An intro to Eurorack modular synthesizers

An introduction to Eurorack Modulars

 

For sometime now I had been wanting to get myself a Eurorack modular synth but wasn’t fully versed in what I needed to actually make this happen. I was well aware of how one worked (this will be covered later) but not how to actually start without wasting a ton of money. I researched and patrolled forums, spoke to friends that owned modulars and generally took my time to make an educated decision on how to get my first system up and running.

Now I would like to pass some of that knowledge on. This article is intended to clear up some of the foggy entry points to Eurorack and make it a lot easier for people to get the systems they want at an affordable price. Please keep in mind because Eurorack Modulars are indeed fully modular, there is no one correct way to start your modular.

This intro video touches on a few of the topics covered here. I recommend watching it and reading the article as well.

What is a Eurorack Modular and why should I want one?

Eurorack is a modular synthesizer format, think of it like VST is a format for plug ins. Any module in Eurorack format can be placed into a Eurorack case (given you have the space and power allocation) and will work with other modules.  These modules range from basic  synthesis building blocks such as a Amplifier, mixer, Oscillator, envelope, filter etc. to more function and west coast school methods of synthesis such as Function generators (like the Make noise Maths) Flip flops, comparators, even digital control modules.   Continue reading

Animodule Quad Comparator module gives u the business


https://animodule.bigcartel.com/product/quad-comparator
The Quad Comparator is a Logic Module for Eurorack synthesizers.
It’s a simple quad comparator based around the LM339.
It will take your Voltages and turn them into Logic On.

When your signal is higher than the threshold the Gate goes high and the NOT Gate goes low.
When your signal is lower than the threshold the NOT gate goes high and the Gate goes low.

You can set the threshold anywhere from about -10V to +10V.

Input 1 is buffered then normalled to JackSwitches 2-4. So you could send an LFO in to Input 1, set different thresholds for all the inputs and have all the gates/NOT Gates fire at different points from the same LFO.

Width = 8HP , Depth = 29mm

Dominant Drums Teaser!

This new maschine expansion has been a labor of love. Drums were recorded in a variety of settings using both traditional kits as well as “found sound” kits. The drums were then processed through a variety of outboard gear and optimized for usage in todays top drum sequencing software with a special focus on Native Instruments Maschine.

The Expansion pack is available for both Maschine 1.8 and 2.x format also as individual wav files that are organized by category( kick, snare, etc)
All sounds are individually tagged for easy browsing.
Each kit is mapped out with finger drumming in mind!

Take a look at Dominant Drums!
available Soon at Bigfishaudio.com!

XXX_OR from Animdoule for Eurorack modular

Here is a new Module from Eurorack Module maker Animodule.
This is the Triple Exclusive Or “XXX_OR”

It is essentially a logic module that takes up to 6 inputs and combine them to shape the Analog outputs (3) and Gate outputs (3) into interesting sounds and CV. each input is Buffered to the next along with a slight overdrive so each output can get you more shaping. There are so many ways to use this I am needing to do a few videos. (Ring Mod, FM sourcing, Distortion just to name a few)

These are available NOW!

Bose Soundlink Mini Review for Mobile Producers

This is a great little portable Speaker to use with your iPad or any bluetooth capable streaming audio device. The Aux input makes it great for connecting up gear as well. The frequency response is pretty usable considering the size of the unit and the battery lasts good and long.

Supercharger GT is the compressor to beat in my book!

I have to say after spending a few months getting to really know this Plug in Compressor from Native Instruments, This one takes the cake. I can get it to drive hard and gritty with a heavy pump to give me that old Boom Bap feel that I have grown to love from old school hip hop. I can get a clinical punch on my kicks like many EDM tracks I love. I can make it soulful and warm like the compressors of old while still retaining the ability to attack and release precisely like the newer digital units. This Compressor really stands out and in a blind listening test can fool the best.
give it a listen.