Hi, I’m a blind musician, and I want to get into modular. I would like to challenge you to try to blindfold yourself while you patch modular synthesizers. And let me know in a video if a blind person can do modular or stick to software emulation
How dumb can I be. I was actually told by someone and I think he said that because of the small cables, it is not really possible. How could I’ve been so…
@@danielkisielewski7612 Small cables??? It is mono 2.5mm audio plugs, the same physical size as your earphone jacks. Perfectly doable. You would need to get braille on the front to find your way around. Some friend may help you there. The real issue for live performance is that you need to memorize everything instead finding knobs by looking in real time. Otherwise I do not think it is not doable. Maybe find a studio or musician where you can check it out yourself...
Modular synths kind of freak me out, but I love watching Andrew's obvious joy here. He raises an interesting point about music as an elastic ongoing experience rather than a fixed commodity. I've spent way more time working for hire than making my own music for its own sake, so it's hard for me to get over the nagging voice saying TIME IS MONEY, FINISH THE THING AND MOVE ON and just enjoy the act of creating music.
I'm definitely interested in getting some of those modular apps Andrew recommended and trying them out. The pure customizability of the system has me so intrigued.
@Andrew Huang, and Hey Cuckoo Noir Et Blanc, likes the XOR NerdSeq((and says"it looks boss") Simon from LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER has done the original review) I think you two should look at it.
Man, I love the way you talk about "the constantly flowing river of possibilities that (you) can just dip into here and there." I was thinking of how intimidating all those cables and knobs looked, thinking how I tend to get intimidated by so much possibility, wanting to be able to try, understand, and be able to reproduce everything. But I love how you embrace the ephemeral nature of it, how anything you don't record you get to enjoy, "in the moment, just once, just me, and now it's gone."
I just wanted to point out that the cinematography for this was excellent. way to keep the viewers attention with the different angles, backgrounds, and transitions.
"I love pulling out the cables at the end of a session knowing that anything I recorded is all I have to work with... And anything I didn't record I got to enjoy it, just once, just me, and now it's gone."
To be fair, nothing kills creativity like browsing thru hundreds of presents of a digital synth. Having no ability to save presets in modulars might seem like a disadvantage, but it actually makes you mode productive, forces you to be creative, ensures you get unique and new sounds every time, and makes you make decisions and then work with it.
I have watched this so many times that it boggles my mind, but on top of that, it acts sometimes as a reminder of the absolute awesomeness that is modular and reignites my passion to it.
what a good concept, kinda wish i paid more atention to the modulated synths in college. they never bothered to demonstrate its capabilities, instead they shrugged it off as a redundent method. Thanks for the demo!
Soft on Android: *AIRA Modular Customizer by Roland - crazy modular thing I don't understand. *DRC - allmighty synth w/ awesome presets and customization + video tutorials. *Caustic - kinda like... studio... w/ lots of synths, MODULAR and DAW. Crazy it works on budget smartphones. *Oval Synth - EZtool for recording ideas without thinking of theory. Looks like Handpan. Lots of presets, scales... *SpereTones - don't know how to describe... It's all about rythms. You can make prog.Electronic w/ speres... =) *Polymotronome - no comment. *Drum n Drummer - drum pattern sequensor + u can control how hard u hit. *Backtrackit - player. Listen to songs, change key, bpm, and all that. And yeah, u play a song and see all that info about it.
I real love that ''in the moment'' ''just me and in the end it's gone'' thing about this. I just recently dove down the electronic music making rabbit hole and I'm now orienting on what to do and buy and so on and your vids really help me out in a lot of ways. Thanks and keep the good work going!
The thing that I curiously watched your video is definitely the passion that you show from the beginning until the end. You motivated me to create my channel better and better! ☺️
This. Was. AMAZING. I actually really want to try this out now! I love the idea of creating your own unique musical instrument that literally no one else has, because it's all about which modules you get and how you connect the cables and move the knobs. Never being able to create a sound more than once sounds really thrilling...and is also a fantastic mental exercise on impermanence. Thank you for sharing this. I will have to try this out and see if I have a new hobby.
I love Morton Subotnik. I've been toying with the idea of getting into modular synth for some years now. Your influence is the thing I needed to finally push me into modular even if it's just simulated.
I LOVE that you're doing this, Andrew! This is a great update to the ARP 2500 that I used in the late 70s, so really exciting that this has been re-created in such a modern way! YESSS!
You're a true scholar. You're also the first musician, composer, and producer from the millennial generation that can function as a musical influence to me. I had two years of music theory '73-'75 and continued pursuing it since that time. Progressive music was my domain... strongest musical influences came from people born 8-18 years before me: Yes, Genesis, ELP, Beatles, Joni, Dylan, Reich, etc. In the 21st century, the top influence thus far is Sigur Ros and Bjork. It's become hard to find inspiration from talent half my age. Thank you for making it much easier.
I'm so glad you're spreading the word about the amazing thing that is Eurorack. Right now I'm building my first case! The world would be so much better if everyone had a modular synth. :)
Another nice software modular : Arturia Moog Modular V, which emulates several of Moog's popular modules and places them in a big cabinet. The patches you can make are crazy.
oh man I just recently got to play with an o coast at a modular store i was visiting in new york city and I wouldnt have known what one was if i didnt watch your videos. Less recently i have made myself familiar with eurorack modular synthesizers, and more recently I have found your channel and my and my close friend basically trust you as a source of information at this point. You are a an inspiration as a musician
Yeah, modular is like one of those collectible sticker books that used to come with card games and that you can get a prize for completing, except there's infinite stickers.
Watching your videos is like taking a trip every time i start one. i can feel your passion when you speak and i can hear the love and dedication in your voice every time you're talking about music. You are one of my favorite musicians, and one of my biggest influences in my production. I really hope one daythe opportunity to meet you presents itself, because even if you only speak one sentence to me i know i will probably learn something. I love what you do, please dont ever stop!
There is something absolutely wonderful about seeing someone talk about the thing they love with all their heart. Even if I never get into modular synths, I am so happy Andrew is.
Great video man, liked how you easily explained what modular is and what you could do with it. Because when you look at it at first glance it's all a mess and once you realize it's all in unison and can even be unique to you, the possibilities are endless.
Andrew: so here is a basic frequency coming from this module. Now let’s patch that sound to this one to change the frequency of that sound ( puts in 4 cables). Now we can change the cv of this frequency. Me who wants to get into module synthesizers: oh no
I will offer some encouragement: I've always been a jazz pianist, but I've used digital synths since the 90s because... gigs. I never got deep into the tech side of those because I absolutely hated the terrible samples. I always loved things like Rhodes, Wurli, and analog synths because they weren't trying to imitate anything. However, I'd watch clips of Chick Corea, etc. on an old Moog with all the wires, and I'd think there's no way I could ever undertake such a steep learning curve. I bought my first analog synths this summer, and while I am learning slowly, I am absolutely OBSESSED with the process! It is so completely fascinating, once you plug one in and marvel at the potential (not that I can realize those potential yet). I bought several semi-modulars and one with keys, but I'm still just working my way through the functions of Drummer From Another Mother, from Moog. One big difference right out of the gate, for the first time buyer, is in how Moog presents their information. There's just no comparison between the manuals, which is to say that Moog really walks you the process with the assumption that it's all brand new to you... and exciting! The manuals are very conversational in style; totally informal, and their philosophy as a company comes through with every page. It really makes it feel like you have a friend there with you, kindly and patiently showing you all the ropes. I got Moog's DFAM, Mother-32, and the Subharmonicon; all the manuals are presented in the same fashion. I just can't recommend them enough. Should you ever decide to take the plunge, the Mother-32 would probably be your best bet for versatility out of the box. I also have the Behringer Crave, which is VERY similar to the Mother-32, at about a third of the price... with greatly expanded capabilities, compared to the Mother-32. You can't beat that price ($200 USD), but I too might be overwhelmed if I hadn't started with Moog's manuals first. The Crave is probably about the most affordable option that includes a patch bay, so it really is a fantastic deal; but the Moog's comforting introduction is incomparable to any of the other gear I have, so that's a great option as well...
well u can change the pitch cv with just one of those cables, the point of the other cables was too show how u can make that initial simple lfo modulation a lot more complex. most people dont really use unquantized lfos to change pitch anyways.
I recommend VCV Rack. It's free. It's open source. Most of its modules are clones of hardware modules which makes deciding what you want to buy much easier. As for modular being expensive, it isn't all that bad. A lot of companies offer their mods not completely assembled so if you can use a screwdriver, you can save some cash. They often have the circuit board and components for sale if you're handier and can do some fairly simple electrical work. You could spend, for example, 250, 190, 65 for the same module. Go make some noise, kids! Help the ever-broadening acceptance of stranger and stranger timbres.
Super-nice description of modular synths. Much better than most I’ve ever seen so far. I liked the „being-in-the-moment“-thing, because thats what happens when I switch on my modular. It helps me to relax. Most of the times I even forget to record, but it doesn’t matter … Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
I saw the thumbnail, and I was SO HAPPY. I've been wanting to work with Modulars for years. But I'm just too poor right now to own one. I am SO HAPPY this is getting more attention.
Dreck, it is not retarded, you aren't used to it - that is all. As an inferior being that justifies your reason of critique. I can accept that as being part of you, don't worry. These clothes are very good at producing a layer with excellent thermodynamic values.
No because "big live DJing" = triggering clips and samples. There are a lot of people that do live Eurorack stuff and sure, you could implement Eurorack in a live performance quite easily with Expert Sleepers' modules, but... "big DJs" don't really care about that stuff.
Jet Lag Don't you think it has room to grow though? I feel like a constant stream of music sounds perfect for dance events. Maybe I'm oversimplifying it in my head and it isn't feasible, I don't know anything about modular
Arno goes Online The problem is like he said, everything has to be set up a certain way to get a certain sound. Unless you were to have the same settings for every song you couldn't really do it. Unless there's some way to make digital presets or something but then that kind of defeats the purpose.
RealGamerManz But can't you set it up before and then slowly adjust it during the event? Like start with something that sounds good and then build from there
Arno goes Online I guess you could but that sounds more experimental than something you would perform live. I could maybe see some underground djs doing it but not any big names
I was never interested in Modular synths, but I just finished a college course where we spent like 70% of the time on VCV Rack (modular synth simulator) I'm really into it. It's a MASSIVE boost of creativity for any composers.
Great job. You're relaxed and clearly know your subject. The production value is spot on. Both music and your delivery are clear. Excellent content, good camera, editing choices. Pulls you in even if modular is not your instrument of choice. Well done sir. Keep up the great work.
Nothing to do with Theory. That's the beauty of Synthesis. It can be Musical, or Mad Science! If you understand your signal flow... id est, *SOURCE* to *DESTINATION* & can grasp concepts as simple as plugging a Guitar into an Amp, turning the volume up... you can make a Sound. Furthermore, you can start learning how to make the Sounds in your head. Invariably, doing so long enough will result in cursory understanding of basic Music Theory simply by osmosis.
Dude you're so cool. I really really really love the ability to have such an audio knowledge like you, but I'm too lazy to actually spent time learning it lol so I just watch you. Keep it up
I got hooked on that song and melody in the end of the video🤩😍. but became a but bummed when i didnt saw the link to the song. It sounded so unbelievable good.😁👍😎 The vocals and the tune. I need a song of this !!! Please!!🙏🙏
I have huge respect for your work Andrew, you seem to have a handle on and a great talent for so many aspects of music production. I find your enthusiasm alone, inspirational.
It is very interesting to me to see how these types of electronic music systems have survived, are flourishing and have so many devotees today. More years ago than I want to think about I was involved with a UK company called Electronic Music Studios of Putney, developing and repairing their VCS3 and Synthi A synthesisers. I remember spending many hours patching odd soundscapes.
ive been on the edge of modular world waiting to plunge for some time, but getting into modular in 2018 is like getting into comic collecting in 2018, or Davids Tea, choices get a bit overwhleming. So thanks for these resources.
Looks like an absolute ton of Mutable Instruments modules, a couple Make Noise, 4ms and a Malekko Varigate 8+ up top right row.. Awesome setup! I started with modular last year, after almost 3 decades of playing guitar.. I love it because of how tactile it is, it’s intuitive, there are endless sonic possibilities, the aesthetic reminds me of my childhood, with the electronics my parents had in the house left over from the 70s, and stuff from the early 80s. I am pretty obsessed with learning about modules , about, looking at new modules, talking in forums and FB groups about modules and patches. The only downfall is how addictive and expensive it gets. Anyone who starts off with a few modules and a modest sized powered case, is going to eventually start wanting, and buying more modules. I’m just past 2 3Ux104hp cases, messing w my new Make Noise DPO, waiting on a bunch of Make Noise, Intellijel and Endorphines modules, a DFAM/Mother-32, Grandmother, and 0-Coast, with an entire list of modules I want in the near future, and probably one of the 6Ux208hp Mantis cases. I absolutely love modular, and can only see my collection grow in the future. And I thought guitar was expensive after 28 years of playing, buying high end gear. Haaaaaaa, no way... Eurocrack takes the cake as far as draining your bank account.
Also, I highly recommend checking out VCV Rack !! It's a virtual modular and it's honestly mind blowing how close to analogue it sounds, Has a HEAP of modules too
ooooooohhhhaaaahhhhhhwwww!! You are the first one that explained to me what (really )is cv made for...!!...made to modulate your audio!!!...thats much clearer!! Thanks Andrew!
Great video! I particularly enjoyed hearing you describe the aspects you enjoy most about modular synths, especially since I feel the same way. Not just the ability to construct a very personal instrument, but that they are very interactive, and in subtle ways, collaborative - inviting and sometimes forcing you to be completely in the moment... and that often times the best part of making a great patch, after appreciating it, is pulling it all apart. And, thanks for the shout out ;D
Another great piece of software to start learning modular is Caustic (machine called 'Modular', to be exact). Although it is not that powerful and flexible, you can still make some interesting contraptions, also the reduced complexity makes it easier for beginners to understand what's going on. You can try out the app for free both on Android and Windows and just mess around and experiment. If you want to just have a standard VST synth, but with crazy modulation options, you may want to check out Helm. It allows you to connect LFOs and envelopes to literally any parameter within the software. Yeah, I know this video is over a year old.
So is it even viable to approach this with a sound or song in mind and try to create that, or does the complexity of this force you to basically fiddle around with it and create whatever happens entirely through trial and error?
Yes and no. I've found that sometimes you hit the mark on what you want but generally as soon as you start patching, what you initially wanted goes out the window and process/'flowstate' and experementation take hold :)
Just bought my first synth the other day. It has a lot of sliders, knobs and letters like LFO and VCO, but I'm pretty pumped to learn about it.
Cool!
I watched that video 😄
Hi, I’m a blind musician, and I want to get into modular. I would like to challenge you to try to blindfold yourself while you patch modular synthesizers. And let me know in a video if a blind person can do modular or stick to software emulation
Any updates on this?
@@elijah4929 bruh he dead
How dumb can I be. I was actually told by someone and I think he said that because of the small cables, it is not really possible. How could I’ve been so…
@@danielkisielewski7612 Small cables??? It is mono 2.5mm audio plugs, the same physical size as your earphone jacks. Perfectly doable. You would need to get braille on the front to find your way around. Some friend may help you there. The real issue for live performance is that you need to memorize everything instead finding knobs by looking in real time. Otherwise I do not think it is not doable. Maybe find a studio or musician where you can check it out yourself...
You absolutely can!! I have limited vision and a kickass eurorack setup. It's my favorite escape. Never give up on yourself!
Andrew's modular synth in 2017: Cute little suitcase
Andrew's modular synth in 2020: Skynet
Modular synths kind of freak me out, but I love watching Andrew's obvious joy here. He raises an interesting point about music as an elastic ongoing experience rather than a fixed commodity. I've spent way more time working for hire than making my own music for its own sake, so it's hard for me to get over the nagging voice saying TIME IS MONEY, FINISH THE THING AND MOVE ON and just enjoy the act of creating music.
Hello.
that's an invaluable perspective! Thank you! Glad to see you here, been following your work on youtube for nearly 7 years now. Keep it up!
ayyy Lil Deuce Deuce!
More importantly - time is time ... you can always get more money back ... ...
hi
Your patches are f.cking terrific, Andrew. Beautiful work, exciting debut.
I love you
But what does Red mean though?
You're amazing btw
Ashish Joel ❤️
Yeet
Freaking awesome
SmarterEveryDay great to see you commenting on a video about modular synthesizers Destin!
Woah hai :0
You should do a collab video with Andrew Huang on various instruments!
A wild Destin appears!
Ok its so sick to see that you are interested in modular. High five Destin
Possibly the best intro video for modulars. Now clicking the spread button. High five!
cuckoomusic huge agree
I'm definitely interested in getting some of those modular apps Andrew recommended and trying them out. The pure customizability of the system has me so intrigued.
cuckoomusic you and red means Recording should collab
@Andrew Huang, and Hey Cuckoo
Noir Et Blanc, likes the XOR NerdSeq((and says"it looks boss") Simon from LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER has done the original review) I think you two should look at it.
My intro was an 30 second ad (ಥ_ಥ)
Man, I love the way you talk about "the constantly flowing river of possibilities that (you) can just dip into here and there." I was thinking of how intimidating all those cables and knobs looked, thinking how I tend to get intimidated by so much possibility, wanting to be able to try, understand, and be able to reproduce everything. But I love how you embrace the ephemeral nature of it, how anything you don't record you get to enjoy, "in the moment, just once, just me, and now it's gone."
I just wanted to point out that the cinematography for this was excellent. way to keep the viewers attention with the different angles, backgrounds, and transitions.
For people that want to get into eurorack, try VCVRAck! It's a free eurorack software and it's awsome!
omg thanks it's crazy
wicked cool
Made some cool generative stuff with it!
And now available as an app for the iPad/iPhone. "miRack"
Way cool!
its such a deep dive but its really fun and worth it
"I love pulling out the cables at the end of a session knowing that anything I recorded is all I have to work with... And anything I didn't record I got to enjoy it, just once, just me, and now it's gone."
An exercise in non attachment via synthesis
goosebumps when I heard that
LOL
That was the deepest thing I have ever herd him say XD
To be fair, nothing kills creativity like browsing thru hundreds of presents of a digital synth.
Having no ability to save presets in modulars might seem like a disadvantage, but it actually makes you mode productive, forces you to be creative, ensures you get unique and new sounds every time, and makes you make decisions and then work with it.
I’ve been secretly waiting for this video for 13 years.
You inspire me fellow musica nerd!!! Keep going and never stop Mr kool
ANDREW HUANG always!!
I have watched this so many times that it boggles my mind, but on top of that, it acts sometimes as a reminder of the absolute awesomeness that is modular and reignites my passion to it.
Even if Andrew wasn't a musical genius, his voice alone would take him so far.
Apple won't like this, it got too much headphone jack.......
Apple didn't remove the headphone jack, the modular community stole them all :P
HA!
This is where they all went
lmao nigga
To be precise: Prices exploded and Apple couldn't hold its margin
Throughout the whole video im just looking at him as he smiles which just shows how proud he is of himself...
GERHGE agreed
what a good concept, kinda wish i paid more atention to the modulated synths in college. they never bothered to demonstrate its capabilities, instead they shrugged it off as a redundent method.
Thanks for the demo!
I literally had no idea that your music nerdiness went this far for you Andrew. You just won’t stop getting more awesome
Soft on Android:
*AIRA Modular Customizer by Roland - crazy modular thing I don't understand.
*DRC - allmighty synth w/ awesome presets and customization + video tutorials.
*Caustic - kinda like... studio... w/ lots of synths, MODULAR and DAW. Crazy it works on budget smartphones.
*Oval Synth - EZtool for recording ideas without thinking of theory. Looks like Handpan. Lots of presets, scales...
*SpereTones - don't know how to describe... It's all about rythms. You can make prog.Electronic w/ speres... =)
*Polymotronome - no comment.
*Drum n Drummer - drum pattern sequensor + u can control how hard u hit.
*Backtrackit - player. Listen to songs, change key, bpm, and all that. And yeah, u play a song and see all that info about it.
Thx bro
Yeah, caustic is great
Dimos of the House of Metal thx man
What about Apple?
Caustic to the world
You are one of my favorite youtubers, full of talent.
Just when I'm getting into live looping I find this nice little gem. Now you got me thinking on how to supplement my Kaoss Pads. Wonderful video!
I think you raised the level of both your video and music with this one mate. Lovely stuff!
0:21 hehe...
Oh look issa cuckoo. Way to go on ur work!!!
cuckoomusic dude I just watched one of your videos your personality is awesome man
I real love that ''in the moment'' ''just me and in the end it's gone'' thing about this. I just recently dove down the electronic music making rabbit hole and I'm now orienting on what to do and buy and so on and your vids really help me out in a lot of ways. Thanks and keep the good work going!
The thing that I curiously watched your video is definitely the passion that you show from the beginning until the end. You motivated me to create my channel better and better! ☺️
"I got to enjoy it in the moment, just once, just me, and now its gone" - Andrew Huang
i like how you can really hear how passionate he is about this.
This. Was. AMAZING. I actually really want to try this out now! I love the idea of creating your own unique musical instrument that literally no one else has, because it's all about which modules you get and how you connect the cables and move the knobs. Never being able to create a sound more than once sounds really thrilling...and is also a fantastic mental exercise on impermanence. Thank you for sharing this. I will have to try this out and see if I have a new hobby.
How about livestreaming these synth-sessions? No talk or anything just you playing with this thing. I think I could spend hours watching it
Ziggy HunkSpunk Check Colin Benders if you want hours long live streams and the old streams are on his channel so you can try it immediately.
"No talk or anything just you playing with this thing. I think I could spend hours watching it"
Yes I want that!
Thank YOU Andrew for being a honest channel and not clickbaiting TH-cam needs more channels like you.
As a Reaktor user, I highly recommend it as a low-cost entry point into modular synthesis.
I love Morton Subotnik. I've been toying with the idea of getting into modular synth for some years now. Your influence is the thing I needed to finally push me into modular even if it's just simulated.
I hope scallon becomes a synth friend!
Je suis le fromage
J'ai fromage ans
Same here.
I hope andrew becomes a djent friend
I LOVE that you're doing this, Andrew! This is a great update to the ARP 2500 that I used in the late 70s, so really exciting that this has been re-created in such a modern way! YESSS!
andrew, you should live stream synth sessions
You should totally do some jams just like Colin benders... It would be fucking awesome to watch that!
You're a true scholar. You're also the first musician, composer, and producer from the millennial generation that can function as a musical influence to me. I had two years of music theory '73-'75 and continued pursuing it since that time. Progressive music was my domain... strongest musical influences came from people born 8-18 years before me: Yes, Genesis, ELP, Beatles, Joni, Dylan, Reich, etc. In the 21st century, the top influence thus far is Sigur Ros and Bjork. It's become hard to find inspiration from talent half my age. Thank you for making it much easier.
I'm so glad you're spreading the word about the amazing thing that is Eurorack. Right now I'm building my first case! The world would be so much better if everyone had a modular synth. :)
Another nice software modular : Arturia Moog Modular V, which emulates several of Moog's popular modules and places them in a big cabinet. The patches you can make are crazy.
You can really feel the passion Andrew has for this, love it
oh man I just recently got to play with an o coast at a modular store i was visiting in new york city and I wouldnt have known what one was if i didnt watch your videos. Less recently i have made myself familiar with eurorack modular synthesizers, and more recently I have found your channel and my and my close friend basically trust you as a source of information at this point. You are a an inspiration as a musician
I can see how this could be addictive...
Yeah, modular is like one of those collectible sticker books that used to come with card games and that you can get a prize for completing, except there's infinite stickers.
Same
This is so helpful! i begin to learn this and i feel like i ll do only modular music soon, infinite possibilities!!
Damn, you are a mad scientist of sound :o!
I hope he checks out SeamlessR's channel!
Watching your videos is like taking a trip every time i start one. i can feel your passion when you speak and i can hear the love and dedication in your voice every time you're talking about music. You are one of my favorite musicians, and one of my biggest influences in my production. I really hope one daythe opportunity to meet you presents itself, because even if you only speak one sentence to me i know i will probably learn something. I love what you do, please dont ever stop!
I LOVE YOU ANDREW. I WANT TO BE AS TALENTED AND AMAZING AS YOU
Get inspired from him and start making music ✌️
i'm going to start uploading music stuff every Friday!
Josh Kim Same, dude
And you will be!
There is something absolutely wonderful about seeing someone talk about the thing they love with all their heart. Even if I never get into modular synths, I am so happy Andrew is.
fiNALLY A VIDEO ABOUT MODULAR YES THANK YOU
please make more videos about this kind of stuff this is incredible. i've been reading up on modular for three days now because of this.
this is triggering my gear acquisition syndrome.
Great video man, liked how you easily explained what modular is and what you could do with it. Because when you look at it at first glance it's all a mess and once you realize it's all in unison and can even be unique to you, the possibilities are endless.
Andrew: so here is a basic frequency coming from this module. Now let’s patch that sound to this one to change the frequency of that sound ( puts in 4 cables). Now we can change the cv of this frequency.
Me who wants to get into module synthesizers: oh no
I will offer some encouragement: I've always been a jazz pianist, but I've used digital synths since the 90s because... gigs. I never got deep into the tech side of those because I absolutely hated the terrible samples.
I always loved things like Rhodes, Wurli, and analog synths because they weren't trying to imitate anything. However, I'd watch clips of Chick Corea, etc. on an old Moog with all the wires, and I'd think there's no way I could ever undertake such a steep learning curve. I bought my first analog synths this summer, and while I am learning slowly, I am absolutely OBSESSED with the process! It is so completely fascinating, once you plug one in and marvel at the potential (not that I can realize those potential yet).
I bought several semi-modulars and one with keys, but I'm still just working my way through the functions of Drummer From Another Mother, from Moog. One big difference right out of the gate, for the first time buyer, is in how Moog presents their information. There's just no comparison between the manuals, which is to say that Moog really walks you the process with the assumption that it's all brand new to you... and exciting! The manuals are very conversational in style; totally informal, and their philosophy as a company comes through with every page. It really makes it feel like you have a friend there with you, kindly and patiently showing you all the ropes.
I got Moog's DFAM, Mother-32, and the Subharmonicon; all the manuals are presented in the same fashion. I just can't recommend them enough. Should you ever decide to take the plunge, the Mother-32 would probably be your best bet for versatility out of the box.
I also have the Behringer Crave, which is VERY similar to the Mother-32, at about a third of the price... with greatly expanded capabilities, compared to the Mother-32. You can't beat that price ($200 USD), but I too might be overwhelmed if I hadn't started with Moog's manuals first. The Crave is probably about the most affordable option that includes a patch bay, so it really is a fantastic deal; but the Moog's comforting introduction is incomparable to any of the other gear I have, so that's a great option as well...
well u can change the pitch cv with just one of those cables, the point of the other cables was too show how u can make that initial simple lfo modulation a lot more complex. most people dont really use unquantized lfos to change pitch anyways.
You are such an incredibly smart person. I'm struggling with the OP1 and here you are building stuff.
andrew huang the internet's second busiest music nerd
Best leggings in the game?
Sharpest eyebrows in the game.
Hell yeah! :P
I recommend VCV Rack. It's free. It's open source. Most of its modules are clones of hardware modules which makes deciding what you want to buy much easier. As for modular being expensive, it isn't all that bad. A lot of companies offer their mods not completely assembled so if you can use a screwdriver, you can save some cash. They often have the circuit board and components for sale if you're handier and can do some fairly simple electrical work. You could spend, for example, 250, 190, 65 for the same module. Go make some noise, kids! Help the ever-broadening acceptance of stranger and stranger timbres.
7:00 THOSE LEGS *______*
Super-nice description of modular synths. Much better than most I’ve ever seen so far. I liked the „being-in-the-moment“-thing, because thats what happens when I switch on my modular. It helps me to relax. Most of the times I even forget to record, but it doesn’t matter … Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
"And also trying to turn my current friends into synth friends" I feel personally attacked
i got so happy as you name dropped almost all my favourite modular artists.
Dem eyebrows look like a distant mountains!
Dude, how can you know so much about so many diferent approaches to music!!! You are a true music nerd and i say it as a compliment!!
Brotha, your production level is on point. Really enjoyed that.
I saw the thumbnail, and I was SO HAPPY. I've been wanting to work with Modulars for years. But I'm just too poor right now to own one. I am SO HAPPY this is getting more attention.
Don't miss 6:32-6:58!
Dreck yup...
Dreck lol
+Dreck
So?
Dreck, it is not retarded, you aren't used to it - that is all. As an inferior being that justifies your reason of critique. I can accept that as being part of you, don't worry.
These clothes are very good at producing a layer with excellent thermodynamic values.
Akixkisu what r u talking about? lol
This was the first time I had ever heard of a modular synthesizer. Fast forward 3 years and I'm working on my first rack. Feels real good man!
I wonder if this is gonna get bigger in live DJing. It feels like it makes sense to use it at a dance event
No because "big live DJing" = triggering clips and samples.
There are a lot of people that do live Eurorack stuff and sure, you could implement Eurorack in a live performance quite easily with Expert Sleepers' modules, but... "big DJs" don't really care about that stuff.
Jet Lag Don't you think it has room to grow though? I feel like a constant stream of music sounds perfect for dance events.
Maybe I'm oversimplifying it in my head and it isn't feasible, I don't know anything about modular
Arno goes Online
The problem is like he said, everything has to be set up a certain way to get a certain sound. Unless you were to have the same settings for every song you couldn't really do it. Unless there's some way to make digital presets or something but then that kind of defeats the purpose.
RealGamerManz But can't you set it up before and then slowly adjust it during the event? Like start with something that sounds good and then build from there
Arno goes Online
I guess you could but that sounds more experimental than something you would perform live. I could maybe see some underground djs doing it but not any big names
I was never interested in Modular synths, but I just finished a college course where we spent like 70% of the time on VCV Rack (modular synth simulator) I'm really into it. It's a MASSIVE boost of creativity for any composers.
Honestly that looks like a spaceship
I said that on his second channel!
Great minds think alike ; )
Celldweller anyone?
Cellweller has the original spaceship! :)
Because it is
I'm spending all night watching videos about modular synths now, thanks.
Great job. You're relaxed and clearly know your subject. The production value is spot on. Both music and your delivery are clear. Excellent content, good camera, editing choices. Pulls you in even if modular is not your instrument of choice. Well done sir. Keep up the great work.
Enjoyed it so much!!! Taking the hardware plunge.
Me: doesn't know music theory or vocabulary
Also me: watches video anyway even though I don't understand most of it
Fascinating though!
Juce You should look into it (like, Wikipedia binge or something)! So many facets of music are unlocked once you know some parts of it!
Nothing to do with Theory.
That's the beauty of Synthesis. It can be Musical, or Mad Science!
If you understand your signal flow... id est, *SOURCE* to *DESTINATION* & can grasp concepts as simple as plugging a Guitar into an Amp, turning the volume up... you can make a Sound. Furthermore, you can start learning how to make the Sounds in your head.
Invariably, doing so long enough will result in cursory understanding of basic Music Theory simply by osmosis.
I don't know shit about music either and I'm subscribed to Adam Neely. I just really enjoy hearing people talk about stuff they're passionate about.
Giulia Sthefany Salustiano So I'm not alone in that!
Giulia Sthefany Salustiano So I'm not alone in that!
Dude you're so cool. I really really really love the ability to have such an audio knowledge like you, but I'm too lazy to actually spent time learning it lol so I just watch you. Keep it up
I got hooked on that song and melody in the end of the video🤩😍. but became a but bummed when i didnt saw the link to the song. It sounded so unbelievable good.😁👍😎 The vocals and the tune. I need a song of this !!! Please!!🙏🙏
3 years later has the biggest modular setup I've seen in awhile
Bry Zen he has a freaking wall now hahah. Looks super fun though
Very interesting video and some incredible sounds from these machines
You have inspired me to buy my first analogue synth for xmas!
Andrew, for a video soon, you should make a track with an otamatone! (Search it up)
I have huge respect for your work Andrew, you seem to have a handle on and a great talent for so many aspects of music production. I find your enthusiasm alone, inspirational.
Secret instrument!!!!
*pulls didgeridoo out of cleavage*
J1428753 ... How?
South africa!! High five. Enjoy youtube while theres no loadshedding
*just believe ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)*
Jandre F 😂 😂 Lmao Its been years since we had it tho
your modular synth is insanely gorgeous !!
It is very interesting to me to see how these types of electronic music systems have survived, are flourishing and have so many devotees today. More years ago than I want to think about I was involved with a UK company called Electronic Music Studios of Putney, developing and repairing their VCS3 and Synthi A synthesisers. I remember spending many hours patching odd soundscapes.
ive been on the edge of modular world waiting to plunge for some time, but getting into modular in 2018 is like getting into comic collecting in 2018, or Davids Tea, choices get a bit overwhleming. So thanks for these resources.
6:10 is so sick
Hey Andrew. Loved your video. And was very surprised to even see a picture of my home build Buchla Easel clone @01:32. Cool!
"infinite pathways to explore and get lost in"
Yes! That....
Looks like an absolute ton of Mutable Instruments modules, a couple Make Noise, 4ms and a Malekko Varigate 8+ up top right row.. Awesome setup! I started with modular last year, after almost 3 decades of playing guitar.. I love it because of how tactile it is, it’s intuitive, there are endless sonic possibilities, the aesthetic reminds me of my childhood, with the electronics my parents had in the house left over from the 70s, and stuff from the early 80s. I am pretty obsessed with learning about modules , about, looking at new modules, talking in forums and FB groups about modules and patches. The only downfall is how addictive and expensive it gets. Anyone who starts off with a few modules and a modest sized powered case, is going to eventually start wanting, and buying more modules. I’m just past 2 3Ux104hp cases, messing w my new Make Noise DPO, waiting on a bunch of Make Noise, Intellijel and Endorphines modules, a DFAM/Mother-32, Grandmother, and 0-Coast, with an entire list of modules I want in the near future, and probably one of the 6Ux208hp Mantis cases. I absolutely love modular, and can only see my collection grow in the future. And I thought guitar was expensive after 28 years of playing, buying high end gear. Haaaaaaa, no way... Eurocrack takes the cake as far as draining your bank account.
Modular Techno track incoming?
Andrew! Your vocals have gotten a lot better since you started adding them
More importantly! Where did you get them leggings? They look hella warm
Also, I highly recommend checking out VCV Rack !! It's a virtual modular and it's honestly mind blowing how close to analogue it sounds, Has a HEAP of modules too
113 viewsss ly andrew i've been supporting for 3 yearsss
Evan Tzanakos 🙌
great video! I really like that you not only showed it but told the whole story behind it.
Did get a bit bigger, yeah.
ooooooohhhhaaaahhhhhhwwww!! You are the first one that explained to me what (really )is cv made for...!!...made to modulate your audio!!!...thats much clearer!! Thanks Andrew!
No one:
Literally nothing livable in the known universe:
Andrew: Pro-cess
Great video! I particularly enjoyed hearing you describe the aspects you enjoy most about modular synths, especially since I feel the same way. Not just the ability to construct a very personal instrument, but that they are very interactive, and in subtle ways, collaborative - inviting and sometimes forcing you to be completely in the moment... and that often times the best part of making a great patch, after appreciating it, is pulling it all apart. And, thanks for the shout out ;D
Wow, thanks much! It's been a while since I watched it - that was a pretty good patch. Maybe I'll make a newer video, not using late 90s video gear :D
Hey it’s Andrew Huang
Another great piece of software to start learning modular is Caustic (machine called 'Modular', to be exact). Although it is not that powerful and flexible, you can still make some interesting contraptions, also the reduced complexity makes it easier for beginners to understand what's going on.
You can try out the app for free both on Android and Windows and just mess around and experiment.
If you want to just have a standard VST synth, but with crazy modulation options, you may want to check out Helm. It allows you to connect LFOs and envelopes to literally any parameter within the software.
Yeah, I know this video is over a year old.
So is it even viable to approach this with a sound or song in mind and try to create that, or does the complexity of this force you to basically fiddle around with it and create whatever happens entirely through trial and error?
Yes and no. I've found that sometimes you hit the mark on what you want but generally as soon as you start patching, what you initially wanted goes out the window and process/'flowstate' and experementation take hold :)