All Posts

--- 1U Row---
The 1U - makes sense to me, and without QoP drum module, the midi controls in there should be more then enough to start. Saves 3U space.

personally I think 1u makes little, to no, sense whatsoever... the cost of the 1u row is the same as for a 3u row, or in some cases more, I'd much rather buy 2 tiptop mantis cases than 1 of the intellijel 7u cases... and you can get much much more functionality in a 3u row than in a 1u row...

Yeah total get that, and if was do it again, it would probably do differently. But with the fact that I have the case now, and no real way to return it, I think the modules suggested makes sense.

---Audio Row---
Also about tuning the oscillators, I guess I would need to tune with an external module or scope?

a free phone app or a guitar tuner pedal (plus appropriate cable) or your DAW (if you have one) will work for tuning!!!

Doh, yeah :P

--- Good starting build---
In the context of:
1) What I was willing to spend originally with endorpin.es setup
2) Assuming I minimally start with 1x single 258T, 1x Folder, and the 1U utilities
3) And I currently have PNW, Maths, 1x Veils, and Beads already

What other modules would you suggest to start with right away, and maybe a couple additional modules after? Also not to many modules, to get overwhelmed :0

none - just grab the vco and folder (& the utilities) and see where you are - learn these modules inside and out and then start working out what you are reaching for - and then slowly add modules that add those functions
-- JimHowell1970

So in short: A 258T, folder, noise, quadratt, input/output, along with the PNW, Maths, 1x Veil, and Beads. Midi module can wait, an it is out of stock around where I am, or even online; but I can use CV outs on a controller etc for now. Something like the following, including a Disting EX for Swiss army knife of stuff.

Cool, thanks for the help!

EDITED Jun 7th 2022, 14:27

--- 1U Row---
The 1U - makes sense to me, and without QoP drum module, the midi controls in there should be more then enough to start. Saves 3U space.

personally I think 1u makes little, to no, sense whatsoever... the cost of the 1u row is the same as for a 3u row, or in some cases more, I'd much rather buy 2 tiptop mantis cases than 1 of the intellijel 7u cases... and you can get much much more functionality in a 3u row than in a 1u row...

---Audio Row---
Also about tuning the oscillators, I guess I would need to tune with an external module or scope?

a free phone app or a guitar tuner pedal (plus appropriate cable) or your DAW (if you have one) will work for tuning!!!

--- Good starting build---
In the context of:
1) What I was willing to spend originally with endorpin.es setup
2) Assuming I minimally start with 1x single 258T, 1x Folder, and the 1U utilities
3) And I currently have PNW, Maths, 1x Veils, and Beads already

What other modules would you suggest to start with right away, and maybe a couple additional modules after? Also not to many modules, to get overwhelmed :0

none - just grab the vco and folder (& the utilities) and see where you are - learn these modules inside and out and then start working out what you are reaching for - and then slowly add modules that add those functions

EDITED Jun 7th 2022, 13:46

Selecting an alternate panel always works for me and it keeps showing in my rack.
What problem do you encounter when attempting this?

@Lugia TYVM for putting this together, helps a lot. I started researching the forums more and worked on some variations this weekend. The Mod/Utility row looks "similar" to what I put together. In the context of starting with 1x 281T and a few other items first, see below, can you comment on the following?

--- 1U Row---
The 1U - makes sense to me, and without QoP drum module, the midi controls in there should be more then enough to start. Saves 3U space.

---Audio Row---
For the Audio Row, totally see what you are getting at with the HP/cost etc. I do have the Furthrrr now, but I can return pretty easily (15min walk to the shop with 14 day return). I put it in a pico case and on my scope to check it out last night. I see the similarities with the Sin/Square, Sin/Sawtooth, and the wave folding. It looks like the Furthrrr has the choice of Sin/Sawtooth/Square on both oscillators, I guess I could use 2x 258t to do dual square setup if I wanted, correct?

I am not sure how to match up the Furthrrr bus switch for balanced, amplitude, frequency, and "furthrrr" settings, with your suggested build. Looks like the 1U noise tools provides the the features of the noise in the Furthrrr, and more features. Also about tuning the oscillators, I guess I would need to tune with an external module or scope?

Still wrapping my head around the mixing, other aspects at the end.

--- Mods/Utils ---
For the Mod/Utils I worked up something similar with the PNW, Disting Ex, Batumi / Zadar with breakouts, and Maths; though mine was missing the MISO, and Doepher ADSRs.

--- Good starting build---
In the context of:
1) What I was willing to spend originally with endorpin.es setup
2) Assuming I minimally start with 1x single 258T, 1x Folder, and the 1U utilities
3) And I currently have PNW, Maths, 1x Veils, and Beads already

What other modules would you suggest to start with right away, and maybe a couple additional modules after? Also not to many modules, to get overwhelmed :0

TYVM for your time

Different, hm? OK, here's what's in there and why...

Amusingly, that Buchla + Joranalogue combo costs $360...which is why I put TWO of 'em in there, and you STILL beat the Endorphin.es complex oscillator price! FYI, those Joranalogue waveshapers can take inputs from BOTH of the 258's two oscillators to "mash" the signals together as a waveshaped single signal with a bunch of FM or whatever else suits the occasion. Should be a fun rig!
-- Lugia

EDITED Jun 7th 2022, 07:12

I want to achieve the sound of drifting pitch on the dfam.. say.. how a cs80 has a sound of vintage and nostalgia as the oscillator seem a little unstable.

-- Dfisound

Huh? That's not the key to the CS-80 sound, unless you want it to sound utterly hammered and miscalibrated. Mine sure doesn't sound like that...unless I'd kicked it down the studio stairs (and risking broken bones from that kick...remember: this mofo weighs 225 pounds!).

You're probably confusing that with what you can do with modulation via the control "tabs". That can get really elaborate, too; Yamaha didn't screw around when they cooked this thing up. But the "CS-80 sound" really has more to do with the architecture of the voice path, the ability to get at piles of functions rapidly with those tabs, and those FILTERS. And I'm not even going in depth on the ring-mod circuit, the ribbon controller, and so on...plus, the "preset" hatch makes a good place to keep a sammich handy for snacking while playing (DON'T ACTUALLY DO THAT! Seriously!).

Another possibility to go along with Jonau's suggestion above would be to check some of Nonlinearcircuits' slow chaos modulators. Since these can do random voltage movement at EXTREMELY slow rates (like, days at max), you can simulate VCO drift with these very easily.

EDITED Jun 7th 2022, 02:26

Anyway, aside of the business above...I banged out a filled-out version of the OP's build. Here we go...

Different, hm? OK, here's what's in there and why...

TILES: I stuck with Intellijel here, as they have some really well thought out 1U stuff, such as the Noise Source (it's in here) which functions as a very effective "one-stop" utility. So what we have is a Stereo In (connects to a pair of 1/4" jacks on the cab), MIDI interface (connects to the USB MIDI jack), Noise Tools (clock, noise, s&h, slewing), QuadrATT (utility attenuverters, internal mixing), Dual VCA and the Stereo Output Mixer (connects to the other 1/4" pair). Now, that last pair allows you to parallel the Beads instead of relying on the wet/dry control, plus you can use the VCAs to control the level of either the Beads or the main mix in linked stereo. All you'd need to do is to mult the outputs from the mixer...we'll get to that in a minute...

ROW 1: This is all audio...and instead of one complex VCO, there's TWO. And not only that, each Buchla 258 is paired with a Joranalogue FLD6 waveshaper for even more timbral possibilities. Next is a Veils for straight VCAs, but you also have the option of using the Buchla 292's quad LPGs or a very twisted filter combo; if you were wondering about that 3 hp delay next to the Doepfer VCF, well...have a look at that Doepfer VCF. It's not merely Dieter's take on the MS-20 Sallen-Key pair, but it has an INSERT that lets you drop something else (like, say...a delay) into the resonance feedback path. And yes, delay + filter resonance sounds utterly insane and wild. Anyway, one last Veils on this row to control levels going into the Alyseum Q-Mix, which gives you four pannable inputs, a master level, and stereo outs. This is the point where you'd want to split out the Beads, btw...then you can balance your "dry" (direct mixer out) and "wet" (Beads), and also have some VCA control over one or the other, as needed. And the little white sliver at the left end is a Konstant Labs PWRchekr so that you can keep tabs on your DC rail health. Almost forgot that one...

ROW 2: Modulation and utility (and Beads)...Pam's, Disting EX, and then a Xaoc Batumi (with its expander) gives you four LFOs. Then Maths (of course!), and after that is another Xaoc piece, their Zadar quad envelope gen (again, with expander), and I added a pair of "quick access" Doepfer ADSRs. But in between the Zadar and the Maths, that's your "modulation modifier" zone...a MISO has the initial CV mangle, and then there's another Veils to provide VCAs over amplitudes coming from your mod sources. And then Beads...which is on the bottom row so that it could be closely located with the Q-Mix and Stereo output mixer above it.

Amusingly, that Buchla + Joranalogue combo costs $360...which is why I put TWO of 'em in there, and you STILL beat the Endorphin.es complex oscillator price! FYI, those Joranalogue waveshapers can take inputs from BOTH of the 258's two oscillators to "mash" the signals together as a waveshaped single signal with a bunch of FM or whatever else suits the occasion. Should be a fun rig!

EDITED Jun 7th 2022, 02:03

as for falistri over maths - urgh - again personal preference, but I think the frap tools aesthetic is awful, cramped and all over the place!!!

-- JimHowell1970

Not only that, the panel graphics are nearly-useless. Yeah, I can figure out what's going on myself, but for anyone starting in modular, Frap's gear isn't going to be all that helpful. The sole module of theirs that I recommend on any repeating basis is the 321...because it's relatively easy to suss out AND it's about the only thing I can think of in 6 hp that rivals modules such as Tiptop's MISO for modulation alterations. Maybe if they tried to make the panels make sense, instead of like controls out of an UFO...as it is now, the Buchla-esque part they're 100% on is an obtuse UI. And this is coming from someone who's used Buchlas!

TL/DR: Man seeks to mangle audio from DAW and create quirky loops with DFAM. Did he do this right?

-- rckitup

Yes...and no. And the "no" part has to do with having the DFAM in your cab, filling up 60 rather spendy HP. You should take that out, put it back in ITS case and on ITS power, and leave the cab for things that have neither. As for the "yes"...it's sort of conditional on that DFAM's presence as well. Thus far, the module choices are OK, but there's quite a bit missing which also requires putting the DFAM back where it belongs. There's things that could be done better here, but if you don't have room for the modules that would need, you're sort of stuck.

Here is a quick summary of what is patched so far. I have the clock from the FH-2 going to the mult going to the grids (via the swing module), Chaos, turing machine, and stopler. Stopler and Grids are my drum rhythm sources that are going into the switch. The Stopler has two percs which are going to muted at the Cosmic mixer instead of the switch. The drums will be played from the Salmple. Then they will go into the Cosmic mixer with the aux going to a mono-to-stereo reverb in the EX and then coming back through channels 7 and 8. Then they will go to the Roland 531 mixer and yeet on out of here.

EDITED Jun 6th 2022, 21:52

Hi all.

I am considering a new studio system. It needs to be able to hand drums, bass, chords, and a melody. It needs to be able to handle midi via an MPC, keyboard, or computer; it needs to be able to work without any connections to external equipment (not counting the Michigan Synth Works 16ch faders); and it needs to have some practical use as an effects processor for other gear. Basically, I kind of want this system to be able to handle everything. It needs to work as my drum machine. It needs to be able to be played as a keyboard instrument. It needs to be able to handle a more "traditional" eurorack use case.

I have some of these modules and some I will have to buy. I will also have the MSW 16ch. faders. I did not patch this in on MG but there will be some always patched connections going from the faders (to the 3 fills on micro grids; to the x and y on the micro grids). I have also already patched what I am thinking will be a set of permanently patched cables.

I was wondering if anyone would have any creative ideas for how to patch the rest of this system? I already have a good idea for how to handle the basics but I was hoping that there would be people here who can show me some more interesting patches that I can't, or wouldn't be able to, think of. While I want this to be a system that can handle everything at once the patch you suggest doesn't have to. I am far more interested in seeing what others can do with this and how that may work for my uses. Also, if you have any suggestions for modules that would be appreciated because, while I am fairly locked in to this system generally, I am definitely open to hearing what may be a better module for this system.

(also, this is my first time posting about a patch I sketched on here. If I am doing something and you can't see the patch or anything like that, please let me know and I will do what I can to fix it)

EDITED Jun 6th 2022, 22:10

Hello there !

I've been posting some modular techno sessions over the past weeks. All improvisation, no pre-made sequences used
hope you'll enjoy :)

Thank you very much!

After making some prototypes for this small 1U-only case, designed to be possibly used as a companion to the 4ms pods, a couple of questions hit the surface...

So if you feel like this is something you might want to add to your setup, please check the quick survey linked below. Thanks!

https://forms.gle/TfoKTZWhrLNmvtKW9

You can just patch your attenuated LFO right into the VCO 1 CV input. The LFO will be added to the sequence, but only VCO1 will drift. So if the SEQ PITCH MOD is switched to VCO 1&2 you'll get a nice detune effect between both VCOs.
If you mult the LFO into VCO 2 CV, too, both VCOs will pitch drift together (mult with e.g. a multiple module or a stackcable).
Mind that the LFO should be attenuated VERY much. Typical LFOs swing between -5 and +5V which means 10 octaves in V/Oct terms. So the drift might be way too drastic. In my experiment I did to verify this concept the attenuator is open just a hair - literally. So you might be better off with two attenuators in a row to have more wiggle room for fine tuning ;-)
Cheers

Hi! I just wanted to share a super-cut from a show I produced along with my friends at BKVL in Brooklyn. It was a fundraiser we held for Willie Mae Rock Camp, a synthesis and electronic music school for kids. We are also doing a popup show at Better Nature Records in Sayville, Long Island this Saturday from 3pm-5pm. But I really like the way our last show turned out:

Hi all.
I have a dfam which I am using with my eurorack case.
I have lfo also.
I want to achieve the sound of drifting pitch on the dfam.. say.. how a cs80 has a sound of vintage and nostalgia as the oscillator seem a little unstable.
Could somebody help me understand how to achieve this and which modules are needed please?
Would it be maybe seq pitch into vca - attenuated lfo into vca.. mix together then back into the dfam osc pitch in?
Or could the lfo mess with the sequence?
Thank you if you can help!

@Lugia thanks for your legendary eye applied to the rack! Some great module suggestions in there - would you believe that just a few hours before you posted, I ordered several of those 2-channel micro Veils, glad we're thinking the same solution there!

I'm going to look in detail over your recommended modules that I'm not already familiar with. Definitely thinking this case would be a fun excuse to finally get a Zadar.

Agree that the Kickall and Branches just don't have much place here. I'm still interested in finding a way to work in the Mutable Ears because there's something appealing about tapping on the corner of my case, lol.

In my previous post I mention that I might take this in the direction of a MIDI-controlled polysynth with an external keyboard. Let me start working up a hybrid of your suggestions + the MIDI direction I'm exploring!

I think the biggest thing I see here is that you have either 3 voices and 1 modulation module, or 4 voices and no modulation modules. Neither seems useful.

Second biggest thing: no VCAs.

Last question: how are you playing/sequencing this? That makes a difference for suggestions. If you're using midi, then not much to worry about... but if you're looking for in-rack sequencing, that would be good for us to know (though you have precious little space for it).

Assuming you want to keep this independent, I'd consider a 1u O_C, 1u VCAs, 1u noise/random, a 1u stereo mixer, and a Zadar or other quad modulation source.

-- Shakespeare

Just wanted to reply to your thoughtful comments! Completely agree that the case was pretty ridiculous with so many voices and so little plumbing and modulation. Honestly, this exercise keeps shifting as I play with it. I think I'm ending up more where Lugia is taking things below, turning this into some sort of task-specific monosynth or some sort of supplemental pallete for my other cases.

On the other hand, the past couple of days I've actually been messing with 4-channel MIDI CV in this case through a Mutable Yarns, which actually gave me a way to make use of all those voices (albeit not with much subtlety on tap, lol). Now thinking this might be a really fun way to build a portable, MIDI-keyboard controlled polysynth using part leftovers and part new gear.

Your suggestions really helped me think about where this case is going, appreciate it.

EDITED Jun 5th 2022, 18:30

Hi Klodifokan,

Good point, thanks, will check out the 4ms website and glad to hear that they mention it there. Sometimes such information is hidden somewhere in a corner of a manual, if at all.

Will edit/update the above post. Kind regards, Garfield.

Edit: Removed typo.

EDITED Jun 5th 2022, 17:40

Hi Garfield,

Actually I don't own 4ms module except SMR.
I checked the description of all 4ms modules on their website.
If you go to specs for each module, it's written if they use 5v or not.
RCD expander and SCM expander don't use 5v.

Cheers

Do you need the Milky Way to start? You have effects already in Grand Terminal, and reverb with Beads. If I were getting a separate effects module, I'd look at something that didn't duplicate the effects I already had. Not 1U, but FX Aid XL has a huge range of (updateable) effects.
-- mbl77

Yeah, I was thinking the same, but erred on another for flexibility, and missed the reverb in Beads. A different FX module is a much better idea, and I can wait to add it later. I will take a look at the FX Aid XL. Thanks!

EDITED Jun 5th 2022, 17:13

Do you need the Milky Way to start? You have effects already in Grand Terminal, and reverb with Beads. If I were getting a separate effects module, I'd look at something that didn't duplicate the effects I already had. Not 1U, but FX Aid XL has a huge range of (updateable) effects.

Hello fellow synth nerds!

Does anyone here own the Soundmachines Modulör 114? There is so little to be found on the web/YouTube, I already did some extended research... But I'm really interested in some personal opinions of owners!

Short notes about me: I owned some semi modulars already (0-Coast, Behringer 2600, Kilpatrick Phenol and more) and a full AE Modular case. I would say I know quite well about signal flow and patching. I produce electronic music for a little over 10 years now. Firstly it was Electro and Synthwave. Now I'm really into making Dark Ambient and Drone. I adore the music of artists like A. Cortini, Caterina Barbieri, Hiro Kone, Luke Sanger and so on.

Basically I want to create modulated, evolving drones, bass lines and arpeggiated patterns with the Modulör and record them into Ableton.
The thing is, I'm on a tight budget. In the long run my plan is to get a decent 2 row 84hp case and put the Modulör in and extend it with modules like Maths, Clouds or Morphagene and some VCO and VCFs.

I'm grateful about any opinion/help! Cheers Martin

EDITED Jun 5th 2022, 16:57

Hi Klodifokan,

Thanks a lot for your additional list :-) I had a look at the available pictures of the PCBs of your mentioned 4ms modules. The pictures are either to unclear or I just can't find it (hence the reason why I didn't mention it), so I will rely here on your information :-)

How about the RCD expander module? And the SCM expander module? --> these are not using +5 V
Are you sure about the SWN (Spherical Wavetable Navigator) and the PEG (Pingable Envelope Generator)? I couldn't find any applicable jumper on those PCBs.

I have updated the table accordingly:

Anyone who has experience with Markdown who can help me with the table setup? Why it doesn't work, I am following the Markdown syntax but it seems not to work.

Please feel free to mention further modules that must use or can use + 5 V as long as they are still available (or for the famous ones those who just were sold out, are still all right to mention too).

Thank you very much in advance and kind regards, Garfield.

Edit: Added the Euclidean Circles as mentioned by Justarandomgeek, our posts crossed each other :-)
Edit2: The expander modules, as mentioned above, don't use +5 V, updated accordingly.

EDITED Jun 5th 2022, 17:39

Euclidean Circles is another must-5v for your list!

Just a note on QoP sample switching. The SD card is on the back of the unit, so you have to remove your module to get at it, so this is not the kind of module for regular sample switching. ...
-- mbl77

I wonder how badly things would go if one were to use a little ribbon cable extender to break out backside microsd slots to a 1-2hp module with a frontside slot or two (or three? however many fit i guess)

Something like https://www.amazon.com/Chenyang-Memory-Female-Extension-Extender/dp/B07QXPG8HG ought to be a decent test if somebody wants to do some science...

Edit: probably worth noting though, modules with backside slots likely don't expect card hotswaps!
-- justarandomgeek

I was thinking the same thing a few days ago, if I do end up getting the QoP later, I am willing to try. Not sure how dense the PCB was that they could not fit it on the front etc.

@JimHowell1970, Thanks for the help so far, can you take one last look?

If this can be case no1 then imo I'd drop the 1u - I think 1u is massively overrated - and get a couple of mantises (which will only cost about the same as 1 7u intellijel case)

Yeah, I hear you. Squeezing out an extra 1U if you have one portable case can work. Problem is I have it now, and will need to make the best use of it. Live and learn.

watch out for the endorphin.es use of trs cables - most modular uses ts...

Yes, one reason I went with the 1u control module, it has 1 stereo in, and the rest are 2x mono ins per channel versus the 3U version. I think I am limited to the one grand terminal stereo out now, and it comes with trs to ts splitter.

as for falistri over maths - urgh - again personal preference, but I think the frap tools aesthetic is awful, cramped and all over the place!!!

I took a look falistri, but will go with Maths. Plus if I dont like it - which i doubt it probably easier to unload then falistri.

I'd definitely only start with the single pams - 2 veils is good though... probably...

"Probably", as in I should get a different VCA for my second, or not enough VCAs? If the former, what would you suggest? If it is the later, I would get something when i hit the wall. I am lucky and live 15 min walk to a well stocked music/audio store that carries a good selections of quad VCAs etc; though not Veils that I am ordering online.

I'd try to do less in this case (1/2 the sound sources) and try to work out what support modules you need, get those and learn how to use them properly before expanding into a 2nd case

Honestly feeling a total newb, so need some help on this one. I been thinking it is the primary oscillators (Furthrrr in complex mode and Plaits), or do you also consider things like Beads or looping one of the Grand Centrals generators to audible range? I wasn't planning at first to use Beads and GC in that manner to start, but as you pointed out I need to figure out how to best use all the kit properly first before adding on more; totally agreement on this one.

have fun!!

-- JimHowell1970

I have cut down the initial starter below. I already have the mutable instruments, except veils; the endorphin.es Furthrrr and GC, and PNW. Not planning to purchase the QoP drum module for now, will think about the $$$ rack versus separate approach. In the mean time I can use Disting samples, Plaits, or from core oscillators if I am feeling crazy for percussion :P

Was looking to keep the 1u gateway module to mix and final output to interface, along with milkyway for effects. I have the Disting EX for or "crap i need another X", and to quantize for sure. Plan to drive the rack with CV outs keystep pro, and deal with getting something fancier (Midi to CV, or other later).

Any glaring holes below that will limit me starting, or is there 1-2 modules you would add?

EDITED Jun 6th 2022, 19:09

Hi Garfield,

A lot of 4ms module has a jumper to use or not 5v from bus.
QCD and its expander, Quad pingable lfo, VCA Matrix, SCM, SWN, PEG and as you said RCD and SMR.

You can add this to your list.

Cheers

Français plus bas.
Hi fam!
I got myself a few Rings (mutable instruments) clones and made a few very fun patches that I have captured in this video. It's all explained on screen.
happy watching!
Français :
Hello la fami, ca va ?
j'ai essayé plusieurs clones du Rings de Mutable Instruments : Rangoon, que j'ai gardé et un µrings un peu plus confort que les autres µ. Je me suis amusé à extraire 7 patches de mes expérimentations. le détail à l'écran.
bon visionnage !
timetable :
0:11 house of chords
01:39 onion rings
03:12 factory of storm
04:33 FMish bassish
06:09 big in Asia
07:32 percussional
09:31 vas-y très molo

Français plus bas.
Hi fam!
I got myself a few Rings (mutable instruments) clones and made a few very fun patches that I have captured in this video. It's all explained on screen.
happy watching!
Français :
Hello la fami, ca va ?
j'ai essayé plusieurs clones du Rings de Mutable Instruments : Rangoon, que j'ai gardé et un µrings un peu plus confort que les autres µ. Je me suis amusé à extraire 7 patches de mes expérimentations. le détail à l'écran.
bon visionnage !
timetable :
0:11 house of chords
01:39 onion rings
03:12 factory of storm
04:33 FMish bassish
06:09 big in Asia
07:32 percussional
09:31 vas-y très molo

Français plus bas.
Hi fam!
I got myself a few Rings (mutable instruments) clones and made a few very fun patches that I have captured in this video. It's all explained on screen.
happy watching!
Français :
Hello la fami, ca va ?
j'ai essayé plusieurs clones du Rings de Mutable Instruments : Rangoon, que j'ai gardé et un µrings un peu plus confort que les autres µ. Je me suis amusé à extraire 7 patches de mes expérimentations. le détail à l'écran.
bon visionnage !
timetable :
0:11 house of chords
01:39 onion rings
03:12 factory of storm
04:33 FMish bassish
06:09 big in Asia
07:32 percussional
09:31 vas-y très molo

Just a note on QoP sample switching. The SD card is on the back of the unit, so you have to remove your module to get at it, so this is not the kind of module for regular sample switching. ...
-- mbl77

I wonder how badly things would go if one were to use a little ribbon cable extender to break out backside microsd slots to a 1-2hp module with a frontside slot or two (or three? however many fit i guess)

Something like https://www.amazon.com/Chenyang-Memory-Female-Extension-Extender/dp/B07QXPG8HG ought to be a decent test if somebody wants to do some science...

Edit: probably worth noting though, modules with backside slots likely don't expect card hotswaps!

EDITED Jun 5th 2022, 00:42

Hi,

all I wanted to do, was look for a way to control my DFAM from my desk or preferably DAW and I ended up falling into some kind of eurorack trance, where I took the last 3 days to try to 'solve' assembling a proper case. I'm kinda healed for now. This is what I came up with (below), after assigning a more fixed purpose to the build (at first I thought "great I can get a BBD & spring reverb!" but i had to quickly realize to prepare all those things for stereo processing is not worth the effort, sadly).

Some notes on purpose: What I usually do when producing is creating loops and mangling them with heavy modulation in bitwig, multifx (triad, hy-filter 4 that kind of thing), stacked comps, chained reverbs etc. I then print those loops and slice them again using the new slices in creating the actual track. Now, I'm trying to do this same process assisted with my eurorack case and also have better integration of my DFAM (which i avoid using atm, as its too much trouble). That's the goal with the case.

Some notes on the module selection: The top row has lots of stereo units, because I want to use it as a stereo processing chain from an external signal. That's why there are also 2 Antidotes. In my imagination, I can use those Antidotes as a dual channel signal processor. Love the sound of it, love bbd and the broken strings that come out but not sure it will be useful in the way I imagine. The single OSC + Noise is there for layering. I can also use the Multimode Filter + Noise to create a snare or hihat sound to use with the DFAM. The smooth oscs of the DFAM should also go well with the Antidote as contrast. There's only 3 VCAs now and thats maybe not enough. I honestly forgot that the Noise is a voice as well. The Antidotes don't take VCAs for loundness as far as I understand, i didnt count the DFAM and then it was basically 1 voice (+noise). Data Bender, Inertia, Ataxia are there to bring variation to the loops (with Pam). But honestly, I don't really understand what Inertia does practically (how I would use it) but it sounds like something I want to use.

Trade-offs: I decided in Pam over FH-2 because I wanted a dynamic clock source to start thats more hands on, even tho I have a launchpad so FH-2 would be great for midi sequencing. I would also like to have an EQ in there at some point, a better way to interface with my daw (ES-8 e.g.) and an envelope sequencer (Maestro). I decided to skip on disting/ex for now, as I want to integreate the setup tighter with my DAW and see what digital functions I would really want after (and no need for e.g. sample based voice or a dsp granulator etc.).

Questions: (a) I'm not sure Data Bender is a good idea. I really like Data Benders concept but its basically alot of what I do ITB and maybe I shouldnt just try to recreate my ITB workflow (because this rack should add something different). Maybe someone has an opinion on this? (b) I'm not really sure how I would use rise/fall practically (offsets and signal delays to a lesser extend). Also the whole VCA thing still throws me off, I understand conceptually, why i need them but I never think about VCAs ITB and I don't yet understand why I wouldnt just get a FH-2 + expander and just do everything over those units. (b.2) With that im not fully sure what Inertia/Demix will do but I hope, I'll learn after getting a couple modules to start out.

Right now I only have the DFAM (and a Model D), so my plan is to actually get the Mantis case (this one already became cramped at the end and I would like to have the DFAM inside the rack for practicality reasons) and maybe 4 modules + i/o. I would probably start with something like DFAM + Eumonia, Ataxia, Antidote + Pam and some I/O. Im not decided yet on the midi & i/o part.

TL/DR: Man seeks to mangle audio from DAW and create quirky loops with DFAM. Did he do this right?

If you made it through the long write up (or not :>), what do you think? Is there anything conceptually or practically broken with this case layout in regards of what I want to do?

Just a note on QoP sample switching. The SD card is on the back of the unit, so you have to remove your module to get at it, so this is not the kind of module for regular sample switching. You might have more flexibility and a better workflow with an Erica Synths Sample Drum or Squarp Rample, and then a smaller drum module, eg. the VPME Quad Drum (with expander).

If this can be case no1 then imo I'd drop the 1u - I think 1u is massively overrated - and get a couple of mantises (which will only cost about the same as 1 7u intellijel case)

watch out for the endorphin.es use of trs cables - most modular uses ts...

as for falistri over maths - urgh - again personal preference, but I think the frap tools aesthetic is awful, cramped and all over the place!!!

I'd definitely only start with the single pams - 2 veils is good though... probably...

I'd try to do less in this case (1/2 the sound sources) and try to work out what support modules you need, get those and learn how to use them properly before expanding into a 2nd case

have fun!!

Hi klodifokan, All,

Thanks a lot for the confirmation. So the list I have so far (I added myself one module as well the Bizmuth, that one must use +5 V, no jumper), is like this:

4ms Rotating Clock Divider (RCD) can use +5 V
4ms Spectral Multiband Resonator (SMR) can use +5 V
Bizmuth Bizmuth must use +5 V
Klavis Quadigy must use +5 V
Mordax Data can use +5 V
Noise Engineering Basimilus Iteritas Alter (BIA) can use +5 V
Tesseract Sweet Sixteen can use +5 V

Then there is the Quad Clock Distributor (QCD) from 4ms but I can't see from the pictures if it really has a jumper or not, it's a bit unclear, anyone who can clarify this matter who owns this module and check it out?

Anyone else who knows about a module (not those very old ones that uses +5 V) that is rather recent and preferable still available for sales, please let us know and I will add them to the list :-)

Thank you very much in advance and kind regards, Garfield.

1) 2x veils because I got overloaded with options for 2nd Quad VCA. Wasnt 100% on the Malekko read bleeds noise
2) Is 2x Disting + O&C to much - flexibility
3) Is 2x PNW overkill? I can always start with 1x PNW & 1x Veils (or other Quad VCA)
4) Having PNW, Disting, and O&C feels like a bit to much menus. Can I get away with 1 level deep changes?
5) Still have Endorphin.es complex OCI, will still look at others (tiptop), thanks for pointing me to the Brenso. Still researching
6) Kept plaits for 2nd easy to select voice
7) Still have queen of pentacles in there, I like the idea of nob turning etc. over keypad interfaces. Had 3 analog drums, and 4 samples I can switch around.
8) Effects - resonator, data bender, etc. What module would you switch out to get one in, and which one?
9) Get rid of O&C 1U and get some buffered or un-buffered mults?
-- endyii

The beauty of modular is you can do whatever you want

IMO:
Drop one Pam's and one Veils to leave room for Beads

Take a look at Falistri instead of Maths. If you choose Falistri a CV attenuverter / mixer would be a nice addition. Something like Frap Tools 321 or Happy Nerding 3x MIA

Mults would be a waste of space.

EDITED Jun 4th 2022, 14:41

another idea just for fun
-- 33PO

Thanks for ideas. I think I will keep the sequencer out of the rack and use a Midi - CV interface and external CV-outs direct to modules if needed.

Added: Arbhar, Dual Disting for Flexibility - quantizing, etc. , 2x PNW so 16 outs for clock or LFOs with random/euclidean/etc, 2x veils for VCA, Maths for wackiness/flexibility, and 1U Ornament and Crime for more flexibility.

Couple Things
1) 2x veils because I got overloaded with options for 2nd Quad VCA. Wasnt 100% on the Malekko read bleeds noise
2) Is 2x Disting + O&C to much - flexibility
3) Is 2x PNW overkill? I can always start with 1x PNW & 1x Veils (or other Quad VCA)
4) Having PNW, Disting, and O&C feels like a bit to much menus. Can I get away with 1 level deep changes?
5) Still have Endorphin.es complex OCI, will still look at others (tiptop), thanks for pointing me to the Brenso. Still researching
6) Kept plaits for 2nd easy to select voice
7) Still have queen of pentacles in there, I like the idea of nob turning etc. over keypad interfaces. Had 3 analog drums, and 4 samples I can switch around.
8) Effects - resonator, data bender, etc. What module would you switch out to get one in, and which one?
9) Get rid of O&C 1U and get some buffered or un-buffered mults?

EDITED Jun 4th 2022, 12:03

oh almost forgot, ability to run 2 different effects, in such a small unit, a nice addition, guess the fv1 chip isn't strong enough, maybe 1 day there will be multiple in's and out's, still running 2 effects possible ?
-- Gravitymike

According to the effects list, there will be a few dual algo, like for example reverb on left and delay on right side, tho' they share the same controls so not that much tweakable in that situation, but I'm pretty sure those will be of a great help at some points

another idea just for fun

Left side is sequencing (Varigate + Voltage Block) and drums (BIA & LXR)

Right side is a complex oscillator (Brenso), a little modulation (Nano Rand & Falistri) and effects (Arbar, Data Bender & Freez).

Pamela's New Workout, more modulation and some CV attenuation/mixing would be great additions

Keep the MI modules. Plaits and Beads are amazing

Erica make good modules and, I guess it's their prerogative, but it seems like they never update the digital modules with any extra features or stream-lining of UI. They make sure there are no bugs and then move onto the next module. So be sure you like what it is when you first try it, because it won't change at all down the road.

Thanks for the feedback Jim and Lugia!

I’ve changed the image to a link to the rack.

I was planning to use a multi channel desktop mixer to do stereo mixing, eq, and add light reverb/delay.

Would that be appropriate?

Well, if money's a major issue here, I would suggest that your first move should be to replace all of that Endorphin.es stuff.

I guess the money statement was poorly worded. It’s not an issue. Also my response to JimHowell1970 this can be case #1. Looking to start with a couple voices, and drums if possible with one out of techno, industrial, or house; and some ambient to chill too. If I pick up a drum machine, really anything, it won’t be from uli. I rather support smaller manufacturers and stores, and pay the extra money ie. endorphin.es.

I’ll take a look at tiptop, but space is not as big of an issue as I am willing to get another case. Any additional suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

EDITED Jun 3rd 2022, 23:52

other than that i guess its kind of cool, not sure if its got real modular synthesis or its purely dps on a circuit, still cool module, with a couple of separate outputs, cv ect always great.
-- Gravitymike

I like the 'bring your own sequencer' aspect of it. The biggest questions for me is how will they implement CV to parameter mapping, and will saving sounds/kits/etc be simple. The reason I sold my LXR-02 was because while I really liked the sound a lot, I found the workflow pretty complicated, particularly when it came to saving things, and doing detailed sequence editing. A lot of bouncing between menu pages.

trying to do too much in too small a space imo

where is the modulation sources and utilities that are really needed to make the most of expensive shiny modules??? see my signature for some hints...

you'll almost definitely want more than a keystep pro to sequence the drum synth module (probably want 8 trigger/gate outputs just for that) and the melodic voices you have in there...
-- JimHowell1970

Okay. This can be rack case one, I can get a 2nd case once comfortable with the first one. I pretty set on the following Endorphin.es shuttle modules -> furthrrr, grand terminal, and drum module. Next is the gateway and golden master for mixing and final processing. The rest I am flexible, the DIY kits are just for relearning electronics , and the mutable instruments are sealed and can be returned. Do you have any specific suggestions for case number #1 and # of vca, lfos, and utilities?

Concerning the key step pro, was planning to connect it via usb to the shuttle controller that has 16 cv/gates out. Or will this not work? Works with the beatstep pro from what I understand.

Well, if money's a major issue here, I would suggest that your first move should be to replace all of that Endorphin.es stuff. It's spendy, and you can get the same things (if not better!) for less money. Kinda big, too...for example, the Furthurrr Gen is $779 and 30 hp. OR...Tiptop's Buchla 258, which is $200, and if you miss the waveshaper, you can add the Dannysound Timbre, which is based on the Buchla 259's waveshaping circuitry for another $100 and change. But not only does that save money, it saves space...the 258 is 18 hp, and the waveshaper is only 6, and that leaves a new 6 hp space to add something else.

Since you've been out of the game for a while, these days things are all about trying for maximum functionality with best-case $$$ outlays while NOT wrecking the ergonomics. It's very doable, but this isn't like whipping up some basic gear anymore. There's so many choices that you've sort of got to sort out what you want the build to DO before coming up with a build plan.

One other thing...drum machines in modular are HELLA expensive. You can do them, sure...but remember, you need the voicing AND its sequencer. Now, the Queen of Pentacles is $669 for starters, and you're still looking at outlay for a suitable pattern sequencer on top of that. So...$1k tends to be around the spot most of these come in at, and that's just not tenable when you can get a decent (and very 909-ish) machine like Uli's RD-9 for perhaps a THIRD of that. And yes, it'll lock right up to whatever sync the modular's using. Oh, and you get back another 30 hp for use elsewhere in the build. In short: if an answer exists outside of modular, it's often better to take THAT instead of using hp and cash to make it happen in the cab.

trying to do too much in too small a space imo

where is the modulation sources and utilities that are really needed to make the most of expensive shiny modules??? see my signature for some hints...

you'll almost definitely want more than a keystep pro to sequence the drum synth module (probably want 8 trigger/gate outputs just for that) and the melodic voices you have in there...

Ahhh...yeah, probably a fubar attempt to post an A-178 which got some things wrong...user probably deleted it.

OK...took a shot at this. I didn't put in a few modules (Kickall, Ears, Branches, Shades) because the Palette has some better ways of addressing what those do. Kickall, however, just didn't fit in with where this went, however, the Ears was dropped in deference to the Intellijel Stereo In, Shades gets dealt with by the two DuATTs, and Branches just...didn't really fit either, mainly because that works better if there's some logic to work with as well, and there's not.

So, looking at this as a monosynth, I went with a relatively straightforward approach...

Tiles: Stereo Input (from the Palette's first 1/4" jack pair), and MIDI interface, then a DuATT bookending each end of a Noise Tools (clock, noise source, S&H, slew limiter). A Stereo VCA and a Stereo Mix (which is also the output, feeding the other pair of 1/4" jacks) end things up. One bit about those last two: the VCA + first input pair could be used to fly FX in over the main mix coming off of the Q-Mix.

Row: Konstant Lab PWRchekr...shame that Intellijel doesn't put rail indicators on these, but at least Konstant Lab has that covered. Then the Tides, and a Zadar (with Nin) bracket a pair of VCAs, so that you can have VCA level control over modulation signals. As for mixing those signals, that's what the DuATTs are for. Then the Braids and the Athru have their own VCA pair...and I should note, these little dual VCAs do use the same topology as Mutable's Veils VCAs, but they save loads of space and, in this case, they downright make this thing GO. And going from zero VCAs to eight will definitely make that happen.

After that, your Blades dual VCF, then another VCA pair for post-VCF amplitude control going into either the Q-Mix, Rings, or the Stasis Leak, which gives you stereo reverb, chorus, or a tap-tempo delay with mono-in/stereo-out. Then the mixer: Alyseum's Q-Mix, which gives you four input channels with panning.

There's a lot more going on here now. With the addition of the VERY necessary VCAs, there'll be a lot more level control capability, plus you now have FX, you've got some mix/attenuator modules, proper MIDI, and so on. Definitely not a pile of "leftovers" now!

I know what it is - this was in response to a new module being posted that didn't have a picture for the face plate and was labelled A-178 Theremin CV source but had the wrong HP number (and the module already had an entry). Thus I wondered whether this was some newly announced new version or something. The module's gone by now so I'm gonna assume that that's not the case.