I've been designing and building stompboxes for years. Just got hooked on eurorack this year and have been having a blast with this little setup. It's not just a layout plan. It exists in real life and, so far, I've just been recording and jamming with it on my own. I haven't quite figured out how to incorporate it into the live band situation, yet. For one thing, it feels like it takes me too long to set up and change patches. Maybe I just need more practice? Anyway...

I sort of think of it as a percussion skiff. My goal with this skiff is to create rhythmic, melodic backbones and soundscapes that I can add acoustic instruments to (i.e. hand percussion, bass, guitar, keys, etc...), occasionally vocals, too.

I am trying to keep it relatively compact. But all the comments here about difficulties with too many small 2hp or 3hp modules make a lot of sense. I happen to only have one 2hp module (div) but I find it really useful and use it in almost everything.

The TAPLFO and the PLVXf are units that I designed and built myself. The PLVXf is a Polivoks VCF clone based on the freely available schematics on the web and I like it a lot. The TAPLFO is based on the Electric Druid TAPLFO3c chip (https://electricdruid.net/product/taplfo3/) and has a lot of nice options, but maybe a few too many. I am thinking that a more compact redesign of the TAPLFO might be in order.

For some randomness, I used to have an Erica Synths Swamp (Wogglebug clone) installed but took it out to make space for the filters I now have (Zlob SVF, PLVXf, and SSM2044 - I am also working on an EDP Wasp clone that will be the same size as the PLVXf). I am now trying out the Zlob Diode Chaos to replace the Swamp and save a lot of space. But I think I might still be looking for a random module that suits me better.

As for sequencers... what I like about the Baby8 is that it has both gates and CV. With the individual gate outputs for each step, you can trigger up to 8 different things. What I don't like about it is that consecutive gate outputs do not trigger independently. They just make one long gate and only trigger once. So, I am looking into replacing the Baby8 with an Intellijel Steppy. Four tracks of gates but no CV. But I do have a Korg SQ-1 for CV sequencing. I'll see how it goes.

I really like having a delay in the rack, but could maybe go with something smaller. Suggestions?

Feels like I've already written too much. So, I'll leave it there, for now. Again, I only got started on this within the past year but I am having a blast figuring things out. So, thought, comments, suggestions are very welcome!

Orders opened at 8am my time today. By the time I clicked calculate shipping it was sold out.

Oh yes thank you for attaching that. I'm new to the modular grid forum. Looking forward to comments.

and the actual link to the OPs public rack so we can actually do stuff like mouse over and click through...

@echo7 - this is infinitely better for us - you'll get better advice etc...

levels looked exactly where they should be. > -- ChrisfromDC

You can confirm the signal was sent correctly into the module and 2-3 of the top 4 LEDs were lit while the remaining bottom 4 were cycling green, yes? And the file finished playing? At any point during the process did all the lights blink red?

Note: After you're done playing the file it will automatically reboot and look exactly as it did—no obvious indications. You'll have to press both A buttons simultaneously (not hold them but not tap them either; just a generic medium press) before you have the ability to scroll through the presets sideways. Then you'll have to press left or right to get to the Orange models.

I have two Plaits and had a problem midway through the second when playing the file through VLC (it must have some kind of EQ or volume booster, audio algorithm) but no problem with either when just playing the file directly off my desktop. And yes, after it was done it looked like nothing happened. I had to press both buttons before I could toggle through the models.

That might help.

Hello,

I'm looking for feedback on this rack build. I'm a composer trying to utilize integration with my DAW but also have my eurorack be able to stand on its own.

https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_1104834.jpg

I currently own all of the modules and case EXCEPT FH2+expanders, bitbox mk2, Nautilus, and Desmodus Versio.

What do you think of this setup? The goal is using the FH2 for modulation options since it can generate complex lfos etc. as well as for polyphonic playing.

I will have a separate standalone mixer on my desk, so I tried to save some space not using dedicated mixer modules. Also included will be a Moog Mother 32 as well as a Keystep Pro, so there's more modulation options there.

Any advice, module recommendations/replacements welcome.

Cheers,
B

I carefully followed all the instructions for the recent Plaits firmware update, but after days of trying I can't get anywhere with it. Definitely booted it up in update mode, ran the update via the model input, levels looked exactly where they should be. Same Plaits menu as previously, however, and no indication anything took. Seems like most people who described installing this had not that much trouble and a good result. So what could I be doing wrong? Very frustrating.

the Make Noise LxD is EXACTLY what I'm looking for, but retailers are all sold out and people are listing them on Reverb for INSANE prices ($300-$500). Did Make Noise discontinue it without saying anything? Why are these so hard to find?
-- noahnicholsmusic

I don't think the lxd is discontinued - I hope not as I would also like one at some point in the future!

Make Noise are at least reasonably good at marking discontinued items as discontinued on here...

Why are they hard to find:
There has been (& still is, and will be for sometime) a global shortage of electronics components (covid -> manufacturing slow down -> distribution nightmare) - I'm guessing the vactrols are difficult to source in large quantities - and if you have only a small number of vactrols and no idea when you will get more - you'd put them in a module that has higher return and as high demand (optomix) than in a module with lower returns (lxd)

It's possible that lxds will be available again in the future, then again maybe not - don't hold your breath

Remember even Make Noise is a small company (as are all eurorack modules manufacturers) and therefore only makes small batches of modules and from time to time there will be temporary shortages of particular modules, even withoout the effects of a global pandemic - (extreme) patience is a good skill to develop!

If you can't find anything locally, Blue lantern is on etsy. Flavio is easy to contact. I recommend his Dual decay (ddk) module. He makes a few other percussion and fx oriented utility modules I haven't seen elsewhere. Worth a look.

How are you trying to process the kick? Are you wanting rumble? Just smack in general? Cleaning up the low frequency mud? Compression/sidechain ducking?

I process external drum machines through eurorack using two of these to boost the individual outs: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/blue-lantern-modules-booster-array They are cheap and work wonderfully for that purpose.
I also use a lot of other stuff to process the sounds, but the Worng Soundstage is a cool option for stereo mixing.
Have fun and good luck.
-- farkas

Nice! Thank you I will be watching those. Now sold out of course.. Also probably more expensive for Europeans.. But I will check out the technology and try to find something similar that is locally available. =)

Not as resonant like the LxD, but check out the ph Modular LPG: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/ph-modular-2hp-vactrol-lpg

It was an easy direct purchase. I have both and sometimes prefer the LxD for the resonant channel, but otherwise the ph fits the bill.

I've been looking for a good LPG for my system that doesn't take up too much space, and the Make Noise LxD is EXACTLY what I'm looking for, but retailers are all sold out and people are listing them on Reverb for INSANE prices ($300-$500). Did Make Noise discontinue it without saying anything? Why are these so hard to find?

Also, does anyone out there have any ideas about a similar LPG around the same size and price? I'm very limited on free space in the rack and need something with the same punchiness as the LxD strike input.

Cheers!

I process external drum machines through eurorack using two of these to boost the individual outs: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/blue-lantern-modules-booster-array They are cheap and work wonderfully for that purpose.
I also use a lot of other stuff to process the sounds, but the Worng Soundstage is a cool option for stereo mixing.
Have fun and good luck.

Hello, so I am finally starting to get an idea about the rack I wanna build, and I have two questions:
1) Is it worth further processing a dedicated bassdrum module like the Mutant Bassdrum? And do some of you process external drum machines through eurorack? how? :-)
2) What are some of the "meat and potato" kind of utility modules every techno percussive rack should consider having? Im especially interested in simple one or two function modules like the Doepfer A-160 clock divider and A-161 clock sequencer that I already have and love.. I guess some sequential switches? maybe a precsion adder? a low pass gate and an exponential VCA for the drums to smack?
Well, I guess any input and patch tip and module recommendation regarding eurorack live performance oriented techno drums and percussions would be greatly appreciated. :-)
Cheers!

Bella Gliss might be an interesting alternative if you’re happy with crowd funding https://www.crowdsupply.com/augmented-instruments/gliss

i bough it directly from their website!
it's currently out of stock u have to check from time to time

EDITED Dec 15th 2022, 17:52

Anyone know where to get one of these? Or anything similar?
-- Vbsmusic

have you tried clicking through and going to their distributors page?

have you tried wigglehunt?
-- JimHowell1970

Hey thanks for the reply. I have tried all their distributors, and tried wigglehunt as well! Can’t find it anywhere!!

Relax with Generative Music Created On Eurorack

Relax, study, or work to generative music.

Click Here for the Video

Anyone know where to get one of these? Or anything similar?
-- Vbsmusic

have you tried clicking through and going to their distributors page?

have you tried wigglehunt?

Anyone know where to get one of these? Or anything similar?

Since you want cool drones perhaps look modulation that can slowly give you varied generative drones like Marbles or Quadrax in your setup. The Grendel Drone Commander module or the Grone Drone look super awesome for the voice option.

I use a small 4u setup with Queen of Pentacles and Chainsaw for drums and pads and Eloquencer sequencer and have good results. Here is my workflow when I want to jam out and capture happy accidents

I have OB-4 for tether free monitoring and record loops to turn the OB-4 into a modular radio. Now looking at battery pack to use for the 4u case to jam outdoors without need to connect to power.

I'm going to dm you about your video synthesis later, if you don't mind.

Please feel free - always happy to answer questions etc...

Jim

haha yeah - I don't actually have a pro, just an xl, but I intend to get one at some point in the future - and implement this trick that I saw someone else suggest somewhere - probably modwiggler - I've generally only used it for the lofi setting which I did know the position of - but I want to re-flash it and use it for other stuff - will have to remember to print out the pdf this time!!!

-- JimHowell1970

Duuude, I had my XL racked for 8ish month before I even realized I could re-flash lol. It was in a mylar generative knock-off, so not knowing what it was actually doing wasn't an issue for me at the time. In my live box I reflashed and banked based off of need, so delay into reverb is first slot, and the other less often used effects are around it. I also added the x0x generator algos to record into the Sample Drum. Not perfect, but certainly useful. I would love the Pro, but oh man, 32 effects/utilities/sources are more than enough for my needs. The added cv controls are quite tantalizing! Maybe one day! I'm going to dm you about your video synthesis later, if you don't mind.

Hey, Stoffaboy, where ya at?

Figured out how to get my modular recorded in stereo the right way from 1010 Music Bluebox without using computer.
Some fun techno with QoP and Chainsaw. Really like the OB-4 for portable monitoring and recording loops from synths and radio.

https://on.soundcloud.com/BhweR

Hello there,

Not playing modular synths for now, just playing Strega & 0-ctrl, M-32, Drumbrute Impact, some pedals and some plugins, but can't wait to buy my first rack and modules, won't be that long now, I hope!

Anway, let me know what you think about what I did, it's mainly improvisations !

https://clementpoline.bandcamp.com/

Cheers

personally I think the hector and empress zoia are the opposite of modular philosophy - basically just a computer in a module format - I'd rather use vcv rack & I really don't like that either - real knobs (ie full size ones as much as possible possible), real jacks, real switches, real patch cables, real modular!!!!

money is only money - a modular synth is something else entirely and much more valuable and worthwhile!

Hey, to cover some of your questions;

Rookie mistake is probably that row of 2HP modules. That is really tight. You wouldn’t realize it until you had them patched just how difficult it is to reach in, not only to get at and turn the knobs, but also to pull out and insert new cables into the jacks.

Poor modules is something to look into—those Sylph Mutable Clones have poor ratings: Marbles 3/5, Rings 2.5/5, Ripples 1/5, Clouds 1/5, Plaits 1/5. Troll ratings maybe? Or legit quality issues?

If your main goal is to compliment your Moog and to rinse every last bit of functionality in as small a space as possible, check out the Poly Effects Hector. If you don’t mind some menu diving, the Hector has 100s of built in modules including all of the Mutable Instruments in your case and more: Warps, Grids, Plaits, Rings, Clouds, Tides, and Marbles. Might be a module you’re interested in collecting: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/poly-effects-hector

I don’t have it. But I have Mutable Instruments modules and for the price I paid I could have bought like 3 of those Hectors. haha, maybe that was my rookie mistake. :)

I've seen you speak about this before, Jim. I know how much you love the pro. It is definitely a solution.

-- yeahivandalizm

haha yeah - I don't actually have a pro, just an xl, but I intend to get one at some point in the future - and implement this trick that I saw someone else suggest somewhere - probably modwiggler - I've generally only used it for the lofi setting which I did know the position of - but I want to re-flash it and use it for other stuff - will have to remember to print out the pdf this time!!!

I'm currently leaning towards Mutable Instruments modules, but many of them are quite large for such a limited space. There are many clones that come in smaller sizes, so I have included them. Some, however, are still quite large. Ripples, for example, is basically just a filter, but takes up 8HP of width. I'd love to hear of any alternatives in a smaller format (doesn't have to be Mutable/clone, any nice filter under 8HP).

the obvious and sane answer to this is... get a bigger case... 6u is easily portable, unless you are a small child - I've carried a mantis (best bang for buck case there is) on trains, planes and buses quite a bit and never had a problem with it being too big to carry - and then you can stay with full size modules and benefit from the ergonomics - remember 1hp is just over 5mm (1/5 of an inch) and 3u is less than 14cm (5.25") - often newbies do not realise how small eurorack actually is!!

At 8HP each, Pam's and Disting EX were included to add lots of diverse functionality in a small space. Continuing the trend of more functionality in less space, Ochd fits many spread-out LFOs into 4HP. The remaining space was filled with a handful of 2HP modules. I'm still learning about all of the functionality of Pam's and Disting EX, and they might be able to cover many functions that I might be attempting to get out of other modules, so let me know if anything seems obvious.

too many tiny (2hp) modules next to each other - they will be (virtually - at best) unusable

this rack will be horrible to play... see above bigger case, ergonomic modules

you might also consider the 2hp tm (turing machine) and tune (quantizer) which would be pretty similar in the same hp

That’s a lot of small knobs in a small case..

Working towards my first modular setup. Comments and critique welcome and encouraged!

I have a Moog Mavis that will start out in an 84HP by 3U by 55mm case: Cre8Audio NiftyCase, that includes power (1500mA @ +12v, 500mA @ -12v, and 500mA @ +5v), midi to CV, and mono out. The Mavis will eventually be removed to make space as modules are acquired. The Mavis will provide some traditional synth elements to the system (VCO, VCF, LFO, EG, S+H, etc.), so the main goal for the rest of the system in to compliment the Mavis.

For example, the Mavis' internal sample + hold source is the VCO, which makes for nice rhythmic patterns, but isn't as random-ish as using a noise source. Adding a module that can provide noise thus increases the possibilities of the S+H, while also providing noise for any other possible use case. The Kinks module has a dedicated noise output, normalled to it's own S+H circuit, along with a few other useful utilities, all in a nice 4HP size.

In the spirit of complimenting a traditional synth voice setup, I want non-traditional elements at the center of the system. Another major goal of this setup is to achieve lots of functionality in a small/portable setup. I'm currently leaning towards Mutable Instruments modules, but many of them are quite large for such a limited space. There are many clones that come in smaller sizes, so I have included them. Some, however, are still quite large. Ripples, for example, is basically just a filter, but takes up 8HP of width. I'd love to hear of any alternatives in a smaller format (doesn't have to be Mutable/clone, any nice filter under 8HP).

At 8HP each, Pam's and Disting EX were included to add lots of diverse functionality in a small space. Continuing the trend of more functionality in less space, Ochd fits many spread-out LFOs into 4HP. The remaining space was filled with a handful of 2HP modules. I'm still learning about all of the functionality of Pam's and Disting EX, and they might be able to cover many functions that I might be attempting to get out of other modules, so let me know if anything seems obvious.

Let me know what you think! Is this reasonable? Am I making rookie mistakes? Too many LFOs? Not enough VCAs? Too Mutable? Needs Beads? Brand X makes poor modules? Redundant modules? Obvious components missing? Money could be spent better elsewhere? Facts, anecdotes, opinions, information, etc. all welcome.

Thanks all, appreciated. The Ladik looks like a winner.

have you read the module descriptions on here?

what is your understanding of what they can or cannot do?

I just took a quick look at the module descriptions and they seem fairly understandable...

to me the main differences appear to be:

one has more cross-fading channels and one has panning and an aux stereo input

one is 12hp one is 10hp

one draws considerably more power than the other

I am considering taking Maths out of my case. Except for modulation, I actually use maths as an attenuator or simpler things.
-- FWGW

I always strongly suggest that anyone considering taking Maths out of their rack download the 'maths illustrated supplement' and work their way through it a number of times (ie more than once or twice) and concentrate on the what, why and how... Maths is way more than the sum of it's parts - but requires some effort to learn to self-patch it to get it to do more than the obvious surface functionality - the effort is more than worth it - as it will translate to a large extent to other modules and to modular patching in general...

the pro version has a screen and holds all the algorithms - so much easier to deal with, without a cheat sheet

if you buy a pro and an xl for example & plan a bit ie set the order of the 1st 32 algorithms to be the same as the other fx aid then you can use the pro as the cheat sheet for the other module

-- JimHowell1970

I've seen you speak about this before, Jim. I know how much you love the pro. It is definitely a solution.

I have already tried Zadar in a music shop in connection with different oscillators. The module is a lot of fun. For simple modulation I've always used Ochd and Maths. If I decide to buy Zadar I am considering taking Maths out of my case. Except for modulation, I actually use maths as an attenuator or simpler things. I still have Samara for these functions. I know that maths is the module for many but just because it's very common doesn't mean it's for everyone. I think that's the nice thing about Eurorack. If I notice over time that I'm missing a function that Maths can do, I still have space for modules that replace it. Does anyone have experience with Noise engineering´s Pons Asinorum compared to zadar?

EDITED Dec 14th 2022, 07:03

Hi! Can anybody describe me what are the differences between them two ? things like - what one can do, the other can not ? etc. Thanks for any comments! Regards!

@bopodoq thanks for the response above

Out of curiosity I decided to just look everything up, as my rack gear is not so many pieces. I found only half of my rack items list their power consumption, and the ones that do list a range of 30-70W with typical draw around 30-40W. I'm on a normal "home" circuit of 15A in the US (implying max load of 1800W and circuit breaker tripping around 1440W). SO it looks like, unless I have a giant power hog on the same circuit, I should be fine to run my updated audio rack.

I’ve never been too concerned myself. Power conditioners/ supplies are someone self-limiting in the number of receptacles available. In any event, if they are plugged in to the same receptacle box (unless they are split receptacles - unlikely) or in the same wall, they may be on the same circuit anyway.
Not necessary to overthink it, just use common sense and be reasonable.

Hi folks,

I'm doing some updates to my 19" audio rack gear. I love how the MG tool shows power consumption on draft modular setups. Do any of you know of a tool (or other easy way) to similarly calculate power consumption for other audio gear including 19" rack units? I've recently added SSL Fusion to my rack and want to check the totals won't overrun my power conditioner or circuit.

I would make a manual list if needed, but if there's a slick online tool, I'd be glad to use that. No good initial Google finds so thought I'd ask around. Not exactly a modular question, but similar ballpark... I'll appreciate any ideas you have!

Nicholas

"another alternative might be a Happy Nerding FX Aid Pro..."

Another second for the fx aid series. Any of the FX Aid guys are great, as long as you can keep up with what dot means what.
-- yeahivandalizm

the pro version has a screen and holds all the algorithms - so much easier to deal with, without a cheat sheet

if you buy a pro and an xl for example & plan a bit ie set the order of the 1st 32 algorithms to be the same as the other fx aid then you can use the pro as the cheat sheet for the other module

EDITED Dec 13th 2022, 23:54

Just a reminder about the MicroFreak: It has a CV and Gate output as well as clock in and output. So you can clock it from your modular rig but you can't sequence it. I eventually got rid of mine because of this so just wanted to highlight it.

that would be a good reason to sell it and put the money towards modules to me

As general feedback I would say that your rack looks like the rack of someone that has done research about modular but has no experience actually using one. I know that might sound a bit harsh but I also think it's perfectly natural. The thing about modular is that (especially among beginners), there's always this drive to try to maximize "functions per HP" and try to squeeze as many functions as possible out of your modular. In theory, this makes sense since modules are expensive but in practice, it leads to frustration and an unusable system. Planning a rack is a useful exercise to do, myself I have a couple of racks here on MG where I just play around with different ideas. I'm not gonna tell you to look into module X, Y or Z but rather: Buy the least amount of modules you can start with then figure out what you're missing or what's frustrating you about your current setup, then try to solve that problem. It can definitely be worth having fewer modules if the ones you get fits you better and makes your system more fun/easier to use.

I've never seen anyone that's been able to plan a full system without actually using it and I don't think this system is any exception to that rule. I think your system is very unbalanced and probably not very ergonomic but the best way for you to know how to balance your system is to start small and slow. The only thing that I know for sure is that your modular system will never turn out the way you plan it to.
-- exzs

this is all great advice - another thing to realise that comes up again and again is how small modules actually are... 1hp = 1/5" - they are very small and a lot of new users are surprised by how small modules actually are... lots of small modules next to each other will be impossible to play - especially if they have trimmers (not to mention how inexact trimmers can be) - fewer, larger modules with less panel furniture are much nicer to actually play!

Thanks for taking the time to answer me.

NP

Yes you're right about it all, I've considererd what you said and yes and I'm going to redesign from start my rack, and planning to use a Mantis rack or a Case From Lake rack (don't know why, but I like the 1U modules hehe, just maybe for utilities yeah)

personally I think this makes light of the importance of utilities... but each to their own... I've never found anything that warrants 1u - I'd always rather just add an extra 3u (I DIY most of my cases) as they cost the same to build (at least in terms of hardware and barely anything extra in terms of wood) they really just save 3.5" in height and take up more than that saving in width...

About the MI modules, yes I know that, planning on buying clones on second hand modules.
Don't know why but I like the turing machine too, maybe just not use all the expanders yeah, and why not try marbles.

I have marbles, it works slightly differently than a TM, in terms of how it generates the signal, but marbles does have the advantage of 3 quantized cv outputs, 1 random output and 3 triggers/gates in a single module in 18hp (or less in the case of some clones - pachinko is acceptable at 14hp - but smaller it'll be fiddly) and remember the TM needs quantizing!

Same goes for ramapage and maths, I've looked up both and even now, don't know what module is best for my use (maybe I should start by knowing what I really want to do, that will surely help!), but yeah math was my first choice.

swings and roundabouts to a large extent - but I'd rather have Maths - spend time with it and the supplement and try to understand the what, why, how of it...

And again, you're right, same goes for the sound sources, I just wanna be sure that I had enough, but 2-3 is already enough for a rack that size I suppose?
Didn't know about the size of the modules and for the 2hp modules then, thanks for the advice!

lots of 2hp modules together is miserable...

I'll repost my rack when I'll be satisfied with it, if I could get your opinion then, would be great!

Thanks again!

NP again - just post the new one in this thread and I'll get a notification

Thanks for taking the time to answer me.

Yes you're right about it all, I've considererd what you said and yes and I'm going to redesign from start my rack, and planning to use a Mantis rack or a Case From Lake rack (don't know why, but I like the 1U modules hehe, just maybe for utilities yeah)
About the MI modules, yes I know that, planning on buying clones on second hand modules.
Don't know why but I like the turing machine too, maybe just not use all the expanders yeah, and why not try marbles.
Same goes for ramapage and maths, I've looked up both and even now, don't know what module is best for my use (maybe I should start by knowing what I really want to do, that will surely help!), but yeah math was my first choice.
And again, you're right, same goes for the sound sources, I just wanna be sure that I had enough, but 2-3 is already enough for a rack that size I suppose?
Didn't know about the size of the modules and for the 2hp modules then, thanks for the advice!

I'll repost my rack when I'll be satisfied with it, if I could get your opinion then, would be great!

Thanks again!

C39303

@Rookie
Thank You.

what does the volca manual expect as a clock - usually stated as ppqn (pulses per quarter note)? - can the beatstep be set up to send this?

what voltage is the volca expecting as a clock? the beatstep might not be sending out enough voltage, in which case an amplifier of some sort would be needed...
-- JimHowell1970

I havent touched my volca modular in two years and even back then did not dig deep. I suggest to look at many videos of the volca modular, there is one input you need a cable with a stereo plug to two monos so you have two inputs, on the volca there are patchpoints from which you can patch each of those two inputs to the destination of your choice. As far as i rememember its definitely possible to clock the sequencer.
Maybe you want to look into "undulations" youtubes channel he has in depth videos about the volca modular that might cover that.
I should dig out mine sometimes.
...edit and yes a gate is not a gate and a trig is not a trig, there are different formats, i don't know what the keystep puts out.
-- znort101

I don‘t own a Volca Modular, but I successfully synced my Beats, Bass, Keys, Sample and FM to a Keystep. In the Keystep-MIDI-Software there is a section where you can choose different sync-options. As Jim said you have to set it to the PPQN the Volca expects. If I remember correctly there is a KORG-setting, this should be the one.
-- CoogLFish

!thanks a lot, JimHowell1970, znort101 & CoogLFish. this seems to be very helpful. will dive into undulations channel, looks great. yes, keystep can be set to ppqn through midi control center, i'm not sure about voltage though. will try to set up everything this week and post the results, hopefully this works :)

EDITED Dec 13th 2022, 14:08

I don‘t own a Volca Modular, but I successfully synced my Beats, Bass, Keys, Sample and FM to a Keystep. In the Keystep-MIDI-Software there is a section where you can choose different sync-options. As Jim said you have to set it to the PPQN the Volca expects. If I remember correctly there is a KORG-setting, this should be the one.

Link to a pdf with a list of the 3x32 presets for the FM synth in Plaits firmware 1.2:
https://tinyurl.com/225jzkrt