Modular Synth Basics #03: How to start?
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- Опубліковано 26 лют 2014
- Some thoughts on how to start building a Eurorack modular synth system.
My Eurorack System: www.modulargrid.net/e/racks/vi...
Questions or comments? Go ahead and post them below! :) Thanks for watching!
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very helpful for someone who starts from ground
zero ! thank you
Thanks bro! Perfect video. Just what I needed!
Hahaha best tip "get a larger case than necessary" I thought I had enough with 6U.....need to get a bigger one now ;)
love your music andrea!!
I bought a 3U x 104HP case because it was cheaper than a Tip top happy ending kit and a power supply. Found a Pittsburgh Modular Move 104 that never been used. It’s going to take some restraint to shoehorn everything in here. At least my wallet will be happier.
Now if I could finally decide what to get.
Great help!
Excellent vid's good tutoring skills. This will definitely help my modular journey I'm about to start.
Very good teaching - well done and thanks
These are great! Can't wait to see more!
Thanks! I've got lots of ideas for more videos, so stay tuned :)
***** Awesome! I'm still in the planning stages of modular, so I'm sure these will be of great benefit. Terms I'm still hazy on include Lag, Through Zero, Function Generators, Skew, Flip-Flops, Comparators, Pulse Counters, Logic, Differential, Sum... The list goes on. Coming from a subtractive (and non-modular) synth background, this stuff can be fairly confusing and somewhat intimidating.
Mike O Don't worry too much about those terms/features. Modular synths are such a huge topic that it's impossible to know everything before you get your own. Just start with the things you know, enjoy and continue from there. :)
awesome!!thanks!
Very helpful, thanks.
Thanks for the video. It's very helpful. I'm on Modulargrid, and Muffwiggler now, imagining tweaking my first synth. I know I'll have one some day.
Great! You know, you can start really small! So you don't have to wait until you can buy a huge wall of modules, but you could start with just one or two, complementing your other snyths (e,g, MicroBrute + LFO + VCO).
Great intro! I started out with an A-110 VCO, A-145 LFO, Asys S&H/Noise. Asol Rs110 Filter/Mixer, Doepfer Wasp Filter and Doepfer DIY Psu... and THREE patch cables!!! But man did I get to know those modules inside out!
So I agree with #5 and my personal advice for #3 is think about how many patch cables you think you will need - and double it :-) Its better to be looking at, than looking for it!
:-)
Oh my! Three cables are indeed very few. Doubling the amount you think you need sounds like a good idea :)
Thank you
This helped 😎
Great video
Thanks! Let me know if you have questions :)
Some very good advice.
Thanks :)
thank
Danke⭐️
Sehr gern :)
Super great advice. I'm currently in the research phase and i know my goal -- to create a modular synth for music and exploring sound. I am also planning on hooking up a keyboard and computer but how friendly are these kinds of systems towards MIDI/USB connections? Are they all CV/Gate controlled, and if so, which synths/midi keyboards would allow me to connect the two? Oh and also. I'm not that good with electronics so how will i know how big of a power supply i need? Thanks!
Thanks! Go ahead and watch the other videos in this series and your questions should probably all be answered :) Here's a link: ua-cam.com/play/PLa9Em_H8Xs_al-r_90xYiuiz-3N8HZyf_.html Let me know if you have more questions after that :)
The 9U costs just a bit more than the 6U. I would always rather go with the 9U! The formula for the number of patch cables is very easy.... count your patch points divided by 2.
Hey dude (sorry that I don't know your name, I'm new to the channel),
I've been watching your videos and find them very helpful, you explain everything very well and I like your sense of humor.
I recently got my hands on a brand new Aluminum Moog Voyager (turns out I'm a financial masochist) as my first truly analog synth. What would you recommend for me to build to work with the Voyager? I plan on focusing more on modulation than sound generation, but I'm wondering what you think would be useful.
Also, good studio (aka curved tabletop) cases that don't cost me the souls of 10 of my closest friends?
I'm not too familiar with the Voyager, but if you want more modulation, then your typical LFOs, sequencers, random sources, etc are a good starting point. I especially like clockable/syncable modulation.
Cases and power supplies aren't really overly expensive, especially compared to the modules they will house. You can also build your own case, which will save you the labor cost and which isn't that difficult (if it doesn't need to be "beautiful").
Great video! I wonder if there's a limit in the number of stackable cables that I can put in a module? You recommend having 3 to 4 cables per module but can be dangerous for the modular to use i.e. 8 stackable cables? I guess maybe this depend of the module too.
P.S. Just made an account on ModularGrid to plan a noise/sound design machine.
Cheers!
As with passive multiples there will be a voltage drop with every stackcable you use. Also, the strain on the plugs could potentially damage them or the socket, when you stack eight cables into one socket.
Thanks :-) I found a product from Intellijel (Hub) that can do this function.
Yeah, or you could get multiples as modules if you have space :)
I’m looking to mix different randomly generated noises with orchestral music by a real orchestra - so could I use something like this to generate random noises, like random tones and maybe even random loaded snippets of sounds or recordings all at random? How would I get started with this?
Yes, definitely. Noise is no problem obviously and there are sample player modules too, like the Radio Music for example and lots more :)
Hi!!! Can i ask, if is the proper place to ask...: as i understand the last module in the modular system is the vca, and what is the final signal from the modular system? Where i can put it? In to my sound-card - posible, or i need a standart mixer? Sory i am new in this tings, but i want to start somehow! Thanks
+Stenly Spa you can use a Eurorack mixer module, an outboard mixer or go directly into your sound card. Modular signals can be very loud though, so you might need to attenuate the signal if you go straight into your computer. Just try it out and if it's clipping, attenuate it.
Hi , what would be a good basic 6 U modular effects synth ? as in what modules would be good to have. Thank you.
There is obviously a great choice of modules, so it would be best to research them yourself, as I don't know what exactly you need. However besides effects (filters, delays, distortion, etc.), make sure to get modulation sources like LFOs, sequencers, clock generators, random generators, etc as well to change the effect settings dynamically :)
If I would want something to start more melodic/ambient stuff which would be the best way to start?
(Kind aiming for Deadmau5 stuff because I'm lame)
Love your stuff!!!
+Ragdoll Tk I would probably look for a nice sine wave VCO (e.g. Intellijel Dixie) or two for FM sounds and more. Then a filter of course, AD Envelopes, Delay and (Spring?) Reverb and then some modules for textures. I just listened to the Synthtech "Cloud Generator" and "Dual Morphing LFO" yesterday and they sounded awesome for ambient stuff.
+The Tuesday Night Machines such a lovely suggestion! Would it better to get a midi to cv or just get a sequencer instead or both?
+Ragdoll Tk Really depends on your setup. If a computer or MIDI sequencer is involved, a MIDI-CV interface is a very easy and hassle-free solution. If you don't use such an external sequencer, a Eurorack sequencer is definitely a good idea.
Wow, you are officially my first teacher on the basics of modular synth. Legend. "Thank You!" :-) So for the past few days i have been trying to nail down a case. I have one in mind (see link below), but im running into problems getting the power sorted. My goal / end result would be a PS option that does NOT utilize a power specific module that you install into the rack. I want to be able to plug the power into a power socket fitted on the outside of the box itself (i.e. on the side). I figured out that just the box itself (with no power) = £310. And with power (Doepfer BusBoards with the power set up from the DIY100 Kit (no +5V supply) = £445 or with +5v converters £470. I guess my question is, am i missing something that would be an even 'better' option than what i have mentioned above? Should i go w/ no power and install one myself (not necessarily the Doepfer kit) -but something else? And finally, what is this +5v option about? I dont get it. If power is being distributed from ranges +12 -12 already, doesn't that include +5v? Why the 'additional' +5v supply/section? Thanks Again.
synthracks.com/shop/eurorack-portable-travel-cases
That seems all reasonable. I also like not to "waste" space in the rack for a power module. Some modules require a separate 5V supply because they cannot transform the 12V themselves (maybe because the module is small and there's no space for a converter, maybe it would make it too expensive, maybe there would be heat issues, etc.).
Thank You !
Maybe you can help me! I am getting into modular via Moog Mother 32 and am looking to expand. I want drums next. I am looking into module drums maybe the drumdokta even though a drum machine would be easier, I like the module sounds a bit better... What would I need to be able to use these together? I'm assuming a midi module and a mixer maybe? I also want 0-coast next and I know I can patch that into mother 32 or use via midi? Thank you?!! Your videos are very helpful
+Sheila B for drum modules you'll need a trigger sequencer or a MIDI - CV module with triggers or a lot of outputs. I'd rather go with a trigger seq personally, like the Bastl Knit Rider. If you want to stick to MIDI maybe a Vermona DRM-1 mkIII might be a better option? There is also a version with trigger inputs and MIDI too.
+The Tuesday Night Machines ok great will the trigger sequencer work to make the drums and mother 32 in time?
Yes, if you send the clock out of the Mother32 (is there one?) into the trigger sequencer or the other way around.
+The Tuesday Night Machines there is no clock out, there's a tempo in and midi to cv
Then you have to patch the trigger sequencer's clock out into the Mother32. But I think that the mother can be the master CV clock as well. Check the manual again.
I just started eurorack, love it so far, also did some basic kit builts, right now I'm building a monsoon from pusherman and I need to send out a 1v signal to the 1v/oct input after that a 3v signal has to be sent to the same input to calibrate it. I don't know how to do that. Can you or anyone help me please...
Take a gate signal or any other positive static voltage source and run it through an attenuator. Measure the output with a multimeter and dial down the attenuator until you measure 1V. Do the same for 3V later on :)
@@tuesdaynightmachines wauw, thank you for the quick reply and simple explanation. Thank you...I can now finish my build...Have a nice day...
@@Lalaland.001 you’re welcome! Enjoy the module! DIY rules! :)
@@tuesdaynightmachines It's actually because of you why I got into modular. I only took it up because you made that mikrophonie build video after which I discovered synth diy guy and both of you have taken away the fear of electronics and soldering. I just started building 3 months ago, but it has been so much fun. I also got a really good deal on a low cost doepfer case 84hp 3 rows. So I took your advice on buying a bigger case then I actually bought I needed. I am now in the process of making most of my modules in kit form as it gives me a lot of satisfaction to build this stuff. So a huge thank you to you and this amazing community of modular enthusiasts. DIY rules indeed, thank you...
Nice! I’ve had that Doepfer LC case as well once and it was very good and solid. Getting a good deal on a case early on is great! Post a link to pictures or your music if you have anything online :)
is there any Moog style ladder filter available out there compatible with eurorack?
thanks :)
There are the Doepfer A-120 and A-103 Ladder Filters, which are supposed to be Moog-like, and the new Aion Modular Low Pass Filter. There's probably more.
***** much appreciated :)
Can a synth be play on its own, or do they need to be plugged into a computer software or amp?
What do you mean by “play on its own”? To hear a synth play you need a speaker of course and to record it you need an audio recorder or computer with an audio input.
Hi, i'm looking to build a noise synth.
I have a 3u case and the braids macro osc.
But i want to upgrade the synth 1 part at a time because it's fucking expensive :D.
I'm looking at the Mutable Instruments Veils quad vca.
Can i just order the part single or do i need some more parts to make it work?
Thank you.
You can order full modules one at a time. They usually come with a power ribbon cable and screws. That's all you need.
and one more thing: what is the difference between linean and exponential vca (or mixer, or something else in modular synths)?
+Stenly Spa check out the video about this topic later in the series :)
Thanks a lot, very halping me!!! be healty!!!
I gotta ask. Because im not so very steady with "building stuff", i was thinking of going with the doepfer Dark Energy, Would that be a good start or just me being lazy? Thanks for the video and the tips!
What do you mean by "building stuff"? You don't have to build anything yourself with a modular and putting the modules into a case only requires you to plug a cable onto the bus board and screw two screws into place. The dark energy is a nice semi-modular synth, but if you want to go modular, then just go modular :) I also like the MicroBrute as a somewhat semi-modular companion to my Eurorack, because it includes a keyboard and a sequencer.
Did you say that you can use a modular effects system as an extension of analog synth (like my microkorg)? If so how would I go about doing this?
+SimplyRockZone Yes, indeed (although the MicroKorg isn't an analog synth). There are FX modules that process audio and if your synth is analog with CV inputs/outputs (like the MicroBRUTE for example) you can even control the effects with your synth or run them in sync.
Wow thanks for the quick reply. As you can probably tell I'm pretty new at this. Well with this info I may have to look into a purely analogy synth, because that really seems like a huge advantage.
Oh one more question, if I were to invest in an analog synth would it have to have a patch bay (like the microbrute does) in order to connect it to modules, or will any purely analog synth do?
+SimplyRockZone You don't need an "analog" synth necessarily, but to control a modular, the synth needs CV inputs & outputs. You can send your MicroKorg audio through a modular too, or convert MIDI data to CV to control a modular with your MK or computer, etc. So you just need some way to interface between the synth and the modular (eg CV patch bay on the synth or a MIDI-CV converter in between). Analog synths often give you a CV patch bay, but are limited in other ways, like polyphony.
Hey, I've a question. I've been watching tutorials around the web but so far I've found nothing exactly relating to music synthesis with modular synthesizers. This channel looks promising, so I was wondering if you have any content related to creating specific sounds, altering timbre and pitch, effects, etc. Put simply how to make bits of music with a modular synthesizer. Can you steer me in the right direction, please?
+A White Rabbit Appeared hey! :) Maybe my "Patch from Scratch" videos are helpful then: ua-cam.com/play/PLa9Em_H8Xs_ZDNkkchkYaa64czV85TqPG.html
***** Thank you! :)
whats a good module that will have vcf and vcos and bluelantern dwarf star mod all playthem selves...like i guess a random mod.....just want to build somthing that will be noise random and feed into inself/play its self....any hints??
Hm, maybe the Turing Machine module. It's a really cool random looping sequencer, especially with the expansions. It needs a clock signal to run (square wave LFO works too).
what would be the best and affordable set up to modulate a drum machine? to generate similar rhythms like Ricardo Villalobos and Max loudaber?
does anyone know of a site where you can buy materials to build your own modular system (oscillators, envelopes, sequencers, etc.) for a low-ish price? As in each piece isnt $300
You mean something like Mouser Electronics or Tayda? There you can buy parts. On the "Music From Outer Space "(MFOS) website you will find schematics for tons of synth modules that you can build yourself. There are also complete kits for modules (i.e. all parts for a module in one bag) on Thonk.co.uk for example.
***** cool, thanks!
Is there anyone that has the ability to make there own patch cables. I have spent many hours looking for the cable to make my own leads. Where can I buy a large reel of cable?
I made my own cables at the beginning too, until I found it too tedious 😅 Check audio suppliers, like big music or electronics stores. You need a mono audio cable for 3.5mm jacks obviously for Eurorack. What I did as well was repurpose old cables. At recycling places people usually leave tons of old audio/hifi equipment including the cables, like speaker cables (which are usually mono and thin, so great for Eurorack). So there you can get cables for free.
hey, im 12 and i dont have 500 dollars to spend on a synth. My TOTAL budget is 200 dollars
what should i do?
Well, save 300 more ;-) Since you mentioned your age and you're still young I would actually go a different route though. If you have a computer, just get Reaper and a MIDI controller and make music like this. Way less money spent but you'll have all the possibilities, amazing sound and even software modular synths. Don't spend 500 bucks on a modular synth at your age! Do something else with that money or save it and once you're older and have a job and more income go hardware modular if you still want to. Your hobby ideas may change drastically at your current age (and maybe even when you're older) and I wouldn't invest that much money in just that one thing ... I mean let's face it, you'll eventually want to spend 1000$ or more on modular synths. 500$ ist just the lowest amount to get starting, but it's never the end for anybody.
Diecastcow build one from arduinos or raspberry pi's and salvaged gear... but in the time takes to learn soldering and programming and all the electrical ins and outs ; ) you might as well save and buy something already built or the midi daw route
dude at least you need 450 dollars
Hi i have a question too. im started to build my own system and have ordered some VCO's, VCA, VCF, a Mixer, an enveloope and S/H Noise module. i would be using it more as a synth with more flexibility. but my question is; i work with Cubase and would like to be able to record into cubase. that i would do with going out from the mixer and into my RME and setting input on and record as audio. but how can i trigger it? can i draw midi patterns in cubase and somehow trigger synth with that? thank you for your time. great videos!!
+My Little Pwny for MIDI you'll need a MIDI-CV interface module (or box), which converts MIDI data to analog control voltages. There are a bunch of them available, some even support polyphony and stuff. Also check out expert sleepers silent way for even more communication between the computer and your modular.
ok perfect! thanks for the reply!
really want to know how far I can get with 600
Hmm.... Microbrute for 300$, Eurorack case for 150$, VCO Eurorack module for 150$ ... all used. Sounds like a lot of fun already :D
dont you dare mr tuesday, DONT MAKE ME GET ANOTHER MONO SYNTH
... but it'll be an awesome modular mono synth! :-P
i have a korg ms20, i just need to convert hz/volts to volts/oct
+yo ianrhodes Good luck doing anything polyphonic with modular on so small a budget.
You forgot to inform us on how to become employed in a high paying career field ;P
This topic is covered in my "How to get rich quick! (seriously)" video series, which I will sell you on DVD at a huge discount, if you send me your credit card info right away!
Sold!