Long time lurker, first time poster
https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_2219285.jpg
I am selling some unused equipment and finally diving into modular. I want a system that can primarily stand on its own but also be used as an effect processor as a secondary function. I have a Prophet 6, Analog Rytm, and guitars to feed into the system / play along with. I am planning to build this system bit by bit, buying modules as gear sells, so I am sure I will be adjusting my needs along the way. Also, many of the modules in this system are currently unobtainium, so I will definitely have to wait. Still, it would be great to read opinions on specific concerns for the rack I've outlined.
VCAs, Attenuverters & Mixing. I know you can never have enough VCAs, but does it seem like I have an appropriate amount for this rack? How about attenuverters and channels for mixing?
Akemie's Castle. This module is so large, but every time I consider something else, I keep coming back to how good the Castle sounds. The only other oscillator I have seriously considered as a replacement is Akemie's Taiko. The smaller footprint is nice, but it seems much more limited compared to the Castle. I am more interested in the chords and melodic sounds the Castle can make rather than drum sounds. Also, I included a fair amount of modulation in this rack in part to feed the Castle. With this in mind, would anyone recommend Taiko plus 20hp worth of other modules over Akemie's Castle?
Ornament & Crime. I want to proceed with caution when it comes to deep menu diving in my modular. Pam’s and Zadar seem shallow as far as menus go. The ER-301 has a lot of functions I am excited about , and seems well worth the time-cost of learning it. I feel less enthused about Ornament and Crime. However, the number of functions seem to be a good value for the (1U) space it takes up. I imagine I will leave it as a quantizer the majority of the time and otherwise use it to fill gaps in my system.
Zadar and Batumi Expanders. Are they worth the 6hp in a system this size? The extra modulation possibilities with the Zadar expansion seem especially nice. The Batumi expansion seems convenient, but less enticing. Since each is 3hp, it sort of makes sense to me to get both if I want one. There are no other modules I am currently interested in that are an odd hp.
Surface and Nautilus. Both seems like interesting modules, but I chose them over similar modules largely because of hp concerns. I wanted to add one physical modeling voice, but sort of feel that there are enough voices in this rack given the size. I also wanted one delay/reverb outside of the ER-301. Still, neither is a “must” and I would be open to other suggests of what to do with this 24hp.
Thanks, everyone!