not the most elegant solution?

EDITED Dec 14th 2023, 17:39

Hey @Jukeshoe,
Would you mind sharing what type of (basic?) oscillator to choose to design a kick?
I posted something here: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/forum/posts/index/12677
Not sure this is the right place :)
Thank you,
L

Hi :)
I am using various solutions to design my kicks:
1) Michigan Synth SY0.5
2) MI Plaits
3) Sometimes using samples but I am not convinced anymore :)
Nevertheless, I am still pursuing the best solution to design my kicks as ready made ones (macro oscillators or other dedicated kick modules) do not offer as much sound design possibilities.
I have been gathering info from YT and I come to the conclusion that I am more enclined to use a basic VCO with various waveforms, an EG (ADSR or ASR) and a VCA to yeld the results I am aiming at.
Here are a couple of resourceful videos in case it can help:
- The Modular Spaghetti Solutions - Making a Eurorack modular Techno kick drum with an envelope generator. No VCA needed
- Sinus - Tech Talk 004 Make Your Own Kickdrum In Eurorack Pure Analog Deep Full Live Patching
- Thomann - How to create the perfect kick drum | Lets Patch | Thomann
- DJ TechTools - How To Make An Analog Kick with Tobi Neumann
- Voltage Control Lab - Eurorack Modular Kick Drum Tutorial
- Stazma - Analog Kick Drum tutorial: Stazma Modular Tips & Tricks
-- Loersatz

Great links, I haven't seen all these, but the Tobi Neumann video is how I learned to patch a kick. :)