https://cdn.modulargrid.net/img/racks/modulargrid_2393267.jpg
Hi there. Here is my rack. Currently I am thinking if this kind of setup makes a sense? I mean I;ve got Pamela and Maths, and I am torn between Batumi and Zadar. I'd like to experiment with textures, that's why I'd stick more with Zadar, but please feel free to give you feedback.
Btw, what do you think about this rack overall?
Thanks!
Hey! A few questions / points to help:
To your specific question, no, I do not think you have too many modulation sources; on the contrary, I would certainly suggest more. Something like a cv controllable LFO for example (for ever-changing modulation in addition to what Maths and Zadar can do - free them up for different uses). The longer I spend with modular synths, the more I realize that modulators and utilities are really what make the systems interesting. Sure, oscillators and filters and effects are fun, but any synth can do that, you don't need to dig into modular for those features. But if you want to have control over the fiddly cv details, want to be able to set up (and maybe make hands-free) changing parameters over time, or really explore unique methods of sound creation (for example, have you ever tried using the Zadar as an oscilator, or the Rene as a modulator, or the Maths as a filter - or anything really), well that's where modular shines. And for that, you should spend some more time looking at modulators and utilities. In general, I'd rather fewer sounds sources and more utilities/modulators than the other way around. What you have is a good start, but I'd think about how much space you're dedicating to effects and whether that will get you the synthesizer experience you're looking for.
You should update with a link and let us know how much of your rack is planned vs. already owned, and we can suggest further. Good luck with your sounds explorations!
Hi HGSynth, thank you for you reply.
Here is my current rack
And here is what I aim:
Basically, I am a guitar player. I've got also some electronic gear like Analog Rytm mk 2, Sequential Prophet rev. 2, make noise 0 coast. The modular is to complete whole set. My aim is to do some ambient textures, drones, but also I really like to do sequencing staff using rene. What is worth to mention, I am not into techno or some agressive stuffs. I had a pizza oscillator, but for me it was too agressive.
And yes, I was using Maths as filter and Rene as modulator. Pamela is pretty good at modulation too :)
Not a bad start. A few things jump out:
* VCAs - it seems to be a universal truth that you always need at least one more VCA than you currently have available. You'll need more, particularly if you want to start adding motion to your signals at mutiple parts of the signal path. Additionally, your fx modules and final mixer are stereo, how cool if you had enpugh VCAs for stereo signal management?
* LFOs - batumi is a wonder in a small package, and I hear that version 2 is even better. Zadar though can also do some pretty complex waveforms, but I think I would want to go with a dedicated LFO personally. In addition to batumi, consider the ochd and it's expander from Divkid/Instruo. Small footprint, but quite organic feeling motion and the expander packs some cool funtions.
* Attenuators - You'll want to tame the lfos and any other cv, particularly if you enjoy random voltages. VCAs can also work for this, if you had them to spare.
Other things to consider if you find you have the space:
* Matrix mixer (Doepfer a-138m is what I'm familiar with but there are several out there) - great for blending signals (both uni- and bipolar) and super useful for feedback. The only downside is the hp, but there are other matrix mixers out there with smaller footprints.
* Sample and hold - I just love these circuits and find them so useful. That's all.
* Comparator - Same. Specifically the Joranalogue Compare 2.
* Crossfader - WMD axys (stereo) or even the Joranalogue Morph 4 (mono). Might be useful for drones.
Hope this is useful. Best of luck!
