It's worth mentioning that 1U rails and modules come in two distinct varieties (the Intellijel format and the Pulp Logic format); they are not easily cross-compatible.
As a reference I took the Korg Volca keys. It's extremely basic, but I have been able to get some powerful sounds of it. That means in modules: - vco - vca - vcf - envelope - lfo - ring modulator - (wave multiplier) Additionally, I didn't want to spend a lot of cash. So I decided to get the following: - Dreadbox Eudemonia 4 vca's/ mixer /LPF/ HPF - Cre8audio Chipz 2 vco's/2 lfo's/ filter/pwm - Behringer 1003 dual envelope generator - doepfer a-100 dyi kit Total price: About 260 Euros All that remains to be added are the ring modulator and a wave multiplier, but those tend to be affordable.
What an awesome video, the way you talk to the audience and present the info, it feels like an old friend telling you a very good anecdote between beers, cheers!
You’ve talked me into it. With a new addition to my family I’ve had to pack up my dawless setup. Synths,mixer, sequencer, cables etc. packed up in the back of my wardrobe. This is a lovely sized setup and the style of sound created here 34:26 is up my street. Thanks starsky
This is a great video, really informative as always. Anyone looking to get started in Modular should consider VCVRack, a virtual modular, which is a great place to start. Featuring representations of many of the actual physical units it will allow you to work out your workflow and if you're missing things (you will be). And remember the addage - you can never have too many VCAs.
An adage has only the one D. I started with Voltage Modular instead but have used VCV Rack as well. I prefer the former to the latter but the great thing is we have the choice.
I started off with a powered case, cables, an oscillator, a filter, an lfo, a vca/mixer and the Maths module (for generating envelopes and other stuff). Very basic, cheap (-ish)... (nothing is cheap in Eurorack)...flexible and great to learn on. The more you can learn on a basic system the more you start to figure out what other modules you'll need based on your style and what you want to play i.e drones, noise, rhythm and melodies etc The rack is probably the most important. You need room to expand so get a big one because believe me, you'll fill it up. I'm a year into Eurorack and I've already filled up a 9U 84HP Doepfer rack. I've bought a Behringer Go 6U 140HP which will be filled soon obviously :D and by the way, the Behringer Go rack is a great rack to buy. Economic, powered, sturdy and good looking. You'll need to do a few calculations to fit the modules to each section for power requirements but, it's well worth buying. And Eurorack is a journey of researching power reqs so good learning experiences. Eurorack can seem daunting but once you take the plunge, it's very easy to get into and, Modular Grid is your friend as is Muff Wiggler. The Forums are a wealth of info as are TH-camrs like Loopop, DivKid, Mylar and Robin at Molten Modular who is particularly great for beginners. And finally, this video is full of great advice too! Good explanations :)
Can you buy multiple racks and link them together or are you limited by the size of the initial rack you buy? If that's the case would you recommend buying the largest possible and just being content to know that your sound won't be that great initially but over time it's going to be better once you start purchasing modules? I know nothing about Euroracks but they do look like a lot of fun
@@radiusone216 you can buy multiple racks. Each rack is powered individually and you connect multiple racks via the patch cables. I have 2 of different sizes and a homemade one and I can use an oscillator from one connected to a filter in another and so on. Your first rack should be ample as it will be the one you learn and expand on then once you fill it up, you can go for similar or smaller or even bigger racks as they are powered individually
This was very helpful - you weren't kidding about feeling the need to know everything about everything before even getting started - it can be quite overwhelming. This gave some good tips on how to break it down into constituent parts to move on from choice paralysis! Thanks again, hope this has at least kept you occupied during lockdown, am hoping eurorack will get me through the winter.
I came to your videos after, I think, figuring it out. There is a Behringer System 35 which comes in two folding eurorack cases, contains 38 modules, power supply plus additional blank rack space for $1599 (US) plus tax, shipping included. Comoaring that with the time and enormous cost of building the same set of modules and case, I'm opting for the System 55. However, there is a lot of excellent information here and I'm soaking it up. Thanks for doing this!😊
I almost went down the Eurorack rabbit hole until I watched this video. Your methodical way of deciding what to buy based on how you expect to utilize it made me realize is that all I really want is a companion for my MiniBrute 2S. In the end, I've decided that the functionality and sound of the Behringer Neutron is the perfect solution. Save me a ton of money!
Learning modular synthesis is a bit like obtaining a college degree. Frustration, experimentation, fails, breakthroughs, questions, confusion, lots of money and time spent.... but in the end you're smarter and view the entire musical world differently as you are now hearing with new ears routed into a part of the brain that has been connected to a different universe!
Just got to the end, and I gotta say, well done! There are a fair few getting started tutorials, but this one was quite nice considering you are an experienced producer. Looking forward to watching your continued modular journey!
Next up I’m looking at various types of sequencer... it’s been an expensive journey so far!!! Luckily I bought used and can get most of the cash back :)
@@StarskyCarr Nice! Definitely a good bit of fun to have on that side of things as there's no shortage of options. From baby8s to metropolis, the skies the limit.
Nicely explained, and pertinent info - another bit of gear that might interest people is the Waldorf kb37 - a keyboard with an open space for choosing one's modules - and MIDI etc.
You are off to a good start, two thumbs up for the Bloom! An unassuming, affordable, and incredibly fun and inspiring module is Branches. It does random gates plus other things, and can easily be re-paneled.
I love your detailed and methodical approach. After picking up a DFAM I'd like to dip my toe into the Eurorack pool. This vid helps clarify for me. Thanks!
Getting a used "Disting" is always good. Even if you do not use much of its functions, it is great for trying different functions to see if you want to purchase a purpose-specific module of similar function.
there are numerous "getting started with modular" vids on here, & many of them are really good. but you, starsky, have really set it up & knocked it down with this presentation here. thanks so much for this, man. really, REALLY helpful!! ps... I LOVE the A-team bit!! I quote that stupid $#!+ ALL the time!! ;-) bravo, starsky!! oh!! & I really dig the music you've made with this new synth you've crafted you here. again... bravo!!
Thanks, Starsky! A really cool and helpful video. I've been on this journey for about 4 years now and still haven't bought anything (though that has more to do with lack of money/other priorities...). I am now so very close to the tipping point. I have decided on a case and my first 3 modules and will then add further modules at a rate of 1 per month....as funds allow. We have to start somewhere!
Proper stuff and well presented, thanks! Very refreshing that you never asked for subscriptions or "hiting the bell". I subscribed because of the on point content.
Excellent job, Starsky! Even though I’m very deep into modular, I enjoyed this detailed explanation. If only I had this when I was starting in modular. Love your music too!
Thanks a lot for this video! It couldn't be more handy as I'm just planning my first rack. I'm expanding a Behringer Neutron with midi cc - cv converter, a Mutable Warps and some other goodies 🙂 Can't wait to touch it 🙂🙂
Very pleased that you've gotten into the world of Modular Synthesis. I've been attempting to teach myself and it's been an extreme elation mixed with belligerent frustration for 7 months now. There are no stores which sell Modules or Eurorack equipment nearby...so I have to order everything via UPS or from England and Amsterdam! Here I order from California or Washington. Will be starting an online course soon . It's through videos and a large curriculum book. The actual school is in Amsterdam and just started last year by a Woman Dj called Tulpa Dusha - real name is Anna Martinova. Molten Modular interviewed her in July. Now that you've gotten into modular's grip I can also learn from you ! 💡
Tulpa Dusha is amazing, I am so envious that you are taking the course, it looks like such a interesting experience. I have learned alot from Look Mum No Computer and Modular in Week here on youtube, but they are moar focused towards making the modules, but they show alot how they work and what they do as well. I have been watching Ricky Tinez and Andrew Huang alot as well, they are not only focused on modular synths, but they have some great content about modular synths.
@@chent Get into mylarmelodies, colin benders, steevio, divkid.... there's loads of great modular guys on youtube. It's awesome. And now starsky in it too. I've been about 12 months studying modular, just about to take the plunge, so vids like this series are great
One person hit the wrong button. Great video! Enjoyed it and learned some things along the way. This is a great primer for building a modular synth. Better than others I've seen.
I don't know if you're still looking for the sequencing stuff, but here it is: 1st: ableton 11 has new functionality on random notes, that might be of interest. 2nd: Rozzer is very nice poly-rythmic sequencer, that might be what you're looking for. Cheers
Excellent video and resource for beginners. Erica Synths is also a favorite of mine. Their 3HP Pico system is something I'm currently looking at as a small portable system. I also love modules made by Make Noise and Mutable Instruments who've allowed other companies like After Later Audio to produce micro versions of their modules at cheaper prices. I prefer the micro versions because it's the same utility but in much smaller HP. I also started out with a Mother 32 in my rack and since expanded to 8 3U racks of 104hp. I use the Moog 4-tier stand with expanders that can accommodate 104hp Moog skiffs. It's super important your skiff is deep enough to accommodate all your modules. Depth is usually measure in millimeters and some modules can be over 50mm. This is why I went with Moog over Behringer. The Behringer case is too shallow. I'm considering getting a deep Pod from 4MS for extra deep modules. Eurorack is an addiction...
Man, what a great video... and at a good pace. I was until a couple of weeks back in the game for modules but then I saw the Synthstrom Deluge. Game Over.
Sounds gorgeous! The semi modulars are really complete but even there, you’ve got no ‘wiered sequencer’. I’d love me an intelligel metropolis, but I haven’t any experience with it. If you have one, don’t forget about the BeatStep pro. Just because it’s not a module doesn’t mean you can’t wire it up. All my best happy mistakes have come from remembering that I can patch a CV into ANY expression pedal input!! Remember that trick with patching the drums into the MS-20?! That’s one I’m seriously patiently awaiting to try!! Midi to cv and a make noise maths was my first two modules for almost a year! I couldn’t even keep a decent system under 2 168 hp rows. Modular Grid is great advice. Beware with diy, some Smart guy said ‘if you go DIY, you’ll spend 150 to make yourself what you could have originally bought for 100!’ In my case it’s true. Great Job, and THANKS AGAIN!!
Fantastic video, my man! I have been toying with Modular for years, got tot he stage whereby I only want one more Synth and in that sense, it has to be a Modular. It is a complex topic but you have really given clear insight into a complex topic - well done.
What a terrific video, thank you! I could have listened to that ending synth all day long it sounded great. I learned most of what I needed in about 30 minutes thanks to your video. Cheers.
terrifically helpful video-many thanks! I am thinking about going modular, and right now just trying to get comfortable with my semi-modular gear before that. Your video is super helpful!
For anyone planning to get an Arturia Rackbrute: it‘s 89 HP wide, not 88. That leaves 84 free HP in the row with the power module, which takes up 5 HP… The other row is a full 89 HP. Arturia themselves have got their published measurements wrong, and all of the retailers copy-pasted it without checking.
THANK YOU!!!! I am watching this because I have a Rack Brute and a Mini Brute 2s and am trying to figure out what modules I want to get to compliment the synth. I would have been pissed if I put months of planning into my decision only to find out it was wrong.
My guess is that, not all deep modules can fit at the extremities because of the screws of the handle (max ~25mm). So Arturia sells with 1 HP less to avoid any complain.
@@hulkslayer626 hi … just wondering if I have got to task with modules in your RackBrute - I’ve got a MB2S but as yet haven’t even opened the box with my RackBrute in.
The first rack I got was the RackBrute 6U for the reasons you stated, and to go with my MiniBrute 2S. But I also own a couple of Nifty cases. Don't write them off as you can buy just the case and fill it with your own modules - dreadbox chromatics in my case - it has built in power and MIDI and is very portable so I ended up with another dreadbox synth. You takes your money and you makes your choice, Starsky.
It's so overwhelming. I want to compose melodic ambient music (along the lines of Carbon Based Lifeforms) and have tried to design my own starter kit, but i am just lost now with all the endless options out there. I wish i could hire a consultant or something to help me navigate the system. Videos like this are helpful. Thanks for sharing!
At some point you just have to dive in. I’ve bought a fair few used units knowing that I can resell them if they’re not ideal without loosing too much cash
I bought a moog grandmother first. Since it has everything compartmentalized in an easy way to understand for me as a beginner,.. I'm going to use it as a blueprint of sorts to plan out what I purchase. Probably starting with behringers roland 100 clones since theyre cheap.
Lovely to hear... it's what I was trying to do (as I was previously confused and everything I watched or read seemed to make it more confusing) so great it worked for you :)
Thanks and WOW! This is sooo needed. One little nit; and since you are targeting novice level I wanted to help out; at the 4 minute mark when you mentioned width of the Erica Synths VC EG versus the Mother 32, you got U and HP reversed. You said 10 U and 60 U, should have been 10 HP and 60 HP. You had explained well enough by then most people should get it. :) I loved how deep you went on the planning and explanations, and the resources you provided. Great work.
I always pictured Clive Owen, lol. Maybe cuz the accent. I’ve been doing Eurorack for over a year but it’s good to hear all this stuff again and learning stuff I didn’t think of.
I just skimmed the top-level comments, and was surprised that nobody mentioned the Winter Modular Eloquencer as a probabilistic sequencer. You can adjustably randomize whether a gate fires, the length of the gate, the CV on the gate (quantized to a scale, if you like), and ratchet behavior. It's also good for Colin Benders's trick of using your sequencer to modulate an LFO that acts as the clock for the sequencer - a great way to get subtle & complex grooves that go beyond the shuffle setting.
Some additions about the Nifty Bundle you mentioned: It's also available as "Nifty Case" without the modules for about 200€ - in case you don't need those! I bought mine some months ago and I see several advantages over other products: - Built in power supply - so no need for a dedicated module like in Arturia RackBrute. - Built in MIDI interface, providing 2 channels of CV/ Gate or duophonic mode, and clock! - Built in Audio Out. Yes, this might sound strange, but if you understand, that Eurorack signals range about +/- 10 Volts, whereas common line levels are < 2V, you may appreciate the possiblity to just plug your tiny Eurorack to your mixing desk without the need of an extra output module 😉!
I've never had a problem running modular straight into a mixer, I'd say output modules are completely unnecessary unless you want to run balanced cables or something.
The reason I didn’t mention picking it up as a separate unit was because I was showing there are bundles available, so you’re not limited to unpowered or powered etc but there are more options to look out for. Good points though.
@@jonridley yeah, there are some days when i want a synth that i can just turn on and play. no pissing about required. i'll just keep building mine until i get to that point, and im pretty damn close. theres just so many decisions to make on what features you want, or what circuit design to use. i'll never be 100% happy with it.
Buy?! you build it your self, and you have a hobby that will last you a lifetime. This is the rout i took. (ofc i also buy some stuff but this will keep the cost down by 95%).
yeah there needs to be more videos on how to get involved with modular, great video looking forward to more and i myself am jumping on the behringer 100m bandwaggon with my own case to save dosh :D and to pal about with my crave
Enjoyed the video. I did not follow these steps, made mistakes and learned valuable stuff about what I want. I got caught up in "sound design". I create sounds all my own, record the sounds and sample them in songs. Very cool, however, I struggled to take the time to do all that. Perhaps because I did not have the songs in mind that needed those sounds. So, I took several steps back and narrowed down the modules to what is missing to make songs with vocals. I bought various oscillators and filters but just did not connect or enjoy any of them. So, like you, I use an existing sound source for oscillators (Neutron) and its much better. The rest of my case is full of modules for percussion, sampling, fx, signal flow and mixing.
You've done well, mate. Great tutorial, great decisions (right down to the Befaco Knurlies). Great little composition at the end there too, very future primitive planet sci-fi. Perfect advice with the 'make a synth you can't buy' approach to modular! Keep music sounding weird!!! As far as a sequencer goes, if you want something with an 'off-with-the-faeries' element you are going to spend a bit of space and a bit of paper. I have a Squarp Pyramid (desktop) and found that a bit too esoteric for everyday use in MIDI land, but they do do a Eurorack version of it called Hermod. I'm using a KeyStep Pro and its random is very controllable. You can also run four loops at once for that lateral type element. Use a voltage controlled switch such as the Doepfer Quad Sequential Switch fed by one of gate-outs on the drum track to select which pitch sequencing your oscillator (modular drum sequencers are more often than not trigger sequencers you can use to set-off an event as well as play a drum module; think of them like that more than a drum machine). Or use one to run you osc and the other three to animate other elements. It'll save you space in your enclosure too ;) Or if you want to add some full tonal random bliss with a hint of musical control, grab a Turing Machine from Music Thing. Oh yeah, your wife is going to leave you now you have taken up modular synths, you do realise this, don't you? ;P
Hi, great video! Since you asked about random\generative possibilities for the DAW I wanted to mention a company called CodeFN42..their Transition vst is amazing for random generation of sequences with as little or as much control as you like. CCstepper is also very useful and fun.
I dived straight in.. Bought the Cre8audio Nifty bundle, 84hp, midi cv converter but in, audio in out, power supply for 10 modules. It came with a twin oscillator, twin lfo modules, and a sequencer. 240 quid. It's fantastic. I now have an amazing dual oscillator synth, i bought most of my modules from Ebay, usually from bespoke hand made module builders. I have spent approx. 500 pound for the whole set up. It syncs up with my Korg Volcas, Novation Mininova, Korg Poly 800, Moog Source etc.. All controlled by my Arturia Keystep. My case is already full, i'm waiting for my next case to arrive, a Doepfer powered case, again, 84hp. I use an Alesis Microverb 4 for effects. I now understand why people call it Eurocrack! 👍
I was so sure of myself I was so convinced of what exactly to buy that after sitting down to VCV Rack, 70% of the initial modules seemed unnecessary to me
Great video and I only wish it had been around 2 years ago. My first step into euro(c)rack was via some desktop convertible modules. Koma Elektronik Field Kit and the Roland Scooper for audio processing and manipulation. Both worth investigating for some randomness to your patches.
Love it! I think you'd get a lot of milage out of the Frap Tools Falistri. Two function generators with VC, two octave dividers, ring mod/vca, and a slew limiter, all in 18hp
Absolutely lovely video, very helpful - an easy sub. I have a Mother-32, the DFAM, and a 0-Coast and am starting to jones with the modular fever a little bit. This was a really great guide to starting to think about possible expansion (from next pay day at least) if I am really going to go down this rabbit hole ...
People will drone on about not going with a single manufacturer or system, that you are missing the experience and going against the essence of Eurorack. This has some truth, but there's enormous benefit to obtaining pre-configured systems from manufacturers, particularly when starting off. For everything you may miss out on in the "journey", you will same an enormous amount of time/research and effort.
Ya know, it's refreshing to hear you'd opted for a wavetable or digital oscillator. From my experience of listening to various modular compositions one of the main struggles the overall brilliance, or relevance of the sounds is the timbres that are mostly a function of the wavetables used. I mean sure, classic wavetables are the most nostalgic or recognisable, but I think the premier concern for synths generally is the wavetable shape and potential morphing alternate to filter envelopes, phaser, chorus, flangers or distortion. In fact, I think this extends to hardware and software synths as well (modular or Eurorack has the most various and interesting possibilities actually), as it seems that most modern digital synths endeavour to employ one or a few of the various synthesis types yet with limited success or veritable application. Having spent hundreds of hours now making sounds with software synths I am still in the process of sourcing and constructing harmonically appealing wavetables, and personally can't imagine any synth manufacturer capable of adequately discerning one shape from another. That being said, If i were to try out a wavetable synth it would be the Intellijel Shapeshifter, which has capabilities far surpassing any other. Alas, it's limitation are in the cleanliness and symmetry of and limited morphing capabilities between the wavetables. More or less regardless of what music you make this thing would produce the most compelling and useable sounds.
I bought the rackbrute and microbrute 2s combo fpr about 650 quid and it turned out to be a great foundation. Ive filled it now and also have a few extra spare modules now but consider the hp afforded by this setup to be mpre than adequate and enjoy the desicion making process when it comes to swapping out modules according to ones needs. There are certain modules i cant do without including a quad vca, a mixer module and also pamelas workout. You definitely need to consider modulation as an important facet of controlling the more 'fun' modules
I suppose every video on the subject add something to Eurorack knowledge but so far I haven't found any that really discuss some aspects that I consider to be fundamental. I.e., Starting with a MIDI to CV module so I can control the modular rack via MIDI input. Then there are clocks. Some MIDI to CV modules include a clock. On the other end I would need a modular to line level output module, preferable multichannel with mixer controls. Between the two there, of course, a LOT of possible options. The cohort of modules between the MIDI in and the line level audio out is a matter of preference but your video is useful in that regard. For the time being I'm going to stick to software modular synths, e.g., Voltage Modular (free) or Native Instruments Blocks (which I have).
I'm not sure if this has been mentioned in a previous comment, but the 1U format comes from the "unit", which is the standard unit height of the 19" rack. Those racks are in use for stuff like audio and computer equipment and they come in a range of heights and depths. The 1U height is 1.75 inch and all equipment is made in multiples of this such that they can be all mounted in the same rack. It looks like this unit was also adopted by a number of modular synthesizer (and other audio equipment). Since smaller (and also not to deep) racks are widely available I think they decided to adopt this to have easy access to rack mount options for larger systems. Fun this to note is that the Eurorack size is 3U whereas Moog selected a 5U size for their modules. Fun because the Mother-32 is a 3U style unit. I am a DIY guy and electronics engineer so I'll be developing and making my own modules and case and I am was not sure what format to use: The Moog 5U size uses bigger knobs with more space between them but the 3U Eurorack saves a lot of space. I love the Intellijel 7U size, 2 3U bays and an extra 1U bay for simple mixers, amplifiers or just a patch panel to make Y-connections. The Arturia Rackbrute looks very nice, those nice wooden side panels and translucent red details are true eye candy and surely worth the money so well... again THANKS ... now I have another problem to solve: DIY or BUY 🤣
For sequencers I went through Marbles, Mimetic Digitalis and Rene 2. I kept Marbles which is a bit hard to rein in but can also be fun to modulate cv semi random instead of usual uses. I swapped out the MD for Rene, MD is very generative but plays on every step unless paired with another module like the steppy, so i went with Rene which came to the same price and hp and never looked back. For more planned or played in unquantified sequences i use a digitakt through a Mutant brain. Great content and nice to see your face!
I think one of first decisions if you are starting eurorack would need to be , do you want hardware plugin for daw that gives you more configuration options or do you want performance device that can be played like instrument.
Excellent video, very informative, well presented and produced. I have just a few days ago got myself a Minibrute 2s and have a 6U RackBrute on its way, so seems like I made a good decision regarding the housing. I had been looking at the Moog trio gear and would still like to get the Subharmonican. Plenty of learning, thought and research needed before adding modules to the rack. My only other piece of hardware is a Stylophone 350S that I’ve had since a 10 year old, it has a fat beefy analogue sound and want to incorporate it (I’ve actually got two 350S’s now) into the system.
Welcome. Making me quite envious there, very nice setup, my first real module was an Erica Synths as well, and I just love it. Hope to see your take on pathcing in the Mother 32, I have a Crave. Picked up a few blank panes, figred that since I have a few 3HP modules, it is super nice to be able to close that 1HP gap if I ever get to the day where I finish it, as all my other modules are even numbers. I got some 2HP blanks and rails as a case, super sketchy, but it works if you lay down some antistatic bags, and I keep the PSU in a antistatic bag as I am sick of shorting stuff. I have started on the Kosmo format as well, and I am affraid that I am hooked on this stuff, but luckely I am able to DIY alot of stuff. Stay awesome!
This helped a lot. My mother 32 comes tomorrow, and i knew when i bought it, it may lead me down the modular rabbit hole ☺ id rather modular than buying a truck load of software plugins.
Hi Starsky, great info here but at the same time I am lost as I want to incorporate some kind of analogue organic sound creation and rhythms but the choice and learning curve is huge. Nice to see someone local to me. Liverpool is our usual place of visit, which we are missing very much.
@@StarskyCarr Will do. At first I was just going to get the Moog trinity of DFAM/Mother 32 and Subharmonicon to save the effort of sourcing , but even with those you need to spend more on effects. I have about 3K tops to go at if that helps. Cheers.
Great video!! Just watched this entire video without even realizing that you're the guy who compares synths! (Also realized I wasn't subbed yet, so I fixed that!)
Start with a semimodular (eg. Minibrute 2S) and VCV Rack. It will make the first steps a lot easier... Don't plan everything from the beginning, it will evolves as you learn. This is a long process. Buy a module after learning about it (watch videos, read its manual...), not because people say everyone must have it. Pay attention to the number of in/out. (For instance if you want to feed a VCF with 2 VCO you will need a mixer or a 2 ins VCF.) Be very patient with your modules, don't sell them too quick, you need time to unleash them. Starting with an external controller (keyboard/sequencer) may also help a lot if you want to focus on synthesis. Getting a copy of Patch & Tweak will also help.
Great vid! I’m new to eurorack as well! My favorite module for sequencing so far is the Pamela’s New Workout by ALM Busy Circuits. DivKid has a great deep dive on it!
incredibly helpful. especially to someone who's first modgridnet rack is also filled w/erica. i sold techno system to start over with something that pulls elements of their fusion/techno/black lines. i may also run a dfam, so this was all right in line with things i'm conceptualizing. good sounding patch too btw!
I started with the nifty case... sold the modules very quickly, but it was a start. Issues I've found with the nifty case is you run out of power quickly (I have some power hungry modules) it isn't very deep and trying to squeeze flying bus below is a real pain .... I have a few Doepfer modules are they are quite deep. I'd really recommend the Behringer power unit it is around 50 quid and gives 3Amps of power 10 slots on a flying bus. Another tip for a nifty sized skiff is an IKEA laptop stand, brings it to a nice angle and then I realised I could add a syntracks 84hp 1u tile rack that sits above the nifty case for utilities and a reverb. My next move now is building my own wooden casses with the 3Amp behringer power. Another tip id recommend is if you want to keep the case small and you will run with a daw is if you have either a dc coupled interface or have adat out on your interface is the expert sleepers ES 3 it gives me 8 channels of CV out of my computer which can come from Ableton CV tools, Expert Sleepers own CV vsts, or Softube, NI reaktor blocks, Softube Modular or Cherry Audio Modular. Or I can run VCV rack to it It means I can have vst emulations of some expensive Eurorack modules taking care of modulation, sequencing, clocks, dividers, random stuff etc and leave the rack to mostly oscillators filters and envelopes
WMD Metron for one helluva Elektron style sequencer (retriggers/ratchets, probability, micro timing, length-per-part, etc). If you’ve got the extra space the Voltera add-on lets you do per-step CV based on the Metron.
You were looking for probability based sequencers. You can find second hand Malekko Varigate 4 at very decent prices. I just got my hands on one. I find the the user interface not so trivial but once you get the hang the of it it's quite decent. Being my first comment, I'd like to add that I became quite fond of your work and style. May your endeavours be well rewarded.
Thanks for this video, too late for me though but still enjoyable. Went down that rabbit hole and getting deeper!!!! All my case, power, modules are 99.9% built by myself which saves literally hundreds of earth pounds. :)
It's worth mentioning that 1U rails and modules come in two distinct varieties (the Intellijel format and the Pulp Logic format); they are not easily cross-compatible.
Yeah, should’ve added that. It’s hard to know what to keep in without overloading. Pinned.
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@@StarskyCarr step three stfunstuff😊
Adding the 1U format was such a stupid idea. What a retarded concept.
As a reference I took the Korg Volca keys.
It's extremely basic, but I have been able to get some powerful sounds of it.
That means in modules:
- vco
- vca
- vcf
- envelope
- lfo
- ring modulator
- (wave multiplier)
Additionally, I didn't want to spend a lot of cash.
So I decided to get the following:
- Dreadbox Eudemonia
4 vca's/ mixer /LPF/ HPF
- Cre8audio Chipz
2 vco's/2 lfo's/ filter/pwm
- Behringer 1003 dual envelope generator
- doepfer a-100 dyi kit
Total price:
About 260 Euros
All that remains to be added are the ring modulator and a wave multiplier, but those tend to be affordable.
THANK YOU watched and read lots but youre the first to make things crystal clear
What an awesome video, the way you talk to the audience and present the info, it feels like an old friend telling you a very good anecdote between beers, cheers!
Thanks… that’s the vibe I’m after. No posturing or anything attempting to be cool in any way - it’s beyond my acting ability 😂
You’ve talked me into it. With a new addition to my family I’ve had to pack up my dawless setup. Synths,mixer, sequencer, cables etc. packed up in the back of my wardrobe. This is a lovely sized setup and the style of sound created here 34:26 is up my street. Thanks starsky
I'm coming to this a couple of years late, but it's perfect timing for me. Full of really useful info, thanks!
This is a great video, really informative as always.
Anyone looking to get started in Modular should consider VCVRack, a virtual modular, which is a great place to start.
Featuring representations of many of the actual physical units it will allow you to work out your workflow and if you're missing things (you will be).
And remember the addage - you can never have too many VCAs.
An adage has only the one D. I started with Voltage Modular instead but have used VCV Rack as well. I prefer the former to the latter but the great thing is we have the choice.
I started off with a powered case, cables, an oscillator, a filter, an lfo, a vca/mixer and the Maths module (for generating envelopes and other stuff). Very basic, cheap (-ish)... (nothing is cheap in Eurorack)...flexible and great to learn on. The more you can learn on a basic system the more you start to figure out what other modules you'll need based on your style and what you want to play i.e drones, noise, rhythm and melodies etc The rack is probably the most important. You need room to expand so get a big one because believe me, you'll fill it up. I'm a year into Eurorack and I've already filled up a 9U 84HP Doepfer rack. I've bought a Behringer Go 6U 140HP which will be filled soon obviously :D and by the way, the Behringer Go rack is a great rack to buy. Economic, powered, sturdy and good looking. You'll need to do a few calculations to fit the modules to each section for power requirements but, it's well worth buying. And Eurorack is a journey of researching power reqs so good learning experiences.
Eurorack can seem daunting but once you take the plunge, it's very easy to get into and, Modular Grid is your friend as is Muff Wiggler. The Forums are a wealth of info as are TH-camrs like Loopop, DivKid, Mylar and Robin at Molten Modular who is particularly great for beginners. And finally, this video is full of great advice too! Good explanations :)
Can you buy multiple racks and link them together or are you limited by the size of the initial rack you buy? If that's the case would you recommend buying the largest possible and just being content to know that your sound won't be that great initially but over time it's going to be better once you start purchasing modules? I know nothing about Euroracks but they do look like a lot of fun
@@radiusone216 you can buy multiple racks. Each rack is powered individually and you connect multiple racks via the patch cables. I have 2 of different sizes and a homemade one and I can use an oscillator from one connected to a filter in another and so on. Your first rack should be ample as it will be the one you learn and expand on then once you fill it up, you can go for similar or smaller or even bigger racks as they are powered individually
I need a small eurorack for a few chosen functions that are perfect for my work. Thanks, your exposition helped a lot!!
This was very helpful - you weren't kidding about feeling the need to know everything about everything before even getting started - it can be quite overwhelming. This gave some good tips on how to break it down into constituent parts to move on from choice paralysis! Thanks again, hope this has at least kept you occupied during lockdown, am hoping eurorack will get me through the winter.
I came to your videos after, I think, figuring it out. There is a Behringer System 35 which comes in two folding eurorack cases, contains 38 modules, power supply plus additional blank rack space for $1599 (US) plus tax, shipping included. Comoaring that with the time and enormous cost of building the same set of modules and case, I'm opting for the System 55. However, there is a lot of excellent information here and I'm soaking it up. Thanks for doing this!😊
Sir! It is so good to put a face to the voice:) Love the switch. The old format was great too, but I like this!
I almost went down the Eurorack rabbit hole until I watched this video. Your methodical way of deciding what to buy based on how you expect to utilize it made me realize is that all I really want is a companion for my MiniBrute 2S. In the end, I've decided that the functionality and sound of the Behringer Neutron is the perfect solution. Save me a ton of money!
Glad to be of service :)...
Learning modular synthesis is a bit like obtaining a college degree. Frustration, experimentation, fails, breakthroughs, questions, confusion, lots of money and time spent....
but in the end you're smarter and view the entire musical world differently as you are now hearing with new ears routed into a part of the brain that has been connected to a different universe!
Just got to the end, and I gotta say, well done! There are a fair few getting started tutorials, but this one was quite nice considering you are an experienced producer. Looking forward to watching your continued modular journey!
Next up I’m looking at various types of sequencer... it’s been an expensive journey so far!!! Luckily I bought used and can get most of the cash back :)
@@StarskyCarr Nice! Definitely a good bit of fun to have on that side of things as there's no shortage of options. From baby8s to metropolis, the skies the limit.
Nicely explained, and pertinent info - another bit of gear that might interest people is the Waldorf kb37 - a keyboard with an open space for choosing one's modules - and MIDI etc.
You are off to a good start, two thumbs up for the Bloom! An unassuming, affordable, and incredibly fun and inspiring module is Branches. It does random gates plus other things, and can easily be re-paneled.
hallelujah !! someone who finally gets the sometimes daunting side to modular ! ... i salute you sir , we`ve been waiting for a vid like this ! ..
I love your detailed and methodical approach. After picking up a DFAM I'd like to dip my toe into the Eurorack pool. This vid helps clarify for me. Thanks!
I'm in the same boat. I've got a MiniBrute 2S on the way, and I really want 6U the rack, to go with it now.
Essential video for a newbie to get into eurorack!! A wonderful contribution, thank you for making it!
Getting a used "Disting" is always good. Even if you do not use much of its functions, it is great for trying different functions to see if you want to purchase a purpose-specific module of similar function.
Absolutely.
Disting does so many things in such a small space.
love the random snare roll sound at 4:18 when you put down the moog module lol
thinking more and more about modular thanks so much mate for explaining it in so much detail. you have taken away the scare factor for me
there are numerous "getting started with modular" vids on here, & many of them are really good. but you, starsky, have really set it up & knocked it down with this presentation here. thanks so much for this, man. really, REALLY helpful!!
ps... I LOVE the A-team bit!! I quote that stupid $#!+ ALL the time!! ;-) bravo, starsky!!
oh!! & I really dig the music you've made with this new synth you've crafted you here. again... bravo!!
Thanks, Starsky! A really cool and helpful video. I've been on this journey for about 4 years now and still haven't bought anything (though that has more to do with lack of money/other priorities...). I am now so very close to the tipping point. I have decided on a case and my first 3 modules and will then add further modules at a rate of 1 per month....as funds allow. We have to start somewhere!
Proper stuff and well presented, thanks! Very refreshing that you never asked for subscriptions or "hiting the bell". I subscribed because of the on point content.
Fantastic video! I wish I could have seen it in 2017. Excellent guide!
Excellent job, Starsky! Even though I’m very deep into modular, I enjoyed this detailed explanation. If only I had this when I was starting in modular. Love your music too!
Thanks a lot for this video! It couldn't be more handy as I'm just planning my first rack. I'm expanding a Behringer Neutron with midi cc - cv converter, a Mutable Warps and some other goodies 🙂 Can't wait to touch it 🙂🙂
Very pleased that you've gotten into the world of Modular Synthesis. I've been attempting to teach myself and it's been an extreme elation mixed with belligerent frustration for 7 months now. There are no stores which sell Modules or Eurorack equipment nearby...so I have to order everything via UPS or from England and Amsterdam! Here I order from California or Washington. Will be starting an online course soon . It's through videos and a large curriculum book. The actual school is in Amsterdam and just started last year by a Woman Dj called Tulpa Dusha - real name is Anna Martinova. Molten Modular interviewed her in July. Now that you've gotten into modular's grip I can also learn from you ! 💡
Tulpa Dusha is amazing, I am so envious that you are taking the course, it looks like such a interesting experience. I have learned alot from Look Mum No Computer and Modular in Week here on youtube, but they are moar focused towards making the modules, but they show alot how they work and what they do as well. I have been watching Ricky Tinez and Andrew Huang alot as well, they are not only focused on modular synths, but they have some great content about modular synths.
@@chent Get into mylarmelodies, colin benders, steevio, divkid.... there's loads of great modular guys on youtube. It's awesome. And now starsky in it too. I've been about 12 months studying modular, just about to take the plunge, so vids like this series are great
One person hit the wrong button.
Great video! Enjoyed it and learned some things along the way. This is a great primer for building a modular synth. Better than others I've seen.
I don't know if you're still looking for the sequencing stuff, but here it is:
1st: ableton 11 has new functionality on random notes, that might be of interest.
2nd: Rozzer is very nice poly-rythmic sequencer, that might be what you're looking for.
Cheers
Excellent video and resource for beginners. Erica Synths is also a favorite of mine. Their 3HP Pico system is something I'm currently looking at as a small portable system. I also love modules made by Make Noise and Mutable Instruments who've allowed other companies like After Later Audio to produce micro versions of their modules at cheaper prices. I prefer the micro versions because it's the same utility but in much smaller HP. I also started out with a Mother 32 in my rack and since expanded to 8 3U racks of 104hp. I use the Moog 4-tier stand with expanders that can accommodate 104hp Moog skiffs. It's super important your skiff is deep enough to accommodate all your modules. Depth is usually measure in millimeters and some modules can be over 50mm. This is why I went with Moog over Behringer. The Behringer case is too shallow. I'm considering getting a deep Pod from 4MS for extra deep modules. Eurorack is an addiction...
These is such a great video. For a complete newbie, I can’t say enough. Many thanks!!
Thank you so much for your help! Your breakdown on how to decide what one wants to do with their modular synth is game changing for me.
Man, what a great video... and at a good pace. I was until a couple of weeks back in the game for modules but then I saw the Synthstrom Deluge. Game Over.
Sounds gorgeous! The semi modulars are really complete but even there, you’ve got no ‘wiered sequencer’. I’d love me an intelligel metropolis, but I haven’t any experience with it. If you have one, don’t forget about the BeatStep pro. Just because it’s not a module doesn’t mean you can’t wire it up. All my best happy mistakes have come from remembering that I can patch a CV into ANY expression pedal input!! Remember that trick with patching the drums into the MS-20?! That’s one I’m seriously patiently awaiting to try!! Midi to cv and a make noise maths was my first two modules for almost a year! I couldn’t even keep a decent system under 2 168 hp rows. Modular Grid is great advice. Beware with diy, some Smart guy said ‘if you go DIY, you’ll spend 150 to make yourself what you could have originally bought for 100!’ In my case it’s true. Great Job, and THANKS AGAIN!!
As a noob, this is very helpful. Thank you!
Its a great start, take your time, so we can enjoy it better :) The sequencer could be a Marbles or Bloom or Varigate 4+
Fantastic video, my man! I have been toying with Modular for years, got tot he stage whereby I only want one more Synth and in that sense, it has to be a Modular. It is a complex topic but you have really given clear insight into a complex topic - well done.
I much prefer your format where you are facing the camera. Very useful video.
Trouble is it takes ages to do my make up ;)
What a terrific video, thank you! I could have listened to that ending synth all day long it sounded great. I learned most of what I needed in about 30 minutes thanks to your video. Cheers.
Glad it was helpful! Its exactly why I made it. Thanks.
terrifically helpful video-many thanks! I am thinking about going modular, and right now just trying to get comfortable with my semi-modular gear before that. Your video is super helpful!
Glad it was helpful! It's pretty much the while reason I made it... I found it all a bit overwhelming at first.
Great explanation from scratch .... Thanks so much for making it and good luck with the Mrs. 😜
For anyone planning to get an Arturia Rackbrute: it‘s 89 HP wide, not 88. That leaves 84 free HP in the row with the power module, which takes up 5 HP… The other row is a full 89 HP. Arturia themselves have got their published measurements wrong, and all of the retailers copy-pasted it without checking.
THANK YOU!!!! I am watching this because I have a Rack Brute and a Mini Brute 2s and am trying to figure out what modules I want to get to compliment the synth. I would have been pissed if I put months of planning into my decision only to find out it was wrong.
My guess is that, not all deep modules can fit at the extremities because of the screws of the handle (max ~25mm). So Arturia sells with 1 HP less to avoid any complain.
@@hulkslayer626 hi … just wondering if I have got to task with modules in your RackBrute - I’ve got a MB2S but as yet haven’t even opened the box with my RackBrute in.
@@hulkslayer626 ööps - correction ‘if ‘you’ have got to task’ etc. . .
@@FUNKINETIK unfortunately not yet... got some Behringer modules, but have not installed any yet. Sorry
The first rack I got was the RackBrute 6U for the reasons you stated, and to go with my MiniBrute 2S. But I also own a couple of Nifty cases. Don't write them off as you can buy just the case and fill it with your own modules - dreadbox chromatics in my case - it has built in power and MIDI and is very portable so I ended up with another dreadbox synth. You takes your money and you makes your choice, Starsky.
It's so overwhelming. I want to compose melodic ambient music (along the lines of Carbon Based Lifeforms) and have tried to design my own starter kit, but i am just lost now with all the endless options out there. I wish i could hire a consultant or something to help me navigate the system. Videos like this are helpful. Thanks for sharing!
At some point you just have to dive in. I’ve bought a fair few used units knowing that I can resell them if they’re not ideal without loosing too much cash
I bought a moog grandmother first. Since it has everything compartmentalized in an easy way to understand for me as a beginner,.. I'm going to use it as a blueprint of sorts to plan out what I purchase. Probably starting with behringers roland 100 clones since theyre cheap.
Thank you - this video was extremely helpful for a beginner.
Wow dude. First video that cleared things out for me instead of complicating it more 😁👍
Lovely to hear... it's what I was trying to do (as I was previously confused and everything I watched or read seemed to make it more confusing) so great it worked for you :)
Thanks and WOW! This is sooo needed. One little nit; and since you are targeting novice level I wanted to help out; at the 4 minute mark when you mentioned width of the Erica Synths VC EG versus the Mother 32, you got U and HP reversed. You said 10 U and 60 U, should have been 10 HP and 60 HP. You had explained well enough by then most people should get it. :) I loved how deep you went on the planning and explanations, and the resources you provided. Great work.
Haha cheers, I know - someone else pointed that out. That’d be one massively tall unit ;)
I always pictured Clive Owen, lol. Maybe cuz the accent. I’ve been doing Eurorack for over a year but it’s good to hear all this stuff again and learning stuff I didn’t think of.
Oh no... I can almost feel your disappointment 😂
I just skimmed the top-level comments, and was surprised that nobody mentioned the Winter Modular Eloquencer as a probabilistic sequencer. You can adjustably randomize whether a gate fires, the length of the gate, the CV on the gate (quantized to a scale, if you like), and ratchet behavior. It's also good for Colin Benders's trick of using your sequencer to modulate an LFO that acts as the clock for the sequencer - a great way to get subtle & complex grooves that go beyond the shuffle setting.
Some additions about the Nifty Bundle you mentioned:
It's also available as "Nifty Case" without the modules for about 200€ - in case you don't need those!
I bought mine some months ago and I see several advantages over other products:
- Built in power supply - so no need for a dedicated module like in Arturia RackBrute.
- Built in MIDI interface, providing 2 channels of CV/ Gate or duophonic mode, and clock!
- Built in Audio Out. Yes, this might sound strange, but if you understand, that Eurorack signals range about +/- 10 Volts, whereas common line levels are < 2V, you may appreciate the possiblity to just plug your tiny Eurorack to your mixing desk without the need of an extra output module 😉!
I've never had a problem running modular straight into a mixer, I'd say output modules are completely unnecessary unless you want to run balanced cables or something.
The reason I didn’t mention picking it up as a separate unit was because I was showing there are bundles available, so you’re not limited to unpowered or powered etc but there are more options to look out for. Good points though.
Thank goodness for a methodical breakdown
this is a terrific video, exactly the sort of resource i was looking for. thanks a bunch.
Super informative and got some solid chuckles in there too. Thanks for laying it out so clearly!!! 🙏🙏🙏
One of the best how to videos ever.
Praise indeed... thanks ... for one of the best comments ever :)
making your own modules is where it’s at! diy patch cables as well
Yeah, that is what got me into it. I love making modules!
I support your viewpoint but st the same time really csnt be arsed
@@jonridley yeah, there are some days when i want a synth that i can just turn on and play. no pissing about required. i'll just keep building mine until i get to that point, and im pretty damn close. theres just so many decisions to make on what features you want, or what circuit design to use. i'll never be 100% happy with it.
Buy?! you build it your self, and you have a hobby that will last you a lifetime. This is the rout i took. (ofc i also buy some stuff but this will keep the cost down by 95%).
I'm too busy making videos :) !!
@@StarskyCarr and i am to busy making modules.
Great video though 😀
The man's got a face. I appreciate the videos. Cheers.
yeah there needs to be more videos on how to get involved with modular, great video looking forward to more and i myself am jumping on the behringer 100m bandwaggon with my own case to save dosh :D and to pal about with my crave
Enjoyed the video. I did not follow these steps, made mistakes and learned valuable stuff about what I want. I got caught up in "sound design". I create sounds all my own, record the sounds and sample them in songs. Very cool, however, I struggled to take the time to do all that. Perhaps because I did not have the songs in mind that needed those sounds. So, I took several steps back and narrowed down the modules to what is missing to make songs with vocals. I bought various oscillators and filters but just did not connect or enjoy any of them. So, like you, I use an existing sound source for oscillators (Neutron) and its much better. The rest of my case is full of modules for percussion, sampling, fx, signal flow and mixing.
just got started with modular by purchasing the System Coupe by ALM. It's awesome! I definitely want to build my own case in a year or so
Wow... that’s some investment 😀 and a REALLY nice bit of kit. I want one now!! 😂
You've done well, mate. Great tutorial, great decisions (right down to the Befaco Knurlies). Great little composition at the end there too, very future primitive planet sci-fi. Perfect advice with the 'make a synth you can't buy' approach to modular! Keep music sounding weird!!!
As far as a sequencer goes, if you want something with an 'off-with-the-faeries' element you are going to spend a bit of space and a bit of paper. I have a Squarp Pyramid (desktop) and found that a bit too esoteric for everyday use in MIDI land, but they do do a Eurorack version of it called Hermod. I'm using a KeyStep Pro and its random is very controllable. You can also run four loops at once for that lateral type element. Use a voltage controlled switch such as the Doepfer Quad Sequential Switch fed by one of gate-outs on the drum track to select which pitch sequencing your oscillator (modular drum sequencers are more often than not trigger sequencers you can use to set-off an event as well as play a drum module; think of them like that more than a drum machine). Or use one to run you osc and the other three to animate other elements. It'll save you space in your enclosure too ;)
Or if you want to add some full tonal random bliss with a hint of musical control, grab a Turing Machine from Music Thing.
Oh yeah, your wife is going to leave you now you have taken up modular synths, you do realise this, don't you? ;P
Hi, great video! Since you asked about random\generative possibilities for the DAW I wanted to mention a company called CodeFN42..their Transition vst is amazing for random generation of sequences with as little or as much control as you like. CCstepper is also very useful and fun.
I dived straight in.. Bought the Cre8audio Nifty bundle, 84hp, midi cv converter but in, audio in out, power supply for 10 modules. It came with a twin oscillator, twin lfo modules, and a sequencer. 240 quid. It's fantastic. I now have an amazing dual oscillator synth, i bought most of my modules from Ebay, usually from bespoke hand made module builders. I have spent approx. 500 pound for the whole set up. It syncs up with my Korg Volcas, Novation Mininova, Korg Poly 800, Moog Source etc.. All controlled by my Arturia Keystep.
My case is already full, i'm waiting for my next case to arrive, a Doepfer powered case, again, 84hp.
I use an Alesis Microverb 4 for effects.
I now understand why people call it Eurocrack! 👍
Hah. I’ve already picked up a whole load more bits as well!!
I was so sure of myself I was so convinced of what exactly to buy that after sitting down to VCV Rack, 70% of the initial modules seemed unnecessary to me
What a great little exit tune … exactly my jam mate 😻
Nice one thanks.
Check Etsy also for eurorack cases. I use Pittsburgh Modular for a quiet, clean power source. Great video! Thank you!
Great video and I only wish it had been around 2 years ago. My first step into euro(c)rack was via some desktop convertible modules. Koma Elektronik Field Kit and the Roland Scooper for audio processing and manipulation. Both worth investigating for some randomness to your patches.
Love it! I think you'd get a lot of milage out of the Frap Tools Falistri. Two function generators with VC, two octave dividers, ring mod/vca, and a slew limiter, all in 18hp
Synchronicity Alert. I just registered at modular grid and my first case was the Arturia RackBrute 6U. Small world. Thanks for this guide.
Absolutely lovely video, very helpful - an easy sub.
I have a Mother-32, the DFAM, and a 0-Coast and am starting to jones with the modular fever a little bit. This was a really great guide to starting to think about possible expansion (from next pay day at least) if I am really going to go down this rabbit hole ...
People will drone on about not going with a single manufacturer or system, that you are missing the experience and going against the essence of Eurorack. This has some truth, but there's enormous benefit to obtaining pre-configured systems from manufacturers, particularly when starting off. For everything you may miss out on in the "journey", you will same an enormous amount of time/research and effort.
Good point.
look man. this video comes at the perfect time! thank you!
Ya know, it's refreshing to hear you'd opted for a wavetable or digital oscillator. From my experience of listening to various modular compositions one of the main struggles the overall brilliance, or relevance of the sounds is the timbres that are mostly a function of the wavetables used. I mean sure, classic wavetables are the most nostalgic or recognisable, but I think the premier concern for synths generally is the wavetable shape and potential morphing alternate to filter envelopes, phaser, chorus, flangers or distortion. In fact, I think this extends to hardware and software synths as well (modular or Eurorack has the most various and interesting possibilities actually), as it seems that most modern digital synths endeavour to employ one or a few of the various synthesis types yet with limited success or veritable application. Having spent hundreds of hours now making sounds with software synths I am still in the process of sourcing and constructing harmonically appealing wavetables, and personally can't imagine any synth manufacturer capable of adequately discerning one shape from another. That being said, If i were to try out a wavetable synth it would be the Intellijel Shapeshifter, which has capabilities far surpassing any other. Alas, it's limitation are in the cleanliness and symmetry of and limited morphing capabilities between the wavetables. More or less regardless of what music you make this thing would produce the most compelling and useable sounds.
Good breakdown.
I bought the rackbrute and microbrute 2s combo fpr about 650 quid and it turned out to be a great foundation.
Ive filled it now and also have a few extra spare modules now but consider the hp afforded by this setup to be mpre than adequate and enjoy the desicion making process when it comes to swapping out modules according to ones needs.
There are certain modules i cant do without including a quad vca, a mixer module and also pamelas workout. You definitely need to consider modulation as an important facet of controlling the more 'fun' modules
I suppose every video on the subject add something to Eurorack knowledge but so far I haven't found any that really discuss some aspects that I consider to be fundamental. I.e., Starting with a MIDI to CV module so I can control the modular rack via MIDI input. Then there are clocks. Some MIDI to CV modules include a clock. On the other end I would need a modular to line level output module, preferable multichannel with mixer controls. Between the two there, of course, a LOT of possible options. The cohort of modules between the MIDI in and the line level audio out is a matter of preference but your video is useful in that regard. For the time being I'm going to stick to software modular synths, e.g., Voltage Modular (free) or Native Instruments Blocks (which I have).
I'm not sure if this has been mentioned in a previous comment, but the 1U format comes from the "unit", which is the standard unit height of the 19" rack. Those racks are in use for stuff like audio and computer equipment and they come in a range of heights and depths. The 1U height is 1.75 inch and all equipment is made in multiples of this such that they can be all mounted in the same rack. It looks like this unit was also adopted by a number of modular synthesizer (and other audio equipment). Since smaller (and also not to deep) racks are widely available I think they decided to adopt this to have easy access to rack mount options for larger systems.
Fun this to note is that the Eurorack size is 3U whereas Moog selected a 5U size for their modules. Fun because the Mother-32 is a 3U style unit.
I am a DIY guy and electronics engineer so I'll be developing and making my own modules and case and I am was not sure what format to use: The Moog 5U size uses bigger knobs with more space between them but the 3U Eurorack saves a lot of space. I love the Intellijel 7U size, 2 3U bays and an extra 1U bay for simple mixers, amplifiers or just a patch panel to make Y-connections.
The Arturia Rackbrute looks very nice, those nice wooden side panels and translucent red details are true eye candy and surely worth the money so well... again THANKS ... now I have another problem to solve: DIY or BUY 🤣
For sequencers I went through Marbles, Mimetic Digitalis and Rene 2. I kept Marbles which is a bit hard to rein in but can also be fun to modulate cv semi random instead of usual uses. I swapped out the MD for Rene, MD is very generative but plays on every step unless paired with another module like the steppy, so i went with Rene which came to the same price and hp and never looked back. For more planned or played in unquantified sequences i use a digitakt through a Mutant brain. Great content and nice to see your face!
Loads for me to look at there!! Cheers. :)
I think one of first decisions if you are starting eurorack would need to be , do you want hardware plugin for daw that gives you more configuration options or do you want performance device that can be played like instrument.
Your list helped me a TON. Thank you very much!
Great, glad it helped - it’s the reason I made it so good to hear it hits the mark.
Excellent video, very informative, well presented and produced. I have just a few days ago got myself a Minibrute 2s and have a 6U RackBrute on its way, so seems like I made a good decision regarding the housing. I had been looking at the Moog trio gear and would still like to get the Subharmonican. Plenty of learning, thought and research needed before adding modules to the rack. My only other piece of hardware is a Stylophone 350S that I’ve had since a 10 year old, it has a fat beefy analogue sound and want to incorporate it (I’ve actually got two 350S’s now) into the system.
This was massively helpful, thanks for making it!
Glad it was helpful.
Welcome. Making me quite envious there, very nice setup, my first real module was an Erica Synths as well, and I just love it. Hope to see your take on pathcing in the Mother 32, I have a Crave. Picked up a few blank panes, figred that since I have a few 3HP modules, it is super nice to be able to close that 1HP gap if I ever get to the day where I finish it, as all my other modules are even numbers. I got some 2HP blanks and rails as a case, super sketchy, but it works if you lay down some antistatic bags, and I keep the PSU in a antistatic bag as I am sick of shorting stuff. I have started on the Kosmo format as well, and I am affraid that I am hooked on this stuff, but luckely I am able to DIY alot of stuff. Stay awesome!
This helped a lot. My mother 32 comes tomorrow, and i knew when i bought it, it may lead me down the modular rabbit hole ☺ id rather modular than buying a truck load of software plugins.
Hi Starsky, great info here but at the same time I am lost as I want to incorporate some kind of analogue organic sound creation and rhythms but the choice and learning curve is huge. Nice to see someone local to me. Liverpool is our usual place of visit, which we are missing very much.
It’s the organic creation I’ve been looking for. Check out the Turing machine. I’ve just got one but not plugged it in yet.
@@StarskyCarr Will do. At first I was just going to get the Moog trinity of DFAM/Mother 32 and Subharmonicon to save the effort of sourcing , but even with those you need to spend more on effects. I have about 3K tops to go at if that helps. Cheers.
Fantastic, exactly what I was looking for.
This was probably one of the best videos you recorded. So absofucklutelly USEFULL ! ! ! ! !
Great video!! Just watched this entire video without even realizing that you're the guy who compares synths! (Also realized I wasn't subbed yet, so I fixed that!)
Glad you enjoyed it!... and welcome on board :))
Start with a semimodular (eg. Minibrute 2S) and VCV Rack. It will make the first steps a lot easier... Don't plan everything from the beginning, it will evolves as you learn. This is a long process. Buy a module after learning about it (watch videos, read its manual...), not because people say everyone must have it. Pay attention to the number of in/out. (For instance if you want to feed a VCF with 2 VCO you will need a mixer or a 2 ins VCF.) Be very patient with your modules, don't sell them too quick, you need time to unleash them.
Starting with an external controller (keyboard/sequencer) may also help a lot if you want to focus on synthesis.
Getting a copy of Patch & Tweak will also help.
All good points.
brilliant overview thanks for this
Great vid! I’m new to eurorack as well! My favorite module for sequencing so far is the Pamela’s New Workout by ALM Busy Circuits. DivKid has a great deep dive on it!
I’ve been looking at that.. a few folks have mentioned it.
incredibly helpful. especially to someone who's first modgridnet rack is also filled w/erica. i sold techno system to start over with something that pulls elements of their fusion/techno/black lines. i may also run a dfam, so this was all right in line with things i'm conceptualizing. good sounding patch too btw!
I started with the nifty case... sold the modules very quickly, but it was a start. Issues I've found with the nifty case is you run out of power quickly (I have some power hungry modules) it isn't very deep and trying to squeeze flying bus below is a real pain .... I have a few Doepfer modules are they are quite deep.
I'd really recommend the Behringer power unit it is around 50 quid and gives 3Amps of power 10 slots on a flying bus.
Another tip for a nifty sized skiff is an IKEA laptop stand, brings it to a nice angle and then I realised I could add a syntracks 84hp 1u tile rack that sits above the nifty case for utilities and a reverb.
My next move now is building my own wooden casses with the 3Amp behringer power.
Another tip id recommend is if you want to keep the case small and you will run with a daw is if you have either a dc coupled interface or have adat out on your interface is the expert sleepers ES 3 it gives me 8 channels of CV out of my computer which can come from Ableton CV tools, Expert Sleepers own CV vsts, or Softube, NI reaktor blocks, Softube Modular or Cherry Audio Modular. Or I can run VCV rack to it
It means I can have vst emulations of some expensive Eurorack modules taking care of modulation, sequencing, clocks, dividers, random stuff etc and leave the rack to mostly oscillators filters and envelopes
You can't go wrong with a digitally controlled oscillator. I love my Morphing Terrarium.
WMD Metron for one helluva Elektron style sequencer (retriggers/ratchets, probability, micro timing, length-per-part, etc). If you’ve got the extra space the Voltera add-on lets you do per-step CV based on the Metron.
You were looking for probability based sequencers. You can find second hand Malekko Varigate 4 at very decent prices. I just got my hands on one. I find the the user interface not so trivial but once you get the hang the of it it's quite decent.
Being my first comment, I'd like to add that I became quite fond of your work and style. May your endeavours be well rewarded.
Thanks... it’s on the list :)
Thanks for this video, too late for me though but still enjoyable. Went down that rabbit hole and getting deeper!!!! All my case, power, modules are 99.9% built by myself which saves literally hundreds of earth pounds. :)
I need the skills. I managed to fix the chips on the jumo106 myself, but find it quite stressful!!
Great video that covered a lot well. Get another tin of those screws to hold those modules in - seems half are missing. LOL