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Paired with and a format jumbler.

This is the 4U portion of my DIY case. It is slightly more than one panel wide.

The bottom row and a larger jumbler (the Prism is a stand-in) is all currently racked up on my test bench while I work on the case and the top row panel is being built.

EDITED Feb 23rd, 07:39

Envelopes.

I really like the Tiptop Buchla 281t because it has 4 loopable envelopes with CV control over attack and decay plus a quadrature mode that kind of makes them all loop and interrelate in weird ways. You might like it in an ambient case as a sort of freeform brain/hub for modulation and clock - I tend to use it both as 4 individual envelopes and also as a weird freeform sequencer of sorts. It's a big module, but it looks like you already have some spots where you've got some cramped modules.

But whether or not you take my specific suggestion, I would just say look at envelopes that you can play around with by hand in contrast to the Zadar, which is awesome but not quite as hands-on, for some variety. I wouldn't put any more small little modules in there unless you find one that really speaks to you, and I'd probably even start looking at blank panels to put in between some of those things at the top.

All of this is sort of beside the point, though: what do you yourself feel is missing? Do you like how it feels so far? Is there anything you don't use as much as expected? Do you like the Forbidden Planet filter? There's always another filter to try out.

this is my Ambient rack

mainly for Dark Ambient

what would you get next,what do i need

use a sq-1 and beatstep pro as sequencers
also have this small effects skiff

EDITED Feb 22nd, 22:05

Hello all, I help organize an open studio every two weeks in Queens, New York. ridgewoodsoundlab is a community run synthesis space. We host meetups and build events, and eventually evening shows, though we are still working that. Anyways, I thought I'd drop a supercut I made of one of our events.

I just tried again this morning and it's working again. Thanks to whoever fixed it up on the back end!
-- markpar

It's still wonky, we are currently migrating to a new screenhot server ...

Not sure if this is the right place for this, but hopefully...

Hello. I have decided to become a Nerdseq guy. I've been recently playing/working in a group where I program songs and perform them live with a drummer using the Polyend Tracker somewhat fot samples but mostly as a MIDI sequencer/clock for a couple synths and effects I fiddle around with. Basically, I want to adapt this workflow to my existing modular setup as well, and I want to try it with the Nerdseq and all its CV outs rather than a MIDI to CV converter. If I like it, I will probably get the more CV and video expander, and maybe the one with the encoder if I'm feeling rich one day. I don't have enough things to trigger to need 16 triggers and I'm not on the hunt for new voices or anything, but I can't rule anything out.

I have the stuff I want to control with it already - a Moog Mavis, a Pico System III, a small Buchla Tiptop based system that is slightly cramped but a lot of fun, and I suppose my Dust Collector counts as well (though it mostly modulates itself, and I soend maybe half my time onstage playing with it anyway because it's my favorite). It all sounds pretty great to me, but I want to organize it a bit and have a repertoire of structures I can work through.

My question is: what would you add next to a Nerdseq to make it more "playable"? Like, to mess with basic sequences on the fly as they progress and evolve over an arrangement that I've considered in advance (at least in skeletal form). Basically things to make a single patch for a single show as flexible as possible.

I have an 84hp rack and an endorphin.es 2hp power supply for the Nerdseq and whatever else when I get it, and I plan to build this up slowly as and carefully as money becomes available, buy while I have this set up as an 84hp setup, I'm not married to that amount of space for this task. These were my thoughts so far, though:

• Matrix mixer to move CV to different places on a whim
• Maths to do Maths stuff. I've always wanted to try a Maths and I like the idea of access to stuff like slew limiting, envelope rise and fall, attenuverting, etc. as I go. I can even use it to filter one of the samples if I feel crazy.
• Precision adder for moving notes around so that they're still notes.

Maybe a sequential switch as well? I know this isn't an exact science, but I'm trying to see if there's any other cool utilities for this task I haven't thought of yet (I already have a mixer that handles Eurorack). Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Another close view here:

EDITED Feb 21st, 22:50

hi guys

I asked ChatGPT for the best 62hp Ambient combo... Would you agree?

EDITED Feb 21st, 21:31

I should add that switching from Nerdseq to Rene is maybe the most speculative change here. Cutting Nerdseq would lose me a lot of functionality / utility that I currently might be taking for granted, so there could be some blind spots in making that switch. It can function as a big Pam's if you need it to, so I might end up needing to put Pam's back in if Nerdseq is out.

The idea with Rene is to have something more performable in line with making the main rack a standalone instrument; and to do "program a whole song" type of stuff from my DAW / Optx.

The main appeal of those modules for me is the ability to step through chord progressions with performance gestures in Rene

how are you going to get chord progressions out of this? also not enough voices for chords...

Imprecise phrasing on my part! I meant implied harmony, so setting up a few states quantized to different scales and then switching between them to match output pitch sequences to a chord progression, not actually generating chords. Here's a video on it with Rene:

EDITED Feb 21st, 21:10

@Jim,
Yeah my bad, Mutable Instruments Kinks/Links. WMD SSF Toolbox, Intellijel Quadratt, Intellijel Mixup.

The main appeal of those modules for me is the ability to step through chord progressions with performance gestures in Rene

how are you going to get chord progressions out of this? also not enough voices for chords...

I am a big fan of the WMD SSF toolbox module and Intellijel Kinks/Links combos as they offer so much bang for buck in terms of space and features.
-- benscott

all good starting points (as is the xaoc samara), but you mean mutable, not intellijel...

EDITED Feb 21st, 20:06

Hi all, I'm considering moving from this:

[edited, sorry!]

to something like this:

My current system is a Mantis and an ALM 84hp/3U. The Mantis is designed for DAW integration and effects processing, and the ALM is designed as a subsystem for fun with some leftover modules.

The issue is that my main system is kinda overpowered as an effect rack for the DAW, kinda underpowered as a standalone instrument (only Maths for envelopes, or erstatz envelopes from Nerdseq), and heavily reliant on Nerdseq. Which, I love Nerdseq for a lot of things, but it can feel out of place when I'm working in the DAW and it doesn't otherwise lend itself to the patch programming style of patches that I'm coming to prefer. So, generally, this setup lacks focus.

The 2024 revision I've got in mind would refocus the Mantis as a standalone instrument and make the ALM case a "studio" add-on for when I'm at home and working in the DAW / with samples. Which I think makes sense!

It does have some redundancy with Rene / Sport Modulator / Step 8. The main appeal of those modules for me is the ability to step through chord progressions with performance gestures in Rene; the steppy modulation and patch programmability from Sport Modulator; and the ability to patch up shift registers and runglers and weird square waves and overall utility from Step 8. Plus it includes Quadrax, which fixes the lack of envelopes problem.

Looking for an eyeball on the design, any feedback appreciated. Does this look like a reasonable system?

Thanks in advance!

EDITED Mar 8th, 02:05

PAC BOT 1 can now be fitted with a Dirty Wave M8 Headless on request (RPI4B only)

join our discord!

https://discord.gg/eMjea5CcZu

The ES-9 price and size start to make better sense in a setup like mine, with Push as an interface for the software I can focus on instead of the mouse and pretty neat for mixing IMO, and also with willingness like mine to explore leveraging things like VCV or CV tools tu supplement the rack - perhaps I've made the mistake of suggesting better for me than for you :-D
If you're going to dedicate some space and money to an outboard mixer you don't already have, I think my advice should be to pickup up one of those mixers that has an integrated soundcard (some also offer in-built effects and what not, could be useful). Not sure about the midi connectivity though, and how important that is to you. If you really want Midi to CV as well, you have the option of getting that in the rack, picking a small sound card that can do that too, or a separate device just for that, I think there are some pretty small ones...

I am a big fan of the WMD SSF toolbox module and Intellijel Kinks/Links combos as they offer so much bang for buck in terms of space and features.

Before you buy anything, my advice is to download a free copy of the VCVRack software and play with it. Also the book Patch and Tweak is awesome for beginners. For first modules, get a larger case than you think to have room to grow. I recommend something like the Intellijel 7u case that has room for 1u modules which are fantastic. Focus on core utilities: LFOs, matrix mixer, a filter, a VCO and so forth. Like you can get an Intellijel Quadratt, and some mults plus attenuator to have features as modular places greater need on these utility modules than traditional fixed hardware synths.

Ehy D,

Yes, i was thinking to get the es9 but i am not sure i really need it (and the module is not cheap).
I currently use a wmd performer as mixer but i am thinking to make some room in the studio and get a proper deck.
ES9 might be a good solution to record multitrack in ableton even if i am not a great fan of working with software (i don't think i will use any of those sw compressors, etc) and i have quite a few modules for processing.
What i think i need it's a good soundcard to record a single stereo signal and something which allow me to send MIDI message from the computer to the external synth. eurorack is preferred but i apprecciate that desktop gears might be cheaper in that scenario.
thanks
mat

Hi Mat !

I'd be tempted to suggest the Expert Sleepers ES-9, but it depends on what you mean by "mixing on hardware". If the output of that mix is a single stereo channel, it might not be for you, but I personally appreciate using it to multitrack the modular into Ableton. It has the added benefit of allowing the extensive use of things like compressors, limiters or even creative FX's on each track or buses, I can easily re-route that into the modular for more processing through physical modules, the sky is the limit... and I suppose latency is another one :-)
If you plan on sending midi information from Ableton to the modular through the ES-9, that's definitely doable with CV Tools although I believe you might need Max4Live to use those things...

D.

Hi,

It's very long time i don't use a computer (pc or mac) in my setup. I don't use any software for sound generation and i use hardware sequencers and a 4ms wav record to record. Now, i am thinking to bring an apple back in my setup for two main reasons:

1. MIDI sequncing for Polysynths (I will keep sequencing all the monophonics via external eurorack sequencer)
2. Recording

So i am thinking to buy a:

1. Mac Mini (i don't need anything else then a software sequencer and recording capbalities)
2. A soundcard (I would prefer to go eurorack as i don't have so much space in my very tiny studio). Which one should i conside giving i will not be using it for mixing (i will keep mixing on hardware)
3. A midi interface

Any suggestions for point 2. and 3. - eurorack format has priority unless it's much more expansive then a desktop solution.
Thanks
Mat

I stand partially corrected, Brains did add new modes in an update, but yeah, it's not directly compatible with Plaits FW as it'a not a direct clone.
https://www.synthtopia.com/content/2023/03/02/behringer-brains-reloaded-adds-5-new-modes/

Final question is how are you taking this out to your speakers/computer? Do you already have an outboard mixer that can take eurorack levels? Otherwise I'd recommend an output/euro-to-line module, or those Mixup knobs are going to be pretty much at minimum all the time.

This is a good, small output / euro-to-line module:

https://www.modulargrid.net/e/bastl-instruments-ciao-

That said, odd-numbered hp items (Ciao! is 5 hp) require another odd-number as racks are even-numbered,
or at least a useless 1 blank. I agree with above you need an lfo, and the Pico line has 3hp lfos that would
make an even number (8).

One annoyance on using ModularGrid is that, while things look great "on paper," so to speak, you'll find
that power cables come out of modules in different ways, such that some cannot be placed side-to-side
or on the far edge, as the cable won't fit or will clash with the body of the module beside it. It would be
helpful (but a programming nightmare) to have the reverse side of modules shown, indicating where
the cables are.

You can also use a floating ring cable to connect pedals to your modular, or just buy a pedal/effects unit with CV inputs/outputs (there are some really good ones - I have a Finegear Dust Collector that I use on everything, and it even came with LFOs for extra modulation). You don't necessarily need a special module in the rack to interface with pedals.

(Edit: this next part is now irrelevant, apparently. I was incorrect.) Honestly, I wasn't going to comment on oscillators (or the Behringer thing) since it's so personal, but if Brains can't have the new firmware, I also agree that a different Plaits clone that can do the new DX7 patch thing would notably expand your sonic palette in this rack.

EDITED Feb 21st, 12:50

cool textures, love it !

Anyone ever tried using it as tube preamp for electric guitar?

I started with a very small rack and one thing I learned was that a small case was a viable setup as long as it's very focused in its purpose. Especially if you are learning and exploring I would recommend you start with only 2-3 modules you really like, and then figure out what else you need through patching.

Going through the proposed rack left to right:
The ethics of Behringer products aside, an uPlaits might be a better choice due to its smaller size (hp is at a premium here), plus it can load Emilie's final firware, whereas I understand that Brains cannot. The MCO is fine I guess, I know many people like it. You might also wanna consider a Twin Waves for your first oscillator, again smaller than Brains, mutli-algo and you can use the second output as a noise source/lfo.
Forbidden planet is an interesting choice here, but I think a dual/stereo filter or one with multiple outs will do more for you here in the same real estate (frex, the ADDAC dual filter, Dual Dagger, Ikarie or one of the dual Ripples clones).

Maths (Abbacus ) is a fine modulator, but when people wax poetic about it it's usually for its snappy, percussive envelopes, not exactly a hallmark of ambient. It can do a lot more of course (at least Maths can, I don't know how faithful of a clone Abbacus is). Anyway, tl;dr: I feel you definitely need more modulation options and utilities like a CV mixer/attenuverter. Like a poster above said, ambient is about texture and that means subtle but complex modulation of timbre, fiters, panning, etc.

Tallin is a great VCA, no notes. Dual FX I'm not that familiar with, but again, since space is at a premium here, a FX Aid or MFX might fit better in here. Another option is to eschew in-rack effects and just add a pedal integrator module, as mentioned above (although I'm personally not a fan of that option).

Scales is good, but what are you feeding it with? Could use one of the Maths outputs I suppose, but again, some sort of extra modulation source, S&H, random source would be most welcome. Perhaps even a small rudimentary sequencer like a Tirana or Ryo Penta so you can add some intent to your music. Mixup is good.

Final question is how are you taking this out to your speakers/computer? Do you already have an outboard mixer that can take eurorack levels? Otherwise I'd recommend an output/euro-to-line module, or those Mixup knobs are going to be pretty much at minimum all the time.

tl;dr: 1. rethink your oscillator and fx choices to save space, add more utilities and modulation (especially to feed scales and modulate parameters on your voices and filter)
2. optionally look into a more versatile filter and (depending on your situation) an output module

I'm not going to necessarily disagree with the person above, since your open-ended goal will almost undoubtedly lead you to think about more stuff. A Mantis case is not a bad idea for an ambient situation, and even if you don't fill it completely, throwing some blanks in there and calling it a day will make it nice and spacious so things are easier to access.

However, I am a believer in small setups if they are focused, and I did not go the large interwoven case route (yet). There can be advantages to different smaller systems if you're organized about it.

My main suggestion is to not bother with in-rack effects in a synth setup this small. Save that space for LFOs, maybe a Sample and Hold, and an attenuverter/polarizer. Maybe another VCA that's more for CV. Focus on the stuff that makes modular modular for now and then just get outside effects. If a pedal or something has an expression or tempo input, you may even be able to modulate the pedal with CV if you're careful and look up the proper methods.

My other suggestion is to go all out on your filter. If you love the Forbidden Planet, go for it, but it's a bit workmanlike for an ambient setup, where texture makes a huge difference.

the racksize is much to small -
you need space for utilities

Better dont start under 104 hp 6u

Dual fx is not so cool for ambient stuff in my opinion

check out qubit and bastl, make noise and intellijel

what about a sequencer, sample and hold, lfo, envelopes, attenuverter....

bastl neo trinity has much of these in 8 hp with 6 outputs - for small systems

drop the dual fx, scales, mixup and talin

Here is a suggestion to start:
Later you could add a matrix mixer and more stuff in the empty top row .....

EDITED Feb 21st, 01:37

mutable instruments Plaits,,or clone of it,,great multi sound oscillator..

The first module in my rack the Behringer Brains is a clone of Plaits..

My main question is: Does this case make sense? or is it a nonsense case? I am very unsure whether the modules fit together well and make sense

Mutable instruments marbles,,or a clone would be great,,random sampler like...Disting mark 4,,multi function module well usefull..mutable instruments Plaits,,or clone of it,,great multi sound oscillator..

Hi Guys

Im new in modular and even didnt start..
Im watching YT and try to deal with it, but its very hard to understand everything. So i wanna give a chance to modular to learning by doing.. i want a small case to start and i need some help go get the best for the bucks.

i wanna use it for ambient music and for learning and exploring.. (no techno machine or something)

i would be very happy if some guys can help me with some good decisions

all the best

EDITED Feb 20th, 21:22

nut buffers are cool.

I've made the payment but there has been no response for 10 days so far. I feel compelled to report this as a potential theft incident on Modular Grid. His name is Mikel . Take care.

I've made the payment but there has been no response for 10 days so far. I feel compelled to report this as a potential theft incident on Modular Grid. His name is Mikel .

Obviously they have two strike inputs, but I haven't used them for that. I'll experiment 8').

Super happy with my purchase of Peaks from @niko_masson
Friendly and helpful communication, great packaging and the module is working perfectly. Recommended!

Thanks Arrandan, yes this stays fairly rooted on the F minor chord. I did try transposing the sequence via the root input but I decided I preferred the sense of stasis!

Currently we have a problem with the email server, because the hoster has introduced a new quota/limit for emails. That means you might not get emails or they are delayed. We are on it ...

Hello, Thanks for your reply. In fact I mean Optomix can be just a envellope generator: strike and you gate a envellope and them you can use it in a other module like your favorite VCA for example. So you have a fast bango enveloppe, but without the low pass thing. Not sure you can do the same with DXG.

Retro game and other bleep and bloop sound module.
Straightforward build, though there was an incorrect part that I had to replace (Synthrotek offered to replace, but I had already ordered a replacement, they offered me a discount on next kit, which was nice).
Fun sounds, not melodic but could be effects or accents in a piece.

Build

@Mikel I paied > Hi, there is a user contacted me for a module, he wanted me to make him a certain price, I did not accept and he put me a negative vote, I think it is not correct to be able to vote if you have not completed the transaction, thanks

-- Mikel

Hello Mikel,

I'd like to discuss our recent transaction regarding the module. I made the payment through PayPal Friends and Family, but it's been about two weeks since we last communicated. I'm quite concerned about this situation. I hope we can resolve this amicably. Could you please refund my payment as soon as possible? I'd really appreciate your prompt attention to this matter to avoid further complications.

Thank you for your understanding.

Hi,
Couple of questions regarding the module:
1) The 3 OUTPUTS all the way down are the ACCENTS OUT?
2) The next 3 up are the "normal" TRIGS OUT?
3) The next 3 INPUTS up are the FILLS?
4) The last next 3 INPUTS up are the CVs for X, Y and Chaos?

Finally CLOCK is on the left or right of the little logo?
The RESET IN takes a basic trigger to reset?
Thanks for any info and advice.
All the best,

Classy & industrial modular technoid art :) Cheers!
-- Sweelinck

Thanks for your response, Sweelinck.
Cheers.

What a groundbreaking idea!
So many questions...
Will you be producing them for sale?
What kind of power do they take up?
Are they noisy?
What video editing software do they require?
Are they networked?
Oh the possibilities...
Great work!
-- AEROCATONE

Thank you for your enthusiasm.

The magic panels will not be produced for sale because its very cheap and easy to make.
They made off 3 mm thick cardboard covered with green screen.
The hardest part is to caputure the scene with a good light source and a reasonable video cam.
The magic starts in a video editing software with a powerfull computer.

-- Cem79

AHHHHH! hahaha
I suppose I was hoping for programmable panels. hahaha
ya got me!

cheers

Please bring this module back to life. I have one and would love to have another one.

You can send an envelope into the aux and aux in, but that would only make it an envelope follower, so to speak.
Just got it recently, so still playing around with it, but, as it is described, it is just an lpg and mixer.

Good morning,

Optomix is an envelope generator in addition to being a low pass gate, which allows you to send the generated envelope into a VCA if you want. What about DXG? I feel like there is some ambiguity about this?
Thanks for your ideas :)