I am building a Behringer SYSTEM 55 (with additional envelope generators and VCAs). I plan for it to look like this (EDIT link updated): https://modulargrid.com/e/racks/view/2646785
Could anyone suggest any changes to make this setup better? I am particularly interested in the best location for the four extra envelope generators (currently at the end of rows 1 and 2) and the extra VCAs (currently at the end of row 3).
I am happy to go onto a 4th row if it will improve workflow. I’d also be grateful for any suggestions for additional duplicate modules if it will improve my system.
While the design in the picture is 168hp, in reality it is 2 x 84hp built horizontally across two server racks (if that makes a difference). I had to move a few things around because of that. The edge of the sequential controller is the split between server racks.
I know one thing, i’d get a second 914 fixed filter bank. Reason – for stereo. Check out the Daniel Fisher video, to see his use of two 914s.
Great bang for the buck with the Behringer System 55. My other impulse, and it’s definitely a personal thing, i would not be purist, and would be comfortable bringing in other non-System 55 modules, a spring reverb, or even a digital one. Once you open that door though it also increases the complication, i’ll grant you.
Hello and welcome! Looks like it’s going to be an awesome system.
Re: best location for your envelopes, I think you have them in a good place. The upper right corner should be easy to access even when you have a bunch of patch cables all over the place, and envelopes are often the kind of thing you want to get your hands on.
You might want to move the sequencer down to a lower row and maybe closer to the center, if you want it to be right in front of you while you’re playing. But all of this is personal preference. You could also make an argument for putting the sequencer in the upper left since most of its jacks are on the bottom and right.
I also like @Jukka’s suggestion to add something non-System 55 just for a little added modern flavor. It could be something like a cool digital effect, or could even be something like a 4MS WAV Recorder if you want an easy way to capture the audio of your jams. Come on over to the “Your modulars” thread if you feel like wading into the dark waters of Eurorack.
@Jukka - thanks for the tip on the 914. It is a magnificent filter, and adding another seems pretty sensible. This SYSTEM 55 is going to be built directly above my Behringer 2600 Blue Marvin, so it will have access to a spring reverb. I was going to put the 2600 above the S55 in my 24ru rack, but will now put it below for easier access to the reverb. Thanks for the suggestion!
@your_lamp - thanks for your suggestion for the sequencer. I was already thinking about moving it, so it is good to hear that someone has the same idea. I did originally have it more in the centre, but my arrangement of 2 x 84hp per row (vs 1 x 168) means that I have to pick a side…
UPDATE: I’ve tried moving the sequencer up to the top left, but it makes a bit of mess of the layout. I will have to have another go later.
I have a reasonable collection of other modules, including an augmented Behringer SYSTEM 100, all of the Dreadbox chromatic series, an array of Doepfer, the standard Maths/Plaits/Veils/Forbidden Planet array, and some Waldorf, Pittsburgh and other random bits and pieces. And PLENTY of guitar pedals. That being said, I am ALWAYS open to suggestions for interesting modules!!
One nice thing about a second sequencer is it allows you to do polymeters, polyrhythms, and phase shifting things like Steve Reich, fairly easily with separate clocks. Of course you don’t have to have two identical sequencers, but there are sides to that both ways.
A great thing with Eurorack, is you can change the layout more or less on whim as you become familiar with your system.
ADDED : You could consider adding pitch quantizer(s), non-traditional but useful. I see ypu have a MIDI to CV already. Non-equal temperament tunings are good too, without a quantizer.
I have a quantizer in my SYSTEM 100 setup, so that box is ticked! I do like to use quantizers as I am generally looking to be specifically tuned so that I slot in cleanly with other instrument parts.
That being said, I recently watched a video on the S55, from Sweetwater, where the guy (a Moog 55 guy) showed the textures that you could get from intentionally (slightly) detuned chords on the sequencer. That was actually part of the reason that I am considering getting a second sequencer, and a few more oscillators.
Thanks for the help Elektronauts! I will pick up those few duplicate parts that I do not have and get this built.
This is going to be one big addition to my collection, taking up 8 slots (24ru) on my racks!! My S100 and 2600 will look tiny by comparison, at only 9ru each
