I'm just starting off with modular, haven't even fully thought out what i wanna do with it precisely but i DO know one thing......some bloke might smack my mum if i don't buy a Maths.
Just to let you know: I've been watching hours and hours of videos on youtube regarding building first eurorack system and, by far, this has been the best and most inspiring one. Thanks to let us know your reasons and logic behind it and all the process you've been through. Bravo!
You can’t measure the value of fun in our lives. Learning is fun. I mean... there was a time in my life, I could never accept this as a reality. Now... the Zen of being in a learning process is medicine for my entire being. Thanks for being a really Cool part of that in my new school of modular synth thought. Your approach was brilliant... because as you ask these questions of the makers, you also get yourself out there as a potential place for them to send things for review. Brilliant! I know we are on down the road now... but I’m catching up with you, here... and fully enjoying it. Thank you, again!
Great videos and totally agree with you on this is awesome, including the lights, knobs and sounds. The constant eager for more modules and bigger racks and even more crazy and awesome sounds. Totally addictive!
Great video. I stumbled into a modular synth shop while looking for some DIY electronic kits and talked to the workers there. The showed me a few things and then I did some further research online. I haven't even touched a synth yet, but I have the bug and really want to build a beginner system . From my very minimal experience with the modular community I would say you were dead on. The guys at the synth store could not have been more friendly. They weren't even trying to get me to buy anything, but just kept telling me about artist to look out and different things to check out.
Thank you for this video series. I'm on the same path that you were on, and it's remarkable how much you echo my exact thoughts. It's such a daunting world to enter into, but your videos are really helping me to put some of the pieces together, and it's really valuable. Cheers.
I love Make Noise. Their products are bomb, their history is dramatic, and, best of all, I have an emotional connection with them! I met the founder at a demo at Control Modular in New York, and he was just the nicest guy! Plus, their aesthetic rocks.
I've had a Maths since the 2013 version first came out and I still have to look at the manual to do anything new with it. I normally use it as envelopes because they are a nice shape plus a bit of mixing and sending a bias voltage somewhere. Oh and I often use it as an LFO if i need an extra 1 (or 2). It's a bit wasted on me really but i'm still glad I got it.
I completely agree with you in regards to that it should be a learning curve of both self discovering modules and manufacturers of said modules and then acknowledging what you will ultimately want your ' rack ' to do or sound like, i used to see racks/walls of modular and become daunted by the sheer magnitude of woe i felt when I learnt how much something like that would cost me and in all honesty I've came to know that you could do so many things nowadays with just 3 or 4 modules and a few cables. If any of you reading this are still learning I highly suggest before even spending on any modules that you decide how much you will ultimately want to incorporate a modular system into your music or if you will depend entirely on the modular system to create your music, I feel like that's important because it will give you a sense of direction in regards to what you should or shouldn't spend on and tbh buying modular is SUPER addictive, once that bug bites you it's game over lol
I'm so glad I found this. Your goals for your modular are almost exactly the same as mine. Simplicity, wavetable synthesis, - I have an arturia minibrute 2 which I havent gotten on w as much as I'd thought, but I love running my digital synths (dx7, Kawai K1, casios, etc) through the filter. So initially, I've bought the rackbrute case andan envelope follower so that I can trigger a filter env when I play external synths. I don't know yer if I want to continue making my setup an "effects processor" type thing. Ive def ran into the same scenario in which so many ppl have insisted I get a Maths module that I have decided to go ahead an try it, despite it being more complex than what I was going for to start out. If behringer releases their eurorack modules anytime soon, Ill prob build a basic Roland system 100 synth voice just because they look so affordable. Ive also looked into alot of DIY options - even though this is my first proper foray into euroack, I did build a small modular setup years ago from MusicFromOuterSpace diy modules which never worked 100 percent perfectly but was a fun learning experience. Thank you again for the info and vids and I'm looking forward to the more in depth looks at specific modules in the upcoming vidoes.
This video is amazing to be honest, It's so easy to get lost in what modules to buy and why if you are just starting out or have never really ventured into the modular side of synthesis, Subscribed right away because this is an A1 video and very informative.
First modules I purchased were: Braids, Clouds, Doepfer Wasp, and Maths. I could've stopped there since I'm linking my rack to a Neutron, but I've become more obsessed with effects modules and getting experimental with what I have in the Neutron/rack.
In spite of a LONG pontification (24 minutes before we see the rack!! haha!!) this was surprisingly quite interesting. I an't believe I watched this entire chat. Why, because you raise very thoughtful questions and points, especially around "What do I want to DO with my modular?," The creative camps can be so very different (e.g. noise vs ambient vs techno/EDM vs . . .) Not to suggest one has to chose one at the expense of exploring others, but the answer to this questions, especially in the beginning, can be very helpful. I though I knew what I wanted to do with my modular: build a modular! haha! But I found myself stymied by the endless options for modules. Just a basic VCO+VCF+VCA is a fine basic start, but might not be the best config to create what one is in their creative interest. I also like how you recognize the "community" aspect of this endeavor, and the willingness of the manufacturers to be so advisory. Lastly, that you broke down the investigation into different activities (talk w manufacturers, talk with shops, engage on the boards) was cool. Bravo documenting your journey (and the scratching the surface of the philosophical angles). Well done!
The Mother as an oscillator, VCF, VCA, SEQ, etc is good value for your money, plus it's the classic Moog tone, I'd think twice before retiring it. I started collecting modules one at a time after an initial 'starter pack' which for me was a 9u case with a single row of Doepfer stuff. I wanted a Mother but at the time there was a waiting list and I was impatient, by the time I could have one, it was superfluous, Now I'm thinking again of I getting one. Yeah it's expensive, cool then that one can collect bit by bit. Enjoyed your chat fella. Thanks.
I'm finding myself a little fixated on the space the M32 takes up. I've almost convinced myself to get the triple tier ends for the Moog case and go for 3 full rows - that will at least take the space issue out of the equation for, hopefully, some time, without costing too much.
Good video for a beginner like me. i am interested in Eurorack but have no idea where to start. I did watch a video on virtual eurorack to experiment before I buy anything. Good advice from you.
Thank you very much for sharing your story. I am pretty much at the beginning of your story, as the DFAM really got me hooked. Now are the next steps getting a mother, a moog case and the three tier stand. My first module already arrived : the Erica graphic vco. But i decided against math since it just takes up too much space.
Wow, this video was SUPER helpful. Seems like my goals are similar to yours just starting out in that I want something to compliment my Moog Mother units and want to focus on the idea of simplicity. Like with my guitar pedals, I appreciate something with two or three knobs that is straightforward. I have too much software stuff in my DAW, I want to move away from digital menu diving and flip switches and turn knobs. Can’t wait to follow you along as you dig in to some of your modules more. Really helping me to focus on on some decisions. And yeah, I’ll end up with a Maths as well. Seems like every modular article and video you see is always like, “oh yeah, and get a maths.” Like, once you have your goals, your case, and your Maths, you’re ready to start putting your rig together.
You will be please to know I am now at a stage where I am really happy with my system. Its only taken me 12 years of purchasing. But it will never really stop.
I keep looking at Anne Annie and r beny modular vids and am in love with quite small modular set-ups. I know what I want, think it would fit in a TipTop skiff, but I have a couple of Mother 32's and the modules choices are like a module itself, they keep interacting wildly even though my need is for a quite simple dimension to complement the Moogs - essentially to escape the repetitive sound of sequencers and add textures.
Thank you so so much for you video here! I am the point in life where I was asking myself the same questions as you. I have a Mother 32, and where do I continue from that with 104hp? This video gives so much answers it is really apreciated. Where I live, there are not so much people involved into modulars so the internet is key for me. Thanx again!
Alexandre Mattucci Make Noise Maths would be a good next step. It offers lots of modulation possibilities for the Mother and can be many different things. After that maybe an effects module. I went with the Mutable Instruments Clouds texture synth which samples little grains of sound that you can reverse and mix around and mash up and do all sorts of cool things with. The cool thing about Eurorack is that it totally depends on the wants of the artist. There really isn’t a right and wrong. Have fun!
Make friends with people who do modular if you can to get exposure to different builds. That really helped me a lot. Ask questions on Muff Wiggler and Modulargrid.com people are super friendly and helpful. Plan some setups and budget.
I only dived into modular 6 weeks ago, but I've learned so much from watching your videos Robin! I hadn't heard of the FB group until I watched this one... so I jumped in and asked a noobie question and was bowled over by how helpful and friendly the responses were. (This is FB after all.) Really great stuff, thanks. PS: How's the Deckard's Dream build coming along...? 😊
That’s the exciting part for me. I thought I knew what I wanted until I got my Mother/DFAM combo. Now I have no idea what kind of sound I want, but I know exactly what I need to manipulate it. Then I think that’ll tell me where to go next.
You did some AMAZING research here. Thank you for sharing your findings. I didn't have the time or energy to do this kind of research, and opted to buy a complete Pittsburgh Foundation 3+. Which is a great beginners modular, and it has 104hp of empty space to fill with other things (which led me to your video). In particular I love the sounds from the Clouds module and Maths. I might start shopping for those. Once I get more proficient with modular synthesis, I very well may sell my Pittsburgh and build from scratch, and this video (and resources within) will certainly be even more helpful. Thanks again! Pete from Creative-Audio-Production.com .
I like the Harvestman Polivoks Russian themed modules since I am after a darker industrial sound so that would be fun as well as West Coast synthesis modules like Make Noise, Serge, and Verbos modules so that is where I am headed in my setup.
Future Tropics Yeah the semi modular route is really good to start with. Like I knew how synths worked before a little, but now I am learning them enough to feel confident that I would know what to do if I ever built a fully modular system.
nice video. descriptive enough to understand what it is you're saying :) you should become part of Patreon. in any case, please keep up the good work, i'm going to watch each one of them!
I'd not recommend that Moog case. When I saw it I fell in love with it, and got a 3 tier rack. I soon found out that a lot of modules are actually too deep and don't fit in this shallower than normal case. For example a lot of modules from the Doepfer Vintage line simply won't fit. Go for another case if you want more options!
+Kayak Fan thanks for the tip. I’ve not come across any too deep as yet. Maybe that’s why the Doepfer cases are so chunky. I don’t think the Moog is any shallower than any of the other skiffs I looked - but it’s certainly true that some modules are deep - always check before you buy.
The problem I found was that it's because of the slanted back panel. The chunky doepfer ones are square and don't have that problem. And it's such a shame too because the moog ones looked absolutely beautiful. I just couldn't even fit the most basic doepfer A-110-1 VCO in there; which is very weird that Moog didn't think to test this.
Thank you for your time!!! really clearrr...and like yeah..i dont know what i neeeeed...i wann build a modular drum machine...yeah i know im aiming high...but yeah ...just found you!
so i bought an music thing modular turing machine and a few other pieces i didnt buy a case yet but im looking to build a generative machine that i can lock and control
I agree that a pre assembled modular defeats the purpose a bit but I find it daunting to choose between a basic simple build and customizing a large array of modules that can be long to get together. I got my eyes on the fusebox by analogue solutions. I think this could be a good one to start with and not be bored by having to add more hardware.
D'you know? I was thinking what synth to buy with my next trip to Europe but you've changed my mind! I'm going modular wtf! Lol. Maybe a little bit cheaper but I'l give them a try. Thanks man! Peace
Wow, a Maths *and* a Batumi! That's a lot of modulation in 104hp! Not a critique -- I'm envious. But, for my part, I have almost decided "screw them all I'll *never* have a Maths" :-). I do have a Function and it is incredibly useful, so I can imagine just how bonkers Maths is. I also have a Peaks and an Ornament & Crime, so that's where I go for additional modulation, for now. I do badly want a Batumi, though. I've filled my 3x104 setup, and now have to swap modules back and forth (for example Elements is sitting off in a box, all lonesome). So, I just ordered an Intellijel 7u case to expand into (along with some 1u modules), and perhaps someday I'll convert over to all Intellijel cases if I love this expensive case enough. This is a sickness, indeed, but it's a fun sickness to have. Re the mixer, you got good advice to start. But when you start wanting to get the benefit of stereo effects and/or Clouds, etc, you might find yourself wanting a real panning stereo mixer. Plus, as you get more voices, a small/simple 3 or 4 channel mixer can still come in handy (or pick up a MI Links for nice utility in a small space). Anyway, I opted for the Sputnik 6-channel stereo mixer as my output mixer and it really made my setup come alive. Aside from the Sputnik, Pittsburgh is now shipping their "System Interface" mixer/utilities, which once you expand, might be an interesting option (it's definitely interesting to me, being a bit of a Pitts fan). These options do eat up some HP, so wait until you're really wanting stereo (or go with an external mixer). Regarding it being fun to watch others build their cases up, there is a super-interesting thread somewhere on muffwiggler.com simply composed of this simple yet interesting challenge: "what would you put in a 32hp Doepfer "beauty case"?". It's been fun watching the journey. Looking forward to more.
The compulsory Maths is a weird thing - although I'm now using it as an envelope which will do for now. I confess to not quite understanding the Ornament and Crime thing - it's been recommended a lot but that black slab, to me, couldn't look more un-modular like. I think that sort of experimentation needs another row of HP - i can easily fill three rows right now.... but i mustn't, because i have a dozen modules i need to learn already! The mixer thing - coming from a vaguely pro-audio background i'm surprised at the simplicity of the mixing options. It makes obvious sense to me that i would want to be running each "sound" separately through a different channel on my audio interface into my DAW for when i come to record what's going on. But all the mixers and output modules seem to reduce to a stereo output, with no sends or other routing options. And those that do offer a bit more take up loads of HP. I'd like a module that has an input, volume, pan, direct output, with a mix-out and headphone out so i can listen to the modular and still have the option to record multi-track - but i want it with 8 channel all in 8hp :) But maybe the way i need to approach it is to relax a bit on the size of the system. The Mother annoys me with how much room it takes up, but if i was to go to three rows then that would no longer be an issue and i could chill out about having a 24hp mixer. It's a sickness...
Ahh, you're right about the mixer -- it totally depends upon your goals. Really, most advice I've seen says just do the mix in an outboard mixer if you want any sophistication at all: the most flexibility for the money. I think this is probably compatible with your needs/expectations for getting multichannel sound *out* of your setup. For my part, I want to do everything "in the box", so I don't mind only having stereo outs on my modular mixer. I actually split the headphone out of my Sputnik and record right off of that to a Zoom H2, so I'm pretty low-tech. This does bring me some issues -- I have to work "wet", to the extent I can anyway, and I'm stuck with the results. I need all the effects, (except perhaps for a final reverb) "in the box", too, and with no effect loops on my current stereo mixer, I have to have an effect per for each channel/voice I want to use it on. Whew! So I'm just happy that Clouds and Elements both have their own reverbs and I can put one or the other Disting into delay mode. When I have something I think is worth preserving I just take the file from the H2 into GarageBand and apply a little final reverb to the whole stereo mix. I know it's not a "pro" way to do it, but it keeps things contained. OK, that was long-winded. Re the O+C, it is also a module that is probably overly loved. I got mine because I got caught up in the hype. Yes, it can be multiple channels of many things, but it can only be one of those things at a time. So if you need four channels of quantization, well, you have it. But I generally don't need that. And if you *are* using it for quantization and normally use it for quad LFOs, well you just lost four LFOs. I find four ASRs to be really uninteresting. So I pretty much use it in quadrature LFO mode, which is very handy, esp with the display. But since I pretty much only use it as an LFO I think I'd just prefer a Batumi. Most people consider this sacrilege, but I think three Distings is more useful than one O+C. You could do three different things in fewer HP Watch out for the torches and pitchforks now that I've said that! So I've gone on long enough. It is indeed a sickness. Thanks for listening, and I look forward to your next installment
AFAIK There's nothing to stop you from running each sound separately into your audio interface without a fancy mixer, you would just need to attenuate the output of the last module in the patch down to a level your interface can handle. You could use Veils for that, although it would be a bit of a waste of VCAs. The AT-AT-AT triple attenuator from Thonk.co.uk would maybe be a good option - it's DIY but apparently very easy to build and costs about £25 including postage.
If you're looking for single-function building blocks then yes, you'll probably not want the O&C. But that could change. My philosophy tends to be the same but I do really like the O&C. Great videos, btw! I wish there had been something like this when I started. Several years in and still learning. But that's a good part of the fun.
Started a year ago. Yep, everybody was talking about Math… Become anti Math. Probably stupid. But now I have Function and Intellijel Quadra plus its expander. You don’t have to do like everybody else? Nice vid btw!
Great series! having my second watchthrough tbh. If I may suggest a lowcost intro to modular, it would be the Bastl Kastle. Great fun, and pairs very well with a Moog Werkstatt (using jumper cables) :)
Whilst on Muffs did you find the unofficial Maths manual - well worth getting a copy (free from a Muff member). Very happy to see the Disting in your rack as the host of features it offers will help you decide if you need the function in a dedicated form.
Great video/s. In the same boat. Jump started, much like you did with the Mother 32, with a Kilpatrick Phenol. Already looking to a TipTop Happy ending for my desktop 19" rack. Also wondering what modules to put in.I'm thinking a Make Noise Maths. Also really intrigued by the Make Noise Telharmonic. I like noise & distortion. So a module for doing this. It's a fascinating journey. I'm loving it.
When is it appropriate to use a buffered multiple with the Mother-32 and other VCO's? Is it just a good idea to have a buff mult in your rack just in case?
It's appropriate when it's not working right with a passive mult. If you are getting weird pitches and things not quite working right, then try a buffered mult and you'll experience the difference.
Thank's for this channel. I just noticed that the Mother-32 has at least one buffered multiple with two outs on board. I'm still in the stand alone mode. The Mother, Erebus, 0-Coast mindset...trying to justify a whole rack just to get a buff mult. By the time I have the language to ask the correct question I've probably already answered it...
Hello Thank you so much for this video. I like this melody music from modular and I want to try this music. But my problem i don't know from where I start. I try to contact Colin Benders because I really like this music but no answer. I try also to found on youtube and on internet some information. But i don't understand nothing than nothing........... I am in Barcelona and I am french so also here is difficult to found some information. Is it possible to help me please to found the right way and enjoy to play this music? Thank you so much for your time and help Frank
Hi Frank. I put together the Molten Modular series of videos to help people just like you - people who don't know where to start. So please, check out the whole series and the website too and hopefully that will get you moving in the right direction www.moltenmodular.com
sir, what is your opinion on printing your own circuit boards? i mean, there are circuit diagrams of various oscilattors available online...plus isnt is much easier on the pocket than buy modules that are worth probably 500$
Easier on the pocket maybe but probably not easier on your time. DIY modular is awesome, but you have to take it on as a bit of a hobby which will eat into your music making time. I've got a Turin module kit that i plan to build very soon - should be an adventure, but i also like buying a well made module for a specific function. So yeah, i'm into the kit thing but printing your own PCB's is getting a little too deep for me - but you go do that thing!
yes - everything else. So far you have a synth, a drum machine, a delay and a sampler - you could do all of that in desktop units. You need modulation, utilities, CV mixing,VCAs, random generators, switches and all the other things to do with CV and modular rather than just sound sources and effects.
Molten Music Technology seems like I need a lot more. :/. Not al lot of hp left...DFAM and 32 are big. I want to make the most of the little space left. What modules would you recommend. Maths ....?¿
you probably need to spend time with what you have. You have a load of stuff - you need to play with that. You only really work out what modules you need once you start doing things or trying to do things which you find you cant.
Excellent Stuff! You're verbalising exactly what I'm thinking. You're making me think a little more outside of the box. I've got a Mother 32 too, because I just love Moog, and it was a relatively cheap way of getting One! My other challenge is because I love Moog so much when I went onto the AJH site, I find out there's a possibility that I could put together a bunch of modules together to make a "Mini Moog" I was then "restricting" myself to one manufacturers make of modules! Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Plus because I'm unable to buy everything at once, what should I buy first so at least I'm making some sounds! Oh the challenge of it all? But what fun! I think I'll leave it there for now, but really appreciate the amount of work you've already put in for me! It truly is a godsend.
I'm finding there's no right or wrong ways to approach it, just lots of opinion. I like the look of a chaotic rack with different modules from different places - makes things more identifiable and unexpected. But you should jolly well get whatever you want. With the Mother 32 you've got a lot of functions that will help you start small. For instance, just getting another oscillator - you could stick that in the M32's External Input, play it from the keyboard and modulate with the LFO, all without getting anything else. It really is possible to start small - and it's helpful to do that. I'm having to fight desires to buy more modules all the time because i havent spent proper time with what i have yet. It is a challenge... and fun!
Thanks for the quick response! Have you "discussed" yet the process of "triggering" to get sounds out of these wonderful Beasts? The Mother 32 has its little keyboard and sequencer. And a bit of random note generation never goes amiss plus other midi controllers? I like keyboards so will tend to use that. I like Arturia's "KeyStep" plus the "BeatStep Pro". I "practiced" synthesis by using Arturia's software instruments. A relatively cheap way to dip your tow into synthesizers and synthesis. Your thoughts?
Yes, sequencing is the next big topic. I have a BeatStep Pro but i'm finding it less than intuitive and i'm not understanding why it messes the octaves up - it's just all a bit weird. MIDI is so much easier in that respect. So yeah, i'll be getting into that. There's also things that they don't tell you. Like using the mult on the M32 to run the ST0 and the Black VCO from the M32 keyboard and sequencer - it didn't sound right. So i worked out that i needed a buffered mult module and now it's much better - controlling this voltage stuff is an art all unto itself and you never run into these things in software. So yes, sequencing is next on the list :)
I want to combine music, and visuals into live performance. Combined with computer programs like Max/MSP, Pure Data. From what I understand if you are using Max/Msp then you should probably use the full version of Ableton LIve. If anyone has any ideas about what modular stuff to start with, let me know.
I am thinking of a simple setup: Tip Top Audio Mantis 2x104 HP case w/power 2xVCAs- Erica Synths and Doepfer 2xVCOs- Erica Synths and Harvestman 1xLFO or wave shaper Elby Designs Serge 1xADSR EG 1xMIDI to CV- Mutable Instruments Yarns What utilities do you recommend? The biggest issue besides cost is shortage of many modules are sold out right now due to the modular craze. I have been experimenting with my Make Noise 0-coast and love it but want a different approach now. Have you looked into Winter Modular Eloquencer for a sequencer? That looks awesome!
You need to work out what you want to do with it. Sequence probably. The Elequencer is awesome but huge. I’m really liking the Varigate 4+ but also the Hermod if you want midi sequenceing - it does midi-to-cv too. But for utilities you won’t really know until you start making music- so do that first.
Thanks Robin for the quick response! I want an industrial techno setup for harsh mean sounds. Since I have an Elektron Analog 4 that has two CV outs and a sequencer, I want to keep my first modular setup basic and somewhat affordable. Eurorack sequencers are EXPENSIVE! So if I can use my Analog 4 to sequence it that should keep costs down. I sequence my semi modular Make Noise 0-coast right now from my Elektron Analog 4. Or I could get a cheaper Beatstep Pro that has CV to control modular gear.
You could but go with what you have - you don’t have to get everything at once. I got a BSP and have regretted it. But it depends on what you want. But start with a few things and then see. Modular is a journey rather than a single purchase.
thanks- I think that I will visit some modular shops in LA since I live 2 hours from large ones and can try out some gears and figure out the best starting point. Agree- it is a journey- a few modules to start to learn on budget and expand from there.
Maybe. I got as similar response when i asked if there was any news on the Spherical Wavetable oscillator before Christmas - they just said "nope". I'm sure they are lovely really.
I have two empty 3U 19” SKB rack cases I want to utilize. I understand I would have 84HP’s of space times two. I think that 19” racks are likely to be utilized by many people looking to start out. The TipTop Happy Ending Kit looks to be the starting point for that. Yes?
my humble thoughts on my starting out is to keep expenses minimal. i will probably get the 3U SKB 19” rack cases wired for power first with the Happy Ending bracket. Then a simple/straightforward VCO. Following that, I suppose would be a simple VCF, an EG, and a VCA. The fancy stuff will wait until I know what I’m doing and my bank account has recovered from the initial shock.
Excellent video, I think I know exactly how you felt - I'm in a similar position right now, started with some diy stuff and then got into buying some commercial modules (just for comparison of course ;) ), but which ones out of the thousands and for what purpose is exactly the question, if you don't know js yet. Curious what the next steps will be like, subbed ;)
I enjoy you this video, and I too am thinking of going to Eurorack. You mentioned some problems with Moog Mother 32, which I own, and I didn't catch what that was. Could you please tell me? Thanks.
When sending the M32 sequencer out to other oscillators it sometimes doesn't track the pitch very well - especially if going through a mult or splitting the cable. A buffered mult sorts this out.
I love this video! Thank you for making it, it's very helpful, well made and you seem like a very cool guy. I'm in the position of (at 46) not a musician, wanting to create evolving soundscapes and just exploring sounds. I have been watching so much here and decided that a Mother 32 and possibly a microbrute might be a good place to start before going full in to modular - gotta have a Moog! You mentioned a possible shortcoming of the mother 32, could you explain a little more please?
Sure - the KB output of the M32 doesn't track other VCO's very well and so it works better via a buffered mult. Which means that when trying to sequence other oscillators using the KB CV output, the pitch isn't very accurate.
Ahh, thanks - so straight away I'm needing eurorack in theory, although I'm not sure accurate pitch is really needed for my experiments. It is a complicated and deep world out there, no wonder you have done so much research! I'll follow your journey with great interest! Again, thank you for your videos and for taking the time to help a dumb newb - subscribed, liked, amazed!
We also have to spend a large portion of our time actually making sounds, developing our unique voice with the devices. It is tempting to keep buying more and the industry is acutely set-up to feed that desire (all those attractive names - Clouds, Braids, Ornament & Crime etc) but it takes time to develop your sound and style. Sometimes your sound can be with surprisingly simple set-ups.
I like the stuff made by 4MS but I didn't know they were dicks... LMAO jk. Excellent video. It's nice to hear a lot of people in the industry are passionate about eurorack and helpful to newbies.
Jokes aside; I have been pleasantly surprised at how supportive and unpretentious the modular community is too. I've asked so many questions in which I assumed would be met with angry n00b-condescending egos but nope! mostly just information sharing and steering confusion in a understandable direction (y)
They are now, they weren't at the time I made the video. But the point is simply that you need to have your own reasons for choosing your modules if you can.
haha,... right,... I keep forgetting that the videos are not "real time",.... silly me,... anyway, nice videos,... I really enjoy living vicariously through you, hoping that someday, I'll be able to rack up enough "time" so I can afford a system of my own,... in the mean time I'll keep watching your progress while fiddling on VCV,... so keep up the good work :)
Speaking of stupid question by people who don't know what they're talking about, wouldn't an oscillator be the first step for anyone? Then wouldn't the next steps be the basics? LFO's, Filters? Envelopes? Wouldn't someone looking to get into modular be at least passingly familiar with synthesis? Or am I really being that guy right now? I honestly don't know. I don't have a modular system, I do have some synths though.
Doesn't seem to be that way. Plenty of people go the route of an effects processor, or a noise maker, or a percussion focus, or just straight into weird things. So when describing my journey I needed to filter out all the advice on getting modules that were very clever and yet unintelligible to me at that stage, and focus on the basics - that made sense to me. And you've got to start from a place that makes sense to you even if that's not where you end up.
I'm just starting off with modular, haven't even fully thought out what i wanna do with it precisely but i DO know one thing......some bloke might smack my mum if i don't buy a Maths.
Just to let you know: I've been watching hours and hours of videos on youtube regarding building first eurorack system and, by far, this has been the best and most inspiring one. Thanks to let us know your reasons and logic behind it and all the process you've been through. Bravo!
Aww thanks 😊
nice train of thought and video to help people get going. Good work.
Hi Ben ✌️
You can’t measure the value of fun in our lives. Learning is fun. I mean... there was a time in my life, I could never accept this as a reality. Now... the Zen of being in a learning process is medicine for my entire being. Thanks for being a really Cool part of that in my new school of modular synth thought. Your approach was brilliant... because as you ask these questions of the makers, you also get yourself out there as a potential place for them to send things for review. Brilliant! I know we are on down the road now... but I’m catching up with you, here... and fully enjoying it.
Thank you, again!
Nice one 👍
Molten Music Technology Thank you very very much! I’m only simimodular right now, but I think we can still be friends. Ha ha
Great videos and totally agree with you on this is awesome, including the lights, knobs and sounds. The constant eager for more modules and bigger racks and even more crazy and awesome sounds. Totally addictive!
Great video. I stumbled into a modular synth shop while looking for some DIY electronic kits and talked to the workers there. The showed me a few things and then I did some further research online. I haven't even touched a synth yet, but I have the bug and really want to build a beginner system . From my very minimal experience with the modular community I would say you were dead on. The guys at the synth store could not have been more friendly. They weren't even trying to get me to buy anything, but just kept telling me about artist to look out and different things to check out.
Thank you for this video series. I'm on the same path that you were on, and it's remarkable how much you echo my exact thoughts. It's such a daunting world to enter into, but your videos are really helping me to put some of the pieces together, and it's really valuable. Cheers.
I love Make Noise. Their products are bomb, their history is dramatic, and, best of all, I have an emotional connection with them! I met the founder at a demo at Control Modular in New York, and he was just the nicest guy! Plus, their aesthetic rocks.
Agreed 100% one knob one function has completely turned around my production for the better. Eventually I'll jump on, but I'm holding off
This guy is a total breath of fresh air and he listens to us! Amazing! Peace christo
I've had a Maths since the 2013 version first came out and I still have to look at the manual to do anything new with it. I normally use it as envelopes because they are a nice shape plus a bit of mixing and sending a bias voltage somewhere. Oh and I often use it as an LFO if i need an extra 1 (or 2). It's a bit wasted on me really but i'm still glad I got it.
I am discovering similar things :)
I completely agree with you in regards to that it should be a learning curve of both self discovering modules and manufacturers of said modules and then acknowledging what you will ultimately want your ' rack ' to do or sound like, i used to see racks/walls of modular and become daunted by the sheer magnitude of woe i felt when I learnt how much something like that would cost me and in all honesty I've came to know that you could do so many things nowadays with just 3 or 4 modules and a few cables.
If any of you reading this are still learning I highly suggest before even spending on any modules that you decide how much you will ultimately want to incorporate a modular system into your music or if you will depend entirely on the modular system to create your music, I feel like that's important because it will give you a sense of direction in regards to what you should or shouldn't spend on and tbh buying modular is SUPER addictive, once that bug bites you it's game over lol
I'm so glad I found this. Your goals for your modular are almost exactly the same as mine. Simplicity, wavetable synthesis, - I have an arturia minibrute 2 which I havent gotten on w as much as I'd thought, but I love running my digital synths (dx7, Kawai K1, casios, etc) through the filter. So initially, I've bought the rackbrute case andan envelope follower so that I can trigger a filter env when I play external synths. I don't know yer if I want to continue making my setup an "effects processor" type thing. Ive def ran into the same scenario in which so many ppl have insisted I get a Maths module that I have decided to go ahead an try it, despite it being more complex than what I was going for to start out. If behringer releases their eurorack modules anytime soon, Ill prob build a basic Roland system 100 synth voice just because they look so affordable. Ive also looked into alot of DIY options - even though this is my first proper foray into euroack, I did build a small modular setup years ago from MusicFromOuterSpace diy modules which never worked 100 percent perfectly but was a fun learning experience. Thank you again for the info and vids and I'm looking forward to the more in depth looks at specific modules in the upcoming vidoes.
Nice story, thanks
i love this video. i kinda wish id seen it maybe six years ago before i started my modular trip? your passion is wonderful. thankyou
Nerd entertainment of high quality. Thank you!
This video is amazing to be honest, It's so easy to get lost in what modules to buy and why if you are just starting out or have never really ventured into the modular side of synthesis, Subscribed right away because this is an A1 video and very informative.
Just have to say I am so glad to have found your channel. These videos on eurorack modules are awesome.
Your videos are very helpful! You're as helpful to all of us as all of the manufacturers you mentioned have been to you. Thank you!
Your enthusiasm is amazing! Great advice too.
First modules I purchased were: Braids, Clouds, Doepfer Wasp, and Maths. I could've stopped there since I'm linking my rack to a Neutron, but I've become more obsessed with effects modules and getting experimental with what I have in the Neutron/rack.
In spite of a LONG pontification (24 minutes before we see the rack!! haha!!) this was surprisingly quite interesting. I an't believe I watched this entire chat. Why, because you raise very thoughtful questions and points, especially around "What do I want to DO with my modular?," The creative camps can be so very different (e.g. noise vs ambient vs techno/EDM vs . . .) Not to suggest one has to chose one at the expense of exploring others, but the answer to this questions, especially in the beginning, can be very helpful. I though I knew what I wanted to do with my modular: build a modular! haha! But I found myself stymied by the endless options for modules. Just a basic VCO+VCF+VCA is a fine basic start, but might not be the best config to create what one is in their creative interest. I also like how you recognize the "community" aspect of this endeavor, and the willingness of the manufacturers to be so advisory. Lastly, that you broke down the investigation into different activities (talk w manufacturers, talk with shops, engage on the boards) was cool. Bravo documenting your journey (and the scratching the surface of the philosophical angles). Well done!
Thank you very much :)
Great vid, man! Not only very informative, but you have a wonderful comedic way about you. Well done!
The Mother as an oscillator, VCF, VCA, SEQ, etc is good value for your money, plus it's the classic Moog tone, I'd think twice before retiring it. I started collecting modules one at a time after an initial 'starter pack' which for me was a 9u case with a single row of Doepfer stuff. I wanted a Mother but at the time there was a waiting list and I was impatient, by the time I could have one, it was superfluous, Now I'm thinking again of I getting one. Yeah it's expensive, cool then that one can collect bit by bit. Enjoyed your chat fella. Thanks.
I'm finding myself a little fixated on the space the M32 takes up. I've almost convinced myself to get the triple tier ends for the Moog case and go for 3 full rows - that will at least take the space issue out of the equation for, hopefully, some time, without costing too much.
What a wholesome video! truly a joy to watch.
Good video for a beginner like me. i am interested in Eurorack but have no idea where to start. I did watch a video on virtual eurorack to experiment before I buy anything. Good advice from you.
This video was very wholesome and pleasant! Thank you sir for this grand intro view.
you're welcome!
Thank you very much for sharing your story. I am pretty much at the beginning of your story, as the DFAM really got me hooked. Now are the next steps getting a mother, a moog case and the three tier stand. My first module already arrived : the Erica graphic vco. But i decided against math since it just takes up too much space.
Wow, this video was SUPER helpful. Seems like my goals are similar to yours just starting out in that I want something to compliment my Moog Mother units and want to focus on the idea of simplicity. Like with my guitar pedals, I appreciate something with two or three knobs that is straightforward. I have too much software stuff in my DAW, I want to move away from digital menu diving and flip switches and turn knobs. Can’t wait to follow you along as you dig in to some of your modules more. Really helping me to focus on on some decisions. And yeah, I’ll end up with a Maths as well. Seems like every modular article and video you see is always like, “oh yeah, and get a maths.” Like, once you have your goals, your case, and your Maths, you’re ready to start putting your rig together.
Nice one
You will be please to know I am now at a stage where I am really happy with my system. Its only taken me 12 years of purchasing. But it will never really stop.
I keep looking at Anne Annie and r beny modular vids and am in love with quite small modular set-ups. I know what I want, think it would fit in a TipTop skiff, but I have a couple of Mother 32's and the modules choices are like a module itself, they keep interacting wildly even though my need is for a quite simple dimension to complement the Moogs - essentially to escape the repetitive sound of sequencers and add textures.
Wow, Ann Annie - what a great find - that's for pointing her out, those are wonderful. I enjoy being inspired by simple rigs - gives me hope :)
So important to develop our own voice amongst this phantasmagoria of modules, less is more.
too true
girl in a gale Ann Annie channel is so awesome, love the different scenerys.
Great intro speech:) Thanks for info and motivation.
Thank you so so much for you video here! I am the point in life where I was asking myself the same questions as you. I have a Mother 32, and where do I continue from that with 104hp? This video gives so much answers it is really apreciated. Where I live, there are not so much people involved into modulars so the internet is key for me. Thanx again!
I'm in the same boat here haha. The people where I live probably think I'm experimenting with alien technology, but loving every second of it.
Alexandre Mattucci Make Noise Maths would be a good next step. It offers lots of modulation possibilities for the Mother and can be many different things. After that maybe an effects module. I went with the Mutable Instruments Clouds texture synth which samples little grains of sound that you can reverse and mix around and mash up and do all sorts of cool things with. The cool thing about Eurorack is that it totally depends on the wants of the artist. There really isn’t a right and wrong. Have fun!
Make friends with people who do modular if you can to get exposure to different builds. That really helped me a lot. Ask questions on Muff Wiggler and Modulargrid.com people are super friendly and helpful. Plan some setups and budget.
A very fine and enjoyable video. Good luck on your journey!
Nice. Thanks for featuring my video. :D Really good advices. Good job mate.
Thanks man - love your work :)
I only dived into modular 6 weeks ago, but I've learned so much from watching your videos Robin! I hadn't heard of the FB group until I watched this one... so I jumped in and asked a noobie question and was bowled over by how helpful and friendly the responses were. (This is FB after all.) Really great stuff, thanks.
PS: How's the Deckard's Dream build coming along...? 😊
Cool, that’s great to hear. Deckard’s just needs time that I don’t have but I’ll have another go soon I hope
That’s the exciting part for me. I thought I knew what I wanted until I got my Mother/DFAM combo. Now I have no idea what kind of sound I want, but I know exactly what I need to manipulate it. Then I think that’ll tell me where to go next.
Yes definitely, see where it takes you.
You did some AMAZING research here. Thank you for sharing your findings. I didn't have the time or energy to do this kind of research, and opted to buy a complete Pittsburgh Foundation 3+. Which is a great beginners modular, and it has 104hp of empty space to fill with other things (which led me to your video). In particular I love the sounds from the Clouds module and Maths. I might start shopping for those. Once I get more proficient with modular synthesis, I very well may sell my Pittsburgh and build from scratch, and this video (and resources within) will certainly be even more helpful. Thanks again! Pete from Creative-Audio-Production.com .
Nice one mate.
great videos man, really appreciate your research and your presentation.
I like the Harvestman Polivoks Russian themed modules since I am after a darker industrial sound so that would be fun as well as West Coast synthesis modules like Make Noise, Serge, and Verbos modules so that is where I am headed in my setup.
+1 for Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith reference
What a great video. Very reassuring!
Everyone except 4MS: "Hey! Here you go, list of helpful articles and good modules, you don't need a mixer you can just use this"
4MS: "Fuck off"
Thanks for this. Very candid and interesting. Subscribed 👍
I just said fk it and went semi-modular. I have a Korg MS-20 mini and a Makenoise 0-coast. Will go fully-modular eventually.
Future Tropics Yeah the semi modular route is really good to start with. Like I knew how synths worked before a little, but now I am learning them enough to feel confident that I would know what to do if I ever built a fully modular system.
nice video. descriptive enough to understand what it is you're saying :)
you should become part of Patreon. in any case, please keep up the good work, i'm going to watch each one of them!
I'd not recommend that Moog case. When I saw it I fell in love with it, and got a 3 tier rack. I soon found out that a lot of modules are actually too deep and don't fit in this shallower than normal case. For example a lot of modules from the Doepfer Vintage line simply won't fit. Go for another case if you want more options!
+Kayak Fan thanks for the tip. I’ve not come across any too deep as yet. Maybe that’s why the Doepfer cases are so chunky. I don’t think the Moog is any shallower than any of the other skiffs I looked - but it’s certainly true that some modules are deep - always check before you buy.
The problem I found was that it's because of the slanted back panel. The chunky doepfer ones are square and don't have that problem. And it's such a shame too because the moog ones looked absolutely beautiful. I just couldn't even fit the most basic doepfer A-110-1 VCO in there; which is very weird that Moog didn't think to test this.
Thank you for your time!!! really clearrr...and like yeah..i dont know what i neeeeed...i wann build a modular drum machine...yeah i know im aiming high...but yeah ...just found you!
so i bought an music thing modular turing machine and a few other pieces i didnt buy a case yet but im looking to build a generative machine that i can lock and control
I agree that a pre assembled modular defeats the purpose a bit but I find it daunting to choose between a basic simple build and customizing a large array of modules that can be long to get together. I got my eyes on the fusebox by analogue solutions. I think this could be a good one to start with and not be bored by having to add more hardware.
There are some great desktop boxes out there - we are spoilt for choice and I could totally go that way if I hadnt gone this way :)
D'you know? I was thinking what synth to buy with my next trip to Europe but you've changed my mind! I'm going modular wtf! Lol. Maybe a little bit cheaper but I'l give them a try. Thanks man! Peace
What an amazing video. Thank you.
Excellent video. Thank you!!
Really, thanks for sharing! Just thanks, man!
Wow, a Maths *and* a Batumi! That's a lot of modulation in 104hp! Not a critique -- I'm envious. But, for my part, I have almost decided "screw them all I'll *never* have a Maths" :-). I do have a Function and it is incredibly useful, so I can imagine just how bonkers Maths is. I also have a Peaks and an Ornament & Crime, so that's where I go for additional modulation, for now. I do badly want a Batumi, though.
I've filled my 3x104 setup, and now have to swap modules back and forth (for example Elements is sitting off in a box, all lonesome). So, I just ordered an Intellijel 7u case to expand into (along with some 1u modules), and perhaps someday I'll convert over to all Intellijel cases if I love this expensive case enough. This is a sickness, indeed, but it's a fun sickness to have.
Re the mixer, you got good advice to start. But when you start wanting to get the benefit of stereo effects and/or Clouds, etc, you might find yourself wanting a real panning stereo mixer. Plus, as you get more voices, a small/simple 3 or 4 channel mixer can still come in handy (or pick up a MI Links for nice utility in a small space). Anyway, I opted for the Sputnik 6-channel stereo mixer as my output mixer and it really made my setup come alive.
Aside from the Sputnik, Pittsburgh is now shipping their "System Interface" mixer/utilities, which once you expand, might be an interesting option (it's definitely interesting to me, being a bit of a Pitts fan). These options do eat up some HP, so wait until you're really wanting stereo (or go with an external mixer).
Regarding it being fun to watch others build their cases up, there is a super-interesting thread somewhere on muffwiggler.com simply composed of this simple yet interesting challenge: "what would you put in a 32hp Doepfer "beauty case"?".
It's been fun watching the journey. Looking forward to more.
The compulsory Maths is a weird thing - although I'm now using it as an envelope which will do for now. I confess to not quite understanding the Ornament and Crime thing - it's been recommended a lot but that black slab, to me, couldn't look more un-modular like. I think that sort of experimentation needs another row of HP - i can easily fill three rows right now.... but i mustn't, because i have a dozen modules i need to learn already!
The mixer thing - coming from a vaguely pro-audio background i'm surprised at the simplicity of the mixing options. It makes obvious sense to me that i would want to be running each "sound" separately through a different channel on my audio interface into my DAW for when i come to record what's going on. But all the mixers and output modules seem to reduce to a stereo output, with no sends or other routing options. And those that do offer a bit more take up loads of HP. I'd like a module that has an input, volume, pan, direct output, with a mix-out and headphone out so i can listen to the modular and still have the option to record multi-track - but i want it with 8 channel all in 8hp :)
But maybe the way i need to approach it is to relax a bit on the size of the system. The Mother annoys me with how much room it takes up, but if i was to go to three rows then that would no longer be an issue and i could chill out about having a 24hp mixer.
It's a sickness...
Ahh, you're right about the mixer -- it totally depends upon your goals. Really, most advice I've seen says just do the mix in an outboard mixer if you want any sophistication at all: the most flexibility for the money. I think this is probably compatible with your needs/expectations for getting multichannel sound *out* of your setup.
For my part, I want to do everything "in the box", so I don't mind only having stereo outs on my modular mixer. I actually split the headphone out of my Sputnik and record right off of that to a Zoom H2, so I'm pretty low-tech. This does bring me some issues -- I have to work "wet", to the extent I can anyway, and I'm stuck with the results. I need all the effects, (except perhaps for a final reverb) "in the box", too, and with no effect loops on my current stereo mixer, I have to have an effect per for each channel/voice I want to use it on. Whew!
So I'm just happy that Clouds and Elements both have their own reverbs and I can put one or the other Disting into delay mode. When I have something I think is worth preserving I just take the file from the H2 into GarageBand and apply a little final reverb to the whole stereo mix. I know it's not a "pro" way to do it, but it keeps things contained.
OK, that was long-winded.
Re the O+C, it is also a module that is probably overly loved. I got mine because I got caught up in the hype. Yes, it can be multiple channels of many things, but it can only be one of those things at a time. So if you need four channels of quantization, well, you have it. But I generally don't need that. And if you *are* using it for quantization and normally use it for quad LFOs, well you just lost four LFOs. I find four ASRs to be really uninteresting. So I pretty much use it in quadrature LFO mode, which is very handy, esp with the display. But since I pretty much only use it as an LFO I think I'd just prefer a Batumi.
Most people consider this sacrilege, but I think three Distings is more useful than one O+C. You could do three different things in fewer HP Watch out for the torches and pitchforks now that I've said that!
So I've gone on long enough. It is indeed a sickness. Thanks for listening, and I look forward to your next installment
AFAIK There's nothing to stop you from running each sound separately into your audio interface without a fancy mixer, you would just need to attenuate the output of the last module in the patch down to a level your interface can handle. You could use Veils for that, although it would be a bit of a waste of VCAs. The AT-AT-AT triple attenuator from Thonk.co.uk would maybe be a good option - it's DIY but apparently very easy to build and costs about £25 including postage.
If you're looking for single-function building blocks then yes, you'll probably not want the O&C. But that could change. My philosophy tends to be the same but I do really like the O&C.
Great videos, btw! I wish there had been something like this when I started. Several years in and still learning. But that's a good part of the fun.
Started a year ago. Yep, everybody was talking about Math… Become anti Math. Probably stupid. But now I have Function and Intellijel Quadra plus its expander. You don’t have to do like everybody else? Nice vid btw!
Great series! having my second watchthrough tbh. If I may suggest a lowcost intro to modular, it would be the Bastl Kastle. Great fun, and pairs very well with a Moog Werkstatt (using jumper cables) :)
Those Kastles are awesome
Whilst on Muffs did you find the unofficial Maths manual - well worth getting a copy (free from a Muff member). Very happy to see the Disting in your rack as the host of features it offers will help you decide if you need the function in a dedicated form.
I haven't got to the Maths yet, but thanks for the tip.
Hi, could you please send me the link to the unofficial manual as a PM? Thank you
2:14 three Volca Samples! I just convinced myself to sell mine..
Great video/s. In the same boat. Jump started, much like you did with the Mother 32, with a Kilpatrick Phenol. Already looking to a TipTop Happy ending for my desktop 19" rack. Also wondering what modules to put in.I'm thinking a Make Noise Maths. Also really intrigued by the Make Noise Telharmonic. I like noise & distortion. So a module for doing this. It's a fascinating journey. I'm loving it.
Do you have a link to the video at 5:09 please?
im also getting into it, should I just learn by making patches with vcv or softtube ?
That's always a good place to start
That was a long video but actually very good ! 👍
What is that awsome sounding thing on 5:10? (or the link to the original video)
When is it appropriate to use a buffered multiple with the Mother-32 and other VCO's? Is it just a good idea to have a buff mult in your rack just in case?
It's appropriate when it's not working right with a passive mult. If you are getting weird pitches and things not quite working right, then try a buffered mult and you'll experience the difference.
Thank's for this channel. I just noticed that the Mother-32 has at least one buffered multiple with two outs on board. I'm still in the stand alone mode. The Mother, Erebus, 0-Coast mindset...trying to justify a whole rack just to get a buff mult. By the time I have the language to ask the correct question I've probably already answered it...
Waldorf does some cool stuff as well...keyboard 37 is very nice :)
Hello
Thank you so much for this video. I like this melody music from modular and I want to try this music. But my problem i don't know from where I start.
I try to contact Colin Benders because I really like this music but no answer. I try also to found on youtube and on internet some information. But i don't understand nothing than nothing........... I am in Barcelona and I am french so also here is difficult to found some information.
Is it possible to help me please to found the right way and enjoy to play this music?
Thank you so much for your time and help
Frank
Hi Frank. I put together the Molten Modular series of videos to help people just like you - people who don't know where to start. So please, check out the whole series and the website too and hopefully that will get you moving in the right direction www.moltenmodular.com
sir, what is your opinion on printing your own circuit boards? i mean, there are circuit diagrams of various oscilattors available online...plus isnt is much easier on the pocket than buy modules that are worth probably 500$
Easier on the pocket maybe but probably not easier on your time. DIY modular is awesome, but you have to take it on as a bit of a hobby which will eat into your music making time. I've got a Turin module kit that i plan to build very soon - should be an adventure, but i also like buying a well made module for a specific function. So yeah, i'm into the kit thing but printing your own PCB's is getting a little too deep for me - but you go do that thing!
I’m thinking about putting a dfam and mother 32 in a case, morphagene, and Strymon magneto. Anything else I could benefit from in a 208 hp case?
yes - everything else. So far you have a synth, a drum machine, a delay and a sampler - you could do all of that in desktop units. You need modulation, utilities, CV mixing,VCAs, random generators, switches and all the other things to do with CV and modular rather than just sound sources and effects.
Molten Music Technology seems like I need a lot more. :/. Not al lot of hp left...DFAM and 32 are big. I want to make the most of the little space left. What modules would you recommend. Maths ....?¿
you probably need to spend time with what you have. You have a load of stuff - you need to play with that. You only really work out what modules you need once you start doing things or trying to do things which you find you cant.
Out of interest how much did your case, power, and first set of modules come to money wise?
loads of money
Excellent Stuff! You're verbalising exactly what I'm thinking. You're making me think a little more outside of the box. I've got a Mother 32 too, because I just love Moog, and it was a relatively cheap way of getting One! My other challenge is because I love Moog so much when I went onto the AJH site, I find out there's a possibility that I could put together a bunch of modules together to make a "Mini Moog" I was then "restricting" myself to one manufacturers make of modules! Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
Plus because I'm unable to buy everything at once, what should I buy first so at least I'm making some sounds! Oh the challenge of it all? But what fun!
I think I'll leave it there for now, but really appreciate the amount of work you've already put in for me! It truly is a godsend.
I'm finding there's no right or wrong ways to approach it, just lots of opinion. I like the look of a chaotic rack with different modules from different places - makes things more identifiable and unexpected. But you should jolly well get whatever you want. With the Mother 32 you've got a lot of functions that will help you start small. For instance, just getting another oscillator - you could stick that in the M32's External Input, play it from the keyboard and modulate with the LFO, all without getting anything else. It really is possible to start small - and it's helpful to do that. I'm having to fight desires to buy more modules all the time because i havent spent proper time with what i have yet. It is a challenge... and fun!
Thanks for the quick response! Have you "discussed" yet the process of "triggering" to get sounds out of these wonderful Beasts? The Mother 32 has its little keyboard and sequencer. And a bit of random note generation never goes amiss plus other midi controllers? I like keyboards so will tend to use that. I like Arturia's "KeyStep" plus the "BeatStep Pro". I "practiced" synthesis by using Arturia's software instruments. A relatively cheap way to dip your tow into synthesizers and synthesis.
Your thoughts?
Yes, sequencing is the next big topic. I have a BeatStep Pro but i'm finding it less than intuitive and i'm not understanding why it messes the octaves up - it's just all a bit weird. MIDI is so much easier in that respect. So yeah, i'll be getting into that. There's also things that they don't tell you. Like using the mult on the M32 to run the ST0 and the Black VCO from the M32 keyboard and sequencer - it didn't sound right. So i worked out that i needed a buffered mult module and now it's much better - controlling this voltage stuff is an art all unto itself and you never run into these things in software.
So yes, sequencing is next on the list :)
Great video!
You are the Jesus of the synth modular world, spreading the word with such a kindness. NOise on and keep on Oscillating! I also have M32
I want to combine music, and visuals into live performance. Combined with computer programs like Max/MSP, Pure Data. From what I understand if you are using Max/Msp then you should probably use the full version of Ableton LIve. If anyone has any ideas about what modular stuff to start with, let me know.
my answer to this question was a moog mother 32 and a pair of sq-1
Its a shame 4MS didnt really reply in a enthusiastic way because they have always been great for me and their modules are brilliant.
Thank you for some very nice, and interesting videoes. I'm afraid this might be time consuming, expensive and fun ;)
I am thinking of a simple setup:
Tip Top Audio Mantis 2x104 HP case w/power
2xVCAs- Erica Synths and Doepfer
2xVCOs- Erica Synths and Harvestman
1xLFO or wave shaper Elby Designs Serge
1xADSR EG
1xMIDI to CV- Mutable Instruments Yarns
What utilities do you recommend?
The biggest issue besides cost is shortage of many modules are sold out right now due to the modular craze. I have been experimenting with my Make Noise 0-coast and love it but want a different approach now.
Have you looked into Winter Modular Eloquencer for a sequencer? That looks awesome!
You need to work out what you want to do with it. Sequence probably. The Elequencer is awesome but huge. I’m really liking the Varigate 4+ but also the Hermod if you want midi sequenceing - it does midi-to-cv too. But for utilities you won’t really know until you start making music- so do that first.
Thanks Robin for the quick response! I want an industrial techno setup for harsh mean sounds. Since I have an Elektron Analog 4 that has two CV outs and a sequencer, I want to keep my first modular setup basic and somewhat affordable. Eurorack sequencers are EXPENSIVE! So if I can use my Analog 4 to sequence it that should keep costs down. I sequence my semi modular Make Noise 0-coast right now from my Elektron Analog 4. Or I could get a cheaper Beatstep Pro that has CV to control modular gear.
You could but go with what you have - you don’t have to get everything at once. I got a BSP and have regretted it. But it depends on what you want. But start with a few things and then see. Modular is a journey rather than a single purchase.
thanks- I think that I will visit some modular shops in LA since I live 2 hours from large ones and can try out some gears and figure out the best starting point. Agree- it is a journey- a few modules to start to learn on budget and expand from there.
Shout out to Cymru Beats....great place.
I think you just got the wrong guy at 4MS. The owner is a real nice guy who I met at a synth meetup. I can't imagine he would tell you to bugger off.
Maybe. I got as similar response when i asked if there was any news on the Spherical Wavetable oscillator before Christmas - they just said "nope". I'm sure they are lovely really.
I have two empty 3U 19” SKB rack cases I want to utilize. I understand I would have 84HP’s of space times two. I think that 19” racks are likely to be utilized by many people looking to start out. The TipTop Happy Ending Kit looks to be the starting point for that. Yes?
yes, sure, that works
my humble thoughts on my starting out is to keep expenses minimal. i will probably get the 3U SKB 19” rack cases wired for power first with the Happy Ending bracket. Then a simple/straightforward VCO. Following that, I suppose would be a simple VCF, an EG, and a VCA. The fancy stuff will wait until I know what I’m doing and my bank account has recovered from the initial shock.
Excellent video, I think I know exactly how you felt - I'm in a similar position right now, started with some diy stuff and then got into buying some commercial modules (just for comparison of course ;) ), but which ones out of the thousands and for what purpose is exactly the question, if you don't know js yet. Curious what the next steps will be like, subbed ;)
I enjoy you this video, and I too am thinking of going to Eurorack. You mentioned some problems with Moog Mother 32, which I own, and I didn't catch what that was. Could you please tell me? Thanks.
When sending the M32 sequencer out to other oscillators it sometimes doesn't track the pitch very well - especially if going through a mult or splitting the cable. A buffered mult sorts this out.
Molten Music Technology Thanks,I appreciate you telling me.
I love this video! Thank you for making it, it's very helpful, well made and you seem like a very cool guy. I'm in the position of (at 46) not a musician, wanting to create evolving soundscapes and just exploring sounds. I have been watching so much here and decided that a Mother 32 and possibly a microbrute might be a good place to start before going full in to modular - gotta have a Moog! You mentioned a possible shortcoming of the mother 32, could you explain a little more please?
Sure - the KB output of the M32 doesn't track other VCO's very well and so it works better via a buffered mult. Which means that when trying to sequence other oscillators using the KB CV output, the pitch isn't very accurate.
Ahh, thanks - so straight away I'm needing eurorack in theory, although I'm not sure accurate pitch is really needed for my experiments. It is a complicated and deep world out there, no wonder you have done so much research! I'll follow your journey with great interest! Again, thank you for your videos and for taking the time to help a dumb newb - subscribed, liked, amazed!
Thanks for doing all you've done..👍
It means I don't have to..😳
really enjoying this journey,as i at the moment am in the conundrum of choice and cost to what end;-)
We also have to spend a large portion of our time actually making sounds, developing our unique voice with the devices. It is tempting to keep buying more and the industry is acutely set-up to feed that desire (all those attractive names - Clouds, Braids, Ornament & Crime etc) but it takes time to develop your sound and style. Sometimes your sound can be with surprisingly simple set-ups.
I like the stuff made by 4MS but I didn't know they were dicks... LMAO jk. Excellent video. It's nice to hear a lot of people in the industry are passionate about eurorack and helpful to newbies.
I am at 23 mins now and waiting for the mention that you needed tiptop power or similar for that Moog case
I did another video all about the case and power supply - funnily enough i went for a 4MS one in the end :)
bro how could you leave out muffwiggler
well nevermind
3:12
I'm about to build my first modular too... I dont want a Maths but I better get one anyway XD
Jokes aside; I have been pleasantly surprised at how supportive and unpretentious the modular community is too. I've asked so many questions in which I assumed would be met with angry n00b-condescending egos but nope! mostly just information sharing and steering confusion in a understandable direction (y)
That’s too bad about 4ms, maybe he was hungry and hadn’t had lunch! The ensemble sure is neat though.
the mother 32 sequencer is horrible to learn how to play...i just sold mine...
it is a bit challenging, but i haven't hardly scratched the surface of the M-32 yet :)
make racks out of cardboard for when u need more room till you fill a rack before buying a new row
yeah but,... clouds and braids are discontinued,...
They are now, they weren't at the time I made the video. But the point is simply that you need to have your own reasons for choosing your modules if you can.
haha,... right,... I keep forgetting that the videos are not "real time",.... silly me,... anyway, nice videos,... I really enjoy living vicariously through you, hoping that someday, I'll be able to rack up enough "time" so I can afford a system of my own,... in the mean time I'll keep watching your progress while fiddling on VCV,... so keep up the good work :)
Speaking of stupid question by people who don't know what they're talking about, wouldn't an oscillator be the first step for anyone? Then wouldn't the next steps be the basics? LFO's, Filters? Envelopes? Wouldn't someone looking to get into modular be at least passingly familiar with synthesis? Or am I really being that guy right now? I honestly don't know. I don't have a modular system, I do have some synths though.
Doesn't seem to be that way. Plenty of people go the route of an effects processor, or a noise maker, or a percussion focus, or just straight into weird things. So when describing my journey I needed to filter out all the advice on getting modules that were very clever and yet unintelligible to me at that stage, and focus on the basics - that made sense to me. And you've got to start from a place that makes sense to you even if that's not where you end up.
Well, alright. Fair enough.
You ruined the surprise with your previous video, naughty boy.
That is true - it took me much longer to finish this one than I had intended.
Molten Music Technology very enjoyable series nonetheless. Keep up the good work.
@min 10; for the love of GOD; chose something; this year
I've come a long way since this video :)
But you like MATHS now don't you? You love MATHS, right?
i feel like this is a deadmau5 reference...
Electronic Cat Offical MATHS is a module from MAKE NOISE
...but do you have a Maths?
Yes
...declining to recommend your own product line due to prejudice... classic sales tactic. Lol
I love nice people!