Let talks Modular Synthesis (noobie)

dylanlolwut · Post by **dylanlolwut** » Wed Jan 06, 2016 2:43 pm

Hi all,

So about two years ago I first learnt about what modular syntheses was and after looking up information about them, videos, documentaries, manufactures and live performances with them, I think I'm ready to start building my own.

Now, you might think learnt a lot about them in those two years, but really, I don't. I'm just fascinated by the sounds you can create with them and drool any time I see or hear one in action. So with that said, can anyone recommend me some to check out to look into buying? I was thinking of buying one of Doepfers pre-built modular cases (link below). I think that might be a good start because its built already for me, I get a case with it and I can easily buy other parts and replace them with the ones in the rack if I ever wanted to. I'm dying to get my hands on one to start messing around with sounds for hours and hours and hours and hours and hours and hours and hours

Modulars I've been looking at buying :
http://www.thomann.de/ie/doepfer_a_100bs2_p9.htm
http://www.thomann.de/gb/doepfer_a100bs2p.htm

Post by **rktic** » Wed Jan 06, 2016 3:19 pm

You should have an idea what kind of sounds you're after. Then register at muffwiggler.com (either way) and start following others discussions on their first eurorack builds. Lots of good info to get there.

I personally wouldn't have been satisfied with Doepfer-only stuff. There's a shitload of other great vendors which may suit better for certain things.

You can also manage your virtual eurorack via modulargrid.net - great for planning and keeping track of money.

There are also plenty of DIY-kits - lots of cash to save this way. Facebook is another great marketplace. I can hook you up with a list of modular sales groups.

AK-REV · Post by **AK-REV** » Wed Jan 06, 2016 4:20 pm

As rktic states, first play around with modulargrid.net and build your own small machine. Spend 2k on a Doepfer prefilled case is in my view not the best way.
First make clear what you want to achieve with your modular and than select the right modules with that.

Hyle · Post by **Hyle** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 1:13 am

Don't do it, don't go Eurorack... I know two friends of mine who started assembling one. It's worse than heroin!

WOLF! · Post by **WOLF!** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 12:28 pm

Hyle wrote:Don't do it, don't go Eurorack... I know two friends of mine who started assembling one. It's worse than heroin!

I was thinking about posting the same thing.
It can be a real money pit because you always need more or other modules.
Keep that in mind before you start building one.
A few weeks ago I was looking at the prices of the new Roland System500 and calculated how mutch it would cost me to build a basic system.
It's very expensive (for me) so I have put that dream aside.

dylanlolwut · Post by **dylanlolwut** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 12:59 pm

rktic wrote:You should have an idea what kind of sounds you're after. Then register at muffwiggler.com (either way) and start following others discussions on their first eurorack builds. Lots of good info to get there.

I personally wouldn't have been satisfied with Doepfer-only stuff. There's a shitload of other great vendors which may suit better for certain things.

You can also manage your virtual eurorack via modulargrid.net - great for planning and keeping track of money.

There are also plenty of DIY-kits - lots of cash to save this way. Facebook is another great marketplace. I can hook you up with a list of modular sales groups.

Well, I'm a big fan of drones and atmospheric sounds. Artists that I like that I know use modulars would be the likes of Karenn, Ansome and Shifted (I think Shifted uses modulars??)

Will check out that website when im off work, thanks! Yeah I know theres tons of great brands out there I'm just not aware of them at the moment. Yeah man that would be great I'll be sure to check out the groups if you link them

dylanlolwut · Post by **dylanlolwut** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 1:00 pm

Hyle wrote:Don't do it, don't go Eurorack... I know two friends of mine who started assembling one. It's worse than heroin!

Well...I would prefer to buy modular gear rather than gear gear

dylanlolwut · Post by **dylanlolwut** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 1:02 pm

WOLF! wrote:
Hyle wrote:Don't do it, don't go Eurorack... I know two friends of mine who started assembling one. It's worse than heroin!
I was thinking about posting the same thing.
It can be a real money pit because you always need more or other modules.
Keep that in mind before you start building one.
A few weeks ago I was looking at the prices of the new Roland System500 and calculated how mutch it would cost me to build a basic system.
It's very expensive (for me) so I have put that dream aside.

Oh yeah I know I'm aware this isn't a cheap hobby to get into but money isn't an issue for me because I can see myself sticking with this til I'm 70s haha, gives me something to save up for aswell!

Alume · Post by **Alume** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 1:13 pm

Yeah I get what your saying, its an investment but will be worth your while for years to come.

Post by **rktic** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 2:30 pm

dylanlolwut wrote:Well, I'm a big fan of drones and atmospheric sounds. Artists that I like that I know use modulars would be the likes of Karenn, Ansome and Shifted (I think Shifted uses modulars??)

Will check out that website when im off work, thanks! Yeah I know theres tons of great brands out there I'm just not aware of them at the moment. Yeah man that would be great I'll be sure to check out the groups if you link them

I'd already have some suggestions for essentials in that regard. It's "just" a matter of money really. And yes, highly addictive - but oh so worth it. Love my modular.

Some groups for trading:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/673704262642255/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/783570788383509/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/403937676290574/

dylanlolwut · Post by **dylanlolwut** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 4:57 pm

rktic wrote: I'd already have some suggestions for essentials in that regard. It's "just" a matter of money really. And yes, highly addictive - but oh so worth it. Love my modular.

Oh yeah? What are the suggestions, I'm intrigued

Money isn't an issue for me - I am by no means rich whatsoever, It's just if I want it bad enough I'll draft up a weekly saving plan to able to afford it! I don't own any modular gear yet and I'm already addicted haha

dylanlolwut · Post by **dylanlolwut** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 4:59 pm

Joined those facebook groups btw! Thanks for the shout, I see Ben Wilson is a member of each of them (DivKid on youtube)

dylanlolwut · Post by **dylanlolwut** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 5:00 pm

Exactly Alume! You get where I'm coming from haha

Post by **rktic** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 5:53 pm

Money ain't no issue? Oh well... You asked for it

: drone-machine.jpg (317.39 KiB) Viewed 5584 times

https://www.modulargrid.net/e/racks/view/216144

Post by **arkos** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 9:28 pm

I'd just go Reaktor 6 takes up way less space

ross-alexander · Post by **ross-alexander** » Thu Jan 07, 2016 10:24 pm

If you want to do it, go for it. Just plan it first get some feedback on it from people that know so you don't end up with a none functioning system. I would go purpose built the doepfer all in one systems are cheaper and they do some nice modules but you may as well look around. Look for some stuff second hand. If you can solder look at some kits as well, saves loads. There's a website called thonk that had loads on. Research it though as it's very expensive. It's very enjoyable as well. Have a chat with the guys at London modular or mattech modular, get on muffwiggler.com etc

Markus Wolf · Post by **Markus Wolf** » Fri Jan 08, 2016 1:26 am

The doepfer LC6 or LC9 is a good starting place as far as cases go. But you can do youreself one better by building youre own case. You can buy the DIY kit #2 with the extra rails, gives you 6U at 84hp. I think the kit is like $199 compared to the LC6 which is $500. With the DIY kit you have to build the case out of plywood yourself but you save major $$$$$. I have the LC6 case and I also have 3 DIY kits

Some of the doepfer modules are basic but usually not as expensive so for some basic stuff like buffered mult's, ADSR's. Then there is also a shit ton of other manufacturers out there and tons of videos to show you what the module actually does. FWIW muffwiggler.com is the place to be in terms of modular forums. Ohhh and are you going for Eurorack? Its the most popular format for sure. Good luck!!! Just do allot of research and reading. BTW when you plug in the modules the red stripe on the ribbon is always on the bottom.

Markus Wolf · Post by **Markus Wolf** » Fri Jan 08, 2016 1:29 am

Yeah and you prob know this already but Eurorack is a very expensive hobby. So be prepared to spend thousands of $$$$. Not trying to scare you just being honest.

gedda · Post by **gedda** » Fri Jan 08, 2016 11:19 am

What are you folks' thoughts on how much one should spend on modular before it becomes effective? It seems like a waste of money to buy your basic mono synth through eurorack which is just 2 EGs, Amp, osc, CV I/O and/or Midi USB converter, LFO and filters, case and power. This looks like it might be 1200-2000 dollars depending on what modules you get.

Post by **rktic** » Fri Jan 08, 2016 11:32 am

That totally depends on the modules, mate. I started with pretty much investment but i've got friends who went down the road with 1500 and were instantly yolking about the fun they've had.

Mind you, your mono synth is a hardwired thing. A modular is a completely different interface. The approach needs brain and much more exploration. And even with a simple setup incl a FM VCO you will most likely rewarded straight away.

And even with a rather simple setup the possibilities are way beyond similar standard mono synths.

subsekt

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