Your First Eurorack System: If you could keep only 5? My top 5 picks! The Classics!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 มิ.ย. 2024
- If you could go back in time and do it all over again, what would be your first 5 eurorack modules?
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My Top 5
ALM Busy Circuits Pamela's PRO Workout (updated version of the NEW workout)
tinyurl.com/27y3nhch
Noise Engineering Basimilus Iteritas Alter
tinyurl.com/2p9z32vp
Intellijel's Plonk
tinyurl.com/54r8nvju
Make Noise Maths
tinyurl.com/3rtyas2d
Mutable Instruments Plaits (Sadly they don't make this specific one but there are plenty of clones that are essentially the same Plaits because it's open source now)
tinyurl.com/yj4bcpke
Strymon Nightsky
tinyurl.com/2evy6fhr
Strymon Volante
tinyurl.com/2pftnn42 - เพลง
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Plaits, Pam's, and Maths are the three most popular modules of all time. They're good modules, but more importantly there's a lot more information about them online than any others, which is incredibly valuable when starting out.
a fun list. I probably wouldn't have put any of these in my top 5 starter modules. that's what's great, is that everyone can explore and find their own way.
Nobody talks to themselves quite as good as you do man!
IMHO:
1. You have way more than five modules in this case. ;)
2. All of the five in the lower row are hugely complex, and not ideal for beginners. The only one I would personally choose (as a beginner) is obviously Maths.
You pretty much went with the highest function per HP ratio. That's ok for people who know what they're doing, but not good for beginners. It just leads to a lot of frustration and all of these five are NOT cheap as well.
Again, just IMHO in regards to "Your First Eurorack System".
PS: What would *I* personally choose?
Well, since I already stated that you just can't drop utilities under the table (you need them!), my list would probably also include at least one semi-modular synth as a starter. So, here goes nothing:
1. Semi-modular synth (Moog Mother-32 or Behringer Crave if you're on the cheap for actually learning on how synthesis and modular patch points work).
2. Maths. (Swiss Army knife. The.)
3. A quantiser. (I bought the DIY version of Penrose, because it's cheap and does the job). ;)
4. MTM Startup. (You need at least something resembling a mixer with a headphone output. It's also cheap AND includes a tap-tempo clock with various mult and div factors.)
5. "OMG, it's full of stars..." Here's where the rabbit hole begins to open up... :D
PPS: The Crave obviously is not eurorackable. :P So, Moog Mother-32 or Make Noise 0-Coast. To me, they make the most sense, since there's (almost) no menu diving involved and every button has ONE function. I hate menu-diving (if that wasn't obvious). They both also sound friggin' awesome.
The BIA definitely can produce "polite" waveforms. It's one of those modules that you DEFINITELY need to read the manual and listen to some tutorials. Some knobs go 0-100 other knobs go -50 to +50. Some knobs offer one feature beyond the 12 o'clock position and another before it. The first two things you need to learn to do on BIA is create kicks and then clean tones. Once you find those, you can start to get into additional tones. If you DON'T, you'll always be searching for sounds rather than creating them.
Also, module sto note for starting:
Expert Sleepers Disting EX. There are other versions. But the EX offers the most for the least. Think of it as a sampler pack of functionality. If you find yourself using a feature constantly, it's pretty safe to buy a dedicated module of that functionality.
Ornament & Crime: Another multifunction module. But this does modulation, quantizing, sequencing, etc. If you team up the Disting and the O&C, you get some distinct features as well as some overlap (like quantizing, envelope generating, sequencing). I like the O&C, especially for quantizing and built in envelopes on sequencers.
MyDude, I love he RAW output comments. You got the Gift.
loving your breakdowns. I'm really getting a lot out of these vids. thanks bunches!!
Thank you for the list, it seems like a good place to start.
Watching this video again. Your proposed combo - beyond any doubt - is amazing.
Such a cool channel 🤩 thanks! 🙏
Hilarious opening. 😂 Love the vid.
Great info for people stepping into modular, or have the desire to.
Sounds dope!
Cheers!
This was fun to watch. Would love to see more of these “must haves” etc
hmm! will do! Thanks for the comment!
I love your videos!
Just found this now- super useful video. Thank you! Looking forward to exploring the couple of modules mentioned that I don’t have…
This is my second approach to modular. I decided to build a small sampler based setup in a small 4U×62hp Pallette case:
Sound source:
4ms Company Stereo Triggered Sampler
System80 860 MK2 (VCF, successor to JOVE)
FX:
Happy Nerding FX AID
Noise Engineering Desmodus Versio
Sequencing, utilities and control:
Micro Ornament & Crime
Intellijel Midi 1U (to sync the clock or sequence everything from my Syntakt)
Intellijel Quadratt 1U
Xaoc Devices Nin (4 manual triggers)
Incredible guide!
I would definitely start with a Shared System - again - and add an XPAN. Definitely more than 5, but I'd have a system I can learn and try many examples.
Plaits is the thing people do with their hair. Pronounced "plat" or plats.
Its makes sense when you remember Mutables other oscillator is called Braids...again, something people do with their hair.
I started with a Moog Mother 32 and expanded off of that. My favorite modules are the Make Noise Maths, Ornament and Crime, Chainsaw, Juno filter, 4MS SWN, Knobula Poly, ALA Quad VCA
Great video!
My favorite (today) 5 modules. Cre8audio big o vco (wavefold, drive, sounds warm and great), bastl ikarie vcf (small, stereo, unique), squarp rample (small hp, 4 channels, flexible, sounds great), erica synth black sequencer (its big but worth it for functions and interface) and last is the 4ms ensemble (no bad sounds, unique, fun). I also love my trigger riot, lapsus os, ssf vortices, verbos scan and pan, pittsburgh primary osc, intellijel polaris, wmd kraken and the turing machine.
It's a great choice. I'd go for something very similar. For me, I think on the EG front, I'd personally go with MI Stages, over Maths, if I had to only choose one. Because it can be a powerful oscillator, sequencer, mixed bank of multiple LFOs and Envelope. For HP but also just because it can do more, in parallel, in a small system where Maths is a lot of HP. I love Plonk, and Contour, but if I had to pick one PM module, I prefer MI Rings, because it's also an audio processor / resonator. Plaits, Rings and BIA are classics. Speaking of Plaits, I chose Klavis Twin Waves instead, but mainly because like Lily Schwartz said, I rather have Plaits models in an Arturia Microfreak, along with the NE models, wavetable, vocoder and whatever else they just keep adding like a micro-modular. I'd struggle to not add sixth module, an effect, to my list ... and for that I would choose Strymon Magneto or MI Beads.
Thank you for your effort and thoughts about these modules. I'm just starting my modular journey, have been on the semi-modular track for 2 years now, and when I look at them, I sometimes wonder: why did I get so many? lol. But they all have their own value and distinct sounds, and will have their place in the bigger system they will be part of. I'm talking about the Crave, B2600, Neutron, West Pest, O-Coast, Strega, Minibrute 2S. Got an SQ1 as well, so already a lot of sequencing power, albeit classic. Maybe I can also count in the TD3-MO as it has plenty of patch points. My next purchase will be the O-Control to complete the Dark Easel ;) And ordered and paid for last September, I'm patiently waiting for Behri Edge. So far, I have bought 1 module 2nd hand, but can't use it yet, coz still need to by a power module - got gifted an empty wooden Doepfer case (2 rows of 60hp I think, or could be 84) without the power supply it normally has. So that first module is the ES-9. To pair with VCV Rack for months of experimentation and learning many virtual modules before sinking more money into hardware... For the same reason, my next module will probably be the Disting EX, then some utility like a buffered mult. Maybe expand the Disting EX with the midi i/o module as seen in Loopop's video. Not really thinking any further than that, as budget wise, it will take me a year or so ;) Avoiding that GAS!
My very first "module" was actually a Behringer Neutron. Incredible value for money and a great place to start. I got a Maths early on too, and some VCA's, but one module that I got that was super super helpful was the Expert Sleepers Disting EX. There are some awkward UX issues due to it's ridiculously deep multi-function capabilities, but because it basically does EVERYTHING, it was a great way for me to experiment and find out what I needed to get next. Highly recommended.
Disting EX for me is a lot like Pamela’s workout. It’s quirky but once you get into it, it’s got a nice flow! And yeah crazy value!
My gateway was also the neutron! Its freaking awesome! Got an east beast (bad build quality) and also a pocket operator. Now im just scratching my neck like an addict trying to plan a small 80hp suitcase, 40hp bottom 40hp top style
Cool vid, mate
i thought the intro was cringe until i heard the sine wave 🤣 i actually laughed out loud haha. loved the video!
Great video. I would say to anyone new is take things steady. I went mad and bought a ton of gear straight away. I had done my homework, but even then some modules just didn't suit what i wanted, and i've sold them. I'd suggest finding a friendly modular shop and speak to them about what you think you want and see what they suggest.
Spend some time with the module in the shop and see if it feels right to you, what does it do, and will you need to buy more kit to make it perform, ie VCA's, Envelopes etc. These things aren't cheap, and are also very personal to each person.
As you say take your time to really learn each module you have, and how they behave with your others. Much better and less expensive in the long run.
I would say don't over look Doepfer Modules, not the smallest or the craziest to look at, but they are really well priced and just work, real workhorse modules.
Adding to the MATHS topic i knew it was a handy module and just got swept along and bought it, it wasn't for any specific reason. I can understand why some people don't feel it suits their work flow, and having it in my own rack i do forget to use it. But when you remember you have it then you can use it for so many things, as the previous post says, it's a tool box full of goodies. It will take the place of many utility modules before you buy them, Attenuators, Envelopes, LFO's, Triggers, Mixer etc. YOu may think it a waste of money as it doesn't make any noise itself, but once you learn how to pair it with other other modules it's a real big part of a system. This will help th-cam.com/video/XJtpzysqJv8/w-d-xo.html
Very insightful! Thank you so much for sharing! :)
you too as well, eh? Well I love Doepfer modules it is what I started off my journey down the rabbit hole of eurocrack and I still use them today in patches a few years later. Dead simple, great sound and less expensive than fancy modules. Doepfer Wasp filter is one of my favorite filters in modular. Doepfer basic VCO sounds great.
When I first jumped in, I around 1000 dollars ready to jump in, I ended up getting a Nifty Bundle, Wasp Filter, 4ms Ensemble and a Zadar.
I was hesitant to get the Erbe-verb at the time because I thought it was a mistake to spend 500 dollars on a reverb when I didnt have any of the other fundamentals.
I realize now it was a mistake to not get the Erbe-verb when I had the stockpile of money for it.
Nice video, interesting topic indeed! I started with some random purchases with no plan and clue and now I notice that is the system I'm building is leading me to the modules I need... nd I bought a plaits at the very beginning too! I think I should have reached for a Dixie+ instead stil plaits was a complete voice so that is why...
PS: keep up with the good job with your videos
ah yes! I agree Dixie+ is more "open-ended" and more "useful" but definitely not as "accessible" as something like a Plaits. This for me is an endless, fascinating topic about designing modules (or just creative products in general) I would also be hard pressed to pass up a Dixie+ over Plaits, knowing what I know now. But Dixie to a newcomer may not be as "fun". Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for your interesting video, DMT. I started with the Moog Mother32 as a standalone synth, which had the oscillators, envelopes, VCAs and sequencing functions to get me started making music. I wanted to modulate the sequences and build in additional sounds, so the first modules I bought were Maths, Mutable Instruments’ Tides (generates envelopes/LFOs/audio) and Stoicha (because I’m stone-cold Euclidean).
I warn readers starting out in Eurorack - you will never be satisfied! I find myself chasing down anything which will add some generative aspect, especially melodic variations to sequences. To me, these sorts of tools are more valuable than fx: Maths will do a pretty good job at adding or subtracting two CV sequences to give a more complicated sequence and I find a Quantiser essentially and keeping the output in scale.
The more modules I have, the more I need VCAs (or for space, quad VCAs). A load of mults is helpful too, to send signals to multiples destinations.
Recently the Quadrantid Swarm takes a very similar “all you need to begin” approach to the Mother 32, but where the Mother is v traditional and polite, and has more CV ports, the Swarm’s wave folding and abyssal spring reverb make it a serious alternative, especially for those more inclined to the techno or rough and ready house.
Tip-Top’s One module is great for one-shot samples which can be controlled by CV, and it’s tiny, even with the SD card slot!
My most recent purchases have been Tip-Top too - their Buchla reissue makes the Euroracker’s mouth water, even though the functionality is relatively simple by today’s standards, the affordability of these (compared to what you would have paid for a Buchla system) makes them quite desirable. The Quad Function generator is like a basic Maths, the Sequencer has a quirky 5 steps. I’m looking out for the VCO and perhaps low-pass-gate, all of these are basic but quirky (like separating the pulser from the sequencer so that feedback loops can be built in.
Love this post! Thank you for sharing your insights!
Been enjoying your videos and far more professionally produced than I can manage! Agree with you on these all except Maths. Of course, I have one, who doesn’t, but my brain never thinks to use it as it’s too complex. I prefer dedicated envelopes, attenuators, and LFOs. It’s still a great module though, and always look forward to your videos to see how I can improve on my own. Keep up the great work!
There was definitely a time where MATHS was in the dog house for a while. I just wish it was like half or even 2/3 HP. Def appreciate the kind words!
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE I agree. It’s a great attenuvertor when I need it. It does envelopes when I need them too. But it’s big and doesn’t get used int he small focussed palette case so it’s never in any tutorial videos. I think it works well in a Shared System tho and more suited to west coast setups
@@markbooth its ok to just use it for its slew, or envelopes, or attenuators. dont get hung up on thinking you are missing out by only using a small part of its toolset at a time. A great channel with tons of patch ideas and notes you might like is "mcpm". Just try not to watch them all in a row and feel overwhelmed. Try one patch out at a time.
@@mwatkins0590 interested on mcpm, cannot find anything related with eurorack, any extra hints? Thanks on advance
@@mynmyself i think he goes by a different youtube name now, "sound + voltage"
Nice skiff! Here are the five I would start with if I began again:
Squarp Hermod
Bitbox Micro
Qu Bit Surface
Make Noise Qpas
Mutable Instruments Beads
And this would be super easy to incorporate with other synths in my studio as well!
Thanks for the vid ✌️
This is a fine list! Thanks for sharing! :)
I started with
Klavis Twin Waves mk2
Nano Font
Nano Serra
Doepfer A-135-2v
XOR Needseq and midi expander
4ms Listen four quarters
My Eurorack journey is much more DIY focused to save money and I mainly got stuff to expand on my semi-modular and AE modular rig. There isn’t even a proper voice in my Eurorack at the moment, since I have enough of those outside of Eurorack? In fact I would definitely recommend going semi modular first, like a Crave for example? So much stuff in there for so little money, the patchbay is a good way to learn and it sounds pretty massive! And in a similar vain bang for buck wise getting a Microfreak makes so much more sense than Plaits itself, because the Microfreak has so many features on top of the Plaits algorithms and isn’t an awful lot more expensive. It’s fairly semi modular too with the mod matrix! In retrospect, if my focus hadn’t been on DIY or if I hadn’t had the semi-modular + AE stuff, my rig would definitely look very different, but I truly wouldn’t want to change it? It’s been such a great learning opportunity in all respects!
man this is an entire video, or even a series of videos on semi-modular value proposition versus modular. Microfreak is no doubt a tremendous value. And also you have to remember Plaits doesn't come with a case or cables. This is definitely a topic worth exploring. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts!
A 2hp Pluck on rhythm, Doepfer A-111-6 mini synth on lead, Behringer 121 Dual VCF to mix and tame it,
FX Aid for sugar and spice, NerdSeq to control it all.
Synchrodyne, Just Friends, Maths, Mimeophon, Soundstage. These are the core of my 204hp system, and if I had to start again, I would start with these. Synchrodyne by itself can carry a system.
I'm new to modular, and just ordered my first system. Before I decided to get the "the real thing" I did a lot of research (aka Modular Grid), and I experimented extensively with VCV Rack, thank which I learned few important things.
First: Plaits is super cool and combined with a second Oscillator/SynthVoice/ToneGenerator is an amazing simple combo to create a wide range of sounds.
Second: Utilities are very important. For my first modular I decided I needed a 4 input VCO/VC mixer, a 4 channel mixer/attenuator (very handy to send LFOs to modules without built in attenuators, or to mix signals together), and a super neat and simple 4HP Quad LFO.
Instead of Math I went for a Schlappi Engineering Boundary, which also packs a lot into a relatively compact module.
Well done! Thanks for sharing. Need to check out the Schlappi!
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE Schlappi have some super cool modules, from them I also got the 100 Grit, which is a distortion and LP filter. Noise Engineering are also super cool devices (got an Electus Versio, and has some their synth engine on the wish list). For utilities The more I check their catalog, the more I like Doepfer, noting esoteric but solid, useful stuff IMHO.
bella patch omo!
Nice Skiff,
If I can go back in the past, with my same objective of doing weird ambiant,
Pamela, CV source with no need of offset, quantizer, clock generator
Rings, just my favorite module for ambiant
Desmodus Versio, great reverb, great alternate firmware like Melotus
Mimeophon, great sound source when playing with feedback, amazing delay
Nano Rand, master of randomness in 4 hp, noise source
Super cool! Thanks for sharing! Appreciate u stopping by!!!
Nice vid! Maths, Zadar, Morphagene, QPAS, Mimeophon would be my picks.
how good is Morphagene? right? Love that thing!
Thank you for making this video, super helpful. I was wondering if whether we could hear you playing this set of 5 modules somewhere to better understand the sounds... cheers
Will do!!! As soon as I finish moving!!! 😅
Definitely a different approach than mine. An analog flexible sound source has to be the heart of a voice for me. Plaits is in mirack and vcv fully useable so i’ve just never been able to justify buying it in hardware.
Yeah I mean that’s the crux of the hardware vs software argument. Let’s suppose they sound identical, I still think interfacing with the hardware could be just a different look creatively. Does mean better, just different.
My very first module was a 2hp brst......
Then I got a Klavis dual waves a Doepfer a147-2 and a mst 4ch stereo mixer/cans out as a 3 module delivery.
Module five was happy nerding tritone.
Probably the brst should’ve happened 10 modules later?
6&7 arrived at the same time too, chronoblob 1 and 2hp vca.
Pittsburgh SV-1b (I count as all 5 modules)
Interesting video, thanks. I only own Plaits (like plait your hair ... it's the followup to Braids (like braid your hair)). I also own function which is the baby brother to Maths. The videography is very high quality. What are your cameras? lights? Perhap you have a video on your video setup. thx
One other question: is plonk monophonic? monotimbral?
Thanks for stopping by! Appreciate the kind words! I’ve swapped and experimented with all sorts of cameras but this one I think uses a GH5S and a Sony A6600. The lighting over the modules is a simply monitor lamp I got on Amazon that worked surprisingly well. The key light is the super bulky “TH-camr” light, the Aputure 300d that everyone uses.
Yeah Plonk is monophonic but you can use modulation tricks to get more out of it. It sounds good as a physical modeling sound source and does it well. I try to round out my sounds sources to be varied as possible so Plonk is favorite of mine but I don’t know if it’s for everyone
wow, for first time [a bit late, I know] I heard Plait with french pronansiation and THIS IS THE ONE. Plaits logo confirms that it is french "braids". Thanks
My first modules were
Klavis Twin Waves mk2 (amazing option for the first osc. Quantize mode and tons of algorithms)
Nano Font (great little filter)
Doepfer A-135-2v (quad vca in the smallest hp i could find)
Nano Serra (a great inexpensive envelope gen with attenuation and offset, good cv options)
XOR Nerdseq and midi expander (took a bit to get used to but extremely versatile and jammable)
4ms Listen 4 quarters (make this your no 1 output! Seriously so good)
Thanks for sharing!! :)
I don’t have any modular gear but i play a drumbrute original and the impact version. Right now im in a lofi territory of finding 20-30$ keyboards/fm synths from the 80s with tone shaping like a old 1990 wavestation a 1980 lowrey genius a bunch of yamahas and a old roland rd 200 and 250 for traditional tones if i did go modular it would probably be the new korg ms 20 clone they came out with man would that be fun
MATHS, BENJOLIN V2, QUAD VCA, SAMPLE DRUM, JOYSTICK
Not sure about Plonk but they’re all really good suggestions. If you can afford a single manufacturer system when you start I’d recommend that as a great option, having a complete and coherent instrument from the get go is invaluable, then you can swap bits out as you go forward. After about a year I fell head over heels for Frap Tools after buying one module on a whim, sold a load of stuff to get the rest and I genuinely feel my learning has really benefited from it.
For me the BIA is the only must have of the 5 you've chosen, my number one module is the morphagene and number 2 is the voltage block, there is no better 2 module combo in existence IMHO. :)
Voltage Block is awesome, for sure. Especially for people who enjoy the Elektron workflow. I had mixed feelings about the Morphagene - I loved it, but it was pretty complex for a single module.
interesting, you really favor what I would call "complete digital synth voices" in this context
that's definitely gonna get a huge range of power in a small space - but does give up that beautiful "inside-the-circuits" feeling of playing a fully-analog soundsource that I love so much...
This is such a tough one and I feel like I want to know more about the person/friend I'm specifically recommending 5 modules to
so I'll go with my past self, what I would recommend if I could only have five
- Moog Mother-32 (need this, my first and last choice for "single module challenge")
- Mutable Stages (I'm almost unable to function without this module for utility. It does so much with such direct control and visualization - envelopes, slew, LFOs, s+h, short sequences are what I usually use it for...)
- Mutable Blinds (4 bipolar VCAs would be worth the annoyance of trying to find the "zero spot" in the middle of the dials for regular VCA usage, and/or mixer functions)
- Disting EX (should be self-explanatory, lol! I don't love using it because of screen/menu, but if we only get 5 modules this is un-skippable).
- Rossum Assimil8or (I was gonna say WMD Crater for a kick drum, but I realized I was being too emo and should just use Assimil8or instead, since you can sample any kickdrum on earth and get a million other features besides)
Would give me enough to make dance tracks or generative music in a range of styles I enjoy and plenty of hands-on control with only moderate menu-diving
EDIT: one important point, I actually DO NOT THINK I would love this system above very much
It does so much stuff, but isn't super ergonomic (which is important to me) and it's also highly digital (I like digital, but I LOVE ANALOG)
but to get more ergonomic / analog, you have to start sacrificing key features very rapidly....
Great insights! Thank you for sharing!!
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE now every time I look at my modules I'm like "Ok but if I could ONLY have five..." lol !
and the answer keeps changing!!
@@NICUofficial yeah it's a weird "puzzle" to try to "fit" something inside an arbitrary boundary. I've spent too much time starting at my eurorack thinking just that! :)
i got a plaits mini clone and pams new workout in my first build, looks like i was on the right track.
plaits and pams like peanut butter and.. umm.. yeah well they go together just fiiine! :)
I'm still at the "profound and simple" part of my modular journey. Otherwise known as "no friggin idea what I'm doing". haha
I still don't understand why Maths is a good module. Many people online say "just get it" and don't offer good explanations why, so I just made the assumption that it was a "bandwagon" module. ie; people were just getting it to get on the cool bandwagon. Your explanation is a lot better, so maybe it's my ignorance, but I still don't know why I'd want it if I have others that do those same functions. Consolidating other modules into one?
Thank you for your thoughts. You don't know how valuable your insights are. I've heard this feedback from so many regarding MATHS that I think this is really a growth opportunity for module makers and the modular community. There is a problem, this veil, this fog, when it comes to modules in general. MATHS exemplifies this on so many levels. I recently listened to a Make Noise podcast talking about the origins of MATHS and from that perspective it all makes sense. In the beginning it was just 1 or 2 persons, these audio "rebels" , that wanted to make synths the way they want to make it, with nobody telling them what to do, which is awesome! :) I don't think it was meant to be sold in the tens of thousands of units. But the whole thing took off. So as the community grew, I think these niche products are facing a user experience problem that they never thought of, or perhaps even cared to, which is part of their charm. But musicians and creators, some who are not hardcore synthesis nerds, are finding that "initial excitement" fade in to frustration and find the whole thing "off-putting". I am seeing a lot of "larger" companies trying to work on this problem by levering the best "aspects" of modular and incorporating them in to their product line. Some have gone all in and trying to face the problem straight on. It'll be interesting how it all plays out. I'd say for MATHS, if you don't find it inspiring, then it's totally cool to make your own mind about it, and I respect that. Our creative workflows are so personal, you know? I'd like to know what modules or what aspect of it that you find interesting and we can take it from there. Thanks again for stopping by! :)
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE In a way, the organic and DIY nature of modular is what attracts me to it, so I kinda like that there isn't this huge corporate push behind it.
I'm not a musician (I have guitars but I never learned how to play properly), I'm more of a dabbler. And I definitely don't know much about synthesis. I tried watching an old series on TH-cam by some old guy in the 70s or 80s haha, but I have a very short attention span and couldn't take it all in.
One of my goals is to have some kind of background beats and/or strings for the guitar, but I also like the idea of having some pure synth stuff, synth versions of doom metal maybe. :)
I just bought a Squarp Rample and a Behringer sequencer to add to my Dreadbox VCO/VCF/VCA modules, but haven't got anything useful out of it yet. Ordered a couple of others from a guy in the Netherlands on Etsy, but not sure when they'll get here (I'm at the bottom of the planet in New Zealand) :)
The Behringer doesn't seem like a very good sequencer at all, but maybe it's because I don't know what I'm doing. Maybe I'll get a Beatstep or Beatstep Pro and see what I can do with one of those instead.
Actually I did get a Synthstrom Deluge groovebox, mainly because it was made right here in my city, but it's way over my head. I've made some simple beats with it, but I'm just scratching the surface of its vast functionality. I was hoping that modular would be "easier" in that I could just focus on the individual sounds.
I know, naive right? haha
Imagine if you were a carpenter, and instead of having a toolbelt, hammer, nails, a saw, and 2 wooden horses, there was this magical black box that was 1'x1'x1' and it took care of all of that stuff for you for any small building design that doesnt require some super specialized tools. That is the equivalent of maths.
to be honest, I dont find it particularly inspiring. its not like these individual tools would make me want to be a carpenter. However having all of them in one small, relatively cheap tool is just way too handy to pass up. Do you need more envelope generators? maths kinda has 2. do you need offsets? maths has 2. do you need to scale or invert maths will do that to. Sample and hold? slew (really really fancy slew at that)? lfo? add, invert, or Or? its got all of those.
let me give you an example. I have a series of CVs coming out of a module. They range from -10 to +10. But the quantizer I'm sending it to only accepts -1V to 5V. This is a problem because most of my sequence keeps bottoming out the quantizer and its not musical at all!. With just 2 of the jacks and 2 of the knobs, I can shrink the range of that cv (maintaining all data and their relative proportions to eachother) from a range of 20V to a range of 6v, and then I can offset it so instead of the min being -10V it is now -1V. Utilities like this are an absolute must have to get your other modules to play nicely together. Without them you will always have a lack of control in your patches. When ever you run into a situation like this, and you DONT have a maths (or related utility) it is a MAJOR inspiration killer. so it might not inspire you, but it helps you keep your inspirations from being blocked.
Not only does it have all these basic necessities covered, but the way its set up they can be combined together to do some really cool more advanced things too. Its taken time for me to be comfortable and familiar with some of the advanced tricks, and many I have yet to do, but the more I use it the more I like it, and the basic utilities alone make it more than worthy.
If you give me a patch, ANY patch, and a maths, I will find a way to make that patch better with the maths. Very few modules have such versatility. A good comparison/alternative to maths would be 2 Joranalogue Countour 1s + a frap tools 321. The maths is arguably better (some small differences), but look at the hp and $ in taking this other option.
Generally I dont like consolodating a large number of features into 1 module, but this is actually a small number of tools which when combined together are capable of the job of many tools. Its not like its hiding anything, or has any menu diving, or secrets. all of the features have patch ins/outs for them so you can use them all independently if you wish.
hope you find this useful and I will strongly recommend maths, its not just a fad, the module isn't even particularly fancy or aesthetically pleasing, its just too useful to not have.
@@SpiroHarvey Sequencers are a very special type of module and which one is "good" is really dependent on the workflow the user is comfortable with. If you haven't used any before, or havent used a DAW's piano roll, Its likely a mistake to just buy a "better" sequencer as they all tend to be a bit difficult workflow wise to get into at first. There are 2 main workflows I would recommend you try and just pick one and commit to it:
- download a free version of ableton and use the midi tracks to draw notes on the piano roll to make music.
- keep working with your behringer step sequencer
feel these out a lot, if you feel you are fully understanding of your behringer sequencer, and prefer its workflow but want more bells and whistles, sure, buy a better one. but if you prefer the piano roll in a DAW, a step sequencer probably is the wrong route to go down. It would probably be better for you to find midi->CV modules, or a CV audio interface, and then go exploring different DAWs to figure out which one is the most intuitive to you.
@@mwatkins0590 Thanks Mike, that's very useful. It makes me realise I'm in way over my head. haha
I had no idea the voltages mattered. I guess this means I have to either have to invest some time into learning about synthesis or accept that this is beyond me and move on to some other instrument or hobby.
As for your other comment talking about sequencers and DAWs... My life and my job is computers, so synths and physical instruments are a way for me to escape from that. :)
My issue with the behringer sequencer is more that it just has a bunch of dials. I got it because it was cheap, and didn't really do any research into it. I had it working, but it was doing things like only triggering on the 4th beat, and the dials are just a weird way of working to me (for a sequencer).
So it's not necessarily that I want something "better", just something that works differently.
I have just ordered a Korg SQ-1 as that looks a little better suited to how I want to be able to use it. It has buttons and I should be able to more easily set up a channel of beats in the order I want.
Thanks for your comments though, they are much appreciated and have helped me understand the purpose of Maths.
For an absolute beginner I'd say knob per function modules.
Like?
I enjoyed the video and your reflections. But...I think this is one of those "can't step in the same river twice" things. One might get to a five module setup after something bigger but i really think it's unlikely that you can begin with a five module setup unless you are an unusually analytical and methodical person (in which case maybe just start with VCV rack and a copy of "Patch & Tweak"!
Which is not to take away from your video, just my $0.02.
I think it matters a lot where you're coming from when entering modular - from synths but wanting to customize and sound-design more? from guitar pedals and wanting to wire things up in unusual ways? from iPad apps and wanting to have physical control surfaces and the affordances they offer? from experimental music and wanting to not spend quite so much time cutting up tape? from DAWs and wanting to have an "instant on" music making system? from song-writing and wanting to create melodic surprises or unusual sound beds?
I think you could reasonably make a 5 module pick - or a palette case - for each of those entry-points.
Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. Appreciate it!
puhh... over here its almost 1500€ for these five modules. plus case and some basic-modules = minimum 2000€ 😞
Ugh :(
if only i had myself there to help guide myself id be much further down the rabbit hole than ive been able to get on my own.
funny!
Mutable instruments Plaits,,expert sleepers disting mark 4,,mutable instruments Marbles,,,Wasp filter...and a quad VCA..
That’s a nice list!
Make Noise Morphagene, MN Spectraphon, MN QPAS, MN Mimephon, Ornament and Crime.
My top five:
1/Winter Modular Eloquencer sequencer
2/ Endorphin.es Queen of Pentacles
3/ Hexinverter Mutant Hot Glue mixer
4/ Erica Synths Black Hole DSP v2
5/ Intellijel Quadrax with expander for modulation/envelope generator
These give me a portable Eurorack techno rig.
Really, with Queen of Pentacles as the only sound source? That's interesting, haven't looked into that module much
Conveniently (for me) the first 5 modules I purchased were in fact my best-first-five choices. PNW, of course, followed by Plaits due to it's incredible sound options and built-in VCA (Level), Rings because - well, Rings. Monsoon initially purchased thinking "FX Box" and boy did Granular Processing surprise me! And finally an Intellijel OUTS to get out of "the rack" (which at the time were 2 rails resting on a Perfect Circuit cardboard box.) A year later, I am now at 168HP x 12U in the main rack, and 140HP x 6U in the Sequencer rack... and about 50 more things in a Wish List :-) I am looking to do a Top 5 video myself, and always come here for research... thank you for your brilliant content!
currently have some z-rails inside a cardboard box myself....with a spliced together cord for the power adapter bc the barrel wouldn't fit 😅
Get a big case, a semi modular like neutron or mother 32 and add modules one by one based on what intrigues you. Spending a lot of money on (boring) utility in the start feels really bad in my opinion, so getting that out of the way with a semi modular creates room for the weird and wacky modules that eurorack is all about.
What would be my 5 starter modules? For starters (sic!), I would consider using the Cockpit, but maybe also the two Stompboxes as cheating ;).
Having said that, for me, it might be:
- Nebulae
- A-108
- Ornament & Crime (Hemisphere)
- Squid Salmple
- A-138s
(Clocks are overrated ;).
Mhmm...let's try that ;).
Thanks for stopping by. That's a powerful combo right there my friend! Great list.
Curious what module you are using to route the audio thru the Palette case 1/4” audio outs?
It's the endorphin's 1U Cockpit 4 channel stereo mixer with mute. I think it's the best 1U mixer period. Thanks again for stopping by! :))
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE
Thanks!
Didn’t know about this module.
I know all these modules, but if you were only to watch this video, you wouldn't really get why these are essential. You may want to intersperse your explanations with 10-20 seconds of jamming, with the module you're talking about as a focus. It'll go a long way. Like for example, do we even know that Plonk is a physical modeler from your video? The models weren't talked about. Same with BIA and its 3 modes. You're almost there though dude! I liked the modules you picked.
Hey thanks for the feedback. Duly noted! :) Thanks for stopping by!
i mean i have a huge system myself, but if someone asks me how to set up his fisrt system, my answer would be: Radical technologies delta cep A. eurorack version. not that you have a full modular system of 64 hp on which you are able to learn patching, it is also a HUGE HUGE sounding synth which works without a single patch cable. some ppl would say thats semi modular, but i completely disagree. its a complete modular system with effects and even a midi/cv section. i highly recommend it for life or studio performances!!!
Very good points! Thanks for sharing your insights! :)
My main advice is to get ~168 hp of space and fill it slowly. Palette cases are nice but limiting. If you don't think you can afford to fill 168 hp over the course of a few years, then I'd seriously question whether the investment is worth it. Put that money into a groove box instead.
Appreciate the feedback. Great perspective, I respect that.
I started with a Doepfer A100 Basic System and added from there. I am at a point now where I don't really need any more modules to create music. A good sequencer, cv mixer, effects and drum modules work well for me.
Doepfer monster 12u case and Doepfer monster base case for the win. I have plenty of power and covers to transport to gigs if need be.
totally disagree. 90% of the huge racks i see are just playing incoherent "generative" ambient crap anyway
@@AnxiousCowboy not sure who you're disagreeing with. But, you know, no need to yuck someone else's yum.
What do you do for a living with so much time and money on hands? Very cool channel!
I’ve some money but not too much time, lol. :) Retired media producer/composer. Now making videos for fun. Appreciate you stopping by! :)
Plaits was my second sound source, right after a basic analog oscillator. I dont hate it but its menu divey, button combination nature along with it not doing exceptional at a lot of the categories it covers makes me wish I got a different sound source at that time instead. Like the Instruo Neoni, or Saich. I do still enjoy its bells, strings, and kicks. And the chord gimmick can be fun at times too.
Ive watched a few of your videos now and I think you would really enjoy the ALA Benjolin. You can use it like a normal oscillator if you tie its hands down and force it to but thats not what it excels at. You can get very unique grindy, or slimy, or chirpy, or brassy, or bubbly type noises out of it. This goes really well with modules based on sampling and sound on sound like morphagene or those instruo modules. On top of this, the "rungler" circuit gives you a stepped CV sequence that it generates (-10 to 10V so maths scale+offset is very useful here) which you can pass through a quantizer into some other oscillator. Some modules that work well with that type of patch are precision adders and sequential switches, in order to create somewhat related melodies and switch between them all based off of your rungler CV out. It also has an Enigma expander for a second Rungler CV out, so a dual quantizer (or more) could be extra nice. lastly, if you run the oscillators really slow it can become a complex generative modulator for your other sound sources.
Thanks so much for the tips! Never ceases to amaze me how varied the modular ecosystem. I’ve not tried Neoni, Saich, nor the Benjolin. Definitely will keep that in mind! Much appreciate your feedback again!
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE no problem, fan of your videos. your explanations have been getting better the more you make.
btw I can't stop rewatching the intro to this vid and laughing my arse off at the "huh?" how did I do? face. haha
my advice is to wait 10 years with eurorack. Consumers dont understand what they really need is big panels with a big case with 1 knob per function
well there are those one knob Wave plugins. :)
Uh I know, late to the party, but could you explain this stereo send return setup that you have there? I checked the intellijel website and their module seems to be a mono send return. Please help me understand this in your setup as exactly the 2 pedals you are using are my absolute favs and alone those 2 warts would warrant a own eurorack system around them in my book.
Hey there, in this setup, which funny enough I wouldn’t necessarily recommend, isn’t setup as a return. The signal is serialized out of the endorphin. The problem with this is noise and ground issues as you down step from eurorack to line level. I actually recommend x2 of the Intellijel Pedal IO’s and run a proper surreal signal instead! :)
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE I think this is what our local eurorack dealer offered me (in the bigger case)
Thank you for taking the time and answering! Mucho apprechiato
My advice: reinvest in 401k module
no truer words.. lol also realestate
Filter?
My advice would be start with VCV Rack.
Hey sir, .. nice topic. It's not just financially, a good idea, to keep this under control, by staying with a lower number, of modules .. it's much easier on the brain. And there's overlapping of tools, too .. I think you'd agree, that ideally, is nice to be avoided.
I'm just a newbie, to this. Having Beads, Rings, and Bitbox Micro for my main ones, now. I've also an antique Roland PMA-5, (having had this for years, this being the only familiar gadget, in this collection) along with a 64 pixels CV.OCD to do the interfacing from the Roland, to the rack. This acting, sort of like your Pamela's Workout, to a degree .. ?
IF I can get a handle, on the above mentioned .. well, I think I'll have gone a ways. .. :)
Thank you for your thoughts!
guitar pedals are also modules
Im starting with the Behringer 2600 purely for relatively low cost of entry for all of the "modules." If I really learn analog synthesis and actually enjoy the process I may expand my synth setup.
It’s addictive at any price point but there are worst things to get into! :) thanks for stopping by!
I love the b2600 and it plays well with my other racks.
@@mimikova390 I do love the 2600 too. I have figured out how to consistently get a few really cool sounds out of it. I also bought the Behringer 1050 and 1027 modules from the 2500 series. I’m currently trying to figure those out.
The 2600 is a fantastic choice. It’s beautiful sounding, affordable, and IMO not something that you’ll get tired of once you get further into this stuff. It’s a workhorse.
Reverb into tape delay?
My advice... you are probably going to buy too much and get frustrated / overwhelmed. Offset this consumer behavior we all have by creating a reverb account so you can sell and buy modules. Its a little harder to buy used with the shortages and people trying to gouge prices. However, I am just not sure you can plan something you dont really understand. If you can be patient, get vcv rack and learn what the heck synthesis is and the functions of modules. From my experience, its not so easy to replicate synths of old and most of the time, the sound does not come close. All this said, I made lots of mistakes, bought too much, got overwhelmed, sold off a lot and have kinda started over. Now that I knkow more, Ive decided to take a west coast ish approach to my synth voices, along with a sampler and percussion. I would highly recommend mylarmelodies suggested system videos because they are more digestable and followable per module.
Say like the hairstyle. Modern IPA: plátɪŋ Traditional IPA: ˈplætɪŋ 2 syllables: "PLAT" + "ing" so PLATS is correct.
Guess it was a Google search away :)
www.google.com/search?q=how+to+pronounce+plaits&ei=bBYzZMDPNsKO0PEP4e2MyAo&ved=0ahUKEwjAtbzHyJ3-AhVCBzQIHeE2A6kQ4dUDCBA&uact=5&oq=how+to+pronounce+plaits&gs_lcp=Cgxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAQAzIFCAAQgAQyBggAEBYQHjIKCAAQFhAeEA8QCjIGCAAQFhAeMgYIABAWEB4yBggAEBYQHjIICAAQFhAeEA8yCAgAEBYQHhAPMggIABAWEB4QDzIGCAAQFhAeOgcIABCKBRBDOhMILhCKBRCxAxCDARDHARDRAxBDOgUILhCABDoICC4QigUQsQM6CwgAEIoFELEDEIMBOggIABCKBRCRAjoKCAAQigUQsQMQQzoHCAAQgAQQCjoNCAAQigUQsQMQgwEQQzoICAAQFhAeEApKBAhBGABQAFjfHmDLIGgAcAF4AIABd4gB4w2SAQQyMS4ymAEAoAEBwAEB&sclient=gws-wiz-serp
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE Plaits was a sequel to Braids. Plaiting hair is a simple three-strand braid. I didn't have to google, I learned to do it when I was 6 years old. I enjoyed your video. Will watch more.
It's distracting to have the external synths sitting in front of the feature for this video, which is your chosen 5 starter modules. I am really struggling to figure out why you feature them so much in the video. It's a Eurorack post right? I would have taken them right off the desk altogether. Just MHO. I like the starter choices, and I really like that you push even beginners to try out a crazy modules and just take a chance.
Hey there! Thanks for sharing your perspective! You mean the guitar FX pedals? It’s not unusual for Eurorack setups to have some pedal FX in the workflow but I get what your saying!
Plaits is pronounce like "s'il vous plaît". Like "plates" but without "s" (silent) and "without "t" (silent). Prononce it " pla** ". Or like "Play" without "y".
Got it! Yeah that's what I thought too! I did take French in college! :)
I have a BIA but I think its a bit overrated. It can do kicks, mids, and even high hats. But i don't find any of them great. Changing the timbre of the BIA effects it very quickly - too quickly - only a narrow window for subtlety. Because of how aggressively digital it can sound, it makes a lot of smaller eurorack cases sound the same - but not in a great way. The DFAM also sounds so DFAM to me, you can pick it out. But a DFAM sounds great, albeit thats a different form factor - i just bring it up because of recognisability.
DFAM def can use a bit of saturation and something else to give it a little something extra yep! :) BIA after a bit definitely does feel like a loose cannon of sorts. But yeah still fun I think
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE i think its mostly down to the scaling of the fold and morph, comes in way too fast. synucssion is really good, same size, but can't really make a hihat on it
I sold my maths. I could have more in smaller footprint.
what is the thing at the top ?
? You mean the 1U stuff?
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE Yes
@@JoshHoliday13 Well, the COCKPIT is probably the one that's of most import. It's a 1U from Endorphin which is an amazing 4 channel performance mixer. The mute/unmute feature is fantastic and it's a great space saver for this little skiff. Highly recommend! :)
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE i was looking at the top piece from integel & what appears to be three pieces right below it
I would not do modular if i could have only 5 modules. If i was on a tight budget i would get something like a neutron and a sq1 and some guitar effects pedals.
Thanks for the feedback. That’s an absolutely valid point! As I mentioned in my other videos, the power of eurorack format started to get super interesting the more you add modules due to its force multiplier effect. I think this “only” 5 is more of an intellectual exercise. You’d want the 5 as a launch point for sure!
can it make texture and ambient drone？i want to know🥹
Umm yeah for sure! If you open up the decal and sustain for sure! You might need and external delay or a reverb pedal to give it some space tho.
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATREthx！its helpful！And what you mean the decay&sustain on？
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATREand can you tell me others 1u modular those are on this case？
They are mostly Intellijel 1U's but the thing to note is the mixer 1U module by Endorphins called Cockpit. Very useful! especially the "mute" function during performances.@@raneflewit6250
0:19 F-(beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep)
halo
I watched on 1,25 speed
Why???
This is NOT a beginner friendly setup at all. As a compact intermediate to advanced system it is solid, but I feel sorry for anyone trying to learn modular with this or anything similar. None of these should be in a first/beginner/learner system no matter how much the owner feels the realities of cognition, abstraction, and means by which humans learn do not apply to them.
Appreciate the feedback!
Philosophy, or knowledge of what to expect from individual modules or their interaction, is work that a person has to go through one way or another. I don't think there is a single video that could give a beginner a start into the world of modular synthesizers, and certainly not into modular music. I learned this modular philosophy in a month, and in half a year I was able to answer the questions of advanced people in their forums. To this day, I only use VCV software, and I recommend it to every beginner. Do not be tempted by flashing lights and possessions, because it may happen that you will have to sell a lot of these things, because you will not use them for what your personal talent is built for.
All these kinds of videos are not made for beginners. The are the end of a journey. (or in the middle). Everytime I see Intellijel, Maths, Pamela, Mutable etc. I ask myself: Did they ever heard of Doepfer or Behringer? No you telling stories about very expensive modules. With a headline "your first eurorack system". This is ridiculous. The very first wall every new member of the modular community has to climb is....... the costs! Can you tell what's the price is of the videos system these days? But whatever it is... it will be damn higher than any Doepfer based system. (or other great developers with lower prices)
Well noted. Cost is high and it’s a barrier to entry. And it’s a problem but not unique to modular systems. Appreciate your comment!
Modular gear is a luxury and luxury always has a premium. If someone wants to save money, they can easily search for these on google along with the keyword “clone”, “alternative”, or DIY. However, that usually comes with the cost of time or sunk cost of upgrading later to the non-clone. Most people don’t want to drive a Kia
you are not right. clones sound bad, behringer modules will make the wrong impression on eurorack, they are nothing special and their functions are limited, the video shows multifunctional modules with a lot of possibilities
Feature for feature a lot of stuff isn’t really all that expensive. Build out a fallistri with doepfer modules, i promise it’s bigger and costs more.
@@jacklondon7654clones sound bad? They use the open source code and are identical. Ethics is a big factor, but the sound is nothing wrong with
Using 1000$ in guitar pedals for a starter Eurorack setup seems like cheating.
That’s fair. It was a bit of delay that’s all. It could have been any guitar pedal lying around, but yeah, the system needs some kinda FX. You could take Maths out and get a narrower VCA and put a Mfx or something in there I guess
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE for beginners I would suggest to use (two) Happy Nerding FX Aid modules. They are very versatile, cheap, small and have CV control. You can even flash different DSPs on it.
Also an I/O-module that can function as send/return comes in handy, when you already have external effects and sound sources and want to use them in the modular signal chain.
Just another nerd making noise.
Super nerd! 🧐
whats the lamp on the computer screen? vendor?? thxxx
It's a monitor lamp by BENQ! Easily found on Amazon with a quick search! :)
@@DUNGEONMUSICTHEATRE thxxxxx
I started with a Behringer Neutron and then paired it with Mutable Instruments Elements (same use as your Plonk) and Mutable Instruments Clouds.
Then a Pico Seq, Trig, Drum and a VCA. Then I realized I was already inside the Rabbit Hole :)
The hole is very deep indeed! :) Thanks for stopping by!
Which VCA? I’m trying to decide on one, probably a quad with expanded features like Intellijel’s