Need help with first rack

Hi.
I'm trying to compile my first rack and after a month of research I think I'm back to square one.
First I was looking into Behringer system 100 and 2500 but realizing system 100 is very basic and 2500 ocupies too much space for what it offers I've tried some different configurations and still can't figure out a good set.
I have external sequencer and keyboard with CV/gate out so I don't need any sequencers.
What I'm after is something that I can use for drone/ambient and 80's electronic/synthwave.
Also my budget is 2000€.
Any help would be appreciated.

Howdy!

This is a pretty open ended request, so we might need a bit more detail to be able to give you adequate advice. I know it's not specifically Eurorack, but I would really recommend the Behringer 2500 clone as a very reasonably priced all-in-one extremely versatile option. You can also mount that in a standard rack and add a row or two of 84hp rails to expand with things you think you're missing. For drone/ambient I'd recommend some more sources of modulation and maybe some interesting delays/reverbs (if you're not already running it through pedals). Maths is a great addition to the 2600 for envelopes and more complex modulation (also highly recommend the illustrated supplement for Maths, you'll learn A TON about voltage and how to push it around). Updated clones of Clouds (like the Monsoon) are pretty "classic" eurorack nowadays too. Sort of an instant ambient playhouse.

This might just be my personal opinion, but I don't think synthwave type sounds are really where modular shines. When I think of synthwave I think of more typical polysynth options, but the beauty of modular is you can always run a keyboard synth alongside it! (or even INTO it!)

Any more detail on things that are drawing you into modular or sounds that have been inspiring you would be greatly helpful to give you more specific direction.

Hi.

Sorry for the long wait.
OK, forget about synthwave.
I need something for making ambient/drone, but mostly ambient with some slow simple drums and some drone background.
I have akai APC64 that I can use as a sequencer.
It has 8 CV/gate outputs that are configurable (for sequences/device fader strips)
So I need VCOs VCFs VCAs envelope, mixer, the usual stuff...
As I'm on a budget, I chose mostly behringer modules.
Here's a picture of something I've compiled.
I want to know if there are any redundencies here
I've left 10 HP space if there's any suggestions...

Howdy!

I apologize, I just realized in my earlier response I recommended getting the Behringer 2500 clone, and I meant the 2600! Looking at your proposed rack, the 2600 covers pretty much everything the Sytem 100 clone modules would do but in a more economical package. You can find a Behringer 2600 for about $400 USD used. I arranged this pair of 84hp rails as an accompaniament to the 2600.

I kept pretty much everything you had in your proposal less the Scales. This felt not totally necessary as the Chaos can output quantized pitch voltage, and since you're also using a keyboard sequencer the scales felt a little overkill. I also removed the Radar as the 2600 has an input/preamp/envelope follower built in. I added a Clouds clone as the delay/granular/reverb effects in that just make for an instant, easy, and satisfying ambient texture, whatever you want to throw into it. I also added the Behringer copy of the Intellijel Quad VCA as this is super helpful for both standard VCA duties as well as mixing signals, both audio and CV.
I will say, I know the Behringer modules are cheap, but there are definitely some ethical considerations with their practices in the Eurorack space. I have less concern with their clones of older/hard to get synths like the 2600 (and I'm really pretty pumped to see their Buchla Easel and EMS Synthi copies if those ever see the light of day), but some of their clones in eurorack feel a little dirty. If you can save up a little more, I think it's worth it to get an actual Make Noise Maths and getting Plaits, Marbles, and Veils clones from After Later Audio or Cal Synth to replace the Brains, Chaos, and Quad VCA respectively.

But as is, if you go with your proposed setup, I'd just recommend dropping the Scales and adding a cascading quad VCA like the Behringer Four Play (or the Intellijel Quad VCA it's based on, or a MI Veils clone) and a more robust delay/reverb/effect like a Clouds clone. I also think the Behringer 2600 is pretty much the best bang for buck intro to (semi)modular synths out there. I love the joystick and ribbon combo, that'll make for some really interesting human modulation, and if you pair that with a VCA to control other modulations, you'll have a nice stew goin'

Cheers friend!

Thany You very much for quick reply.
Your explanation is exactly what I needed.
I think that solves it.
Cheers!