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fits, just got it from the store :)

Great transaction with @andrea-man. Module as described, well packed. Recommended seller.

most important effects:

filters, delay and reverb

next most important:

phasers, bit reduction, distortion (all varieties from overdrive upwards)

to justify having effects in rack they need to have a decent amount of modulation inputs and a decent amount of modulation sources to feed them though

one of the most important things for a guitarist/bassist who's using modular imo is to be able to use pedals to control the modular - with foot switches and expression pedals - so you can play the guitar/bass and wiggle the modular at the same time

I'm a guitarist too and whilst I don't have long or slender fingers - multiple small modules are unusable when next to each other - to be able to use a knob of any kind you need around 1cm clearance on at least 2 sides
-- JimHowell1970

Great info, thank you! :)

Thanks Jim,

O&C has a lot more functions than sequencing - I'd explore some of these if I were you...

I thought it was a module that plays more central role in smaller setups, but indeed I see it has a lot more than clocking/sequencing, I will start exploring this once I'm more familiar with the basics.

EDITED Feb 7th 2023, 16:36

I made an addendum to the video Emily Hopkins and I last worked on, where we ran her harp into our modular synths. This video looks step by step and how to achieve similar results using a guitar. It would mean a lot if you give it a look sometime and tell me what you think.

I know that advice is to use space more carefully, which some of these modules clearly ignore. Behringer 305 is 24hp, turns out I'm using it as mixer-panner only (had hoped I'd use EQ to create stereo-effect on pads, but it doesn't do anything to my ears), which can be achieved with probably 8hp. E520 Hyperion is huge, but it can do lovely FX and has screen which I personally love as a newbie.

there's nothing wrong with large modules as long as you have the rack space for them and use them - eq is a weird one in modular most people use filters much more than eq! nor is there anything wrong with small modules - as long as you can actually use them!

I have not found (yet) any use for Ornament Crime, because sequencing options are there with Black Sequencer and Endorphines Shuttle Control, which is connected to Ableton for live sequencing.

O&C has a lot more functions than sequencing - I'd explore some of these if I were you...

most important effects:

filters, delay and reverb

next most important:

phasers, bit reduction, distortion (all varieties from overdrive upwards)

to justify having effects in rack they need to have a decent amount of modulation inputs and a decent amount of modulation sources to feed them though

one of the most important things for a guitarist/bassist who's using modular imo is to be able to use pedals to control the modular - with foot switches and expression pedals - so you can play the guitar/bass and wiggle the modular at the same time

I'm a guitarist too and whilst I don't have long or slender fingers - multiple small modules are unusable when next to each other - to be able to use a knob of any kind you need around 1cm clearance on at least 2 sides

If you want to use effects pedals - you really want one (or more) pedal interface modules(s) - as euro level is way too high for a lot of them and the return will be way too low

dixie will massively benefit from a sub mixer

2hp modules can be extremely difficult to work due to ergonomics

everything (as usual) points to a bigger case!!!
-- JimHowell1970

Re: 2hp ergonomics. I'm a guitarist... have long, thin, agile fingers, but thanks for the heads up. :p

Sub-mixer need noted.

I'm not sure I'm going to use the pedal boards or not at this point. I may be using them concurrently (twiddling knobs with a guitar/bass on the shoulder). I will wait to see how this all fits into my work flow. Right now, I'm leaning towards using guitar FXs in line and going through the A-119.

Not the same, I know, which is why I again ask, which effects are most crucial in your opinion(s)? Delay? Reverb? Something else?

Thanks and appreciation! :)

From the specs it wouldn't fit as it's minimally larger, but the bag seems stretchable, so even if not ideal it should still fit?

Make Noise case specs: 550 x 325 x 175mm
Intellijel bag specs : 546 x 312 x 165mm

Is the bag stretchable enough?

If you want to use effects pedals - you really want one (or more) pedal interface modules(s) - as euro level is way too high for a lot of them and the return will be way too low

dixie will massively benefit from a sub mixer

2hp modules can be extremely difficult to work due to ergonomics

everything (as usual) points to a bigger case!!!

-Radio sale por uno de los FX, se pulsa directamente (manualmente) su volumen se controla con 2 atenuadores diferentes. un atenuador que va encima de la case, sería el control manual de volumen, y el otro atenuador debajo, escondido en la case, se quedaría fijo para quitarle casi toda la potencia de salida final.
-Ladik: manda trig dfam
-DFAM: controla su pitch así. Salida pitch-->Sale para el atenuador de arriba (se le baja de 5 octavas a una octava, (o la que sea en directo...))-->pico quant (se cuantiza, con 3 o 4 notas) --> vuelve a dfam OSC2
-Pico trig: manda 2 cosas:
-una pista: 7 pulsos y 1 silencio--> como clock a malekko (para que pueda hacer pingpong)
-3 pistas: son triger de plonk (imitando pingpong o con 16 steps free de ideas)
-Malekko: modo "4c"
- manda CV para plonk, de la siguiente manera:
- las otras 3 pistas de malekko: 3 LFOS
-FX aid y pico DSP:
FXaid podría ir con plonk y dfam, DSP con radio...
o viceversa
-Dfam y plonk, van al pico mixer --> FX --> atenuador escondido
-Radio --> FX 2 --> atenuador sobre la caja, para controlar su volumen
-Atenuador: escondido bajo la case
-alternador tailandes, para: mutear plonk, muterar dfam, alternar entre 2 canales de pico trig para plonk, enviar un pico trig a radio y poder mutearlo...
POSIBILIDAD:
-Pongo otro mixer 2 , (el doepfer mix, debajo de la case) para conseguir que el pitch out de DFAM, no sea negativo/positivo. De la siguiente manera: de malekko sale una señal continua de +5v --> mixer 2. De la DFAM sale la señal "+ o -" -->mixer 2. En el mixer 2 se suman las 2 señales (en teoría) cuando es -5+5=0 voltios, y cuando es 5+5=10 voltios. Que es el rango de voltage (de 0 a 10) que acepta el pico quant. (técnicamente: hay que quitarle un poco de "volumen" a la señal que viene de DFAM: cuando es negativa, digamos que le gana a la señal positiva de malekko, y se equilibra bajando un poquiiito el volumen en el mixer de la señal que viene de dfam)

VERSION ANTIGUA CON PITSHBURG MICRO SEQUENCER:
-Radio sale por uno de los FX, se pulsa directamente (manualmente) su volumen se controla con 2 atenuadores diferentes. un atenuador que va encima de la case, sería el control manual de volumen, y el otro atenuador debajo, escondido en la case, se quedaría fijo para quitarle casi toda la potencia de salida final.
-Pitshburg: controla el cv y trig de dfam. Sale para el atenuador de arriba (se le baja de 5 octavas a una octava, (o la que sea en directo...))-->pico quant (se cuantiza, con 3 o 4 notas) --> dfam
-Pico trig: manda 2 cosas:
-una pista: 7 pulsos y 1 silencio--> como clock a malekko (para que pueda hacer pingpong)
-3 pistas: son triger de plonk (imitando pingpong o con 16 steps free de ideas)
-Malekko: modo "4c"
- manda CV para plonk, de la siguiente manera:
- las otras 3 pistas de malekko: 3 LFOS
-FX aid y pico DSP:
FXaid podría ir con plonk y dfam, DSP con radio...
o viceversa
-Dfam y plonk, van al pico mixer --> FX --> atenuador escondido
-Radio --> FX 2 --> atenuador sobre la caja, para controlar su volumen
-Atenuador: escondido bajo la case
-Alimentador: puesto en el frontal, abajo de la case. ??
-otra posibilidad: alimentador encima de la case, pero hay que quitar pico dsp (todo iría por la fx aid) podría añadir el alternador tailandes, para: mutear plonk, muterar dfam, alternar entre 2 canales de pico trig para plonk, enviar un pico trig a radio y poder mutearlo...

VERSION ANTIGUA 2 (SIN PINGPONG)
-Radio sale por uno de los FX, se pulsa directamente (manualmente) su volumen se controla con 2 atenuadores diferentes. un atenuador que va encima de la case, sería el control manual de volumen, y el otro atenuador debajo, escondido en la case, se quedaría fijo para quitarle casi toda la potencia de salida final.
-Ladik1 (o el pico trig): trig tempo para malekko, principalmente estás controlando el tempo de la dfam, desde aquí (ladik1, está en modo ping-pong sequencer)
-Ladik2 y cv: trig y cv para plonk
-Malekko: modo "4c"
-recive su tempo desde Ladik 1, osea que su tempo fluctúa, a semicorcheas, corcheas, silencios, etc...
- manda CV pitch para dfam, de la siguiente manera:
Sale de malekko un pitch (sin cuantizar, p.ej.) --> atenuador (para que de 5V pase a 1V, osea una octava de rango) --> PICO QUANT (aquí se cuantiza, incluso puedo usar una escala con solo DO-REb-SOL-LAb, o la escala de solo DO,do,do (sale a 8vas) con lo cual sale muy techno todo)
Este atenuador de malekko pitch, está encima de la case, y lo puedo controlar en directo, para conseguir pasar de una octava de rango, a varios octavas de rango (Atenuar mucho=1 octava, atenuar menos=más octavas)
- las otras 3 pistas de malekko: 3 LFOS
-DFAM: trig desde malekko out, (que viene de ladik1 o pico trig) y el cv viene desde pico quant
-FX aid y pico DSP:
FXaid podría ir con plonk y dfam, DSP con radio...
o viceversa
-Dfam y plonk, van al pico mixer --> FX --> atenuador escondido
-Radio --> FX 2 --> atenuador sobre la caja, para controlar su volumen
-Atenuador: escondido bajo la case

OTRA POSIBILIDAD:
-mando el trig y cv para dfam desde la rytm, mediante un midi to cv... (behringer,p.ej.)
-osea tendría una pista de la rytm con un bajo grabado...
AMPLIACIÓN:
-Si en vez del mixer doepfer, pongo el pico mix, gano un poco de espacio...
(dfam y plonk van al pico mix-->fx
radio iría directamente a un -->fx -->atenuador, sería su volumen)

EDITED Feb 18th 2023, 09:57

My first rack that I assembled with advice of wise people on this Forum (although somewhat loosely - some modules were not available).
I like deep electronic music, melodic or atonal, tech-/house/techno (dub-techno) but sometimes chill with long washed out ambient layers in the back, between 110-126 bpm. These are 2 TipTop Mantis cases stacked:

There are drum machines on the side, so modular is only for synth voices/granular. Also there is Erica Matrix Mixer for buffered mult and matrix heaven.
I am already enjoying this setup a lot, but some modules have not yet been given attention (who has enough time, right?).
I know that advice is to use space more carefully, which some of these modules clearly ignore. Behringer 305 is 24hp, turns out I'm using it as mixer-panner only (had hoped I'd use EQ to create stereo-effect on pads, but it doesn't do anything to my ears), which can be achieved with probably 8hp. E520 Hyperion is huge, but it can do lovely FX and has screen which I personally love as a newbie.
I have not found (yet) any use for Ornament Crime, because sequencing options are there with Black Sequencer and Endorphines Shuttle Control, which is connected to Ableton for live sequencing.
What do you think is overkill considering other modules making it redundant, and what is missing to your taste?

As you see, but you will have 8 potential voices (6 dixie + 2 Plaits) and no effects.
-- ferranadsr

Hmm, I suppose 2hp stuff is worth delving into at this point.

If I had to go bare bones on FX, which are most crucial, that I could possibly cover with 2hp stuff?
Delay? Reverb?

EDIT: I guess I should mention again that I can bring FX into the mix through pedalboards prior to signal input into the A-119. I have a lot of effects-laden guitar stuff, so I can appreciate a "dry" synth in the mix. Still, I don't want it completely sterile, and I won't always be patching my guitar through.

EDITED Feb 7th 2023, 07:02

As you see, but you will have 8 potential voices (6 dixie + 2 Plaits) and no effects.

So Intellijel Quad VCA (12 HP), Plaits (12 HP), and a small mixer like Erica Synths Pico Mixer (3 HP)....leaves me with 2 HP too many if I keep the Z5000.

If I get Plaits, can I ditch the Z5000?

With Quad VCA, Plaits, and Pico Mixer, (minus the Z5000) that leaves me with an attractive 6 HP remaining.

Thoughts?

Thx!

• I now have serious doubts about the Z5000. That was the last (admittedly probably pretty poor) choice after a long process of getting first order in. I will most likely return this, unless I can be persuaded otherwise. If this is removed...
• That leaves 33 HP left.
  About the mixer, I would add some auxiliary mixer, small format, they are cheap and they are always useful for audio or cv.
  VCA's are required. Intellijel Quad VCA would be my choice, also if you find any second hand MI Veils.

Regarding the Z5000, if you already have it, keep it, the effects are necessary, especially delay.

I feel like I'm missing something like an Intellijel Quad VCA. Thoughts?
VCA's are required. Intellijel Quad VCA would be my choice, also if you find any second hand MI Veils.

Am I still short a mixer? Not sure if the X-Pan is enough on that front...
About the mixer, I would add some auxiliary mixer, small format, they are cheap and always useful for audio or cv

BR

https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_2165875.jpg

This is where it stands now...with a few pieces yet to be found.

Notes:
- Additions: Doepfer A-119 external in for instruments. Pico LPG. Make Noise X-Pan. Most crucially Erica Synth Dual VCF.
-The 0-ctrl was added to the pic by adding a "third rack." Ignore the "empty spaces" on this "rack," as nothing can mount there.
- I now have serious doubts about the Z5000. That was the last (admittedly probably pretty poor) choice after a long process of getting first order in. I will most likely return this, unless I can be persuaded otherwise. If this is removed...
- That leaves 33 HP left.

I feel like I'm missing something like an Intellijel Quad VCA. Thoughts?

Am I still short a mixer? Not sure if the X-Pan is enough on that front...

Any other oversights? Must haves?

As always, thanks and much appreciated!

Edit: Also, the Arturia Keystep suggestion above is something I'm seriously considering, and is a road I will probably end up going down, simply based purely on value for money. So thanks for that! :) B-)

EDITED Feb 7th 2023, 05:32

Another variation on the design for a Tiptop Audio Happy Ending rack kit that will sit atop a Behringer 2600 in a 19" rack frame (See my Happy Ending Rack Master and Happy Ending Rack Alternate 2 builds). Sequencing will be provided by 1 (ultimately perhaps 2) Korg SQ-1 sequencer(s).

I finally got my first module, the A-102 VCF. I'm super happy with it. I realize that over time this set up is likely to change, however I would appreciate feedback on the following:

To power all these modules, I'll need to add a ribbon to my tiptop unit, which it seems I can do with no problem. I have added in 3 1hp blank panels mainly for heat management based on feedback I've received here and what was mentioned in the tiptop manual. Bearing in mind that this is in a completely open back rack, would folks think this is sufficient for heat management?

Secondly, I think I am understanding how power is summarized and displayed, and I think I'm good to go with the included tiptop audio power supply for all of these modules. I'd appreciate feedback on this as well, just to be sure.

Even this rack is probably going to take me 2 years to build but I kind of want to settle on a plan.

Thanks in advance for looking.

Some videos of my tiny playground here:

Cheers,

Monodux

gonna try to mess around with the A1008 matrix mixer today,saw a video about the instruo Lion matrix mixer,think thats abit easier for my brain to figure out,so considering replacing the A1008 with that.

but gonna try to patch around with the A1008
-- Broken-Form

being a bit of a 'champion' of matrix mixers I see the instruo lion as a outlier in that it functions in a considerably different way than any other matrix mixer and has dongles that are needed to operate it... so in a way non-transferable skills to other matrix mixers & at least in my case I'd spend lots of time searching for the dongles every time I wanted to use it... I'm sure it's a great module though!!!

smaller matrix mixers often have a layout where the jacks are all at the bottom of the module - which can in my opinion be a little confusing

the easiest matrix mixers to use are ones that have the inputs to the left and the outputs on the bottom - which is why I mostly recommend the doepfer - ergonomics and signal flow win over size every time

Hi,

It works with a standard stereo cable! Thanks!

Mat

Thanks!
In the end I ordered the Colossus Audio RASP!

What about Echoz from Tiptop?

EDITED Feb 8th 2023, 15:35

Hello,

I am looking for a delay module both usable with control and audio signals. Should have fine enough controls to create interesting comb filter effects. Rhythmic possibilities are secondary. Multiple parallel channels would be appreciated. To be coupled with Doepfer A138-m mixer for beedback loops.

Thank you for your advice.

I don't know if you have resolved your question, but SSF DivKid Rnd Step is also an appropriate answer.

I ordered a Erica Synths Pico Drive to @dillerfrans and everything fine.
Well packaged and a Module in very good condition.
Highly recommended seller.

Yes, but now I am using the last two or three sequences of the drum sequencer to have the clock /2, /3 and /4.
I definitely have to buy a clock divider :-)

Hi, 0-ctrl is a pitch and gate sequencer, and it has a main clock output, but I think that you will need a clock divider to handle this output. I'm using Arturia beatstep pro as a external sequencer and main clock output its soooooooo fast. I don't know 0-ctrl specifications in this point.
BR
-- ferranadsr

probably set to 24ppqn - you should be able to change it with the control center software...

but that's quite good in lots of ways - start with a very fast clock and divide down to whatever you need from there... much more accurate than mulitplying up - as dividers work on counting every nth trigger and multipliers have to use guesswork - divisions of time between clocks - so feed them a wonky clock and the divider will follow it perfectly whereas a multiplier will only ever be as good as the last 2 triggers received

Lawd hav mercy

Hi, 0-ctrl is a pitch and gate sequencer, and it has a main clock output, but I think that you will need a clock divider to handle this output. I'm using Arturia beatstep pro as a external sequencer and main clock output its soooooooo fast. I don't know 0-ctrl specifications in this point.
BR

Many of us follow the "on budget" restriction, but I see the 4ms pod more as an auxiliary box, and not very comfortable to chain with others. In addition to the recommended TipTop mantis (6U 104 HP) you have some less ambitious options to start with. For example https://koma-elektronik.com/?product=koma-case-3u-84hp-powered which would cost you about €90 more than the 4MS. The good thing about it is the system to grow, you can easily add another 84Hp case using the same source, depending of course on the consumption of modules that you include. €90 is money in real life but nothing in the modular world, believe me.
Regarding the modules, I miss a quantized pitch source and some gate or clock generator.
A filter is essential too. Doepfer has good filters at very affordable prices.
The VCA and envelopes part you have covered at the moment with Maths.
A small mixer (perhaps also from Doepfer) will allow you to send more than one signal from your Dixie (it has 6 outputs) to the Z5000.
To start and adjust to the budget you can always look at modules from Ladik or Doepfer. They have many utilities at a very good price.
-- ferranadsr

I realize the case is small. My thought was for expansion to happen via a second daisy-chained case. I'll also admit to being eager to get started. My thought process was, for better or worse, that I could get my hands on a few good pieces, learn what I've got, what I lack, and then build out the second case based on that. ;)

I do most of my musical stuff on what people would call "the budget" end of things, so not sure I'll ever end up with the rigs you guys have, and that's okay. I'm more interested in setting up an exploratory tool for playing with raw sound. My creative output thrives on limits and finding ways around those to find unorthodox methodologies and sounds. This is a supplemental tool to stimulate the creative process, and not necessarily for the creation of an entirety of a performance, if that makes sense. At risk of sounding pretentious. ;) :p

OK so a mantis costs a bit more than the tiny 'budget case' that you got but it has over 3 times as much space - so in reality it is the "budget option" - just a slightly more long term budget option - a bit like buying a jumbo pack of dishwasher tablets or whatever...

and a mantis on it's own is still quite a small modular & there's no need to fill it in one go... etc etc... and still very portable if that's an issue for you... work out the cost/hp and you'll see what I mean

I'd spend some time figuring out what modules you actually want and those that you need to support them, before buying another case - build the case around the modular instead of constraining the modular to the case... otherwise you end up serially buying small cases - which ends up more expensive than the slightly bigger case

I get that I need a filter. I also had a quad mixer, more vcos, and xoh on the list. I waited on the xoh to see if I can just pad it through analog mixer.

most decent analog mixers made in the last 20 years should be able to cope with modular levels, especially when padded, I have a 15+ year old yamaha mg10 that works perfectly as an end of chain mixer for modular - but this doesn't mean that you won't want sub-mixers or matrix mixers in the rack - you probably will

If I were to, say, double the setup with a daisy-chained case, what would you say the necessary modules would be, specifically on the utility side of things?

don't get another tiny case!!! get the mantis!!!!! see above!

but: a low pass filter, a low pass gate, a waveshaper, sub-mixers, attenuators, attenuverters, matrix mixer, logic, a sequential switch, a clock divider would all be good starting points - and definitely look at doepfer and ladik for these (but make sure the tiny case is deep enough!!) - most of my utilities are doepfer

-- JimHowell1970

Infinitely helpful, thank you all!

Re: cases. Noted. Most likely a mistake on my part, but it is what it is at this point. I'm fairly confident I'll be able to make two 64HP cases fit into my workflow just fine, if maybe not optimally; but, I do appreciate the info. I get the value of the bigger cases, etc. I do understand your point, but like I said, is what it is at this point, so further trying to sell me on another case, while good advice....that ship has sailed. ;)

Like Jim said, "the folly"... :D :p

If I can't get two pod64x's to fit into my workflow, I promise I'll man up, come back and admit it! And get a Mantis. ;) :)

Probably a dumb question that will expose my ignorance, but can't the 0-ctrl act as clock/gate/sequential switch?

Or do I need to pair that with an external clock/gate/sequencer, etc. for those features to work? I get that I CAN, but do I NEED to? Or will using the 0-ctrl clock be sufficient in that regard?

I've got more research (and a lot of experimenting) to do but you guys have helped to steer me in a good direction. Appreciate it!

I realize the case is small. My thought was for expansion to happen via a second daisy-chained case. I'll also admit to being eager to get started. My thought process was, for better or worse, that I could get my hands on a few good pieces, learn what I've got, what I lack, and then build out the second case based on that. ;)

I do most of my musical stuff on what people would call "the budget" end of things, so not sure I'll ever end up with the rigs you guys have, and that's okay. I'm more interested in setting up an exploratory tool for playing with raw sound. My creative output thrives on limits and finding ways around those to find unorthodox methodologies and sounds. This is a supplemental tool to stimulate the creative process, and not necessarily for the creation of an entirety of a performance, if that makes sense. At risk of sounding pretentious. ;) :p

OK so a mantis costs a bit more than the tiny 'budget case' that you got but it has over 3 times as much space - so in reality it is the "budget option" - just a slightly more long term budget option - a bit like buying a jumbo pack of dishwasher tablets or whatever...

and a mantis on it's own is still quite a small modular & there's no need to fill it in one go... etc etc... and still very portable if that's an issue for you... work out the cost/hp and you'll see what I mean

I'd spend some time figuring out what modules you actually want and those that you need to support them, before buying another case - build the case around the modular instead of constraining the modular to the case... otherwise you end up serially buying small cases - which ends up more expensive than the slightly bigger case

I get that I need a filter. I also had a quad mixer, more vcos, and xoh on the list. I waited on the xoh to see if I can just pad it through analog mixer.

most decent analog mixers made in the last 20 years should be able to cope with modular levels, especially when padded, I have a 15+ year old yamaha mg10 that works perfectly as an end of chain mixer for modular - but this doesn't mean that you won't want sub-mixers or matrix mixers in the rack - you probably will

If I were to, say, double the setup with a daisy-chained case, what would you say the necessary modules would be, specifically on the utility side of things?

don't get another tiny case!!! get the mantis!!!!! see above!

but: a low pass filter, a low pass gate, a waveshaper, sub-mixers, attenuators, attenuverters, matrix mixer, logic, a sequential switch, a clock divider would all be good starting points - and definitely look at doepfer and ladik for these (but make sure the tiny case is deep enough!!) - most of my utilities are doepfer

EDITED Feb 5th 2023, 10:48

Many of us follow the "on budget" restriction, but I see the 4ms pod more as an auxiliary box, and not very comfortable to chain with others. In addition to the recommended TipTop mantis (6U 104 HP) you have some less ambitious options to start with. For example https://koma-elektronik.com/?product=koma-case-3u-84hp-powered which would cost you about €90 more than the 4MS. The good thing about it is the system to grow, you can easily add another 84Hp case using the same source, depending of course on the consumption of modules that you include. €90 is money in real life but nothing in the modular world, believe me.
Regarding the modules, I miss a quantized pitch source and some gate or clock generator.
A filter is essential too. Doepfer has good filters at very affordable prices.
The VCA and envelopes part you have covered at the moment with Maths.
A small mixer (perhaps also from Doepfer) will allow you to send more than one signal from your Dixie (it has 6 outputs) to the Z5000.
To start and adjust to the budget you can always look at modules from Ladik or Doepfer. They have many utilities at a very good price.

Hey, thanks.

Plaits is out of production but still available...—https://technosynth.com/en/produit/plaits/

(shhhh, might be the last one in North America). There are also clones.

If you want a cool LFO, I'd recommend looking at Zadar. It is 4 envelope generators with 270 different shapes that can be warped, stretched, slowed right down to like a half and hour — in the menu there is the ability to loop the envelopes, creating LFOs out of whatever shapes you select. I actually have two Plaits and a Zadar in a 64 on my bedside table right now as a fun little insomnia box so I can vouch for this setup: https://i.ibb.co/0rHpCCp/Screen-Shot-2023-02-04-at-11-45-33-PM.png

But I don't use clocks or sequencers so I can't be very helpful in that department.

Good Luck! Have fun!

Personally, I would switch the Dixie for a Plaits (the sounds of the Dixie are covered in just the first three synthesis modes on the Plaits: variable saw and pulse, hard sync, FM, waveshaping. And then with Plaits there's the formant, additive, wavetable, wave terrain, vowel, granular, particle, resonator, drum modes, etc. not to mention the firmware upgrade where you can add your own sounds)—big value for a little case. I promise.

And I would switch the Source of Uncertainty for a Wogglebug, which markets itself as an expansion of the Buchla design anyways. And it's like half the size. That frees you up 10hp for an additional module—you have six slots in the 64X.

With daisy-chained cases giving you 128hp, and this bit you wrote:

"I'm more interested in setting up an exploratory tool for playing with raw sound. My creative output thrives on limits and finding ways around those to find unorthodox methodologies and sounds."

I would recommend a Morphagene or Arbhar. It might also be a good idea to get a module that you can send to your pedalboards. Something like: ALM006 - S.B.G.

As for the rest, you've got it right: "I could get my hands on a few good pieces, learn what I've got, what I lack, and then build out the second case based on that."

Learn on the job and you'll learn fast.
-- Toccata

I appreciate the feedback!

Your post really helps me realize I'm on the right track (if still in need of guidance). I had deeply considered the Wogglebug, and unfortunately I psyched myself out not wanting too many pieces from one manufacturer...feels too semi-modular for my tastes. I also considered Morphagene, and to a lesser degree, Plaits...this is out of production, yes? Though decidedly awesome, I admit.

Would leaving the dixie as a good LFO source and finding something like Plaits as the main oscillator be useful? If not Plaits, what else would fit the bill there? Oh I see Brains is based on Plaits. Any other clones I should be aware of?

Good call on the ALM006 - S.B.G. I had wrongfully assumed for output to pedalboards that I needed to do no more than just use a 1/8" > 1/4" TS convertor.

This is different than just a headphone out jack utility, right?

What could I use to really make the clock/sequencer part of the 0-ctrl pop with the Uncertainty Gen? A subdivider? This is where I'm really struggling to find the right utilities.

Thanks for the words of encouragement and the thoughtful answers!

EDITED Feb 5th 2023, 04:49

Personally, I would switch the Dixie for a Plaits (the sounds of the Dixie are covered in just the first three synthesis modes on the Plaits: variable saw and pulse, hard sync, FM, waveshaping. And then with Plaits there's the formant, additive, wavetable, wave terrain, vowel, granular, particle, resonator, drum modes, etc. not to mention the firmware upgrade where you can add your own sounds)—big value for a little case. I promise.

And I would switch the Source of Uncertainty for a Wogglebug, which markets itself as an expansion of the Buchla design anyways. And it's like half the size. That frees you up 10hp for an additional module—you have six slots in the 64X.

With daisy-chained cases giving you 128hp, and this bit you wrote:

"I'm more interested in setting up an exploratory tool for playing with raw sound. My creative output thrives on limits and finding ways around those to find unorthodox methodologies and sounds."

I would recommend a Morphagene or Arbhar. It might also be a good idea to get a module that you can send to your pedalboards. Something like: ALM006 - S.B.G.

As for the rest, you've got it right: "I could get my hands on a few good pieces, learn what I've got, what I lack, and then build out the second case based on that."

Learn on the job and you'll learn fast.

and the link - cos jpgs are crap!!!

ah the folly...

dixie and maths I get - they're some of the most popular modules in their "function"

the source of uncertainty I also get as it's new - but far far too big for this case!!!!

don't really get the z5000 or the vca - other than they fit

if you haven't bought this my advice would be to go and read a load of other newbie posts, think hard and then come back with a rack that makes more sense - but I'm not sure this is the case so:

the case is far too small for the modules - there's not really enough space for the support modules you'll need to make the most of the modules you've got in this case - I'd stash this case for the future when you might want a small satellite case and go and buy a mantis - so that you have space to put some utilities and a filter in - I take it you already have an external mixer (although these are really useful - especially when you add another oscillator and want to send both to the same filter)

see my signature for some hints on how to get a versatile modular synthesizer for the least cash
-- JimHowell1970

Appreciate the feedback!

I realize the case is small. My thought was for expansion to happen via a second daisy-chained case. I'll also admit to being eager to get started. My thought process was, for better or worse, that I could get my hands on a few good pieces, learn what I've got, what I lack, and then build out the second case based on that. ;)

I do most of my musical stuff on what people would call "the budget" end of things, so not sure I'll ever end up with the rigs you guys have, and that's okay. I'm more interested in setting up an exploratory tool for playing with raw sound. My creative output thrives on limits and finding ways around those to find unorthodox methodologies and sounds. This is a supplemental tool to stimulate the creative process, and not necessarily for the creation of an entirety of a performance, if that makes sense. At risk of sounding pretentious. ;) :p

I get that I need a filter. I also had a quad mixer, more vcos, and xoh on the list. I waited on the xoh to see if I can just pad it through analog mixer.

If I were to, say, double the setup with a daisy-chained case, what would you say the necessary modules would be, specifically on the utility side of things?

Filter, vcos, I guess I'm struggling with which utilities to pair here.

The Z500o seemed a good choice to add some tonal flavor.

Thanks again.

with a trs cable does it actually matter what "type" it is as long as both sockets are of the same type?

tip will connect to tip, ring to ring and sleeve to sleeve

the only reason you need a specific trs-> midi cable is that A and B connect to different pins at the DIN end

and the link - cos jpgs are crap!!!

ah the folly...

dixie and maths I get - they're some of the most popular modules in their "function"

the source of uncertainty I also get as it's new - but far far too big for this case!!!!

don't really get the z5000 or the vca - other than they fit

if you haven't bought this my advice would be to go and read a load of other newbie posts, think hard and then come back with a rack that makes more sense - but I'm not sure this is the case so:

the case is far too small for the modules - there's not really enough space for the support modules you'll need to make the most of the modules you've got in this case - I'd stash this case for the future when you might want a small satellite case and go and buy a mantis - so that you have space to put some utilities and a filter in - I take it you already have an external mixer (although these are really useful - especially when you add another oscillator and want to send both to the same filter)

see my signature for some hints on how to get a versatile modular synthesizer for the least cash

EDITED Feb 5th 2023, 01:22

Longtime multi-instrumentalist (primarily guitarist, but have a dawless home recording setup with drums, bass guitar, keys, analog mixer, pedalboards, et al.) So I know what I'm doing on that end of things.

Just discovered Eurorack! Instantly smitten!

Big fan of artists such as Klaus Schulze, Manuel Gottsching, YMO, Kraftwerk, Dominique Guiot, etc. Love musique conrete, generative music theory, Stockhausen...you get the idea.

Decided to pull the trigger on a "budget" first rack, to get me started, dip my toes in the water, and see how things shake out before (probably) expanding (as needed).

Totally new to synth patching, but comfortable with hands-on-learning, controlled chaos, and trial through error. Also, open to learning anything and everything!

If I'm doing something stupid with my setup, or missing something key I'd love to get your constructive feedback so I can learn.

https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_2163810.jpg

Thanks!

Edit: The Make Noise 0-ctrl doesn't seem to be showing up. Will be running that with this setup.
2nd Edit: Forgot to mention the case is a powered 4ms Pod64X. :)

EDITED Feb 4th 2023, 22:44

An avalanche oscillator fro Jolin Labs.
Again, not much building to do on this one, all surface mount pre-installed, just have to put the pots and jacks on. Very simple, heck, the demo starts 12 minutes in.
Sonically, it’s OK. Not sure how I’ll be using it, but will be good to have in the backup rack just in case I need this sound.

[Build}()

EDITED Feb 27th 2023, 07:22

Thanks a lot, will try.

I am bulding a midi chain with 1 kenton merge 4, 1 arturia keystep, 2 korg sq64 and a polyend poly 2. I am actually 1 step only away from the goal.
Last step is from one from midi out of one of the korg into midi in of the other. They both away trs only so i need that cable. Will try with a standard cable. Curious to see if it works.
Thanks,
Mat

gonna try to mess around with the A1008 matrix mixer today,saw a video about the instruo Lion matrix mixer,think thats abit easier for my brain to figure out,so considering replacing the A1008 with that.

but gonna try to patch around with the A1008

Hi Mat,
what piece of gear are you trying to connect?
If there are 3,5 socket you can bypass the big din connector and go straight with a simple 3.5 stereo jack
that Boss cable looks pricey and it's not clear if it's a type A or B
every 3,5 stereo minijack will be fine as long as its pins are mapped correctly to the midi A standard:

MIDI 4 (Source) > TRS RING
MIDI 2 (Shield) > TRS SLEEVE
MIDI 5 (Sink) > TRS TIP

you can find all the info you need here:
https://minimidi.world

hope it helps

Thanks for your Inspiration. Finally I got rid of the QoP and changed it with the ModBase MK2. For Percussion I use the BIA 👍🏻

Hi,

I need a TRS to TRS Type A midi cable as i have to build a midi chain and i have that need.

Now, i am not able to find it anywhere so wondering if it exists.

The only one i am able to find is: https://www.thomann.de/it/boss_bcc_2_3535_trs_trs_midi_cable.htm

Does anyone knows if this is a type A and would actually work with gears other then boss pedals?

thanks
Mat

Hey gang, another tips and stuff video on the channel, this time, it's all about the Westilcht Perf │ Former.

Thanks for your kind comments !
I've changed a few things since

I had not enough possibilities with my way of sequencing. Metropolix fixed everything (and added a lot of clever ways of making new sounds)

About the setup, some modules could favour a cartoon spirit (I think of Morphagene, Data Bender), and controllers (like joysticks, or surfaces like LP1lightplane, Tetrapad), for you to test...

Nice work guys! / Beau travail les mecs !
-- Sweelinck

Thanks for the advices !
Morphagene/databender do work pretty well. I've hesitated a long time to get morphagene but I think Iprefer to use a midi controler (korg nanokontrol) to blend in some effects on the master of my mix in ableton.
Joysticks or surfaces are good (I miss my Soundmachines LP1lightplane sometimes). Thoses module are really fun for live performances !
Since we will soon work with kids (i'll teach synthsizers, creating musical athmospheres in assotiation of images/videos). I was thinking of including a Delptronics WiiChuck on the rack since i have some space left. I think this is might be a nice addition if you want the public to interact with your music in some (controlled) ways.

EDITED Feb 4th 2023, 00:44

Thanks Bleep, just waiting to here from support then I’ll give that a go.