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New product today. I needed another studio rack for my Eurorack modules, so grabbed a Behringer one from Sweetwater.

A fine unit, good price. Little skeptical on their power claims, but it’ll support the width it is. And fits in the studio rack well.

Nice work there :) Nice groove.

Several observations...first up, put the Lifeforms SV-1 back in its case. This seems to be a common issue when people get patchables that can be put into a Eurorack cab. Well, just because you CAN do something doesn't mean you SHOULD. Right now, that one "module" (which it's not...it's actually a patchable standalone synth) is taking up 48 hp that modules which DON'T have power or housing should be in.

Second...you can guess where this is going...VCAs!!!! Sure, there's a Tangle Quartet there...but you need to remember that it's populated with linear VCAs. For audio, as a rule you want exponential VCAs, as our sense of hearing perceives apparent loudness on an exponential (the Decibel curve) curve. Keep the TQ...you'll want it as a dedicated modulation VCA for controlling modulation amplitudes. But for the AUDIO...get a Veils or something rather like it.

Third: submixers. This is another "utility" that is pretty necessary. Or they would be, but there's not enough...

Fourth: modulation sources. This is something that even the SV-1 is lacking in. Aside of it, there's no LFOs here, only one (ADSR) EG, and so on when you take the SV-1 out of the equation. And by using submixing specifically for modulation (see these examples: Tiptop MISO, Frap's 321, and the like), you can take a handful of mod sources and "create more". Add VCAs to this, and then you've got a serious modulation section.

Lastly, the SOMA Lyra-8 delay is neat, to be sure...but it's also pretty huge, and in a small build like this one, it's critical that you condense things down so that you can have an ample complement of functions. If you can do the same sort of thing in 10 or 12 hp, that's more advisable, since you can probably emulate the sound of the Lyra-8 delay by other means.

Now, one thing that IS right in here is the use of the Malekko sequencing system. Sure, it also takes up a chunk of room...but it's justified here due to the tons of functions that the Voltage Block and Varigate 4+ bring to the table. One thing I'd suggest, then, would be to extend the Malekko "environment" so that you can have it "memorize" your critical settings. For example, they've got the solution for your LFO shortage in their Quad LFO...which ALSO connects to the Varigate 4+ to give you four "hot" memories for LFO behavior. Frankly, I'd also suggest adding the Varigate 8+; when you look here: https://malekkoheavyindustry.com/product/varigate-8/ you can see how potent that ecosystem is.

Sure, but veils can do both linear and exponential.
-- Cormallen

And a whole lot of response curves in between. This is one thing I like about using the 1/2-Veils clones...if you want to mess with the way the VCA is handling modulation levels, it's just a tweak away. Plus you'd be surprised at how quickly you'll go through a Veils-worth's of VCAs for just audio duties alone.

Looks like the Korg Radias.

Groovy jam! What is the synth with the large white dial on the upper right corner of the video?

Good info, I’ll read it again when I’m not on my phone. It’s been years since I’ve had an MPC3000 so I am a bit familiar with MPC’s. I’ll take a look at that route.

Edit- I will also look into the multitrack recorders. I think that would be easier for me. I am trying to keep some of my options narrow otherwise I go down a deep expensive wormhole. Perhaps an MPC isn’t the best idea especially if I don’t currently want to use it for anything else.

Any idea on a good module to get me from the rack there?

EDITED Jan 13th 2022, 18:18

Well, let's tackle some of your list... there's a lot to cover and I don't think it's going to be a one-brief-post reply.

Let's talk about recording. Well, that's an entire thing. Any two-track recorder should work if you're just looking to record your stereo mix as-is. But if you're looking to track individual parts and mix later, it'll be a mash up of the number of parts versus the number of inputs you have in your recorder. If you have more parts than inputs, you might have to sync your modular gear with your recorder and make a few passes to get every isolated part.

Speaking of recorders, if recording to Ableton is out, then you could try the Akai MPC Live series with CV outputs. Maybe it's too close to a DAW for your liking. Else you can go with a straight multitrack recorder from Zoom, Tascam, Sound Devices. I have my eye on the Cymatic Audio uTrack24 recorder. The price seems fantastic (under $600US).

If you must synchronize, that's usually done via MIDI, so you'd need something like a Pam's New Workout and the MIDI break-out expander for it and a recorder that can sync.

Cheers!

More VCA mode, I wil definitely look into when I get more familiar with their use, the Tangle Quartet is on the way in the post.

EDITED Jan 13th 2022, 15:56

Hey sorry I lost original post trying to edit it.
See the OP here.

Hi there, this is my current modular setup. Would love to hear someone elses thoughts, what I could be missing, could have done differently, better or any cool patch ideas that someone may think of with a setup. your feedback is very welcome.

I will say I put together the setup with as much research as I could do without getting excited and adding to the list of must have modules. But I know with the modular world it seems there can always be more precaution. So far I am pretty happy with this unit.

EDITED Jan 13th 2022, 15:55

Very nice! The only thing I think you'll find your going to need is more VCA mods. Otherwise, live the dream with this!

I recently had my case built (9U 128hp) and installed power but I’ve been reading on modular stuff for a couple years and just recently started watching a lot more videos and trying to retain what I’ve been ingesting.

My immediate goal is to become familiar with the pieces of equipment I currently have in my rack before I start going crazy buying cool new toys. Beyond anything else I say in this post I know this is priority#1.

My long term goal is to produce music/sounds for myself. Performing live is not my goal, sitting in my office tweaking knobs is. If I had to explain what kind of sonic experience I want to produce I’d have to say a mashup of Helene Vogelsinger and Skinny Puppy. Sounds odd I know but I’m a believer of if you can think it up it’s only a matter of time before you can do it.

My immediate issues are ins/outs. I got into modular to get away from the computer. I lose all creativity sitting at a computer. I want a module or piece of equipment that I can send an audio source (ambient noise, nature sounds, etc) to put behind/between/in front of the modular sounds.

I would also like outs that have headphones, stereo outs, some way to connect to a pair of speakers.

Finally, I need suggestions on how to record/mix it all without using a computer. I’ve had Ableton but I’m really looking to not make this a computer project.

I just have the basics right now but I know I need a good in/out. Any ideas?

EDITED Jan 13th 2022, 15:11

Thanks a lot guys :)

Sure, but veils can do both linear and exponential.

Hi Mudi,

Okay great, thanks a lot for coming back to me about this. I look forward seeing that promised video then :-)

Kind regards, Garfield.

Hi Mudi,

Ha, ha, I will be honest here with you, that for a little moment I forgot that the user interface is mainly done via the iPad. Still some main controls on that Eurorack module wouldn't harm and indeed, as you suggest yourself already two or three (or more) buttons for play, pause, stop, reverse, forward, (record?), reverse, back to beginning point, select channel/track, delete, copy, paste, edit, redo, etcetera, functions might be a good addition. I just mention a ton of functions, it doesn't mean all need to be implemented, just to give you some ideas, that's all.

What I actually meant to say/ask and indeed I was unclear about that, is that I miss some CV inputs. That certain sequencer functionality can be controlled by CVs. I don't know the exact functionality of your sequencer (yet), so it's difficult to say exactly what but that at least some main functions of your sequencer (those that would make sense at least) can be CV controlled as well, so either by iPad and/or by CV. For example that "drawing" of the sequencer, would be perhaps interesting if one can control that under certain circumstances by a CV input as well. Just as an example. You are the one who knows your sequencer the best, so I leave it up to you how and which CV inputs would make sense, if at all.

Good luck and kind regards, Garfield.
-- GarfieldModular

Hi Garfield,

I see your point. The way it works (now) would make it tricky to add those functionalities and I promise you will prefer doing those actions on the iPad/iPhone. The module itself is a "dumb" endpoint which doesn't know anything about music, track, notes, modulations. All it does is output (when it's told) certain voltages at certain times. I tried hard to keep it simple and move all the advanced stuff to the iOS side. I will do a video where I'll explain how it works in more details. I'll keep you updated.

Your feedback is really appricated.

Hi Audhentik,

You got a serious lovely rhythm here, this could go on and on for me and I would have never enough of it. It could be easily 20 minutes and I still would love it! Great work here!

By the way, what's that sequencer in the right side of the video with that large white (?) knob? Looks interesting, rack mountable.

Thanks a lot for sharing this with us and kind regards, Garfield.

P.S.: You asked if I would like it, I am sorry to let you know that I don't like it. I love it though! ;-) Really great little jam, when are you going to make a long extended version of this? :-D

Hi Ryan,

This is a great experimental jam, with nice effects! It also sounds like you love your Cinnamon a lot :-D

Thanks a lot for sharing this with us and kind regards, Garfield.

I want this to be just l like any other Eurorack sequencers on the market but with a superior interface which can grow to anything.
This is purpose built and designed for Eurorack.
-- mudi

Very nice project, I'll be keeping an eye on this. A mouse is a pretty good interface to do office stuff, but I loathe using it to draw automation curves or sequence stuff, so using touch on an iPad is something I can definitely see myself using.

Wishing you all the best success !

-- toodee

Thank you. I can promise you it's way better and more efficient than using a mouse. I didn't find any way inferior to a hardware sequencer but rather the opposite . But don't take may word for it as I'm the developer :)

Hi Wishbonebrewery,

Lovely ambient kind of jam, very enjoyable and somehow peaceful, that's my kind of cup of tea :-)

@Audhentik: Regarding the drums, yes I can imagine what you mean with that, on the other hand perhaps see it like this, by not using too much drums, this emphasis the modular synth sounds, which I feel is a very enjoyable experience. Perhaps Wishbonebrewery should make a "mix" version with more drums & percussion and keep this original version too ;-)

Thanks a lot Wishbonebrewery for sharing this with us and kind regards, Garfield.

Hi Gabor,

Great video, lovely girl and a great demo of the Nord Drum 2, well done! I enjoyed it a lot :-)

Thanks a lot for sharing this with us and kind regards, Garfield.

Hi TheSoundOfMusic,

+1 for Ronin regarding his remark to get yourself a Behringer (short B.) Neutron. I started with that one as well and I do think it really helped me to check if I liked modular, yes or no... for me the clear answer was yes :-)

I agree with Ronin too about the Doepfer - A-111-x, that's something for later. I would start with a simpler oscillator (like the Doepfer - A-110) just to get used to modular in common, once you are more experienced with it you can look and check for complex oscillators, saves you in the beginning a bit of money as well and don't think a simple oscillator wouldn't be used any more once you become experienced. Simple or any oscillator at all are always good additions to whatever setup you like to get working with.

+1 for Lugia on the B. 2600 too. If the B. 2600 would be available at that time I bought the Neutron and if I realised how great (indeed) learning machine that 2600 is, then I would have bought the 2600 instead of the Neutron. I got the Blue Marvin version now since a while and wow, what a machine. That one is from a synthesizer principles-principle just blowing away your mind with, in my opinion, a fantastic cool (to avoid the word "vintage" ;-) let's call it) "old fashion" synthesizer sound (I mean this in a positive way), like the young times of J.M. Jarre, Vangelis, K. Schulze, Tangerine Dream, and the lot.

I don't know where you live but if you live in Europe, check the main synthesizer shop online websites, the B. 2600 default version is now on offer for just as little as 498 bucks! The opportunity to get fantastically started for a seriously reasonable amount of money. If you like that one, it confirms that you are ready for Eurorack and then save a bit longer, get a 3 x 84 HP or 3 x 168 HP rack and there you go. My main advice is to take it easy and slowly but start with a larger rack immediately (that's more cost effective). Take your sweet time and don't buy all modules you have planned or in mind in one go but buy them in little batches, gain experience, if and where needed adjust your opinion on certain modules and then buy a few more. Not everything in one go!

Since you mentioned that you have already experience with semi-modular synths then perhaps you are sure already about the fact that you love modular, well then just go for it :-)

Either way, I wish you good luck and have fun in the (semi-) modular synth world! :-) Kind regards, Garfield.

short session with the DFAM for Kickdrum, Radias for Percussion, Subharmonicon for Bass, Eurorack (Plaits and Arbhar) for Chords and Crave for a kind of FX Sound. I've turned up the resonance for each signal pretty high which gave me a bit of 90s vibes for this one. Hope you like it:)

lovely atmosphere, the drums could be a bit more interesting tbh...but i also liked your other post and just subscribed to your channel;)

nice patch! if you like to experiment with distortion maybe try out to modulate your vcf cutoff with white noise also;)

Hi Mudi,

Ha, ha, I will be honest here with you, that for a little moment I forgot that the user interface is mainly done via the iPad. Still some main controls on that Eurorack module wouldn't harm and indeed, as you suggest yourself already two or three (or more) buttons for play, pause, stop, reverse, forward, (record?), reverse, back to beginning point, select channel/track, delete, copy, paste, edit, redo, etcetera, functions might be a good addition. I just mention a ton of functions, it doesn't mean all need to be implemented, just to give you some ideas, that's all.

What I actually meant to say/ask and indeed I was unclear about that, is that I miss some CV inputs. That certain sequencer functionality can be controlled by CVs. I don't know the exact functionality of your sequencer (yet), so it's difficult to say exactly what but that at least some main functions of your sequencer (those that would make sense at least) can be CV controlled as well, so either by iPad and/or by CV. For example that "drawing" of the sequencer, would be perhaps interesting if one can control that under certain circumstances by a CV input as well. Just as an example. You are the one who knows your sequencer the best, so I leave it up to you how and which CV inputs would make sense, if at all.

Good luck and kind regards, Garfield.

While people definitely poo-poo Behringer stuff, I have their 2600...and I would say that THAT would make a better choice here than trying to smash a build into a tiny cab like that. For one thing, it behaves and sounds spot-on, and that's based on having used rev.2, 3 and 4 2600s over the years. Some might claim that it doesn't sound like a "vintage" unit...but that's because it's NOT a "vintage" unit. However, I did use a rev.4 that was only a couple of years out of the box back in the early 1980s, and I think I would be hard pressed to tell that from the B.2600's present-day version.

Plus, it "talks" the same interfacing as Eurorack...1V/8va scaling, positive triggers/gates, and so on. And as far as I'm concerned, the original ARP 2600 was one of the finest teaching synths ever created...hell, it's what I learned on. So once you go for that bigger build, you can still use the B.2600 for a number of things, such as MIDI-CV conversion, extra patchable modules to go alongside the Eurorack, and the like.

I'm not sure you need the DCA half-veils in there, especially with two FULL veils! That would save another 4HP, leaving 10 total free for something else.
-- Cormallen

It fits, though. Given that the topology of those VCAs has that variable curve, it's best to have dedicated VCAs for the modulation as those will need to be used in linear mode (or something weird), while audio requires an exponential VCA so that the level changes conform with the psychoacoustics of how we perceive loudness.

Just had a great experience buying from @VolatileReaction . He shipped within hours, and packed the module well. Module was in even better condition than advertised!

Thanks for going more in depth.

As far as growth, the Doepfer A-111 has very limited growth potential. As far as a synth voice, it's pretty limited in features compared to stand alone modules or other semi-modular synths.

For example, there isn't a sync input into the VCO section. The FM modulation is hardwired to the LFO or ADSR. There are lots of other examples, but I want to keep this brief.

I would definitely replace the Doepfer with individual modules as soon as possible if you're wanting to learn more in depth.

As long as you're going to a bigger case and are aware of the missing feature-sets, there shouldn't be any worries.

thank you Ronin for your message. is very helpful. Yeah the Ornaments & Crime Micro It is incredible! definitely fit for me,
also Pamela's.
So, I would is to draw up again in a 2 x 104 hp cab (ie: a Mantis "footprint"), and then let a few of your thoughts or advices.
thank you very much :)))

-- tsir

The Mantis is a good, low cost choice. But remember that it doesn't come with 1U rails. Steppy comes in a 3U (vertical) form but the Quadratt doesn't. But you can substitute a 3U Triplatt in its place. There are plenty of nice output and MIDI modules in 3U as well.

Also, if you really have to have some Intellijel 1U modules in a 3U system, there are adapter packages for that.

Questions and comments:

The Lapsus and the Quadratt do much of the same thing. Why do you have both in this small case?
The Intellijel VCAs do not have any kind of manual control (like a bias knob). I would start out with 2 to 4 VCAs with bias controls. I'd lose the Intellijel VCAs as well as the USB port and put in an Intellijel Noise Tools unit for some Sample & Hold, slew, and noise goodness.

Scales is nice. But if you're okay with not having real time controls, a Disting EX or a Ornaments & Crime Micro will give you quantizer functionality. Plus when not needed for quantizing they can do a lot of other useful stuff. In a small case, getting more out of each module is definitely a huge bonus. Look into both the Disting EX and O&C and see if they are right for you.

I would also get a small stereo mixing module. Budget around 6 to 8 HP for that. The Quadratt can be used as a mixer. But I think of that as secondary, as the attenuverting portion is much more useful, especially with modules that don't have built in attenuverters.

The BIGGEST ISSUE.
Steppy and Mimetic need external clocks to make them function. Where is this clock going to come from? Also, where will you get the reset signal to restart them both in sync? I would put something like a Pamela's New Workout in the case. It also has multiple functions that are very useful.

Final thoughts:
Small cases seem ideal for first cases. But they are not. Larger cases allow for growth and learning. They are much more forgiving WHEN you change your mind or your level of knowledge expands. Also, small cases tend to have depth restrictions. Not all modules fit in shallow cases like a Palette. Be sure to do your homework on EVERYTHING if you really insist on a palette case.

-- Ronin1973

thank you Ronin for your message. is very helpful. Yeah the Ornaments & Crime Micro It is incredible! definitely fit for me,
also Pamela's.
So, I would is to draw up again in a 2 x 104 hp cab (ie: a Mantis "footprint"), and then let a few of your thoughts or advices.
thank you very much :)))

Patch details in the video description.
Happy new year to y'all :)

great ambience! this one could run for hours:)
-- Audhentik

Thank you a lot for your comment !

Thanks.... this one is something to play in the background and not think about :)

Cormallen,
Thank you for your input. I've been modifying the rack and implementing some of Lugia's suggestions. I'll look into the modules you suggest now, interesting stuff. Thanks again :)

Nice! You have a new subscriber. My favourite part for sure is around 5:40 where you hear the two bass sounds slow and separate. Then when they come together again you can really appreciate how they are complimentary to each other when combined. I also like the times when the chaotic swells build up and then cut out to the smooth piano sound. Constantly surprising, but not in a jarring way, just keeping my ears happily engaged.
I look forward to hearing more of your work.
Best, Ryan

it's cute !

This is a very nerdy video. I was looking for a demo of FXAID's reverbs algorythms, and I couldn't find one, so I got myself a FXAID and a XL version, and decided to make a video for the ones like me who need to get a glimpse of what the verbs are on it.
No talk, just the sound on a basic waveform, for a clear understanding of what the verb does.

EDITED Jan 13th 2022, 06:46

i tried using it with usb from hermod to the computer
then choose hermod in the channel in ableton,insert midiclip,but when i play the sound in ableton is kind of high pitched and doesentsound the same as when just using the modular in it self

hey ryanthegecko! thanks for the awesome feedback! I appreciate your interest, you can check other jams on my YT channel and subscribe because I'll keep making them :) what was your favourite part?

Wow! Those are all really great sounding. I certainly wouldn’t complain if they were all longer. I love to see the SubH make appearances in this kind of ambient. Cheers!
-- TumeniKnobs

thank you so much! really appreciate it:)

Sounds great ambience!
-- sacguy71

thank you! :)

after a few seconds i've already loved it! don't have the time right now to listen through but i will come back to it later for sure:)

great ambience! this one could run for hours:)

Thank you OLDAN, vow311 and jb61264 for your comments.
Minibrute 2 and Rackbrute 6U is a perfect combo for me. Of cource it would be nice with a larger rack when I realize that I need a new specific module for a new patch idea. But I have found out that I often can get close to that modules function by clever combinations of the utility modules that I actually have.
For me the most valuable modules are Marbles, Plaits and Maths.
Here is my setup:

EDITED Jan 12th 2022, 10:31

Smooth and quick transaction with @mircori

I want this to be just l like any other Eurorack sequencers on the market but with a superior interface which can grow to anything.
This is purpose built and designed for Eurorack.
-- mudi

Very nice project, I'll be keeping an eye on this. A mouse is a pretty good interface to do office stuff, but I loathe using it to draw automation curves or sequence stuff, so using touch on an iPad is something I can definitely see myself using.

Wishing you all the best success !

I like a lot of Lugia's changes, but I might suggest a few tweaks:

Morpheus is a great filter, but it is pretty fiddly to use. Maybe go with a SuperCritical Neutron Flux instead? It's also a stereo filter - well, unless you use it in 8 pole configuration, and it can do some amazing stuff. It also sounds fantastic - one of the best filters I've ever heard. As a b0nus, it would save 6HP.

I'm not sure you need the DCA half-veils in there, especially with two FULL veils! That would save another 4HP, leaving 10 total free for something else.

How about a Joranalogue Orbit for that? You don't seem to have a lot noise/random options in here at the moment...

If this is what you mean, I've been doing the following:

Play any old Audio sample on loop via Disting (or other sample player, or any Audio input to be honest)

I'm using the Patching Panda Punch VCA which has its own decay envelops on its 2 Channels to create an evolving or changing percussion track which I've been triggering with Euclidean sequences which i can control via CV to that it changes over time.
Punch is a great little VCA with its Accent input too so you can get a groove pattern playing that too, it also has Envelop Outs with an Invert switch so you can send that to a Filter to further tweak your sound.

Punch also works great for Acid Synth lines.

I've also used my ALM PipSlope to make an AD envelope to do the same thing coupled with a regular VCA.

The other module i would recommend for this is the Befaco Percall, I don't own it but you can make anything into Percussion with that and it also has Choke so it will shut off the Open Hat with a Closed Hat etc.

As you say you could use an envelope follower which is listening to some other percussion track to get Triggers, gates and a Decay envelope out of it.

EDITED Jan 12th 2022, 07:57